Photo of Bay Area Gestalt Institute, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Bay Area Gestalt Institute
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Not Verified Not Verified
16 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94903
We are Bay Area Gestalt Institute (BAGI), a non-profit collective of highly trained marriage and family therapists and associates, providing affordable psychotherapy throughout the Bay Area. We offer counseling to individuals, couples, families, and children. Our work is active, creative and holistic. Our therapists work with a variety of issues including: * Relationship Issues * Anxiety * Depression * LGBTQI Concerns * Trauma * Substance Use / Abuse * Eating Disorders * Spiritual * Personal Growth * Integration of Non-Ordinary States
We are Bay Area Gestalt Institute (BAGI), a non-profit collective of highly trained marriage and family therapists and associates, providing affordable psychotherapy throughout the Bay Area. We offer counseling to individuals, couples, families, and children. Our work is active, creative and holistic. Our therapists work with a variety of issues including: * Relationship Issues * Anxiety * Depression * LGBTQI Concerns * Trauma * Substance Use / Abuse * Eating Disorders * Spiritual * Personal Growth * Integration of Non-Ordinary States
(415) 969-3361 View (415) 969-3361
Photo of Wisdom of Mind and Body, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Wisdom of Mind and Body
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
We all want the same things. To be understood, recognized, treated with kindness and respect. To feel like we belong. We share the same path to growth through self-effort in overcoming challenges in our life’s journey. Are you mastering the game of life? You are more powerful than your past or stories. Truth be told, “life is simply what you create it to mean.” Imagine yourself as the eagle that soars up into the sky with Wisdom as a compass. I can help you with self-esteem, family, career, trauma, grief, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, womens’ empowerment, life transitions, relationships, death/dying, and pet loss.
We all want the same things. To be understood, recognized, treated with kindness and respect. To feel like we belong. We share the same path to growth through self-effort in overcoming challenges in our life’s journey. Are you mastering the game of life? You are more powerful than your past or stories. Truth be told, “life is simply what you create it to mean.” Imagine yourself as the eagle that soars up into the sky with Wisdom as a compass. I can help you with self-esteem, family, career, trauma, grief, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, womens’ empowerment, life transitions, relationships, death/dying, and pet loss.
(925) 255-7552 View (925) 255-7552
Photo of Para Ambardar, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Para Ambardar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
My approach to psychotherapy focuses on deepening your working knowledge of human behavior in order to foster more autonomous, better informed decisions in both your professional and personal life. Psychotherapy provides a space where one is encouraged to be oneself, directly experience what is happening, and reflect upon one's complex and, at times, conflicting thoughts, emotions and behavioral patterns. Success is measured not only by relief from current symptoms but also by an increasing capacity to know yourself more fully, to find greater satisfaction in what you do and to feel more fulfilled in your relationships.
My approach to psychotherapy focuses on deepening your working knowledge of human behavior in order to foster more autonomous, better informed decisions in both your professional and personal life. Psychotherapy provides a space where one is encouraged to be oneself, directly experience what is happening, and reflect upon one's complex and, at times, conflicting thoughts, emotions and behavioral patterns. Success is measured not only by relief from current symptoms but also by an increasing capacity to know yourself more fully, to find greater satisfaction in what you do and to feel more fulfilled in your relationships.
(415) 612-1363 View (415) 612-1363

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Syed Mehdi, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Syed Mehdi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965  (Online Only)
I'm a BIPOC therapist who understands cultural humility. I recognize that you may be navigating a crisis & seeking support. You may be starting to doubt yourself & feel your inner light dimming. My name means "Light" so let's illuminate our path and light our darkest hour. I believe that therapy is a journey which requires a safe container. I draw from personal experiences to offer therapy rooted in holistic principles. Our conversations will integrate mindfulness, spirituality, psychoanalysis, gestalt & CBT. I believe we are all destined to radiate our light in this world so let's turn your 'mess' into 'your message'.
I'm a BIPOC therapist who understands cultural humility. I recognize that you may be navigating a crisis & seeking support. You may be starting to doubt yourself & feel your inner light dimming. My name means "Light" so let's illuminate our path and light our darkest hour. I believe that therapy is a journey which requires a safe container. I draw from personal experiences to offer therapy rooted in holistic principles. Our conversations will integrate mindfulness, spirituality, psychoanalysis, gestalt & CBT. I believe we are all destined to radiate our light in this world so let's turn your 'mess' into 'your message'.
(415) 792-4731 View (415) 792-4731

Online Therapists

Photo of Amisha Mehtani - California Anxiety Relief, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Amisha Mehtani - California Anxiety Relief
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
Mein appki anxiety, depression ya aapke rishton ki samasya samajh sakti hoon aur meri koshish rahegi ki main aapko samasya suljhane ka rasta dikhaoon.
Namaste! Mera naam Amisha hai aur main aapka swagat karti hoon. Ek therapist ke paas jana aur apni zindagi ki kahani sunana easy kaam nahin hai. 'Log kya kahenge' ki goonj se bahut sare log silently suffer karte hain. Aap yahan aaiye aur mujhe bataye ki aap ki zindagi me kya dukh hai. Mein aapko batana chahti hoon ki hum jo bhi baat karenge woh confidential hai. Aapki problems aapse badhi nahin hai aur mein aapke saath baith kar sunna chahoongi aur apko apni pareshani ko suljhane ka tareeka bataoongi. Aap mujhe call ya email karen.
Mein appki anxiety, depression ya aapke rishton ki samasya samajh sakti hoon aur meri koshish rahegi ki main aapko samasya suljhane ka rasta dikhaoon.
Namaste! Mera naam Amisha hai aur main aapka swagat karti hoon. Ek therapist ke paas jana aur apni zindagi ki kahani sunana easy kaam nahin hai. 'Log kya kahenge' ki goonj se bahut sare log silently suffer karte hain. Aap yahan aaiye aur mujhe bataye ki aap ki zindagi me kya dukh hai. Mein aapko batana chahti hoon ki hum jo bhi baat karenge woh confidential hai. Aapki problems aapse badhi nahin hai aur mein aapke saath baith kar sunna chahoongi aur apko apni pareshani ko suljhane ka tareeka bataoongi. Aap mujhe call ya email karen.
(510) 369-0383 View (510) 369-0383
Photo of Kavita Comoglio, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Kavita Comoglio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
आप आत्मविश्वास, रिश्तों में प्यार और करियर में खुशी महसूस करना चाहते हैं। हम दोनों मिलकर आपके मनचाहे जीवन का पता लगाएंगे, कल्पना करेंगे और उसका निर्माण करेंगे। आप अपने सिर के अंदर की आवाज को रोकना चाहते हैं जो आपको बता रही है कि "आप काफी नहीं हैं" या "आप में कुछ कमी है" या "आप प्यार के लायक नहीं हैं।" शायद आपके पास एक अच्छा करियर, परिवार और दोस्त हैं, लेकिन आप अभी भी दुखी, चिंता या खालीपन महसूस करते हैं। खुशी के पलों के बाद डर आता है कि सब कुछ खो दोगे और तुम अकेले और उदास हो जाओगे। मैं आपके मदद कर सकती हूं ताकि आप अपने रिश्तों और जीवन में पूरी तरह से शामिल हों और सुरक्षित रहें, और छिपना और नाटक करना बंद करें।
आप आत्मविश्वास, रिश्तों में प्यार और करियर में खुशी महसूस करना चाहते हैं। हम दोनों मिलकर आपके मनचाहे जीवन का पता लगाएंगे, कल्पना करेंगे और उसका निर्माण करेंगे। आप अपने सिर के अंदर की आवाज को रोकना चाहते हैं जो आपको बता रही है कि "आप काफी नहीं हैं" या "आप में कुछ कमी है" या "आप प्यार के लायक नहीं हैं।" शायद आपके पास एक अच्छा करियर, परिवार और दोस्त हैं, लेकिन आप अभी भी दुखी, चिंता या खालीपन महसूस करते हैं। खुशी के पलों के बाद डर आता है कि सब कुछ खो दोगे और तुम अकेले और उदास हो जाओगे। मैं आपके मदद कर सकती हूं ताकि आप अपने रिश्तों और जीवन में पूरी तरह से शामिल हों और सुरक्षित रहें, और छिपना और नाटक करना बंद करें।
(510) 621-6996 View (510) 621-6996
Photo of Dr. Tripti Bawari, Psychologist, Inner Dialogue, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Dr. Tripti Bawari, Psychologist, Inner Dialogue
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94588
anxiety, depression,trauma) and parent-child relationship issues.
Dr. Tripti Bawari is a licensed psychologist who specializes in psychological evaluations, childhood problems and parenting strategies. Along with specialization in testing she also has in-depth knowledge and training in childhood, adolescent and adult life problems and issues related to it. Her wide multicultural experiences overseas has strengthen her ability to incorporate family and cultural dynamics to current life events and challenges. She is fluent in few Indian dialects along with her proficiency in Hindi. Dr. Bawari received her doctorate in Clinical psychology from Florida Tech and completed her internship and fellowship in Clinical and Forensic Psychology.
anxiety, depression,trauma) and parent-child relationship issues.
Dr. Tripti Bawari is a licensed psychologist who specializes in psychological evaluations, childhood problems and parenting strategies. Along with specialization in testing she also has in-depth knowledge and training in childhood, adolescent and adult life problems and issues related to it. Her wide multicultural experiences overseas has strengthen her ability to incorporate family and cultural dynamics to current life events and challenges. She is fluent in few Indian dialects along with her proficiency in Hindi. Dr. Bawari received her doctorate in Clinical psychology from Florida Tech and completed her internship and fellowship in Clinical and Forensic Psychology.
(855) 489-7609 View (855) 489-7609
Photo of Irfan Akbar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Irfan Akbar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
I have over 25 years of experience in providing psychotherapy to teens, adults, couples and families. With Couples, treatment issues may include domestic conflict, cross cultural and inter-faith marriages, in-laws, infidelity, trust, spousal equality and respect, and intimacy. With individual adults, my specialities include depression, grief and loss, stress, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions (work, family or self related). With teens, my experience encompasses delinquent behaviors, trauma, substance abuse, self-harm, depression, ADHD, OCD, identity issues, school problems and parent-child conflict.
I have over 25 years of experience in providing psychotherapy to teens, adults, couples and families. With Couples, treatment issues may include domestic conflict, cross cultural and inter-faith marriages, in-laws, infidelity, trust, spousal equality and respect, and intimacy. With individual adults, my specialities include depression, grief and loss, stress, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions (work, family or self related). With teens, my experience encompasses delinquent behaviors, trauma, substance abuse, self-harm, depression, ADHD, OCD, identity issues, school problems and parent-child conflict.
(510) 344-8377 View (510) 344-8377
Zena Vevaina
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Hi and welcome! I would like to offer my hand in your journey. Often, people seek therapy when they are in a crisis such as a challenge in marriage, infidelity, difficulty with an adolescent, a transition, depression, anxiety, psychosis, or struggling with substance abuse. Sometimes people seek therapy when they need someone to help them reframe an issue or offer a different perspective. I value and respect each individual I work with. I work with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families using many different theoretical approaches tailored to match your unique needs and personality.
Hi and welcome! I would like to offer my hand in your journey. Often, people seek therapy when they are in a crisis such as a challenge in marriage, infidelity, difficulty with an adolescent, a transition, depression, anxiety, psychosis, or struggling with substance abuse. Sometimes people seek therapy when they need someone to help them reframe an issue or offer a different perspective. I value and respect each individual I work with. I work with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families using many different theoretical approaches tailored to match your unique needs and personality.
(415) 936-1595 View (415) 936-1595
Photo of Sumrah Jan, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Sumrah Jan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I specialize working with depression, anxiety, grief, anger management, parenting & communication issues.
Are you emotionally exhausted, stressed & unable to recognize yourself? Is it a struggle communicating with loved ones? Ordinary tasks feel burdensome and you're too tired to do anything. If any of these even partially describe your situation it's important to recognize that you aren't alone.... it doesn't have to stay this way. Often the most trying and somber moments in our lives drive us to a journey of self-discovery. As your therapist it will be my goal to provide support and empower you, as you move beyond that pain. Genuine health and happiness are within grasp.
I specialize working with depression, anxiety, grief, anger management, parenting & communication issues.
Are you emotionally exhausted, stressed & unable to recognize yourself? Is it a struggle communicating with loved ones? Ordinary tasks feel burdensome and you're too tired to do anything. If any of these even partially describe your situation it's important to recognize that you aren't alone.... it doesn't have to stay this way. Often the most trying and somber moments in our lives drive us to a journey of self-discovery. As your therapist it will be my goal to provide support and empower you, as you move beyond that pain. Genuine health and happiness are within grasp.
(925) 273-7315 View (925) 273-7315
Photo of Nita Prasad, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Nita Prasad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fremont, CA 94538  (Online Only)
I will support you with utmost compassion and mindfulness to address life challenges that brought you to therapy- transitions, domestic violence, parenting, marital problems, divorce/separation, substance abuse, family court, depression, chronic illness, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma and my goal is to provide you relief from distress as fast as possible.
Greetings! I commend you for making a decision to seek counseling at this time in your life journey. It is my great pleasure to offer you such support and guidance at this time. I'm a licensed mental health professional practicing in Bay Area for two decades. I am only offering telehealth services at this time. My experience encompasses working with diverse ethnic groups on various issues and challenges and my passion is to assist my clients in confronting them. I look forward to working with you.
I will support you with utmost compassion and mindfulness to address life challenges that brought you to therapy- transitions, domestic violence, parenting, marital problems, divorce/separation, substance abuse, family court, depression, chronic illness, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma and my goal is to provide you relief from distress as fast as possible.
Greetings! I commend you for making a decision to seek counseling at this time in your life journey. It is my great pleasure to offer you such support and guidance at this time. I'm a licensed mental health professional practicing in Bay Area for two decades. I am only offering telehealth services at this time. My experience encompasses working with diverse ethnic groups on various issues and challenges and my passion is to assist my clients in confronting them. I look forward to working with you.
(650) 603-5885 View (650) 603-5885
Photo of Grishma Gautam, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Grishma Gautam
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA(SOM), MA(DMP)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Are you feeling stuck, lost, frustrated or helpless? Did no amount of affirmations or self-talk change the mind? We can't access our full Self from just cognitive. The body reflects the mind & stores trauma unconsciously which disrupts the nervous system & natural ability to regulate, causing symptoms like anxiety, depression, etc. Symptoms can seem like “traits" when they aren’t contextualized in survival defenses, ancestral, interpersonal & social layers. So we will co-create a nourishing space to hear somatic stories, identify triggers, patterns & skills to realign with innate wisdom so you can move helplessness to empowerment.
Are you feeling stuck, lost, frustrated or helpless? Did no amount of affirmations or self-talk change the mind? We can't access our full Self from just cognitive. The body reflects the mind & stores trauma unconsciously which disrupts the nervous system & natural ability to regulate, causing symptoms like anxiety, depression, etc. Symptoms can seem like “traits" when they aren’t contextualized in survival defenses, ancestral, interpersonal & social layers. So we will co-create a nourishing space to hear somatic stories, identify triggers, patterns & skills to realign with innate wisdom so you can move helplessness to empowerment.
View
Photo of Vivek Anand, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Vivek Anand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MArch, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702
You are hurting, or anxious, are considering psychotherapy and whether to trust me to facilitate your healing. My experience with adults, couples and children will support your inner journey and that of loved ones. We will create space for you to contemplate internal, external and relationship challenges. Through an attuned therapeutic relationship, I will help you address internal challenges - depression, anxiety and trauma. Empathically, I help you face external challenges - discrimination, immigration and life transitions. I also support you in navigating relationships, in which your internal worlds connect with those of others.
You are hurting, or anxious, are considering psychotherapy and whether to trust me to facilitate your healing. My experience with adults, couples and children will support your inner journey and that of loved ones. We will create space for you to contemplate internal, external and relationship challenges. Through an attuned therapeutic relationship, I will help you address internal challenges - depression, anxiety and trauma. Empathically, I help you face external challenges - discrimination, immigration and life transitions. I also support you in navigating relationships, in which your internal worlds connect with those of others.
(415) 965-7434 View (415) 965-7434
Photo of Kavitha Goldowitz, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Kavitha Goldowitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
My areas of interest also includes helping women with anxiety, depression and stress that arises from various life transitions (relationships, marriage, divorce, birth of a child).
I have over 10 years experience working with individuals and couples. My area of expertise includes working with ethnic and multicultural population and addressing issues related to couples in inter-racial marriages, struggles with cultural assimilation and family relationship dynamics. I speak 5 languages and I am keenly aware of the specific issues faced by Indian-Americans in particular and Asian Americans and Latinos in general, especially with regards to struggles with personal and cultural identity. I offer brief and long term models of therapy. I also provide tele-therapy (online) in addition to face-to-face counseling.
My areas of interest also includes helping women with anxiety, depression and stress that arises from various life transitions (relationships, marriage, divorce, birth of a child).
I have over 10 years experience working with individuals and couples. My area of expertise includes working with ethnic and multicultural population and addressing issues related to couples in inter-racial marriages, struggles with cultural assimilation and family relationship dynamics. I speak 5 languages and I am keenly aware of the specific issues faced by Indian-Americans in particular and Asian Americans and Latinos in general, especially with regards to struggles with personal and cultural identity. I offer brief and long term models of therapy. I also provide tele-therapy (online) in addition to face-to-face counseling.
(707) 549-6681 View (707) 549-6681
Photo of Della Fernandes, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Della Fernandes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MPM, PMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010
Stressed at your job? Anxious? Depressed? I utilize coaching techniques along with psycho-therapeutic approaches to understand the impact of your stress on your significant relationships. We work collaboratively to achieve therapy goals. I have over 15 years of experience in Business Operations, Human Resources and Project Management and combine my work experience along with therapy skills to work effectively with Project Managers, Human Resource Executives, Software engineers and management executives in their work and home life challenges.
Stressed at your job? Anxious? Depressed? I utilize coaching techniques along with psycho-therapeutic approaches to understand the impact of your stress on your significant relationships. We work collaboratively to achieve therapy goals. I have over 15 years of experience in Business Operations, Human Resources and Project Management and combine my work experience along with therapy skills to work effectively with Project Managers, Human Resource Executives, Software engineers and management executives in their work and home life challenges.
(925) 392-3842 View (925) 392-3842
Photo of Dr. Amrita Mehta, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Dr. Amrita Mehta
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Our group practice, Savera Psychological Services has a team of skilled and compassionate clinicians who offer psychotherapy, evaluations, and educational consulting. Our therapists offer a diverse range of specialties, ranging from sensory/play therapy for children, to individual and couples therapy in areas of depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, grief/loss, fertility/family building, life transitions, relationship challenges and school or work related pressures.
Our group practice, Savera Psychological Services has a team of skilled and compassionate clinicians who offer psychotherapy, evaluations, and educational consulting. Our therapists offer a diverse range of specialties, ranging from sensory/play therapy for children, to individual and couples therapy in areas of depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, grief/loss, fertility/family building, life transitions, relationship challenges and school or work related pressures.
(925) 276-2548 View (925) 276-2548
Photo of Manoj Kumar Sharma, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Manoj Kumar Sharma
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Hi there, I'm Manoj Kumar! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who works with adults and young adults on a range of issues including anxiety, depression, cultural stress, relationship issues, trauma, and PTSD. I employ techniques from CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic therapy, Existential therapy, and Solution-focused therapy modalities. I help my clients overcome their stress and anxiety so they can be more productive and enjoy their life. I believe that evidence-based therapeutic practices are very useful in dealing with symptoms of mental illnesses which cause stress and discomfort.
Hi there, I'm Manoj Kumar! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who works with adults and young adults on a range of issues including anxiety, depression, cultural stress, relationship issues, trauma, and PTSD. I employ techniques from CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic therapy, Existential therapy, and Solution-focused therapy modalities. I help my clients overcome their stress and anxiety so they can be more productive and enjoy their life. I believe that evidence-based therapeutic practices are very useful in dealing with symptoms of mental illnesses which cause stress and discomfort.
(415) 965-5398 View (415) 965-5398
Photo of Janice Raj, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Janice Raj
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Milpitas, CA 95035  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience with panic attacks, anxiety, stress, insomnia, and mild to moderate depression.
Before considering therapy, you may have tried a few ways to resolve your distress but find yourself stuck in the same thinking and behavioral patterns. If you are curious about why these patterns remain and feel motivated to create and sustain changes, therapy is a great starting point. Our brain is wired to resist change and the fact that you're seeking therapy speaks to your strength and courage. My ingredients for successful therapy = a strong therapeutic relationship + science-based skills + feeling heard and understood + stepping outside comfort zone in a safe environment + lots of practice.
I have extensive experience with panic attacks, anxiety, stress, insomnia, and mild to moderate depression.
Before considering therapy, you may have tried a few ways to resolve your distress but find yourself stuck in the same thinking and behavioral patterns. If you are curious about why these patterns remain and feel motivated to create and sustain changes, therapy is a great starting point. Our brain is wired to resist change and the fact that you're seeking therapy speaks to your strength and courage. My ingredients for successful therapy = a strong therapeutic relationship + science-based skills + feeling heard and understood + stepping outside comfort zone in a safe environment + lots of practice.
(408) 351-2914 View (408) 351-2914
Photo of Anuja Patel, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Anuja Patel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95113  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with people of all backgrounds and I specialize in: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, and relational difficulties.
Therapy can be intimidating and unfamiliar, which is why I aim to create a safe space for my clients to express their emotions, experiences, and challenges. I believe a non-judgmental environment and a trusting relationship are fundamental in fostering the therapeutic alliance. In the therapy process, I invite my clients to engage in exploration to help them gain insight into their patterns of behavior. My approach encourages self-empowerment by allowing clients to be active participants in the change process and ultimately reach the personal growth they desire.
I enjoy working with people of all backgrounds and I specialize in: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, and relational difficulties.
Therapy can be intimidating and unfamiliar, which is why I aim to create a safe space for my clients to express their emotions, experiences, and challenges. I believe a non-judgmental environment and a trusting relationship are fundamental in fostering the therapeutic alliance. In the therapy process, I invite my clients to engage in exploration to help them gain insight into their patterns of behavior. My approach encourages self-empowerment by allowing clients to be active participants in the change process and ultimately reach the personal growth they desire.
(669) 222-7960 View (669) 222-7960
Photo of Natasha Kennard, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in San Rafael, CA
Natasha Kennard
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
My name is Natasha Kennard and I am an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist (AMFT) and an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC). With a master's degree in clinical psychology, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate mental health support. I believe in a client centered approach, tailoring techniques to help you achieve your unique needs & goals through self-discovery & personal growth. I work with individuals, students, professionals, couples, & families at all ages and stages. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, stress management, & relationship counseling.
My name is Natasha Kennard and I am an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist (AMFT) and an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC). With a master's degree in clinical psychology, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate mental health support. I believe in a client centered approach, tailoring techniques to help you achieve your unique needs & goals through self-discovery & personal growth. I work with individuals, students, professionals, couples, & families at all ages and stages. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, stress management, & relationship counseling.
(209) 680-3178 View (209) 680-3178
Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.