Photo of Ashley Ayala, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Ashley Ayala
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94304  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Accredited Parenting Coach, and Founder of The Modern Parent. Through my deep healing work with families, I have learned how vital it is to fully understand yourself in order to show up in alignment with whom you want to be. The clients I work with are ready to better understand how their current and past stressors, relationships, and concerns are getting in the way of living life fully and enjoying it. We peel back the layers and story that we have been told about the "problem" or how we view the "problem" and shift this narrative to one that allows us to function in a way we deserve.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Accredited Parenting Coach, and Founder of The Modern Parent. Through my deep healing work with families, I have learned how vital it is to fully understand yourself in order to show up in alignment with whom you want to be. The clients I work with are ready to better understand how their current and past stressors, relationships, and concerns are getting in the way of living life fully and enjoying it. We peel back the layers and story that we have been told about the "problem" or how we view the "problem" and shift this narrative to one that allows us to function in a way we deserve.
(650) 590-5841 View (650) 590-5841
Photo of Megan McGarry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Megan McGarry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
Daily work stress, relationship conflicts, past unhealed trauma, life stressors that just seem unmanageable - all of these things impact our well being and our ability to function well in many areas of our lives. I am passionate about holding a space for individuals who are struggling and finding their way back to peace and balance. I have been practicing for 13 years with a bulk of my experience in a medical setting helping people navigate emotional and physical trauma, stressful family/relationship dynamics, adjustment to illness/injury, anxiety and depression.
Daily work stress, relationship conflicts, past unhealed trauma, life stressors that just seem unmanageable - all of these things impact our well being and our ability to function well in many areas of our lives. I am passionate about holding a space for individuals who are struggling and finding their way back to peace and balance. I have been practicing for 13 years with a bulk of my experience in a medical setting helping people navigate emotional and physical trauma, stressful family/relationship dynamics, adjustment to illness/injury, anxiety and depression.
(310) 564-2742 View (310) 564-2742
Photo of Amber Potter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Amber Potter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303
My clinical expertise includes relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, grief, life changes, spirituality and children’s behavioral issues.
It takes courage to reach out for help in the midst of difficulty. I provide safety, support, and guidance in facing life's challenges. Together we will identify your needs, expand your resources, and holistically address your life. This may include your relationship with yourself and others, your feelings and emotions, your boundaries and standards, as well as any spiritual perspectives you might have.
My clinical expertise includes relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, grief, life changes, spirituality and children’s behavioral issues.
It takes courage to reach out for help in the midst of difficulty. I provide safety, support, and guidance in facing life's challenges. Together we will identify your needs, expand your resources, and holistically address your life. This may include your relationship with yourself and others, your feelings and emotions, your boundaries and standards, as well as any spiritual perspectives you might have.
(650) 910-6972 View (650) 910-6972
Photo of Jeff Clark, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Jeff Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Trained in Family Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and after years of helping couples, individuals and families I am in a fairly unique position to help you.
It has been over 30 years of helping families, adolescents and children. There have been hundreds of family members enjoying better lives and better relationships. You can, too! Give me a call or set up an appointment and lets start figuring out the right direction and getting past the things that are in the way to help you have the best years of your life!
Trained in Family Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and after years of helping couples, individuals and families I am in a fairly unique position to help you.
It has been over 30 years of helping families, adolescents and children. There have been hundreds of family members enjoying better lives and better relationships. You can, too! Give me a call or set up an appointment and lets start figuring out the right direction and getting past the things that are in the way to help you have the best years of your life!
(650) 241-1720 View (650) 241-1720
Photo of Naomi Brown, Psychologist in Palo Alto, CA
Naomi Brown
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Healing Self Esteem, Understanding self and learning to cope with challenging life situations; Healing relationships (couple, family, colleague, peer, friendships); Cultural and racial identity, coping with racism, BIPOC concerns, College and graduate student mental health; Eating disorders and body Image; Healing from depression and anxiety; Mindful living and meditation practice.
Healing Self Esteem, Understanding self and learning to cope with challenging life situations; Healing relationships (couple, family, colleague, peer, friendships); Cultural and racial identity, coping with racism, BIPOC concerns, College and graduate student mental health; Eating disorders and body Image; Healing from depression and anxiety; Mindful living and meditation practice.
(650) 772-5860 View (650) 772-5860
Photo of Noeman Samuels, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Noeman Samuels
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy based in LA, California. I have a doctorate in psychology with 30 years of experience. I work with clients in person as well as via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, life challenges, trauma and grief using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, & Psychodynamic Therapy to help clients make progress and start feeling better. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for adults, seniors, couples and families who may be dealing with the challenges of life. This often takes the form of anxiety, trauma, depression, stress and grief.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy based in LA, California. I have a doctorate in psychology with 30 years of experience. I work with clients in person as well as via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, life challenges, trauma and grief using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, & Psychodynamic Therapy to help clients make progress and start feeling better. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for adults, seniors, couples and families who may be dealing with the challenges of life. This often takes the form of anxiety, trauma, depression, stress and grief.
(650) 563-7295 View (650) 563-7295
Photo of Ruby Nieto Padilla, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Ruby Nieto Padilla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Hello, my name is Ruby Nieto Padilla. I am a Spanish-speaking, Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I have over 10 years of experience with the Latino population and in, particular, in the San Gabriel Valley area. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults/parents, and families that have difficulty maintaining and balancing healthy, loving relationships. Using a positive problem-solving approach and client-centered techniques, I help clients identify the source of their difficulties and assist them in developing effective strategies for change.
Hello, my name is Ruby Nieto Padilla. I am a Spanish-speaking, Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I have over 10 years of experience with the Latino population and in, particular, in the San Gabriel Valley area. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults/parents, and families that have difficulty maintaining and balancing healthy, loving relationships. Using a positive problem-solving approach and client-centered techniques, I help clients identify the source of their difficulties and assist them in developing effective strategies for change.
(949) 546-6673 View (949) 546-6673
Photo of Amanda E Fargo, Psychologist in Palo Alto, CA
Amanda E Fargo
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
I am culturally and spiritually sensitive and respect all individuals and family units.
I am currently exclusively practicing tele-health services. I am a licensed psychologist and interpersonal leadership coach committed to guiding individuals towards emotional well-being, personal and professional growth. For over 20 years I have worked successfully with a wide range of clients including business owners, educators, engineers, entrepreneurs, executives, medical professionals, scientists, start-up founders, students and venture capitalists from organizations such as AirBnB, Amazon, Apple, Facebook, Google, Intel, Netflix, Oracle, Salesforce, Stanford University, UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Santa Cruz and USC.
I am culturally and spiritually sensitive and respect all individuals and family units.
I am currently exclusively practicing tele-health services. I am a licensed psychologist and interpersonal leadership coach committed to guiding individuals towards emotional well-being, personal and professional growth. For over 20 years I have worked successfully with a wide range of clients including business owners, educators, engineers, entrepreneurs, executives, medical professionals, scientists, start-up founders, students and venture capitalists from organizations such as AirBnB, Amazon, Apple, Facebook, Google, Intel, Netflix, Oracle, Salesforce, Stanford University, UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Santa Cruz and USC.
(831) 278-4141 View (831) 278-4141
Photo of Judy Kao Craig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Judy Kao Craig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303
Hello! My name is Judy Craig and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in CA, WA, and NY. My goal in working with clients is to offer a supportive, collaborative, and engaging space where together we can better understand the past (family of origin, intergenerational trauma, cultural influences, socioeconomic experiences, etc.), accept the present, and identify empowering shifts in beliefs and actionable steps to repurpose previous thoughts, emotions, and expectations to improve self-image, confidence, and hope for the future.
Hello! My name is Judy Craig and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in CA, WA, and NY. My goal in working with clients is to offer a supportive, collaborative, and engaging space where together we can better understand the past (family of origin, intergenerational trauma, cultural influences, socioeconomic experiences, etc.), accept the present, and identify empowering shifts in beliefs and actionable steps to repurpose previous thoughts, emotions, and expectations to improve self-image, confidence, and hope for the future.
(626) 382-1324 View (626) 382-1324
Photo of Randi Valerie Specterman, Psychologist in Palo Alto, CA
Randi Valerie Specterman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303
My areas of specialization include treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Grief, Family and Relationship Concerns , and Spiritual Growth.
I have been a licensed Psychologist for over 25 years working with individuals, couples and families. My practice is informed by Mindfulness-Based principles and practices and am trained in Psycho-dynamic and Depth Psychology, including MB-CBT. I also use Somatic methods to complement our discussions and inquiry. Most importantly I seek to offer a safe, open and welcoming space for you to explore your sense of self, your life history and the challenges you may be facing at this time. I have found this to be the basis for discovering your own capacity to make meaningful change and to promote growth and well-being in your life.
My areas of specialization include treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Grief, Family and Relationship Concerns , and Spiritual Growth.
I have been a licensed Psychologist for over 25 years working with individuals, couples and families. My practice is informed by Mindfulness-Based principles and practices and am trained in Psycho-dynamic and Depth Psychology, including MB-CBT. I also use Somatic methods to complement our discussions and inquiry. Most importantly I seek to offer a safe, open and welcoming space for you to explore your sense of self, your life history and the challenges you may be facing at this time. I have found this to be the basis for discovering your own capacity to make meaningful change and to promote growth and well-being in your life.
(607) 218-5499 View (607) 218-5499
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-1415 View (562) 268-1415
Photo of Jane Akponye, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Jane Akponye
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303
Hello, my name is Dr. Jane Akponye! I hold a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 129857), a certified Anger Management provider, an EQi-2.0 certified practitioner, and the author of “Children of Divorced Parents”. As a passionate person, I decided to help people find their passions and celebrate life through counseling. Due to perceived stigma, it’s often tough to decide whether to see a therapist when we are worried, stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed with life experiences. I ask you not to struggle through it alone but embrace help.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jane Akponye! I hold a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 129857), a certified Anger Management provider, an EQi-2.0 certified practitioner, and the author of “Children of Divorced Parents”. As a passionate person, I decided to help people find their passions and celebrate life through counseling. Due to perceived stigma, it’s often tough to decide whether to see a therapist when we are worried, stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed with life experiences. I ask you not to struggle through it alone but embrace help.
(805) 429-8698 View (805) 429-8698
Photo of Lawrence Feinstein, Psychologist in Palo Alto, CA
Lawrence Feinstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94302  (Online Only)
I also received postdoctoral training in family therapy at UC Irvine Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry.
Bay Area Health Psychology is a group practice (see our website); I am the Director. I specialize in Clinical Health Psychology to assist people with chronic medical conditions, anxiety, and depression to manage their health and treatment. I also assist people with progressions of aging such as dementia, memory loss, and Alzheimer's Disease. And I help caregivers cope with the tasks of living with someone with a chronic condition. I provide EMDR treatment using a special web application, and offer Couples/Marital Therapy based on a "dynamic interaction" model developed during my research at UCLA plus training by the Gottmans.
I also received postdoctoral training in family therapy at UC Irvine Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry.
Bay Area Health Psychology is a group practice (see our website); I am the Director. I specialize in Clinical Health Psychology to assist people with chronic medical conditions, anxiety, and depression to manage their health and treatment. I also assist people with progressions of aging such as dementia, memory loss, and Alzheimer's Disease. And I help caregivers cope with the tasks of living with someone with a chronic condition. I provide EMDR treatment using a special web application, and offer Couples/Marital Therapy based on a "dynamic interaction" model developed during my research at UCLA plus training by the Gottmans.
(650) 999-0220 View (650) 999-0220
Photo of Dr. Michelle Kalehzan, Psychologist in Palo Alto, CA
Dr. Michelle Kalehzan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94305
I'm culturally aware and sensitive with firsthand knowledge of the complexities of having a bicultural relationship/family.
I have over 25 years of research and clinical experience in working with individuals whose lives are impacted by mood disorders. Within the realm of mood disorders, there is a multitude of life stressors and challenges that are often present. I enjoy working with my patients to help them manage and ideally overcome the symptoms of mood and anxiety disorders that have negatively impacted their lives. I primarily work with older adolescents, adults, and elder individuals, and I also work with couples and families.
I'm culturally aware and sensitive with firsthand knowledge of the complexities of having a bicultural relationship/family.
I have over 25 years of research and clinical experience in working with individuals whose lives are impacted by mood disorders. Within the realm of mood disorders, there is a multitude of life stressors and challenges that are often present. I enjoy working with my patients to help them manage and ideally overcome the symptoms of mood and anxiety disorders that have negatively impacted their lives. I primarily work with older adolescents, adults, and elder individuals, and I also work with couples and families.
(650) 941-4444 View (650) 941-4444
Photo of Marcia Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Marcia Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303
My name is Marcia (Mar-see-a). I am a licensed clinical social worker, and a licensed marriage and family therapist. My approach is client-centered and solution-focused. I want to get to know you, your goals, and help you remove any barriers to achieving those goals.
My name is Marcia (Mar-see-a). I am a licensed clinical social worker, and a licensed marriage and family therapist. My approach is client-centered and solution-focused. I want to get to know you, your goals, and help you remove any barriers to achieving those goals.
(909) 787-2307 View (909) 787-2307
Photo of Wendy Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Wendy Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303
Hi, my name is Wendy Thomas a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years experience working in private and public sector including military personal. I specialize in working in the areas of mood disorders, additions, depression, anxiety, relationship communication. My therapeutic approach is holistic employing Evidence Base intervention. Respecting your voice as the poet of your life experiences and the expert in sharing your story. Client centered therapy focuses on individual, family, and couples’ unique needs to build interpersonal strength and process life's lemons into lemonade.
Hi, my name is Wendy Thomas a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years experience working in private and public sector including military personal. I specialize in working in the areas of mood disorders, additions, depression, anxiety, relationship communication. My therapeutic approach is holistic employing Evidence Base intervention. Respecting your voice as the poet of your life experiences and the expert in sharing your story. Client centered therapy focuses on individual, family, and couples’ unique needs to build interpersonal strength and process life's lemons into lemonade.
(323) 458-5241 View (323) 458-5241
Photo of Shanna Lee Rayyan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Shanna Lee Rayyan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301  (Online Only)
I’m Shanna Rayyan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist. I am currently accepting new clients in my online private practice for face to face tele-therapy sessions. I'm passionate about helping my clients work through their traumas, hardships, and mental illness in order to improve their quality of life. I use an eclectic approach, implementing various evidence-based therapeutic modalities that best fit my specific client’s life story, needs, and goals. I utilize various therapeutic modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Family Therapy.
I’m Shanna Rayyan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist. I am currently accepting new clients in my online private practice for face to face tele-therapy sessions. I'm passionate about helping my clients work through their traumas, hardships, and mental illness in order to improve their quality of life. I use an eclectic approach, implementing various evidence-based therapeutic modalities that best fit my specific client’s life story, needs, and goals. I utilize various therapeutic modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Family Therapy.
(916) 794-3991 View (916) 794-3991
Photo of Ana Batan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Ana Batan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303
My focus is creating a warm, trusting, and safe environment to explore your current barriers or struggles so you can achieve self-empowerment and the ability to function within the family unit.
Hello, my name is Ana Batan, LMFT. I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field.
My focus is creating a warm, trusting, and safe environment to explore your current barriers or struggles so you can achieve self-empowerment and the ability to function within the family unit.
Hello, my name is Ana Batan, LMFT. I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field.
(510) 726-0593 View (510) 726-0593
Photo of Bryan Vasquez, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Palo Alto, CA
Bryan Vasquez
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CATCIII
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94304
Struggling with addiction & feel rehab isn’t an option? Want to adjust your relationship with a substance instead of being told you must quit? Leaving your family, job, school or responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy & on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard-feelings of anxiety, guilt, & shame. You may have tried cutting back or stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful behavior. I specialize in Moderation & abstinence based approaches.
Struggling with addiction & feel rehab isn’t an option? Want to adjust your relationship with a substance instead of being told you must quit? Leaving your family, job, school or responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy & on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard-feelings of anxiety, guilt, & shame. You may have tried cutting back or stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful behavior. I specialize in Moderation & abstinence based approaches.
(657) 214-4613 View (657) 214-4613
Photo of Alexander Ochoa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Alexander Ochoa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303
My name is Dr. Alexander Ochoa is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in San Francisco, CA. I provide individual therapy for teens, young adults, and adults. I focus on sports mental health, athletes struggling with fears of re-injury, effective communication, identity loss, anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting, and conflict resolution. I specialize in working with individuals who would like to grow their performance by prioritizing their mental health.
My name is Dr. Alexander Ochoa is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in San Francisco, CA. I provide individual therapy for teens, young adults, and adults. I focus on sports mental health, athletes struggling with fears of re-injury, effective communication, identity loss, anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting, and conflict resolution. I specialize in working with individuals who would like to grow their performance by prioritizing their mental health.
(951) 468-9227 View (951) 468-9227

Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.