Photo of Ken Stamper, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Ken Stamper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
My therapeutic style is approachable, warm, curious, and, when necessary, challenging. I draw from my training in the lineage of Gestalt Therapy, working in the 'here and now' to find out how we can create growth and change. I also use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when appropriate to help develop awareness for effective change. We will work collaboratively to see how you can learn respond to your environment with greater freedom and choice, where you can see possibilities and turn them into actualities. I'm here to support you in becoming your best self.
My therapeutic style is approachable, warm, curious, and, when necessary, challenging. I draw from my training in the lineage of Gestalt Therapy, working in the 'here and now' to find out how we can create growth and change. I also use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when appropriate to help develop awareness for effective change. We will work collaboratively to see how you can learn respond to your environment with greater freedom and choice, where you can see possibilities and turn them into actualities. I'm here to support you in becoming your best self.
(628) 214-5147 View (628) 214-5147
Photo of Virginia Blue, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Virginia Blue
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, FAE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
In addition to training in gestalt, somatic, and feminist psychotherapy, I bring a background in holistic reproductive health and body literacy.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families going through major life changes, such as birth and death, and confronting challenges related to anxiety, trauma, grief, and addiction of all kinds. 
In addition to training in gestalt, somatic, and feminist psychotherapy, I bring a background in holistic reproductive health and body literacy.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families going through major life changes, such as birth and death, and confronting challenges related to anxiety, trauma, grief, and addiction of all kinds. 
(415) 202-5546 View (415) 202-5546
Photo of Jayeon Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Jayeon Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Hello. I'm Jayeon Kim. I help people overcome unwanted emotional, relational, or behavioral patterns. I expertise in depression, anxiety, perfectionism, multicultural or interpersonal issues—with family of origin or an intimate partner—and complex developmental trauma (CPTSD). CPTSD means that you have experienced prolonged difficulties especially in your childhood or adolescence, such as emotionally neglectful parents or a culture that didn’t accept or foster who you really were. I integrate psychodynamics (depth work), existential, humanistic, client-centered, gestalt, somatic experiencing, and internal family system (parts work).
Hello. I'm Jayeon Kim. I help people overcome unwanted emotional, relational, or behavioral patterns. I expertise in depression, anxiety, perfectionism, multicultural or interpersonal issues—with family of origin or an intimate partner—and complex developmental trauma (CPTSD). CPTSD means that you have experienced prolonged difficulties especially in your childhood or adolescence, such as emotionally neglectful parents or a culture that didn’t accept or foster who you really were. I integrate psychodynamics (depth work), existential, humanistic, client-centered, gestalt, somatic experiencing, and internal family system (parts work).
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Photo of Debbie Mobley, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Debbie Mobley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
My approach is rooted in Gestalt Theory and the Paradoxical Theory of Change which states: "Change occurs when one becomes what he is, not when he tries to become something he is not.
Are you feeling stuck in your life? Would you like to connect more deeply with others and have more meaningful relationships? Or perhaps you'd just like to experience more joy, ease and meaning in your life. You are not alone. Anxiety and depression often show up when we are out of alignment with our deepest truths and what makes us feel truly alive. I work with individuals and couples to explore what is keeping them from flourishing and to discover unhealthy patterns so that they may experience deeper, more meaningful connections with themselves and others.
My approach is rooted in Gestalt Theory and the Paradoxical Theory of Change which states: "Change occurs when one becomes what he is, not when he tries to become something he is not.
Are you feeling stuck in your life? Would you like to connect more deeply with others and have more meaningful relationships? Or perhaps you'd just like to experience more joy, ease and meaning in your life. You are not alone. Anxiety and depression often show up when we are out of alignment with our deepest truths and what makes us feel truly alive. I work with individuals and couples to explore what is keeping them from flourishing and to discover unhealthy patterns so that they may experience deeper, more meaningful connections with themselves and others.
(415) 481-4907 View (415) 481-4907
Photo of Rabia Khara, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Rabia Khara
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, MFT, PCC, RDT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I am trained in cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, gestalt, solution-focused, narrative, drama, art, EMDR and mindfulness-based approach to therapy.
As a clinician, the therapeutic process is only meaningful and complete with the reciprocity and engagement of those I work with. Each individual is unique and their stories are interwoven with a rich tapestry of diverse emotions. By balancing the abstract, creative, philosophical, and introspective aspects of life with friendliness, compassion, empathy and care, I walk the path with you on your journey toward peace and happiness.
I am trained in cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, gestalt, solution-focused, narrative, drama, art, EMDR and mindfulness-based approach to therapy.
As a clinician, the therapeutic process is only meaningful and complete with the reciprocity and engagement of those I work with. Each individual is unique and their stories are interwoven with a rich tapestry of diverse emotions. By balancing the abstract, creative, philosophical, and introspective aspects of life with friendliness, compassion, empathy and care, I walk the path with you on your journey toward peace and happiness.
(215) 709-9225 View (215) 709-9225
Photo of Vanessa Wolter, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Vanessa Wolter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
My approach is compassionate, relational, holistic and is grounded in Gestalt, Existential and Transpersonal Psychology and combines Eastern wisdom with Western psychology.
What does it all mean? This is a scary question you might be asking yourself. As an existential therapist I can help you transform this question into a profound and powerful self/life exploration. When we find ourselves in an existential turning point or crisis we can feel anxious, depressed, and alone, as if no one might understand us. This is where I can come in. Together we can help ground and normalize this scary, painful experience and help “use” this opportunity as a way to let go of old patterns that don’t fit anymore so you can ultimately actualize and embody a new, more authentic and meaningful way of Being.
My approach is compassionate, relational, holistic and is grounded in Gestalt, Existential and Transpersonal Psychology and combines Eastern wisdom with Western psychology.
What does it all mean? This is a scary question you might be asking yourself. As an existential therapist I can help you transform this question into a profound and powerful self/life exploration. When we find ourselves in an existential turning point or crisis we can feel anxious, depressed, and alone, as if no one might understand us. This is where I can come in. Together we can help ground and normalize this scary, painful experience and help “use” this opportunity as a way to let go of old patterns that don’t fit anymore so you can ultimately actualize and embody a new, more authentic and meaningful way of Being.
(415) 237-9513 View (415) 237-9513
Photo of Sarah Carr, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Sarah Carr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Sarah specializes in helping teens and adults navigate OCD, anxiety disorders (social, generalized, phobias, panic), depression, work stress, and trauma. She is trained in evidence-based treatments that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC). Sarah has attended several multi-day residential mindfulness retreats and is a Certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Teacher. Sarah has also has completed intensive training in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). More info at www.mindfulsf.com.
Sarah specializes in helping teens and adults navigate OCD, anxiety disorders (social, generalized, phobias, panic), depression, work stress, and trauma. She is trained in evidence-based treatments that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC). Sarah has attended several multi-day residential mindfulness retreats and is a Certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Teacher. Sarah has also has completed intensive training in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). More info at www.mindfulsf.com.
(415) 969-3289 View (415) 969-3289
Photo of Lindsay Olshan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Lindsay Olshan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
My goal is to help people regain balance in their lives, deepen their understanding of self and achieve a level of awareness that alleviates helplessness and creates choice and ultimate change.
My goal is to help people regain balance in their lives, deepen their understanding of self and achieve a level of awareness that alleviates helplessness and creates choice and ultimate change.
(310) 341-7992 View (310) 341-7992
Photo of J. Delfina Piretti LMFT, REAT, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
J. Delfina Piretti LMFT, REAT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, REAT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I generally work with high functioning people at important junctures in life where the suffering is great. Asking for help is often a powerful step of surrendering the ego's attempts to resist change. Symptoms are often a sign that something is trying to wake up inside of you. When you turn your attention inward and get intimate with your inner life you can start to find the energy to heal, to grow and to change. I specialize in somatic table work for treating developmental trauma. This work focuses on repairing developmental wounds, strengthening somatic resilience and increasing capacity for regulation in the nervous system.
I generally work with high functioning people at important junctures in life where the suffering is great. Asking for help is often a powerful step of surrendering the ego's attempts to resist change. Symptoms are often a sign that something is trying to wake up inside of you. When you turn your attention inward and get intimate with your inner life you can start to find the energy to heal, to grow and to change. I specialize in somatic table work for treating developmental trauma. This work focuses on repairing developmental wounds, strengthening somatic resilience and increasing capacity for regulation in the nervous system.
(415) 598-2307 View (415) 598-2307
Photo of Peggy Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Peggy Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Often in life there are unexpected events or life transitions that challenge our abilities to cope or understand our sense of self or purpose. When what has been helpful to navigate life is no longer working, symptoms may show up in the form of sadness, depression, anxiety, stress, physical ailments, feelings of isolation, or an overwhelm of emotions that may be difficult to manage alone. I view therapy as a unique opportunity for honest observation and exploration in service of creating a deeper connection with your inherent nature as a way to discover how you can find support from yourself, as well as, feel supported by others.
Often in life there are unexpected events or life transitions that challenge our abilities to cope or understand our sense of self or purpose. When what has been helpful to navigate life is no longer working, symptoms may show up in the form of sadness, depression, anxiety, stress, physical ailments, feelings of isolation, or an overwhelm of emotions that may be difficult to manage alone. I view therapy as a unique opportunity for honest observation and exploration in service of creating a deeper connection with your inherent nature as a way to discover how you can find support from yourself, as well as, feel supported by others.
(415) 909-5721 View (415) 909-5721
Photo of Holly Greenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Holly Greenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Hello, there are some hurts in life that heal only through connecting with another person. Early relational trauma whether physical or emotional can create a heaviness that feels inescapable. Single incident trauma can have this effect as well. Sharing the story seems to exacerbate sleep problems, difficulty engaging in day-day activities, or just rising from bed. You do not need to tell me your story, just arrive and be willing to be curious. I offer therapy for PTSD, life transitions, grief and depression. In my work I offer myself as a supportive presence and companion.
Hello, there are some hurts in life that heal only through connecting with another person. Early relational trauma whether physical or emotional can create a heaviness that feels inescapable. Single incident trauma can have this effect as well. Sharing the story seems to exacerbate sleep problems, difficulty engaging in day-day activities, or just rising from bed. You do not need to tell me your story, just arrive and be willing to be curious. I offer therapy for PTSD, life transitions, grief and depression. In my work I offer myself as a supportive presence and companion.
(415) 367-3158 View (415) 367-3158
Photo of Juei-Chen 'lanny' Chao, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Juei-Chen 'lanny' Chao
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Mindfulness in Psychotherapy and Counseling. Are you dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, or relationship issues? Do you feel overwhelmed or helpless with these issues? You don't need to struggle alone. With Mindfulness-based Therapy, you will have an opportunity to develop your awareness and inner strength to cope with your challenges. I am anti-racist, cross-culturally sensitive, and committed to providing a safe, nonjudgemental, and compassionate space where you can be well supported on your healing journey.
Mindfulness in Psychotherapy and Counseling. Are you dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, or relationship issues? Do you feel overwhelmed or helpless with these issues? You don't need to struggle alone. With Mindfulness-based Therapy, you will have an opportunity to develop your awareness and inner strength to cope with your challenges. I am anti-racist, cross-culturally sensitive, and committed to providing a safe, nonjudgemental, and compassionate space where you can be well supported on your healing journey.
(628) 237-3861 View (628) 237-3861
Photo of Dr. Demi Orozco, Psychologist in 94115, CA
Dr. Demi Orozco
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
As a clinical psychologist who is passionate about establishing meaningful relationships, I am excited to be launching my practice to establish care for individuals and families. I have availability to work with children, adolescents, and adults with an aim to provide treatment with a focus on the corresponding developmental stages. I invite those who would like support in live’s issues that have a minoritized influence in a space that is open and accepting of these complexities.
As a clinical psychologist who is passionate about establishing meaningful relationships, I am excited to be launching my practice to establish care for individuals and families. I have availability to work with children, adolescents, and adults with an aim to provide treatment with a focus on the corresponding developmental stages. I invite those who would like support in live’s issues that have a minoritized influence in a space that is open and accepting of these complexities.
(415) 649-5998 View (415) 649-5998
Photo of Katherine (Katie) Behm, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94115, CA
Katherine (Katie) Behm
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, children, and couples who are facing ongoing or sudden challenges in their lives. My adult clients might be feeling disconnected from themselves and others, uncertain about their life path, or just ready for a change. By implementing body-oriented and cognitive-behavioral practices, I will support you in healing old wounds, breaking free from unhelpful patterns, and creating the life that you want.
I work with individuals, children, and couples who are facing ongoing or sudden challenges in their lives. My adult clients might be feeling disconnected from themselves and others, uncertain about their life path, or just ready for a change. By implementing body-oriented and cognitive-behavioral practices, I will support you in healing old wounds, breaking free from unhelpful patterns, and creating the life that you want.
(415) 366-9014 View (415) 366-9014
Photo of Pete Van Auken, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Pete Van Auken
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LEP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I am a psychotherapist with offices in San Francisco and Marin, and I provide individual therapy for adults and teens. I have a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, helping people to explore and resolve deeper issues that might be holding them back or manifesting as depression or anxiety. I specialize in helping clients to navigate major life transitions, overcome feelings of being stuck or overwhelmed, improve their relationships, and live with a stronger sense of vitality and authenticity.
I am a psychotherapist with offices in San Francisco and Marin, and I provide individual therapy for adults and teens. I have a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, helping people to explore and resolve deeper issues that might be holding them back or manifesting as depression or anxiety. I specialize in helping clients to navigate major life transitions, overcome feelings of being stuck or overwhelmed, improve their relationships, and live with a stronger sense of vitality and authenticity.
(415) 326-9551 View (415) 326-9551
Photo of Madhu Batheja, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Madhu Batheja
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Life can be full of ups and downs; you may feel isolated, alienated, unable to trust, have low self-esteem or relationship problems. Therapy helps you get through these difficult experiences, I listen to your concerns and create a safe space for you to resolve them. I help you explore your thoughts and feelings, uncover your strengths and vulnerabilities, develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your life, deepen self-trust and create the changes you want. Feeling heard and understood brings comfort and relief. I help you release inner blocks which leads to more vitality, creativity, self-expression and fulfillment.
Life can be full of ups and downs; you may feel isolated, alienated, unable to trust, have low self-esteem or relationship problems. Therapy helps you get through these difficult experiences, I listen to your concerns and create a safe space for you to resolve them. I help you explore your thoughts and feelings, uncover your strengths and vulnerabilities, develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your life, deepen self-trust and create the changes you want. Feeling heard and understood brings comfort and relief. I help you release inner blocks which leads to more vitality, creativity, self-expression and fulfillment.
(415) 549-0463 View (415) 549-0463
Photo of Dr. Sasha Avanesov, Psychologist in 94115, CA
Dr. Sasha Avanesov
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship issues, coping with trauma, screaming at the world gone mad, seeking answers to spiritual or existential questions, or pursuing personal growth, I will work hard to empower you. Together, we will explore, clarify, and address issues at the root of your concerns, clearing a path towards inner peace.
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship issues, coping with trauma, screaming at the world gone mad, seeking answers to spiritual or existential questions, or pursuing personal growth, I will work hard to empower you. Together, we will explore, clarify, and address issues at the root of your concerns, clearing a path towards inner peace.
(510) 405-7319 View (510) 405-7319
Photo of Joanna Calabrese, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Joanna Calabrese
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
We are all made of multitudes - of many parts - yet at the core, we are whole and wise. Life, with its many challenges, has a way of distancing us from our core self at times! If there are any parts of you that feel broken, in conflict, stuck, confused, anxious, depressed; If doubtful, fearful, or critical thoughts or perfectionism, controlling, and people-pleasing, are interfering with your contentment and thriving in your relationships or family or work- therapy can help. In therapy, we connect to your inner wisdom, the “true you” that knows what is right for you; and we unburden you from unhelpful thoughts and behaviors.
We are all made of multitudes - of many parts - yet at the core, we are whole and wise. Life, with its many challenges, has a way of distancing us from our core self at times! If there are any parts of you that feel broken, in conflict, stuck, confused, anxious, depressed; If doubtful, fearful, or critical thoughts or perfectionism, controlling, and people-pleasing, are interfering with your contentment and thriving in your relationships or family or work- therapy can help. In therapy, we connect to your inner wisdom, the “true you” that knows what is right for you; and we unburden you from unhelpful thoughts and behaviors.
(415) 612-6580 View (415) 612-6580
Photo of Leslie Elwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Leslie Elwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I became a therapist because of the transformative experience I had as a client. I know firsthand how powerful and healing the therapeutic relationship can be and this is the experience I aim to give my clients. It is possible to create the life and the relationships that nourish and inspire you, but most of us get stuck somewhere along the way and need help figuring out how to get back on track and how to heal the parts of ourselves that keep us in unhealthy and ultimately unfulfilling patterns of thought, feeling or behavior. My approach emphasizes acceptance of, and compassion for, the whole person.
I became a therapist because of the transformative experience I had as a client. I know firsthand how powerful and healing the therapeutic relationship can be and this is the experience I aim to give my clients. It is possible to create the life and the relationships that nourish and inspire you, but most of us get stuck somewhere along the way and need help figuring out how to get back on track and how to heal the parts of ourselves that keep us in unhealthy and ultimately unfulfilling patterns of thought, feeling or behavior. My approach emphasizes acceptance of, and compassion for, the whole person.
(628) 210-3135 View (628) 210-3135
Photo of Dean Carvalho, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Dean Carvalho
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
What is most important in therapy is that you feel deeply supported and understood. Finding a therapist who shares your LGBTQ+ identity is one less obstacle to being understood. My approach to therapy is collaborative and interactive, where we work together to reach your goals in a safe and supportive environment. Together we can find new ways to uncover your strengths and resources and make changes that leave you more balanced, happy, and authentic. My style is warm and curious and I seek to create relationships attuned to each client.
What is most important in therapy is that you feel deeply supported and understood. Finding a therapist who shares your LGBTQ+ identity is one less obstacle to being understood. My approach to therapy is collaborative and interactive, where we work together to reach your goals in a safe and supportive environment. Together we can find new ways to uncover your strengths and resources and make changes that leave you more balanced, happy, and authentic. My style is warm and curious and I seek to create relationships attuned to each client.
(628) 333-2295 View (628) 333-2295
Gestalt Therapists

What is gestalt therapy?

Gestalt therapy is based on the idea that to address unresolved negative feelings, emotions must be not only discussed but also actively expressed in the present moment. The term is from a German word meaning “whole,” and gestalt therapists believe that people should be considered whole entities made up of mind, body, and emotions. Gestalt sessions are rooted in the notion that a client’s total self must be discovered, explored, and confronted, so that they can take greater responsibility for themselves and their behavior, learn to satisfy their own needs while still respecting the needs of others, and reconnect with feelings they might otherwise deny.

How does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy sessions do not just involve talking with a therapist. Clients may take part in role-playing, re-enactment, or artistic exercises like drawing and painting, with the goal of becoming more aware of negative thought patterns that limit happiness. One common gestalt exercise is “the empty chair,” in which a client sits across from an empty chair representing a partner, relative, boss, or a part of themselves—and, with the therapist’s encouragement, improvises a dialog with it. The intention is to bring the emotions raised by past conflicts into the present and work through them in the moment.

How long does gestalt therapy last?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for gestalt therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. New patients should understand that it may take some time to become comfortable with gestalt exercises but once they do, they should expect sessions to extend for a number of months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions.

Does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy has generally been found to be as effective as other forms of talk therapy in helping people living with anxiety, depression, phobias, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders, as well as helping individuals reduce conflict in relationships. Gestalt techniques, on their own or in combination with other therapies, can also be effective in managing physical ailments including ulcerative colitis, migraines, and back spasms. It should be noted that some people may have trouble adapting to gestalt therapy’s lack of formal structure or to a therapist’s close observations of their body language and emotions; others may struggle to commit to techniques that feel unnatural, like the empty chair exercise.