Photo of David J Kest, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
David J Kest
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
Waitlist for new clients
A certified Imago Relationship Therapist in SF and Marin Teaching couples the "Art of Dialogue" .
I offer an "Integrated Approach to Psychotherapy" for adults, couples and families. We may first seek to reduce negative symptoms and increase stability in our life, but eventually I support and challenge my clients to graduate from "surviving to truly "thriving" in all major aspects of their life. Relationships have shaped and influenced who we are and many clients appreciate help with essential relationship skills. I am one of the few therapists in Marin and SF actually certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist and have had the honor to assist the cofounders many times with their weekend workshops. on the West Coast.
A certified Imago Relationship Therapist in SF and Marin Teaching couples the "Art of Dialogue" .
I offer an "Integrated Approach to Psychotherapy" for adults, couples and families. We may first seek to reduce negative symptoms and increase stability in our life, but eventually I support and challenge my clients to graduate from "surviving to truly "thriving" in all major aspects of their life. Relationships have shaped and influenced who we are and many clients appreciate help with essential relationship skills. I am one of the few therapists in Marin and SF actually certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist and have had the honor to assist the cofounders many times with their weekend workshops. on the West Coast.
(650) 924-9677 View (650) 924-9677
Photo of Debbie Cherry Lmft - Couples Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Debbie Cherry Lmft - Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Couples come to me when they are sick of small disagreements turning into BIG arguments. Many therapists start with the problems… I start with solutions. I’ve created simple tools to help couples communicate based on seeing what successful couples do differently for over 20 years in practice.
Couples come to me when they are sick of small disagreements turning into BIG arguments. Many therapists start with the problems… I start with solutions. I’ve created simple tools to help couples communicate based on seeing what successful couples do differently for over 20 years in practice.
(415) 729-2128 View (415) 729-2128
Photo of Kelsey Chang-Kim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kelsey Chang-Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MLD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am so happy you're here. My first and foremost priority is to help you feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable. I exude warmth, open-mindedness, non-judgment, and care from a genuine place. I've worked with many diverse populations over the years and particularly enjoy working with teens and young adults as he/she/they discover their truest selves and navigate the complexities of life. Whether it is anxiety or depression or overcoming a painful past, you are not alone and there IS a light at the end of the tunnel.
Welcome! I am so happy you're here. My first and foremost priority is to help you feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable. I exude warmth, open-mindedness, non-judgment, and care from a genuine place. I've worked with many diverse populations over the years and particularly enjoy working with teens and young adults as he/she/they discover their truest selves and navigate the complexities of life. Whether it is anxiety or depression or overcoming a painful past, you are not alone and there IS a light at the end of the tunnel.
(562) 273-9693 View (562) 273-9693
Photo of Araceli Pimentel, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
Araceli Pimentel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to explore their feelings, communicate effectively, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, and marital/pre-marital issues.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to explore their feelings, communicate effectively, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, and marital/pre-marital issues.
(323) 312-3401 View (323) 312-3401
Photo of Jenelle Okkerse, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jenelle Okkerse
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
I have spent the last 20 years providing mental health services to children and adults as I feel it is my calling. I am systems oriented as I do not believe that we exist in a vacuum. We are all influenced by the environment we live in. There are times when we all need assistance in navigating our individual systems.
I have spent the last 20 years providing mental health services to children and adults as I feel it is my calling. I am systems oriented as I do not believe that we exist in a vacuum. We are all influenced by the environment we live in. There are times when we all need assistance in navigating our individual systems.
(916) 659-8028 View (916) 659-8028
Photo of Jacinta Brown-Wade, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jacinta Brown-Wade
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94124
I believe it takes a strong person to seek out counseling and support to initiate the change you are looking for. I would love to help you get there. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am committed to working with you to create change by developing goals, identifying and increasing strengths, processing experiences, empowering, nurturing, and providing psychoeducation to enable change.
I believe it takes a strong person to seek out counseling and support to initiate the change you are looking for. I would love to help you get there. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am committed to working with you to create change by developing goals, identifying and increasing strengths, processing experiences, empowering, nurturing, and providing psychoeducation to enable change.
(323) 593-2834 View (323) 593-2834
Photo of Robert Hehrlein, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Robert Hehrlein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94134
My name is Robert (Bob) Hehrlein; I practice psychotherapy under my California, Marriage, and Family Therapist license. I have over 15 years of experience in the behavioral health field, initially working as an addiction counselor, which led to self-employment as a recovery/life coach. After that, I worked as a therapist for mentally ill outpatients, providing psychoeducation to groups on topics such as emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness.Some of the issues that I processed with my group members involved anxiety, depression, anger management, and healthy relationships.
My name is Robert (Bob) Hehrlein; I practice psychotherapy under my California, Marriage, and Family Therapist license. I have over 15 years of experience in the behavioral health field, initially working as an addiction counselor, which led to self-employment as a recovery/life coach. After that, I worked as a therapist for mentally ill outpatients, providing psychoeducation to groups on topics such as emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness.Some of the issues that I processed with my group members involved anxiety, depression, anger management, and healthy relationships.
(661) 466-5341 View (661) 466-5341
Photo of Kerena Saltzman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kerena Saltzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CGP, LCSW, Coach
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or going through a major life transition. I work with high achievers who are juggling multiple responsibilities and want to succeed in all areas of their life. Sometimes with outer success comes a desire for more inner joy and insight into what matters most. You may be struggling in your marriage or partnership and desire more ease. I have been a therapist for 20 years, I help couples build the skills to communicate more clearly, repair easier, and feel closer to one another. I have had success in supporting couples to navigate connection after infidelity.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or going through a major life transition. I work with high achievers who are juggling multiple responsibilities and want to succeed in all areas of their life. Sometimes with outer success comes a desire for more inner joy and insight into what matters most. You may be struggling in your marriage or partnership and desire more ease. I have been a therapist for 20 years, I help couples build the skills to communicate more clearly, repair easier, and feel closer to one another. I have had success in supporting couples to navigate connection after infidelity.
(831) 480-5658 View (831) 480-5658
Photo of Alik Segal, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Alik Segal
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94116
Alik Segal, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am committed to helping people have better relationships. I love working with couples and parenting issues because people are not to be alone. Parenting is a lifelong journey and can be improved not just for young and middle-aged parents with minor children, but also for adult children with aging parents. I work on these issues with individuals, couples, and families.
Alik Segal, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am committed to helping people have better relationships. I love working with couples and parenting issues because people are not to be alone. Parenting is a lifelong journey and can be improved not just for young and middle-aged parents with minor children, but also for adult children with aging parents. I work on these issues with individuals, couples, and families.
(510) 990-9201 View (510) 990-9201
Photo of Lisa Marie Jellison, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Lisa Marie Jellison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101
All of my services are 100% online. Online therapy provides convenience, privacy and affordability all in one place. There are so many different types of situations or experiences that can create a need for therapy. You could be stressed and are having difficulty at work, you might realize that you have been feeling more “down” than usual or perhaps you are struggling with a difficult adjustment at home. Maybe your child is acting out and you aren't sure how to deal with it or you are going through a breakup or you moved to a new city. You also might want to improve your marriage and your friendships.
All of my services are 100% online. Online therapy provides convenience, privacy and affordability all in one place. There are so many different types of situations or experiences that can create a need for therapy. You could be stressed and are having difficulty at work, you might realize that you have been feeling more “down” than usual or perhaps you are struggling with a difficult adjustment at home. Maybe your child is acting out and you aren't sure how to deal with it or you are going through a breakup or you moved to a new city. You also might want to improve your marriage and your friendships.
(530) 285-5955 View (530) 285-5955
Photo of Wilshire Valley Therapy Centers, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Wilshire Valley Therapy Centers
Psychologist
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94107
Wilshire Valley Therapy offers state-of-the-art mental health services in person or via Telemedicine in LA, Burbank, Santa Clarita, Encino & Ventura, & Telemed in both SoCal & Northern Calif. Our highly qualified therapists engage & collaborate with clients whose goals & treatment directions seek to achieve more authentic, productive lives. A safe space created where clients personal & professional relationships are strengthened & a range of phase of life issues are explored in a supportive setting. We assist clients in discovering their unique value & strengths, creating a solid foundation, for a better life & a hopeful future.
Wilshire Valley Therapy offers state-of-the-art mental health services in person or via Telemedicine in LA, Burbank, Santa Clarita, Encino & Ventura, & Telemed in both SoCal & Northern Calif. Our highly qualified therapists engage & collaborate with clients whose goals & treatment directions seek to achieve more authentic, productive lives. A safe space created where clients personal & professional relationships are strengthened & a range of phase of life issues are explored in a supportive setting. We assist clients in discovering their unique value & strengths, creating a solid foundation, for a better life & a hopeful future.
(747) 207-4245 View (747) 207-4245
Photo of Patrisha Hodgman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Patrisha Hodgman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I am a TeleHealth Practitioner offering HIPAA secure video sessions. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship issues. Our mental and emotional well-being impacts our physical health and the quality of our lives. I can help you to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress, gain healing from the pain and confusion of trauma and grief, and face new challenges while adjusting to a new normal. As an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist, I can offer this powerful, evidence-based treatment for trauma. Further, I am a climate aware therapist offering help with eco-anxiety.
I am a TeleHealth Practitioner offering HIPAA secure video sessions. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship issues. Our mental and emotional well-being impacts our physical health and the quality of our lives. I can help you to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress, gain healing from the pain and confusion of trauma and grief, and face new challenges while adjusting to a new normal. As an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist, I can offer this powerful, evidence-based treatment for trauma. Further, I am a climate aware therapist offering help with eco-anxiety.
(661) 426-8927 View (661) 426-8927
Photo of Abbie Loveland Tuller, Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Abbie Loveland Tuller
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
The greatest discovery I have made in life is to embrace the unexpected, to crave the twists and turns as much as the great joys of life, and to lead with curiosity. Life can often feel scary, and we may face challenges that leave us feeling like there is nowhere to turn. If you find yourself feeling this way, you are not alone. Whether you are dealing with feelings of great sadness, anxiousness that feels uncontrollable, or struggling to move past an event in your life you have turned to the right place. Seeking therapy can lead to a greater understanding of yourself, the world around you, and the person you want to be.
The greatest discovery I have made in life is to embrace the unexpected, to crave the twists and turns as much as the great joys of life, and to lead with curiosity. Life can often feel scary, and we may face challenges that leave us feeling like there is nowhere to turn. If you find yourself feeling this way, you are not alone. Whether you are dealing with feelings of great sadness, anxiousness that feels uncontrollable, or struggling to move past an event in your life you have turned to the right place. Seeking therapy can lead to a greater understanding of yourself, the world around you, and the person you want to be.
(917) 512-5866 View (917) 512-5866

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Paul Kramer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daly City, CA 94015
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(650) 397-7833 View (650) 397-7833
Photo of Daniya Ahmed, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Daniya Ahmed
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94720  (Online Only)
If you’re reading this right now, you might be feeling down, confused, and maybe even stuck with what to do or where to go. Life IS tough, and I want you to know that you don’t have to go through it alone. I feel deeply honored to help people explore, understand, and learn to accept themselves. I strive to create a casual, comfortable, and authentic feel to our therapy sessions to help us build a safe environment to explore your thoughts, feelings, and vulnerabilities. My clients have commented and shared that they appreciate my genuine and compassionate nature, as well as my curiosity for them and their life stories.
If you’re reading this right now, you might be feeling down, confused, and maybe even stuck with what to do or where to go. Life IS tough, and I want you to know that you don’t have to go through it alone. I feel deeply honored to help people explore, understand, and learn to accept themselves. I strive to create a casual, comfortable, and authentic feel to our therapy sessions to help us build a safe environment to explore your thoughts, feelings, and vulnerabilities. My clients have commented and shared that they appreciate my genuine and compassionate nature, as well as my curiosity for them and their life stories.
(415) 965-4841 View (415) 965-4841
Photo of Stacy Reid, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Stacy Reid
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and have been working in the field of mental health for over 20 years. I enjoy helping clients make changes that they want in order to live their lives the way they hope to.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and have been working in the field of mental health for over 20 years. I enjoy helping clients make changes that they want in order to live their lives the way they hope to.
(657) 255-5145 View (657) 255-5145
Photo of Irene Ornelas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Irene Ornelas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015
Her professional social work experience includes working directly with individuals and families from diverse socioeconomic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds as a Medical Social Worker and Clinical Social Worker. Her over 20 years of experience includes working in public health with adolescents who were pregnant and parenting, children challenged with physical disabilities, and individuals living with HIV/AIDS, as well as with individuals receiving care in renal dialysis, hospital, home health, hospice, and pediatric clinic settings as well as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).
Her professional social work experience includes working directly with individuals and families from diverse socioeconomic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds as a Medical Social Worker and Clinical Social Worker. Her over 20 years of experience includes working in public health with adolescents who were pregnant and parenting, children challenged with physical disabilities, and individuals living with HIV/AIDS, as well as with individuals receiving care in renal dialysis, hospital, home health, hospice, and pediatric clinic settings as well as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).
(310) 455-8168 View (310) 455-8168

Online Therapists

Photo of Paul Kramer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(650) 668-0376 View (650) 668-0376
Photo of Mary Patricia Killoran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Mary Patricia Killoran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94551
My name is Mary Pat Killoran LCSW. I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist. I have many years experience dealing with Individuals with Substance Abuse and the Families experiencing the effects. I work with clients and families dealing with Substance Abuse. I work with Adults, Couples and Families. I work with Depression, Life transitions, Grief and Aging concerns. I provide Coaching for optimal potential.
My name is Mary Pat Killoran LCSW. I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist. I have many years experience dealing with Individuals with Substance Abuse and the Families experiencing the effects. I work with clients and families dealing with Substance Abuse. I work with Adults, Couples and Families. I work with Depression, Life transitions, Grief and Aging concerns. I provide Coaching for optimal potential.
(925) 332-0271 View (925) 332-0271
Photo of Nina Lindajane Holmes, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nina Lindajane Holmes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, TRI, ESMHL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
I am a Certified Advanced Imago Relationship Therapist and Certified Imago Workshop Presenter. I am Internal Family Systems or IFS Level One trained, currently enrolled in Level Two IFS training in Intimacy From the Inside Out (the IFS couples model). I have 18 years of clinical experience assisting with relationships as well as with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, domestic violence, psychosis and sexual assault. I often work collaboratively with the entire family to promote positive change. I provide equine facilitated psychotherapy for individuals who make better progress working outdoors.
I am a Certified Advanced Imago Relationship Therapist and Certified Imago Workshop Presenter. I am Internal Family Systems or IFS Level One trained, currently enrolled in Level Two IFS training in Intimacy From the Inside Out (the IFS couples model). I have 18 years of clinical experience assisting with relationships as well as with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, domestic violence, psychosis and sexual assault. I often work collaboratively with the entire family to promote positive change. I provide equine facilitated psychotherapy for individuals who make better progress working outdoors.
(408) 916-3092 View (408) 916-3092

See more therapy options for San Francisco

Imago Therapists

How does Imago therapy work?

Imago relationship therapy is a form of couples counseling meant to help partners address conflict, communication problems, and related issues. Imago sessions typically involve couples sitting facing each other and participating in guided conversations. Therapy will also involve exercises such as re-imagining one’s partner as a wounded child; re-romanticizing a relationship through appreciation, surprises, and even gift-giving and restructuring frustrations by transforming complaints into requests. The ultimate goal is to re-envision the relationship as a source of safety and happiness.

What is the Imago method?

A core technique of Imago therapy is the Imago dialogue, in which partners learn to avoid hurtful statements and establish ways to interact based on each having equal space and power. In the dialogue, partners take turns as the “sender,” who shares their thoughts, and the “receiver.” The receiver is asked to “mirror,” or paraphrase, what their partner has said, without response or rebuttal, and then validate their statements, acknowledging understanding even if they do not personally agree with it. Finally, the receiver displays empathy by stating what they imagine the other is feeling, and showing appreciation for it.

How long does Imago therapy take?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for Imago therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core techniques of Imago coaching, some couples quickly make progress, but most should expect sessions to extend for months, encompassing at least 12 to 20 sessions, along with extensive “homework” from their therapist.

Does Imago therapy work?

There is limited empirical evidence to support the benefits of Imago therapy, but some smaller studies suggest that it does help couples, at least in the short-term. A 2017 study found that marital satisfaction increased significantly after couples completed 12 sessions of Imago therapy, and remained higher for some time after that, but did not always result in “complete recovery.” Other studies found greater empathy and fewer feelings of relationship burnout in couples after therapy. Some research suggests that Imago therapy can aid individuals as well as couples; people with ADHD in particular may benefit from the development of communication, self-control, and listening skills that form the basis of the technique.