Photo of David A Donovan, Psychologist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
David A Donovan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94116  (Online Only)
Are you a man with problems at work, or your relationships? Do you want things to be different? Then you must do things differently. Usually we solve problems by our efforts, or with the support of friends and family. That is often best. Other times, professional guidance is required. If you want an experienced psychologist who is well informed, practical, compassionate, and collaborative, consider working with me. I am ready to help you help yourself. Just email to arrange a phone consultation without cost or obligation. Please note: I provide online therapy to California men only.
Are you a man with problems at work, or your relationships? Do you want things to be different? Then you must do things differently. Usually we solve problems by our efforts, or with the support of friends and family. That is often best. Other times, professional guidance is required. If you want an experienced psychologist who is well informed, practical, compassionate, and collaborative, consider working with me. I am ready to help you help yourself. Just email to arrange a phone consultation without cost or obligation. Please note: I provide online therapy to California men only.
(415) 802-0119 View (415) 802-0119
Photo of Karen Marie Forsthoff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Karen Marie Forsthoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94116  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck and unhappy? Are you struggling in your work or family life? Do you want more from your relationships? If so, it might be time to reach out to a professional for help. Taking care of your mental health is a sign of self-compassion. It's the beginning of the healing process. Whether you choose to engage in Individual, Couple, or Family Therapy together we can find a way to restore a sense of hope and well-being. Please contact me for more information on how therapy can help you reach your goals.
Are you feeling stuck and unhappy? Are you struggling in your work or family life? Do you want more from your relationships? If so, it might be time to reach out to a professional for help. Taking care of your mental health is a sign of self-compassion. It's the beginning of the healing process. Whether you choose to engage in Individual, Couple, or Family Therapy together we can find a way to restore a sense of hope and well-being. Please contact me for more information on how therapy can help you reach your goals.
(628) 257-8065 View (628) 257-8065
Photo of Cecille Basila, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Cecille Basila
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94116  (Online Only)
My intention is to empower you with tools for healing, change, and personal fulfillment. I provide a holistic approach that combines ancient traditions with evidenced based practices. I believe everyone has the wisdom with in themselves to know what is needed for healing and transformation. Courageously accepting an invitation to explore your unique path in this human experience can expand your view in seeing all the different ways you can show up for life.
My intention is to empower you with tools for healing, change, and personal fulfillment. I provide a holistic approach that combines ancient traditions with evidenced based practices. I believe everyone has the wisdom with in themselves to know what is needed for healing and transformation. Courageously accepting an invitation to explore your unique path in this human experience can expand your view in seeing all the different ways you can show up for life.
(415) 818-0213 View (415) 818-0213
Photo of Doris Lai-Ming Tang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Doris Lai-Ming Tang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
Doris is a licensed therapist who has extensive experience working with a diverse population, including children, young adults, older adults, and Asian clients. She speaks Cantonese and conversational Mandarin. Her approach is warm, collaborative, and person-centered.
Doris is a licensed therapist who has extensive experience working with a diverse population, including children, young adults, older adults, and Asian clients. She speaks Cantonese and conversational Mandarin. Her approach is warm, collaborative, and person-centered.
(415) 723-1813 View (415) 723-1813
Dr. Meg Earls, Psychotherapy
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94116
Therapeutic relationships can truly be life changing and transformational. The issues that are leading you to think about therapy can be worked on, leading to increased satisfaction and joy with yourself, improved relationships with others, and enhanced functioning in pursuit of the life you want. I work collaboratively with you to help you develop more flexible responses to resolve conflict. Listening to your unique story with deep curiosity is crucial to our work, but I'm also pro-active and engaged in sharing my thoughts and observations. Kindness and compassion are vital, but so too are active help and feedback.
Therapeutic relationships can truly be life changing and transformational. The issues that are leading you to think about therapy can be worked on, leading to increased satisfaction and joy with yourself, improved relationships with others, and enhanced functioning in pursuit of the life you want. I work collaboratively with you to help you develop more flexible responses to resolve conflict. Listening to your unique story with deep curiosity is crucial to our work, but I'm also pro-active and engaged in sharing my thoughts and observations. Kindness and compassion are vital, but so too are active help and feedback.
(415) 423-2445 View (415) 423-2445
Photo of Alexandra Geary-Stock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Alexandra Geary-Stock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94116
Not sure if you want kids? Have been struggling to conceive and are in the thick of fertility treatment? Have kids and are overwhelmed but don't feel you can talk about that? I provide support to those thinking about parenthood, struggling to become parents and those making the transition into parenthood. With me there is space to talk about those things you don't want to say out loud-that feel taboo; a place where your own personal experience is right, validated and accepted. Looking forward to collaborating with you.
Not sure if you want kids? Have been struggling to conceive and are in the thick of fertility treatment? Have kids and are overwhelmed but don't feel you can talk about that? I provide support to those thinking about parenthood, struggling to become parents and those making the transition into parenthood. With me there is space to talk about those things you don't want to say out loud-that feel taboo; a place where your own personal experience is right, validated and accepted. Looking forward to collaborating with you.
(415) 862-1725 View (415) 862-1725
Photo of Colin Stack-Troost, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Colin Stack-Troost
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94116
I welcome humans from all walks of life who are interested in creating a safe space dedicated to exploring themselves and their relationships. I work in a dynamic and engaging way, collaborating with my clients to create goals, examine behavioral patterns, improve communication, and support authentic self-expression. I was trained by Queer legend Dossie Easton, co-author of "The Ethical Slut" and life-long advocate of those who live non-traditional lifestyles. I have an extensive background in understanding the unique issues that affect LGBTQ+ people and am honored to support the mental health of our community.
I welcome humans from all walks of life who are interested in creating a safe space dedicated to exploring themselves and their relationships. I work in a dynamic and engaging way, collaborating with my clients to create goals, examine behavioral patterns, improve communication, and support authentic self-expression. I was trained by Queer legend Dossie Easton, co-author of "The Ethical Slut" and life-long advocate of those who live non-traditional lifestyles. I have an extensive background in understanding the unique issues that affect LGBTQ+ people and am honored to support the mental health of our community.
(310) 770-6287 View (310) 770-6287
Photo of Shannon Hagan, Psychologist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Shannon Hagan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94116
While life does have it's challenges, I am here to remind you that there is a path to a gentler, brighter, more playful future, both with our own selves and with our partners and loved one. Therapy can be a wonderful way to rediscover joy, aliveness and connectedness.
While life does have it's challenges, I am here to remind you that there is a path to a gentler, brighter, more playful future, both with our own selves and with our partners and loved one. Therapy can be a wonderful way to rediscover joy, aliveness and connectedness.
(510) 949-5236 View (510) 949-5236
Photo of Meredith Meyer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Meredith Meyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94116
I have received extensive training in DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and continue to utilize these models in my work today. Together, they provide effective strategies for change balanced with mindfulness and acceptance. As a clinician, I aim to provide authenticity and evidenced based practices to ensure that you receive effective and compassionate care. I have experience working with individuals from 13 - 90 years old and enjoy having a diverse case load. In addition to DBT and CBT, I have been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Prolonged Exposure.
I have received extensive training in DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and continue to utilize these models in my work today. Together, they provide effective strategies for change balanced with mindfulness and acceptance. As a clinician, I aim to provide authenticity and evidenced based practices to ensure that you receive effective and compassionate care. I have experience working with individuals from 13 - 90 years old and enjoy having a diverse case load. In addition to DBT and CBT, I have been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Prolonged Exposure.
(760) 317-4539 View (760) 317-4539
Photo of Michelle Gutierrez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Michelle Gutierrez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94116  (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting me. I know preparing yourself to find a therapist that you feel comfortable with and someone you can trust is not easy. It takes a lot of courage. If you’ve gotten to this point of being ready to speak with someone new, you’re doing a great job. I consider the therapeutic relationship as one of the most important factors for healing. I prioritize making my clients feel at ease and understood. My main goals in our work together will be to always have hope that everything is healable and to always treat you and your journey with the upmost respect and compassion.
Thank you for visiting me. I know preparing yourself to find a therapist that you feel comfortable with and someone you can trust is not easy. It takes a lot of courage. If you’ve gotten to this point of being ready to speak with someone new, you’re doing a great job. I consider the therapeutic relationship as one of the most important factors for healing. I prioritize making my clients feel at ease and understood. My main goals in our work together will be to always have hope that everything is healable and to always treat you and your journey with the upmost respect and compassion.
(628) 300-3594 View (628) 300-3594
Photo of Bradford Smallwood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Bradford Smallwood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94116
I'm a Marriage & Family Therapist in the Noe Valley neighborhood of San Francisco. I work primarily with individuals and some families. I have focus and experience in anger management, relationships, life transitions, and trauma. I enjoy working with teenagers and young adults as they develop their personal identity and grow towards healthy independence and need support they cannot get from their peer or parent group. I also work with a large number young adult and mid-life individuals facing career stress/fatigue and life challenges. I was previously the onsite therapist at Square (now Block) at their HQ in SF.
I'm a Marriage & Family Therapist in the Noe Valley neighborhood of San Francisco. I work primarily with individuals and some families. I have focus and experience in anger management, relationships, life transitions, and trauma. I enjoy working with teenagers and young adults as they develop their personal identity and grow towards healthy independence and need support they cannot get from their peer or parent group. I also work with a large number young adult and mid-life individuals facing career stress/fatigue and life challenges. I was previously the onsite therapist at Square (now Block) at their HQ in SF.
(415) 592-6216 View (415) 592-6216
Photo of Akemi Takagi Matsuoka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Akemi Takagi Matsuoka
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94116
Not accepting new clients
I believe in an integrative approach to help people. I incorporate psychotherapy, relaxation, mindfulness, exercise, nutrition and self-regulation techniques to work with people who suffer from mental health issues and relational problems. I enjoy sharing with my clients a tool to take care of themselves and looking for practical solutions that meet their needs. I have practiced psychotherapy and provided mental health treatment over 20 years in the field of community mental health as well as in school settings. I work with children, adolescents and adults.
I believe in an integrative approach to help people. I incorporate psychotherapy, relaxation, mindfulness, exercise, nutrition and self-regulation techniques to work with people who suffer from mental health issues and relational problems. I enjoy sharing with my clients a tool to take care of themselves and looking for practical solutions that meet their needs. I have practiced psychotherapy and provided mental health treatment over 20 years in the field of community mental health as well as in school settings. I work with children, adolescents and adults.
(415) 463-1488 View (415) 463-1488
Photo of Jorge Villarroel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Jorge Villarroel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Parkside, San Francisco, CA 94116  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I approach therapy with warmth, compassionate curiosity, and honest reflection, focusing on the present moment. I am a supportive and open-minded therapist. I work together with individuals toward self-discovery, connecting with others from a perspective of personal awareness. I believe the therapeutic relationship has the potential to transform our lives in real and meaningful ways. Perhaps you feel stuck, or experience depression, anxiety, or pain that keeps you from living a full life and having healthy relationships, therapy can help one overcome these issues.
I approach therapy with warmth, compassionate curiosity, and honest reflection, focusing on the present moment. I am a supportive and open-minded therapist. I work together with individuals toward self-discovery, connecting with others from a perspective of personal awareness. I believe the therapeutic relationship has the potential to transform our lives in real and meaningful ways. Perhaps you feel stuck, or experience depression, anxiety, or pain that keeps you from living a full life and having healthy relationships, therapy can help one overcome these issues.
(415) 367-4135 View (415) 367-4135

Online Therapists

Photo of Amanda Terronez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Amanda Terronez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I am also skilled in Motivational Interviewing.
My belief is that we can all use someone to support us in processing our thoughts and feelings. It can be difficult finding time, money and energy to find the right therapist. I would love to be of service to you on your journey. I believe the therapeutic relationship is essential to therapy. Together we will work to accomplish the goals you have for yourself. I believe that your core beliefs about yourself will impact the way you behave and feel; therefore, by considering and examining these beliefs, you can gradually alter them and consequently, alter your behaviors and emotions.
I am also skilled in Motivational Interviewing.
My belief is that we can all use someone to support us in processing our thoughts and feelings. It can be difficult finding time, money and energy to find the right therapist. I would love to be of service to you on your journey. I believe the therapeutic relationship is essential to therapy. Together we will work to accomplish the goals you have for yourself. I believe that your core beliefs about yourself will impact the way you behave and feel; therefore, by considering and examining these beliefs, you can gradually alter them and consequently, alter your behaviors and emotions.
(415) 449-8134 View (415) 449-8134
Photo of Emilie C. Scovill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Emilie C. Scovill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I implement evidenced-based psychotherapy (including CBT and DBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy depending on the client.
In the fast-paced, hyper-competitive Bay Area, it can be challenging to balance all of the roles that we assume. Work, school, money, technology, and relationship stressors can leave us feeling depleted. Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and career dissatisfaction are some of the ways stressors may manifest. My aim is to support and help to empower you to improve your life by engaging in the life that you want to lead. This may result in increased effectiveness, happiness, and reduced suffering in all of your roles.
I implement evidenced-based psychotherapy (including CBT and DBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy depending on the client.
In the fast-paced, hyper-competitive Bay Area, it can be challenging to balance all of the roles that we assume. Work, school, money, technology, and relationship stressors can leave us feeling depleted. Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and career dissatisfaction are some of the ways stressors may manifest. My aim is to support and help to empower you to improve your life by engaging in the life that you want to lead. This may result in increased effectiveness, happiness, and reduced suffering in all of your roles.
(415) 942-8475 View (415) 942-8475
Photo of Julie K Peters, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Julie K Peters
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
My training equips me with skills in drama therapy, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, motivational interviewing, DBT, etc.
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
My training equips me with skills in drama therapy, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, motivational interviewing, DBT, etc.
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
(510) 380-5706 View (510) 380-5706
Photo of Caitlin Davis, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Caitlin Davis
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
My approach draws from various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of life? Seeking support can be a transformative step towards well-being. As an Associate Clinical Social Worker, I am here to guide you on your journey to a more balanced and fulfilling life. I specialize in working with adult individuals facing various life challenges. Whether it’s navigating work or school-related stress, managing burnout, coping with life transitions, supporting young adults (18+) navigating the complexities of "adulting," or addressing anxiety and ADHD, I am committed to providing a safe space for exploration and healing.
My approach draws from various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of life? Seeking support can be a transformative step towards well-being. As an Associate Clinical Social Worker, I am here to guide you on your journey to a more balanced and fulfilling life. I specialize in working with adult individuals facing various life challenges. Whether it’s navigating work or school-related stress, managing burnout, coping with life transitions, supporting young adults (18+) navigating the complexities of "adulting," or addressing anxiety and ADHD, I am committed to providing a safe space for exploration and healing.
(415) 301-6221 View (415) 301-6221
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(415) 840-3997 View (415) 840-3997
Photo of Jhoana Sarabia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Jhoana Sarabia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
For those who are seeking support for on-going issues, Jhoana utilizes different approaches that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety and Interpersonal Psychology (IPT) among others.
Jhoana Sarabia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. Whether a client is facing anxiety, depression, experiencing grief and loss, or has substance abuse issues, Jhoana offers a judgement free environment for people of all ages, genders, cultures, and social backgrounds to explore their concerns. She specializes in helping members of the Latinx community, and has extensive cultural and linguistic knowledge.
For those who are seeking support for on-going issues, Jhoana utilizes different approaches that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety and Interpersonal Psychology (IPT) among others.
Jhoana Sarabia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. Whether a client is facing anxiety, depression, experiencing grief and loss, or has substance abuse issues, Jhoana offers a judgement free environment for people of all ages, genders, cultures, and social backgrounds to explore their concerns. She specializes in helping members of the Latinx community, and has extensive cultural and linguistic knowledge.
(310) 943-1244 View (310) 943-1244
Photo of Stephen Del Grosso, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parkside, San Francisco, CA
Stephen Del Grosso
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
Feeling down, unmotivated or flat? Are you disengaging in previously pleasurable activities leaving you feeling unmotivated and anxious? Through a collaborative partnership, I can help you lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life, helping to reduce anxiety and boost problem solving all from the comfort of your living room! I utilize a client centered, solution focused approach, through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing interventions to help reduce anxiety and depression and promote wellbeing.
Feeling down, unmotivated or flat? Are you disengaging in previously pleasurable activities leaving you feeling unmotivated and anxious? Through a collaborative partnership, I can help you lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life, helping to reduce anxiety and boost problem solving all from the comfort of your living room! I utilize a client centered, solution focused approach, through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing interventions to help reduce anxiety and depression and promote wellbeing.
(628) 345-8611 View (628) 345-8611

See more therapy options for Parkside, San Francisco


Motivational Interviewing Therapists

How does motivational interviewing work?

Motivational interviewing aims to uncover a person’s internal motivation to change their life. Toward this end, the therapist listens, empathizes, and collaborates with the client based on their perspective; the therapist doesn’t adhere to a predetermined plan for change or impose their viewpoint on the client. Discovering an individual’s most important reasons for change, and guiding them to achieve those changes, can empower people to shift from ambivalence to action.

Is motivational interviewing evidence-based?

Yes, research shows that motivational interviewing can help treat alcohol and substance use — and in different ways such as reducing drinking, reducing resistance, and increasing the likelihood of staying in treatment. Motivational interviewing has also been shown to help people lose weight, adhere to medication regimens, improve diet for those with Type II diabetes, and improve healthy behaviors in children.

How long does motivational interviewing last?

Motivational interviewing is a short-term therapy that can last just one or two sessions. In some cases, motivational interviewing may be used in conjunction with longer-term therapies, but for most people, motivational interviewing is a brief intervention that aims to help patients understand their personal, specific, and internal reasons for changing their life.

What differentiates motivational interviewing from person-centered therapy?

In person-centered therapy, the individual is in the driver’s seat of the treatment process, creating space for them to trust their instincts and arrive at their own solutions. The two approaches are similar because motivational interviewing is also client-centered; however, person-centered therapy is more open-ended while motivational interviewing is somewhat more structured; the goal is to change, and the therapist helps the client specifically discover their internal motivations to modify their behavior.