Photo of Jenny Bates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Jenny Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
My style of therapy uses Motivational Interviewing.
Many of us have been affected by mental health and/or substance abuse at some time in our lives. My practice was created so that individuals, couples and families could get support from someone who is experienced in the recovery process and has a true passion to help others and help people to find the best solutions to their own recovery. My specialty areas include those who are living with anxiety, depression, trauma and supporting those going through life changes (job, relationships etc.) Addiction and Co-Dependency is also a specialty area. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and welcome you to come as you are.
My style of therapy uses Motivational Interviewing.
Many of us have been affected by mental health and/or substance abuse at some time in our lives. My practice was created so that individuals, couples and families could get support from someone who is experienced in the recovery process and has a true passion to help others and help people to find the best solutions to their own recovery. My specialty areas include those who are living with anxiety, depression, trauma and supporting those going through life changes (job, relationships etc.) Addiction and Co-Dependency is also a specialty area. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and welcome you to come as you are.
(415) 534-3954 View (415) 534-3954
Photo of David Noble Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
David Noble Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
My practice utilizes a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Regulation and Competency (ARC), Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Family Systems Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Music Therapy.
I specialize in working with adolescent males who are experiencing externalizing behaviors (e.g. oppositional defiance, aggression, truancy, delinquency, etc.). In addition, I have extensive experience working with families struggling with attachment, attunement, and communication issues. I also work with couples dealing with relational problems and life transitions.
My practice utilizes a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Regulation and Competency (ARC), Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Family Systems Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Music Therapy.
I specialize in working with adolescent males who are experiencing externalizing behaviors (e.g. oppositional defiance, aggression, truancy, delinquency, etc.). In addition, I have extensive experience working with families struggling with attachment, attunement, and communication issues. I also work with couples dealing with relational problems and life transitions.
(415) 851-2360 View (415) 851-2360
Photo of Russell (Rusty) Hendlin, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Russell (Rusty) Hendlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I bring warmth, humor, compassion, clarity and understanding to my work. I support couples and families in improving communication, expressing feelings, resolving conflict, and establishing clearer roles. I encourage parents to set fair and firm limits and establish healthy boundaries. I assist individuals and families in becoming more confident, hopeful, cooperative and relaxed. I support relating with clarity, serenity, and loving kindness. I use mentalization based therapy (MBT) and systems therapy as primary approaches, but can use CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, attachment or other approches as needed.
I bring warmth, humor, compassion, clarity and understanding to my work. I support couples and families in improving communication, expressing feelings, resolving conflict, and establishing clearer roles. I encourage parents to set fair and firm limits and establish healthy boundaries. I assist individuals and families in becoming more confident, hopeful, cooperative and relaxed. I support relating with clarity, serenity, and loving kindness. I use mentalization based therapy (MBT) and systems therapy as primary approaches, but can use CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, attachment or other approches as needed.
(415) 849-4069 View (415) 849-4069
Photo of Heather Mclean Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Heather Mclean Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I work in the Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) modality with Motivational Interviewing and Positive Psychology to help understand how our thoughts influence our emotions.
I work with people during times of transition. You may be needing to process a loss, learn to draw boundaries, have the courage to use your voice, change jobs, or explore what is the next chapter for you. Let's explore how your stories, beliefs and relational patterns might be holding you back.
I work in the Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) modality with Motivational Interviewing and Positive Psychology to help understand how our thoughts influence our emotions.
I work with people during times of transition. You may be needing to process a loss, learn to draw boundaries, have the courage to use your voice, change jobs, or explore what is the next chapter for you. Let's explore how your stories, beliefs and relational patterns might be holding you back.
(415) 322-1692 View (415) 322-1692
Photo of Jodie M. NewDelman, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Jodie M. NewDelman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Dr. NewDelman's practice, Essensuate Psychology Group, APC includes solution-focused psychotherapists. Each provider brings their own sensibility but all engage clients who are ready to face the burden 'stuckness,' deepen their awareness, transform their mindset, and change their lives. The practice is dedicated to integrated care and each client's unique context. We offer a safe, confidential, and trusted alliance where our clients can process painful personal issues, difficult experiences, challenging memories, and persistent conflict. We also explore the reality of our clients' true inner resources to provoke meaningful shifts
Dr. NewDelman's practice, Essensuate Psychology Group, APC includes solution-focused psychotherapists. Each provider brings their own sensibility but all engage clients who are ready to face the burden 'stuckness,' deepen their awareness, transform their mindset, and change their lives. The practice is dedicated to integrated care and each client's unique context. We offer a safe, confidential, and trusted alliance where our clients can process painful personal issues, difficult experiences, challenging memories, and persistent conflict. We also explore the reality of our clients' true inner resources to provoke meaningful shifts
(628) 209-6714 View (628) 209-6714
Photo of Meredith Simpson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Meredith Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Meredith is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience providing therapy for children, teens, and families. With a warm style and strength-based approach, Meredith utilizes evidence-based treatments such as Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and incorporates Play Therapy techniques when working with children, recognizing the importance of creative and fun expressive modalities to facilitate healing and growth.
Meredith is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience providing therapy for children, teens, and families. With a warm style and strength-based approach, Meredith utilizes evidence-based treatments such as Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and incorporates Play Therapy techniques when working with children, recognizing the importance of creative and fun expressive modalities to facilitate healing and growth.
(415) 324-6955 x1 View (415) 324-6955 x1
Photo of Jessica Potter, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Jessica Potter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I am versatile in my clinical experience with clients of different ages and cultures. I have particular training in working with individuals struggling with trauma and the many symptoms related to trauma. I also have many years of experience working with those who struggle with addictions. I enjoy providing support groups for adults and teenagers. I have worked in schools, outpatient clinics, and private practice. I also have experience in suicide prevention work with teenagers and young adults.
I am versatile in my clinical experience with clients of different ages and cultures. I have particular training in working with individuals struggling with trauma and the many symptoms related to trauma. I also have many years of experience working with those who struggle with addictions. I enjoy providing support groups for adults and teenagers. I have worked in schools, outpatient clinics, and private practice. I also have experience in suicide prevention work with teenagers and young adults.
(415) 689-1017 View (415) 689-1017
Photo of Family Matters Of Marin, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Family Matters Of Marin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PPS
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Family Matters Of Marin is a trauma informed group practice focused on supporting children and families. We help clients create more joy, love, and harmony in their lives. We are deeply interested in learning how our clients would like to change and grow, and supporting them in this process. We work collaboratively with clients to improve their relationships and resolve any trauma from their past that maybe holding them back from living the life they yearn for. We are experienced therapists who use a variety of therapeutic modalities to resolve issues that are hindering our client's ability to be their best selves.
Family Matters Of Marin is a trauma informed group practice focused on supporting children and families. We help clients create more joy, love, and harmony in their lives. We are deeply interested in learning how our clients would like to change and grow, and supporting them in this process. We work collaboratively with clients to improve their relationships and resolve any trauma from their past that maybe holding them back from living the life they yearn for. We are experienced therapists who use a variety of therapeutic modalities to resolve issues that are hindering our client's ability to be their best selves.
(415) 639-9164 View (415) 639-9164
Photo of Prajna Cole, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Rafael, CA
Prajna Cole
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I specialize in helping people change behaviors that are harming their relationships and keeping them from living to their fullest potential. Together, we find what is causing anxiety, depression, irritability, or "the blahs." Many people have patterns in their behaviors or relationships that are stuck repeating and don't know why. Using evidence-based practices to inform our work, we can uncover what's underneath these symptoms to get you lasting relief. I also specialize in working with folks in the queer community, poly and open relationship issues.
I specialize in helping people change behaviors that are harming their relationships and keeping them from living to their fullest potential. Together, we find what is causing anxiety, depression, irritability, or "the blahs." Many people have patterns in their behaviors or relationships that are stuck repeating and don't know why. Using evidence-based practices to inform our work, we can uncover what's underneath these symptoms to get you lasting relief. I also specialize in working with folks in the queer community, poly and open relationship issues.
(707) 749-7244 View (707) 749-7244
Photo of Sasha Georgeson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Sasha Georgeson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, REAT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I believe that life’s challenges, whether external or internal, are opportunities for self-discovery and for becoming more aligned with your inner wisdom. My role as a therapist is to create an environment in which you can express yourself, feel deeply heard and connect to your authentic self. I believe that when we can meet ourselves with love and respect, we can heal from many issues. My focus is on supporting you to gain a deeper understanding of who you are, including your resources and strengths, your unique perspective, and your unconscious patterns so you can create the change and healing that you desire.
I believe that life’s challenges, whether external or internal, are opportunities for self-discovery and for becoming more aligned with your inner wisdom. My role as a therapist is to create an environment in which you can express yourself, feel deeply heard and connect to your authentic self. I believe that when we can meet ourselves with love and respect, we can heal from many issues. My focus is on supporting you to gain a deeper understanding of who you are, including your resources and strengths, your unique perspective, and your unconscious patterns so you can create the change and healing that you desire.
(415) 326-1913 View (415) 326-1913
Photo of Bonnie Kaufman, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Rafael, CA
Bonnie Kaufman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MSEd, MHC
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. It takes a lot of strength to begin the process of therapy and I applaud you for taking the first step. Entering into a therapeutic relationship is all about building trust. I provide a relaxed, non-judgmental, and compassionate atmosphere in which you can safely explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I truly want to get to know who you are and how we can work together to reach your goals, work on changing behaviors that are no longer suiting your needs, and modify unhealthy thinking styles.
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. It takes a lot of strength to begin the process of therapy and I applaud you for taking the first step. Entering into a therapeutic relationship is all about building trust. I provide a relaxed, non-judgmental, and compassionate atmosphere in which you can safely explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I truly want to get to know who you are and how we can work together to reach your goals, work on changing behaviors that are no longer suiting your needs, and modify unhealthy thinking styles.
(628) 229-3527 View (628) 229-3527
Photo of Talita Jackson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Talita Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, 94667
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Licensed clinical psychotherapist in California and Idaho with a broad experience in evidence -practice treatment. Specialized in adolescent and young adult. Focused on the connections between what we think, feel, and do, and how we can change the way we experience life. Experienced in CBT, DBT, suicide prevention and eating disorder, Talita has been working in the forensic system and Kaiser hospital setting for many years.
Licensed clinical psychotherapist in California and Idaho with a broad experience in evidence -practice treatment. Specialized in adolescent and young adult. Focused on the connections between what we think, feel, and do, and how we can change the way we experience life. Experienced in CBT, DBT, suicide prevention and eating disorder, Talita has been working in the forensic system and Kaiser hospital setting for many years.
(415) 969-5646 View (415) 969-5646
Photo of Kenneth Perlmutter, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Kenneth Perlmutter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
(415) 787-4610 View (415) 787-4610
Photo of Wendy A Calomiris, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Wendy A Calomiris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Any scary event or even a medical diagnosis can wreak havoc & any daily routine is quickly found unmanageable. If the physical body fails you, it affects your mood. If emotions are out of wack, it affects your health. Either way, you deserve to feel in control and you can reclaim control. The goal is to highlight your strengths and minimize or eliminate any obstacles to healthy wellness. A direct benefit of engaging in effective help elevates your protective factors against emotional decay now a known correlate with disease. Together we can restore a sense of control, balance, and develop your future goals. You deserve to be happy.
Any scary event or even a medical diagnosis can wreak havoc & any daily routine is quickly found unmanageable. If the physical body fails you, it affects your mood. If emotions are out of wack, it affects your health. Either way, you deserve to feel in control and you can reclaim control. The goal is to highlight your strengths and minimize or eliminate any obstacles to healthy wellness. A direct benefit of engaging in effective help elevates your protective factors against emotional decay now a known correlate with disease. Together we can restore a sense of control, balance, and develop your future goals. You deserve to be happy.
(707) 743-4082 View (707) 743-4082
Photo of Terry Rivera, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Terry Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Healing, growth and change are possible. By coming here you've taken the first step toward feeling better. Whether you're gripped by anxiety or depression, yearning for more fulfillment in relationships, or hungry for purpose and meaning in life, I am here to support and uplift you. I feel intense gratitude for this work because of the profound changes I witness in my clients. Through guided self inquiry and direct, compassionate feedback you’ll develop your capacities to understand yourself and take action toward building a life in alignment with your values and dreams. I got you, let's do this.
Healing, growth and change are possible. By coming here you've taken the first step toward feeling better. Whether you're gripped by anxiety or depression, yearning for more fulfillment in relationships, or hungry for purpose and meaning in life, I am here to support and uplift you. I feel intense gratitude for this work because of the profound changes I witness in my clients. Through guided self inquiry and direct, compassionate feedback you’ll develop your capacities to understand yourself and take action toward building a life in alignment with your values and dreams. I got you, let's do this.
(415) 870-3422 View (415) 870-3422
Photo of Nicholas Coleman Plastiras, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Nicholas Coleman Plastiras
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Navigating life can be difficult. Perhaps you find yourself stuck in problematic relational patterns, struggling to find a different way. Maybe you criticize and put limitations on yourself. Perhaps you have endless empathy for everyone but yourself. Maybe you’ve turned to alcohol or substances to avoid the pain. Maybe you don’t feel much of anything at all. Perhaps you are simply in a rut and you don’t know how to get yourself out of it. The good news is, by simply looking for help you are on your way to regaining confidence, agency, and a fuller, more authentic sense of self. A self that CAN navigate the difficulties of life.
Navigating life can be difficult. Perhaps you find yourself stuck in problematic relational patterns, struggling to find a different way. Maybe you criticize and put limitations on yourself. Perhaps you have endless empathy for everyone but yourself. Maybe you’ve turned to alcohol or substances to avoid the pain. Maybe you don’t feel much of anything at all. Perhaps you are simply in a rut and you don’t know how to get yourself out of it. The good news is, by simply looking for help you are on your way to regaining confidence, agency, and a fuller, more authentic sense of self. A self that CAN navigate the difficulties of life.
(415) 634-3407 View (415) 634-3407
Photo of Sierra Poppe, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Sierra Poppe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I work with clients ages 13 and older, individuals and families. Primarily, I work with clients experiencing issues with anxiety, social anxiety, depression, self-harm, identity development, parenting issues, parent/child relationships, alcohol/drug abuse by teens and adults, recovery and rehab issues and reestablishment in the family, codependence (and family members affected by ones substance use), bipolar disorder, ADHD, self-esteem, relationship issues, supporting medication management, as well as many other concerns.
I work with clients ages 13 and older, individuals and families. Primarily, I work with clients experiencing issues with anxiety, social anxiety, depression, self-harm, identity development, parenting issues, parent/child relationships, alcohol/drug abuse by teens and adults, recovery and rehab issues and reestablishment in the family, codependence (and family members affected by ones substance use), bipolar disorder, ADHD, self-esteem, relationship issues, supporting medication management, as well as many other concerns.
(628) 258-6872 View (628) 258-6872
Photo of Julie Iverson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Julie Iverson
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
Whether your child or teenager is facing challenges that you are not sure how to handle, or you are a young adult facing the complexities of life and feeling overwhelmed, I believe counseling can help. I have a passion for helping children, teens, and young adults grow their skills and confidence so they can live a life where they feel they can thrive. I love working with youth and young adults who are struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety and/or their sense of self-worth. I exclusively provide tele-therapy (think FaceTime) for people who reside in California.
Whether your child or teenager is facing challenges that you are not sure how to handle, or you are a young adult facing the complexities of life and feeling overwhelmed, I believe counseling can help. I have a passion for helping children, teens, and young adults grow their skills and confidence so they can live a life where they feel they can thrive. I love working with youth and young adults who are struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety and/or their sense of self-worth. I exclusively provide tele-therapy (think FaceTime) for people who reside in California.
(707) 205-4311 View (707) 205-4311
Photo of Christine Valdez, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Christine Valdez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in empirically supported treatments for trauma-related issues, including post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety. I specialize in individual and group therapy for adults who have experienced interpersonal trauma.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in empirically supported treatments for trauma-related issues, including post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety. I specialize in individual and group therapy for adults who have experienced interpersonal trauma.
(510) 851-8934 View (510) 851-8934
Photo of David A Thomson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
David A Thomson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, CAS
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Do you feel that your everyday challenges are beginning to overwhelm you? Have you set goals for yourself, but you have not been able to achieve them? The solution is in sight. With skill, professionalism, empathy, and compassion I can help you to achieve your goals and the life that you want. Because you are a unique individual, I will tailor my treatment methods to fit your unique situation and needs. I believe that we all have what it takes to meet and conquer life's many challenges and difficulties.
Do you feel that your everyday challenges are beginning to overwhelm you? Have you set goals for yourself, but you have not been able to achieve them? The solution is in sight. With skill, professionalism, empathy, and compassion I can help you to achieve your goals and the life that you want. Because you are a unique individual, I will tailor my treatment methods to fit your unique situation and needs. I believe that we all have what it takes to meet and conquer life's many challenges and difficulties.
(415) 508-8805 View (415) 508-8805
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.