Strength-Based Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Levana Adato, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Levana Adato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I became a therapist because I believe in making the world a better place, helping one person at a time. From a very young age, I learned the value of social justice and helping others from my family. I volunteered a lot growing up, helping the elderly and my community. My therapy style includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, culturally sensitive, Family Systems, grief, humanistic, integrative, interpersonal, life coaching, multicultural, person-centered, reality therapy, Strength-Based, and Trauma-Focused.
I became a therapist because I believe in making the world a better place, helping one person at a time. From a very young age, I learned the value of social justice and helping others from my family. I volunteered a lot growing up, helping the elderly and my community. My therapy style includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, culturally sensitive, Family Systems, grief, humanistic, integrative, interpersonal, life coaching, multicultural, person-centered, reality therapy, Strength-Based, and Trauma-Focused.
(415) 851-6896 View (415) 851-6896
Photo of Shelby McClure, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Shelby McClure
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I have worked in a wide variety of environments and with a wide variety of clients, including those in outpatient settings and with adolescents in a residential treatment facility. I am a strength-based therapist that works to empower her clients. I provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental space where they can more deeply examine their inner feelings and find ways to overcome life's challenges. I hope to help you along your journey of self-discovery, and to always provide you with a place where you can feel heard and understood.
I have worked in a wide variety of environments and with a wide variety of clients, including those in outpatient settings and with adolescents in a residential treatment facility. I am a strength-based therapist that works to empower her clients. I provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental space where they can more deeply examine their inner feelings and find ways to overcome life's challenges. I hope to help you along your journey of self-discovery, and to always provide you with a place where you can feel heard and understood.
(415) 630-4513 View (415) 630-4513
Photo of Leslie R Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Leslie R Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
My counseling style is warm and compassionate, emphasizing the importance of providing a safe, strength-based, and non-judgmental space.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
My counseling style is warm and compassionate, emphasizing the importance of providing a safe, strength-based, and non-judgmental space.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
(415) 366-0587 View (415) 366-0587
Photo of Christina Frenzel, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Christina Frenzel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94158  (Online Only)
My approach is trauma-informed, strength-based, client-centered, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and neurodiversity affirming.
I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and families affected by chronic illness (diabetes, autoimmune disorders, medical trauma, chronic pain), neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, anxiety, executive dysfunction, emotional dysregulation), and relationship issues (communication, codependency, social anxiety, dating, narcissistic abuse). I utilize a variety of evidence-based modalities tailored to every client’s unique and individual needs. My style is warm, nurturing, collaborative , and non-judgmental. I hope to support you in growing a deeper sense of awareness, creativity, connection, confidence, and purpose in your life.
My approach is trauma-informed, strength-based, client-centered, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and neurodiversity affirming.
I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and families affected by chronic illness (diabetes, autoimmune disorders, medical trauma, chronic pain), neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, anxiety, executive dysfunction, emotional dysregulation), and relationship issues (communication, codependency, social anxiety, dating, narcissistic abuse). I utilize a variety of evidence-based modalities tailored to every client’s unique and individual needs. My style is warm, nurturing, collaborative , and non-judgmental. I hope to support you in growing a deeper sense of awareness, creativity, connection, confidence, and purpose in your life.
(650) 910-5548 View (650) 910-5548
Photo of Natasha Smolkin, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Natasha Smolkin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Dr. Natasha Smolkin is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with patients who struggle with chronic pain, stress and anxiety, addiction, interpersonal challenges, depression, self-esteem issues, and many more of life’s mental wellness obstacles. She utilizes an integrative, strength-based approach, which focuses on cultivating sense-of-efficacy around changes, obstacles, and goals.
Dr. Natasha Smolkin is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with patients who struggle with chronic pain, stress and anxiety, addiction, interpersonal challenges, depression, self-esteem issues, and many more of life’s mental wellness obstacles. She utilizes an integrative, strength-based approach, which focuses on cultivating sense-of-efficacy around changes, obstacles, and goals.
(415) 480-5482 View (415) 480-5482
Photo of Nathalie Servin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nathalie Servin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Therapy provides a safe container to unlearn who we were conditioned to be. I believe that this experience offers us liberation, which comes from healing our wounds and learning to feel more comfortable being our authentic selves. From a strength-based and trauma-informed approach, I utilize thoughtful questions and share practical tools tailored to your needs so that you leave the session feeling validated and encouraged to achieve your goals.
Therapy provides a safe container to unlearn who we were conditioned to be. I believe that this experience offers us liberation, which comes from healing our wounds and learning to feel more comfortable being our authentic selves. From a strength-based and trauma-informed approach, I utilize thoughtful questions and share practical tools tailored to your needs so that you leave the session feeling validated and encouraged to achieve your goals.
(415) 797-0650 View (415) 797-0650
Photo of Lorraine J Moreci, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Lorraine J Moreci
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I offer a humanistic and client-centered approach to therapy with a strength-based focus.
I am interested in working with Individuals, couples, and children. My work focuses on clients dealing with PTSD, trauma (complex and single episodes), anxiety, depression, life transitions, and chronic health issues. Our work together might include mindfully exploring past and present issues and integrating your experience in an inclusive way. We will explore body, mind, and spirit together, all parts of self are welcome.
I offer a humanistic and client-centered approach to therapy with a strength-based focus.
I am interested in working with Individuals, couples, and children. My work focuses on clients dealing with PTSD, trauma (complex and single episodes), anxiety, depression, life transitions, and chronic health issues. Our work together might include mindfully exploring past and present issues and integrating your experience in an inclusive way. We will explore body, mind, and spirit together, all parts of self are welcome.
(415) 594-4730 View (415) 594-4730
Photo of Diode De Dios, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Diode De Dios
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
My name is Diode de Dios, pronounced like "Jodi." I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California, and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, grief, life transitions, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help clients make progress and feel better.
My name is Diode de Dios, pronounced like "Jodi." I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California, and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, grief, life transitions, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help clients make progress and feel better.
(415) 319-7616 View (415) 319-7616
Photo of Angie Garayalde, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Angie Garayalde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
Seeking treatment can feel vulnerable. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment to empower clients as they confront and process issues creating challenges in their life. I work from a strength-based, person-centered approach to help clients develop skills to implement change and reach their goals. Though I utilize evidence-based approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and solutions-focused therapy, I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important aspect in treatment.
Seeking treatment can feel vulnerable. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment to empower clients as they confront and process issues creating challenges in their life. I work from a strength-based, person-centered approach to help clients develop skills to implement change and reach their goals. Though I utilize evidence-based approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and solutions-focused therapy, I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important aspect in treatment.
(415) 862-1992 View (415) 862-1992
Photo of Aparna Bell, Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Aparna Bell
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I can help you learn new, healthy behaviors and let go of hurtful thoughts and feelings using a strength-based, person-centered approach.
I work with individuals suffering from depression, substance abuse issues, anxiety, relationship problems, co-dependency, stress and other problems. I can help you develop coping skills and gain greater insight into core issues that may be impeding your success and happiness. I provide a safe space to explore your deepest thoughts and feelings with warmth and compassion. We all struggle at times and need help from others. Therapy can help you heal and find self acceptance and a more fulfilling life. We can't control the things that happen to us but we can find ways of moving forward in a healthy way with support and guidance.
I can help you learn new, healthy behaviors and let go of hurtful thoughts and feelings using a strength-based, person-centered approach.
I work with individuals suffering from depression, substance abuse issues, anxiety, relationship problems, co-dependency, stress and other problems. I can help you develop coping skills and gain greater insight into core issues that may be impeding your success and happiness. I provide a safe space to explore your deepest thoughts and feelings with warmth and compassion. We all struggle at times and need help from others. Therapy can help you heal and find self acceptance and a more fulfilling life. We can't control the things that happen to us but we can find ways of moving forward in a healthy way with support and guidance.
(628) 222-7261 View (628) 222-7261
Photo of Melissa Spina-Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Melissa Spina-Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
I'm thrilled you are here. Therapy is a journey of getting to know your real self. Difficult at times, therapy is worth it! I am a client centered, strength-based therapist. I want to collaborate with you within your own value system and worldview, help you uncover what's truly important to you, and live your life in a way that's aligned with your true self. Together we will highlight your strengths and resources. I especially love to work with clients who are new to therapy. For those who benefit from homework, I have a treasure trove of take home resources to help you stay in-tune between sessions.
I'm thrilled you are here. Therapy is a journey of getting to know your real self. Difficult at times, therapy is worth it! I am a client centered, strength-based therapist. I want to collaborate with you within your own value system and worldview, help you uncover what's truly important to you, and live your life in a way that's aligned with your true self. Together we will highlight your strengths and resources. I especially love to work with clients who are new to therapy. For those who benefit from homework, I have a treasure trove of take home resources to help you stay in-tune between sessions.
(415) 825-7170 View (415) 825-7170
Photo of Kristina Kenyon, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kristina Kenyon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I believe we all come into this world being enough as we are but sometimes there are challenges, losses, difficulties, or behaviors that get in the way of what you may be wanting or where you want to be in your life. Together, we can build insight and understanding and work towards making the changes you want to see.
I believe we all come into this world being enough as we are but sometimes there are challenges, losses, difficulties, or behaviors that get in the way of what you may be wanting or where you want to be in your life. Together, we can build insight and understanding and work towards making the changes you want to see.
(415) 226-4779 View (415) 226-4779
Photo of Vanessa Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Vanessa Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I utilize a compassionate, strength-based, solution-focused approach.
Are you experiencing issues related to stress, anxiety, depression, loss of identity, trauma, or lack of confidence? Are these issues causing you to neglect your own self-care, misuse substances, and/or isolate from family and friends? Do you need support with navigating personal or professional relationships? Are you exploring your sexual or gender identity? Managing a major life transition or preparing for one? These are the times when therapy can be helpful. We can work together to identify your goals, improve your quality of life, and develop a strong sense of self in the process.
I utilize a compassionate, strength-based, solution-focused approach.
Are you experiencing issues related to stress, anxiety, depression, loss of identity, trauma, or lack of confidence? Are these issues causing you to neglect your own self-care, misuse substances, and/or isolate from family and friends? Do you need support with navigating personal or professional relationships? Are you exploring your sexual or gender identity? Managing a major life transition or preparing for one? These are the times when therapy can be helpful. We can work together to identify your goals, improve your quality of life, and develop a strong sense of self in the process.
(415) 914-9354 View (415) 914-9354
Photo of Leila Kakunda, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Leila Kakunda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Hi there and welcome! I am Leila, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in San Francisco. Over the last several years, I have supported my clients with anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, relationship issues, trauma and life's transitions. My style of therapy is relational, strength based and integrative. Through the therapeutic relationship and collaborating on practices like self-compassion, body-mind integration, and boundary-setting, I support my clients on their paths to finding relief from their symptoms and building a sense of empowerment.
Hi there and welcome! I am Leila, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in San Francisco. Over the last several years, I have supported my clients with anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, relationship issues, trauma and life's transitions. My style of therapy is relational, strength based and integrative. Through the therapeutic relationship and collaborating on practices like self-compassion, body-mind integration, and boundary-setting, I support my clients on their paths to finding relief from their symptoms and building a sense of empowerment.
(415) 660-9615 View (415) 660-9615
Photo of Karen Briceno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Karen Briceno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
Hello, my name is Karen Briceno and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. My therapeutic approach is Trauma Informed, Client-Centered, Holistic, and Strength-based. My training includes but is not limited to the following evidence base practices: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Seeking Safety. My approach will include creating an environment where you can be open about your ideas and experiences without judgment. I will be genuine in my interactions with you.
Hello, my name is Karen Briceno and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. My therapeutic approach is Trauma Informed, Client-Centered, Holistic, and Strength-based. My training includes but is not limited to the following evidence base practices: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Seeking Safety. My approach will include creating an environment where you can be open about your ideas and experiences without judgment. I will be genuine in my interactions with you.
(415) 877-9659 View (415) 877-9659
Photo of Brittany Gilmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Brittany Gilmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
My therapy style is warm, engaging, and collaborative and I believe that authentic and supportive relationships are key to healing. My philosophy is to seek to understand the whole person with genuine interest, care, and compassion. I use a tailored approach to help you reach your goals, typically combining several modalities including Humanistic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. Providing client-centered and trauma-informed care that is culturally sensitive, strength-based, and rooted in compassion is at the heart of my work.
My therapy style is warm, engaging, and collaborative and I believe that authentic and supportive relationships are key to healing. My philosophy is to seek to understand the whole person with genuine interest, care, and compassion. I use a tailored approach to help you reach your goals, typically combining several modalities including Humanistic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. Providing client-centered and trauma-informed care that is culturally sensitive, strength-based, and rooted in compassion is at the heart of my work.
(415) 702-3804 View (415) 702-3804
Photo of Jessie Armenta, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jessie Armenta
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
My job as a therapist is to provide you with a safe place, support you through your life transition, and help you make sense of what needs to change. You are the expert in your life story and you have the strength within you to make changes. I will work to provide you with coping tools for lasting change. I use interventions from various modalities including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Strength Based, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
My job as a therapist is to provide you with a safe place, support you through your life transition, and help you make sense of what needs to change. You are the expert in your life story and you have the strength within you to make changes. I will work to provide you with coping tools for lasting change. I use interventions from various modalities including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Strength Based, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(415) 949-3576 View (415) 949-3576
Photo of Christina Rheingold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Christina Rheingold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
I use a strength-based approach to help individuals recognize their own strengths, capabilities, and value, which will allow us to address any environmental constraints preventing an individual's growth.
My name is Christina Rheingold, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have spent almost 20 years serving individuals who experience stress related to the home or work environment, situational challenges, symptoms of depression, or anxiety, that has impacted a person’s quality of life. I have found that my style and approach best serve individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, high stress, or who have served in the military. My focus is to work together to address common concerns that negatively affect individuals' overall wellbeing.
I use a strength-based approach to help individuals recognize their own strengths, capabilities, and value, which will allow us to address any environmental constraints preventing an individual's growth.
My name is Christina Rheingold, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have spent almost 20 years serving individuals who experience stress related to the home or work environment, situational challenges, symptoms of depression, or anxiety, that has impacted a person’s quality of life. I have found that my style and approach best serve individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, high stress, or who have served in the military. My focus is to work together to address common concerns that negatively affect individuals' overall wellbeing.
(415) 649-2604 View (415) 649-2604
Photo of Cecilia M. Lopez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Cecilia M. Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94142  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, stressed, or struggle with anxiety, anger or depression? If so, you are in the right place. Do you have goals you'd like to achieve (any goal imaginable) and are struggling to reach these goals? If so, you are ALSO in the right place. I can provide you the tools to be more in control of your thoughts, emotions and behaviors, live your life in a "flow state," and actualize your dreams and desires.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, stressed, or struggle with anxiety, anger or depression? If so, you are in the right place. Do you have goals you'd like to achieve (any goal imaginable) and are struggling to reach these goals? If so, you are ALSO in the right place. I can provide you the tools to be more in control of your thoughts, emotions and behaviors, live your life in a "flow state," and actualize your dreams and desires.
(669) 271-7138 View (669) 271-7138
Photo of Lindsay Kay Parkinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Lindsay Kay Parkinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I've chosen to work in settings that promote empowerment and healing using strength-based, humanistic approaches.
I am passionate and dedicated to creating a trusting relationship and safe space for the process of narrating your personal story. Over 10 years I've worked in community-based programs with both teens and adults. I especially enjoy working with young people ages 16 to 25 (Transitional Aged Youth) a population that’s often overlooked and underserved. Having personally struggled myself during that time, I know how to identify with that challenging life transition and sometimes overwhelming decisions of "What's next?" let alone the bigger question of "Who am I?".
I've chosen to work in settings that promote empowerment and healing using strength-based, humanistic approaches.
I am passionate and dedicated to creating a trusting relationship and safe space for the process of narrating your personal story. Over 10 years I've worked in community-based programs with both teens and adults. I especially enjoy working with young people ages 16 to 25 (Transitional Aged Youth) a population that’s often overlooked and underserved. Having personally struggled myself during that time, I know how to identify with that challenging life transition and sometimes overwhelming decisions of "What's next?" let alone the bigger question of "Who am I?".
(916) 764-3974 View (916) 764-3974

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Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.