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
Photo of Debbie Grace P Lugtu, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Debbie Grace P Lugtu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108  (Online Only)
Are you looking to deep dive with a therapist you feel safe with and collaboratively works with you and encourages you along the way? My ideal client is reflective as I ask questions to deep dive and explore underlying issues and themes to help them gain insight. I work from a narrative therapy approach, believing that every person has a story to share and has the power to re-author their stories or create their own narrative. I am strength-based and use encouraging language in session, while following your lead. In our sessions, you will also learn Mindfulness, CBT and DBT skills to help you manage emotions and stress.
Are you looking to deep dive with a therapist you feel safe with and collaboratively works with you and encourages you along the way? My ideal client is reflective as I ask questions to deep dive and explore underlying issues and themes to help them gain insight. I work from a narrative therapy approach, believing that every person has a story to share and has the power to re-author their stories or create their own narrative. I am strength-based and use encouraging language in session, while following your lead. In our sessions, you will also learn Mindfulness, CBT and DBT skills to help you manage emotions and stress.
(949) 732-0074 View (949) 732-0074
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 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 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 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 Tarrah D Wauson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Tarrah D Wauson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I support young people to find their voice, become more self confident, and communicate in a way that expresses their needs. Many times there is a disconnect between behavior and desires. I work closely to increase awareness of why these behaviors are happening and encourage an awareness to begin to identify triggers, with an overall goal of self awareness and self control.
I support young people to find their voice, become more self confident, and communicate in a way that expresses their needs. Many times there is a disconnect between behavior and desires. I work closely to increase awareness of why these behaviors are happening and encourage an awareness to begin to identify triggers, with an overall goal of self awareness and self control.
(628) 259-8239 View (628) 259-8239
Photo of Riley Jana Morgan | Autism Focused | Neurodivergent Affirming, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Riley Jana Morgan | Autism Focused | Neurodivergent Affirming
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
As an Autistic therapist, I offer neurodivergent affirming therapy for adults with or without a formal autism diagnosis; I address autistic burnout, masking, and sensory sensitivities; I provide solutions for anxiety & depression; and I offer mindful self-care through strength-based, somatic (sensory-based), compassion-focused, and autism affirming therapy.
If you are an Autistic adult seeking autism-focused and neurodivergent affirming therapy, I will help you feel safe, supported, and heard with compassion. I am Autistic myself, which often enhances the therapy experience for my clients. Autism-focused therapy is informed by the neurodiversity affirming model to address your unique concerns by reducing autistic burnout, anxiety, depression, masking, the distress of meltdowns and shutdowns, low self-esteem, and difficulties with work or school performance, among many other concerns. I also welcome your authentic self and support my LGBTQIA+, transgender, non-binary, and BIPOC clients.
As an Autistic therapist, I offer neurodivergent affirming therapy for adults with or without a formal autism diagnosis; I address autistic burnout, masking, and sensory sensitivities; I provide solutions for anxiety & depression; and I offer mindful self-care through strength-based, somatic (sensory-based), compassion-focused, and autism affirming therapy.
If you are an Autistic adult seeking autism-focused and neurodivergent affirming therapy, I will help you feel safe, supported, and heard with compassion. I am Autistic myself, which often enhances the therapy experience for my clients. Autism-focused therapy is informed by the neurodiversity affirming model to address your unique concerns by reducing autistic burnout, anxiety, depression, masking, the distress of meltdowns and shutdowns, low self-esteem, and difficulties with work or school performance, among many other concerns. I also welcome your authentic self and support my LGBTQIA+, transgender, non-binary, and BIPOC clients.
(415) 358-6700 View (415) 358-6700
Photo of Alexis Bibler, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Alexis Bibler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I incorporate elements of Psychodynamic, Attachment, Strength-based, Narrative and trauma-focused therapies like EMDR - to help you explore your past, get in touch with the present and move towards an empowered future.
Congratulations on starting your therapy journey and taking charge of your mental health! I create a safe and encouraging space for adults and couples to process difficult experiences and emotions, navigate relational challenges, and get in touch with their authentic selves. I am a client-centered therapist and strive to meet you where you are on any given day. I offer a collaborative and empathetic approach so you can feel supported as you navigate life's challenges and reach your personal goals.
I incorporate elements of Psychodynamic, Attachment, Strength-based, Narrative and trauma-focused therapies like EMDR - to help you explore your past, get in touch with the present and move towards an empowered future.
Congratulations on starting your therapy journey and taking charge of your mental health! I create a safe and encouraging space for adults and couples to process difficult experiences and emotions, navigate relational challenges, and get in touch with their authentic selves. I am a client-centered therapist and strive to meet you where you are on any given day. I offer a collaborative and empathetic approach so you can feel supported as you navigate life's challenges and reach your personal goals.
(415) 599-8630 View (415) 599-8630
Photo of Amanda Throckmorton, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Amanda Throckmorton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
My counseling style is collaborative, intuitive, strength-based and you may find me astute, curious, creative, humorous, flexible, and warm.
Therapy is a way of connecting to yourself and exploring your challenges in a safe and collaborative way. I understand the bravery it takes to show up in your vulnerability and I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space that cultivates courage over comfort in our work. As a somatic psychotherapist, I like to offer a space for the body and mind to connect. My work is also influenced by humanistic, relational, and psychodynamic modalities tailored to support your unique individual needs.
My counseling style is collaborative, intuitive, strength-based and you may find me astute, curious, creative, humorous, flexible, and warm.
Therapy is a way of connecting to yourself and exploring your challenges in a safe and collaborative way. I understand the bravery it takes to show up in your vulnerability and I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space that cultivates courage over comfort in our work. As a somatic psychotherapist, I like to offer a space for the body and mind to connect. My work is also influenced by humanistic, relational, and psychodynamic modalities tailored to support your unique individual needs.
(415) 329-3550 View (415) 329-3550
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 Christina Nicole Cabral, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Christina Nicole Cabral
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94124
Christina Cabral, LMFT137667 Specialty areas: Anxiety, life transitions, attachment issues, anger management and perinatal mental health. Works with children, teens, & young adults. Utilizes an integrative approach composed of psychodynamic, CBT, mindfulness, client-centered, and strength -based interventions. I work from a client centered approach and value connection and the therapeutic relationship. I believe a safe, positive environment fosters the setting for vulnerability and comfortability.
Christina Cabral, LMFT137667 Specialty areas: Anxiety, life transitions, attachment issues, anger management and perinatal mental health. Works with children, teens, & young adults. Utilizes an integrative approach composed of psychodynamic, CBT, mindfulness, client-centered, and strength -based interventions. I work from a client centered approach and value connection and the therapeutic relationship. I believe a safe, positive environment fosters the setting for vulnerability and comfortability.
(619) 762-3626 View (619) 762-3626
Photo of Will Sherwin, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Will Sherwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I care about helping you feel better in your work, romantic relationships, family, school, friendships, or any other areas that are important to you. Clients have described me as thoughtful, creative, and reliable with a calming demeanor and a steady strength-based supportive presence. It takes courage to take the leap and set up an appointment, but weekly counseling sessions together can develop a foundation to make lasting changes in your life that your future self will be grateful for.
I care about helping you feel better in your work, romantic relationships, family, school, friendships, or any other areas that are important to you. Clients have described me as thoughtful, creative, and reliable with a calming demeanor and a steady strength-based supportive presence. It takes courage to take the leap and set up an appointment, but weekly counseling sessions together can develop a foundation to make lasting changes in your life that your future self will be grateful for.
(949) 304-2580 View (949) 304-2580
Photo of Louise Franklin, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Louise Franklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112
In my work, I emphasize kindness, acceptance and clarity, grounded in a psychodynamic, mindfulness and strength-based approach.
Are you seeking answers regarding next steps, are you struggling with old patterns or dealing with anxiety, depression, or an important life transition? Are you feeling stuck? I have worked with people facing life’s most difficult challenges including trauma and end of life. With my diverse background, I believe no challenge is too great or too unsolvable. Clients therefore feel safe to discuss their deepest concerns. We work together to resolve challenges, find healing and support and regain confidence to find the positive path forward.
In my work, I emphasize kindness, acceptance and clarity, grounded in a psychodynamic, mindfulness and strength-based approach.
Are you seeking answers regarding next steps, are you struggling with old patterns or dealing with anxiety, depression, or an important life transition? Are you feeling stuck? I have worked with people facing life’s most difficult challenges including trauma and end of life. With my diverse background, I believe no challenge is too great or too unsolvable. Clients therefore feel safe to discuss their deepest concerns. We work together to resolve challenges, find healing and support and regain confidence to find the positive path forward.
(415) 630-5259 View (415) 630-5259
Photo of R. Austin Heafey, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
R. Austin Heafey
Psychologist, MA, Psy D
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
My name is Dr. R. Austin Heafey - I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adolescents, parents and families. While every client is unique, my fundamental aim remains the same: improve self-esteem, build self-confidence and enrich my patient's self-worth. When a person has faith in their abilities and feels comfortable with who they are, they are better able to engage with the world they live in, the family they belong to and the life they deserve to experience. Put simply, my objective is to improve my patient's quality of life.
My name is Dr. R. Austin Heafey - I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adolescents, parents and families. While every client is unique, my fundamental aim remains the same: improve self-esteem, build self-confidence and enrich my patient's self-worth. When a person has faith in their abilities and feels comfortable with who they are, they are better able to engage with the world they live in, the family they belong to and the life they deserve to experience. Put simply, my objective is to improve my patient's quality of life.
(925) 255-7651 View (925) 255-7651
Photo of Mary Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Mary Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94119  (Online Only)
Thank you for viewing my profile. In my practice I work with older adolescents, emerging adults, and adults. My therapeutic style is solution focused, collaborative and strength based- utilizing various therapeutic styles including attachment therapy, feminist, and CBT. I use the strengths of my clients to focus on solutions while investigating what's at the core of the problem, the pain, and the discomfort.
Thank you for viewing my profile. In my practice I work with older adolescents, emerging adults, and adults. My therapeutic style is solution focused, collaborative and strength based- utilizing various therapeutic styles including attachment therapy, feminist, and CBT. I use the strengths of my clients to focus on solutions while investigating what's at the core of the problem, the pain, and the discomfort.
(415) 873-9644 View (415) 873-9644
Photo of Ben Chris Shuts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ben Chris Shuts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
I have provided strength-based services for clients since 2001.
I offer a down-to-Earth, easy-to-access approach. Therapy can facilitate achievement of your life goals, help you move through transitions with ease, and peacefully nurture ongoing relationships. Offering a compassionate and collaborative environment, I can help you develop coping strategies that promote acceptance and healing.
I have provided strength-based services for clients since 2001.
I offer a down-to-Earth, easy-to-access approach. Therapy can facilitate achievement of your life goals, help you move through transitions with ease, and peacefully nurture ongoing relationships. Offering a compassionate and collaborative environment, I can help you develop coping strategies that promote acceptance and healing.
(415) 598-9194 View (415) 598-9194
Photo of Nick Wightman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nick Wightman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
My approach is strength-based, interactive and goal-oriented.
Deciding to start therapy is a sign of strength. I believe all people have a natural inclination toward growth and wholeness and sometimes things get in the way. Exploring these obstacles with compassion and courage can help you cultivate the most important relationship of your life -- your relationship with yourself. Whether your challenge is depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationships, addictions or career challenges, all you need to get started is the desire to change.
My approach is strength-based, interactive and goal-oriented.
Deciding to start therapy is a sign of strength. I believe all people have a natural inclination toward growth and wholeness and sometimes things get in the way. Exploring these obstacles with compassion and courage can help you cultivate the most important relationship of your life -- your relationship with yourself. Whether your challenge is depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationships, addictions or career challenges, all you need to get started is the desire to change.
(510) 403-8480 View (510) 403-8480
Photo of Jzeela Gheisar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jzeela Gheisar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
Whether you find what you're looking for on my page, or another's, I am so proud of you for getting to this step. There can be great benefits to expressing and exploring thoughts, feelings, inner conflicts, emotional wounds in a safe space. Like many clinicians, I employ a wide range of modalities and interventions. I use a strength based approach, one that's honest, non-judgmental, but direct and explorative. You deserve happiness, a fulfilling life, and I'd be honored to walk alongside your journey to discovery and change. Although we are shaped by our experiences, you are so much more than what has happened to you.
Whether you find what you're looking for on my page, or another's, I am so proud of you for getting to this step. There can be great benefits to expressing and exploring thoughts, feelings, inner conflicts, emotional wounds in a safe space. Like many clinicians, I employ a wide range of modalities and interventions. I use a strength based approach, one that's honest, non-judgmental, but direct and explorative. You deserve happiness, a fulfilling life, and I'd be honored to walk alongside your journey to discovery and change. Although we are shaped by our experiences, you are so much more than what has happened to you.
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Photo of Alina Mikolaitis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Alina Mikolaitis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
My therapeutic approach includes active listening, motivational interviewing, supportive counseling, strength-based interventions, mindfulness, positive thinking, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Hello! My name is Alina Mikolaitis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in the field of mental health and psychology since 2000. My approach in therapy is to focus on building organic relationships, process and resolve identified issues, and ultimately support you in reaching your goals to live a more positive and fulfilling life. I mainly work with adult individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, postpartum, addiction, an array of mental health issues, familial and relationship issues.
My therapeutic approach includes active listening, motivational interviewing, supportive counseling, strength-based interventions, mindfulness, positive thinking, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Hello! My name is Alina Mikolaitis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in the field of mental health and psychology since 2000. My approach in therapy is to focus on building organic relationships, process and resolve identified issues, and ultimately support you in reaching your goals to live a more positive and fulfilling life. I mainly work with adult individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, postpartum, addiction, an array of mental health issues, familial and relationship issues.
(424) 372-8193 View (424) 372-8193

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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.