Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Struggles in your relationship can be overwhelming and confusing where you're constantly arguing over small things and feel a growing distance as a couple. "How did things get to this point and how do I fix it?" I want you to know that I understand because I have been in your shoes. I know the pain and frustration that comes with feeling disconnected in a relationship.

Do you feel stuck? Many people begin psychotherapy because they feel something is "off". They are dissatisfied, but unclear about what they want; they feel that "something is missing," but they're not sure what it is. Others begin psychotherapy because they find themselves repeatedly cycling through unhealthy relationship patterns and they want to change. Additionally, we all have traumas and woundings within us, to varying degrees. Psychotherapy can help untangle these knots and move you through suffering and pain towards greater health, integration, wholeness, vitality, and well-being.

Hello there! I'm Nicole "Nikki" Abeleda, and I'm thrilled to connect with you. I proudly identify as a First-Generation Queer Filipinx, embracing she/they/siya pronouns. If you’re navigating the intricate intersection of mental health and identity as an LGBTQIA+, BIPOC individual, remember you’re not alone. My ideal client is someone prepared to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. I collaborate with those recognizing the significance of their unique narrative, eager to (re)imagine their space in the world.

I work with people in various stages of their lives—from young adults to those in or nearing retirement. Some come to therapy when serious, distressing symptoms disrupt their home, school or professional life. Consequent to these trying times, many find themselves alone facing unexpected, painful losses and separations. Life may have become structured around chronic stress, conflictual relationships or managing a debilitating illness. The demands of daily living can become overwhelming, and a new way through is essential to gaining, or regaining, wellness and stability.

You may be experiencing feelings of brokenness and suffering from devastating loss. You may have stories that need to be explored in search of healing and restoration. You may be ready to address these challenges with knowledgeable care, holistic engagement, and compassionate understanding. Finding the courage to share your stories of harm and pain is the beginning of your healing and inner peace. If you are seeking guidance as you navigate through your healing journey, it may be time to take the next step and reach out for help.

Are you a burned out, high-achieving woman of color? Does it seem like you are constantly overwhelmed and have been putting your mental health last on your “to do” list? Are you struggling with placing healthy boundaries and making yourself a priority? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. I know seeking help can be hard. You’ve likely been debating seeking help for months, if not years, but I'm so glad you have taken the courageous step of being here.

Are you feeling sad, anxious, or lonely and you’re too ashamed or embarrassed to tell anyone about it? Do you pretend everything is alright as to not draw negative attention or cause problems in your relationships, yet inside you’re feeling despair? Do you feel confused and frustrated during conflicts, and you end up taking care of everyone else’s needs? Are you terrified to make decisions that go against familial or cultural norms? Do negative thoughts take over? Together, you and I will figure out what’s really going on with your discontent so that you don’t have to feel like a fraud or a helpless person. It’s going to be okay.

Do insecurities or anxieties weigh heavily on your mind? Are you grappling with procrastination, feeling inundated with tasks? Perhaps recent life changes or world events have left you feeling drained and disheartened? Have you ever felt sidelined or marginalized? If any of these resonate with you, therapy offers a supportive avenue for healing. It's time you feel happy, empowered, motivated, secure, supported, confident, and loved. Together, we'll clarify your goals, implement actionable steps, and forge a path toward a fulfilling life that resonates with your core values.

Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or other challenges that hold you back? You're not alone. I help individuals rewrite their narratives and find freedom from suffering.

You never get a moment’s rest. Somewhere along the way, you realized it was your job to take care of everyone else. Now, every waking hour is spent seeing to other people’s needs while neglecting your own. You wish there were some way to make time for yourself, but you hate the idea of disappointing anyone. And it feels like if you slow down for even a moment, your endless responsibilities will swallow you whole. So, you keep pushing forward. Every day you feel less connected to yourself and more stuck in a life you never asked for. Any attempt at making a change has failed. You wonder if you’re destined to live this way forever.

Are you feeling stuck, behind, inadequate, or overwhelmed? Does your life seem far from resembling the one you had envisioned? You are not alone. Passionate about empowering young and emerging adults (ages 18-30) as they navigate the challenges and learn to embrace the opportunities that often coincide with this life stage, I am here to support you as you navigate the complexities of identity, relationships, career choices, and overall well-being. Together, we can explore your values, identify goals and effective coping strategies, and deconstruct social expectations that you feel pressured to meet.

When problems remain unresolved, negative feelings like frustration, anger & hopelessness can bring you down. You may seek distractions to keep you from confronting your innermost thoughts and feelings. Your relationships, work, and health may suffer. You put on a false front to appear happy & "normal". These are signs alerting you to take steps towards healing and change. You dont have to face this alone. I will listen to your story compassionately & without judgement, and support to empower you with a voice. I will nurture all that is good in you, and collaboratively help you unfold into the best version of your Self.