Psychotherapy for Adults
People seek therapy for various reasons, at different points in their lives and frequently need different things. I'm interested in what brings you to therapy and developing a plan that responds to your needs. In a treatment with me, you might even be surprised by what we discuss, later discovering that it was relevant and generated new perspective.
I am committed to collaborating with you as we explore your thoughts, feelings, stresses, losses, and history. We will examine how these things contribute to what's bothering you. One aim of psychotherapy is to develop a better understanding of yourself by way of increased awareness, and then consider how this awareness (or perhaps lack of) impacts your relationships with other people and yourself. I offer a protected space in which I listen closely to what you say, what you don't, and how you experience things from your past and in the present. After meeting with me for a period of time, patients have reported feeling more able to think honestly about how they respond to things. It is then (usually) that one can feel a greater freedom to elect HOW to respond to situations or relationships vs. doing the "go-to" thing that's repetitive and typically not helpful.
Psychotherapy for Children
We will explore their inner worlds and struggles through play, talk therapy with teens, and collateral parent sessions. I have extensive experience working with children & teens in intensive, residential environments. I am familiar with IEP language/process, services available to children/teens, and the frustrations associated with getting treatment for kids & teens. In my experience, parents feel desperate at times and may seek as many services as possible. While this may be helpful for some, I have found that locating a therapeutic relationship that endures developmental changes and offers consistency through meeting regularly is just as, if not, more effective than several different services.
I have particular interest in couples considering adoption or those who have adopted already. I can help you and your partner explore how adoption will or has affected your couplehood and ideas of parenthood. Of course, I'm interested in helping children and families (adopted or not) who are struggling with each other.
My Practice & Services
I offer a limited sliding scale. Please inquire for availability. I do not accept insurance at this time. However, I can give you monthly statements that you can submit for reimbursement to your insurance provider.
I offer daytime and evening hours. My office is conveniently located in Downtown San Francisco near public transportation and parking. Please see my website for more details about my practice. I look forward to hearing from you.
On the Fence About Going to Therapy?
People often report to me that they want or need psychotherapy. Some of these people later find themselves unable to start due to lack of time or money. Other people have tried therapy before and will not do it again because it wasn't helpful or they didn't like the style of the therapist. And yet others assert that "they don't need therapy" or that it's a "weak" endeavor only for the "crazy." Actually, seeking therapy is quite a courageous act. It beckons your willingness to be honest and vulnerable with a person who you've never met. Vulnerability can be difficult.
Most therapists acknowledge and empathize with these struggles in starting psychotherapy. I would advise that you seek someone who is curious about your own unique path to psychotherapy and get curious yourself. The best way to evaluate your readiness or "fit" with the therapist is an initial, in-person meeting. Get curious about what comes up for you in a first session and talk about it with the person. It is true that therapy costs time and money, but the investment can be invaluable and life changing, particularly if you locate the right person for you.