Buddhist Therapists in San Francisco, CA
![Photo of Becca F. Barnett, MS, MDiv, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e98e810-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Becca F. Barnett
Psychologist, MS, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed psychologist skilled in providing psychotherapy that addresses the full spectrum of human experience, I collaborate with you to attain healing and resolution of your problems, advance in your growth and transformation, and increasingly realize your potential. I facilitate the integration of your sense of identity, purpose, and values with the way you live your life to endow it with greater authenticity and meaning. As an Episcopal priest and Buddhist practitioner, I foster your spiritual development and worldly integration. In these ways, I assist you in the creation of a more peaceful, happy, and fulfilling life.
As a licensed psychologist skilled in providing psychotherapy that addresses the full spectrum of human experience, I collaborate with you to attain healing and resolution of your problems, advance in your growth and transformation, and increasingly realize your potential. I facilitate the integration of your sense of identity, purpose, and values with the way you live your life to endow it with greater authenticity and meaning. As an Episcopal priest and Buddhist practitioner, I foster your spiritual development and worldly integration. In these ways, I assist you in the creation of a more peaceful, happy, and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Chandra Birenbaum, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9a7f14d-36b3-4375-ba06-8682b79548d0/3/320x400.jpeg)
I integrate techniques from a variety of theoretical orientations, including Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, Structural Dissociation, EMDR, CBT, Social Thinking, Mindfulness, Non-Violent Communication, and Buddhist Psychotherapy.
With over 25 years of working with adolescents and adults, my therapy style is authentic, empowering, strength based, compassionate, creative and fun. I am particularly skilled in working with trauma, managing strong emotions, and living with ADHD, Autism or Learning Disabilities. I enjoy supporting those looking for more purpose, self understanding, direction, peace, creativity or perspective. I have a great deal of experience working in multicultural and LGBTQ+ supportive contexts. I feel especially inspired by working with young adults because finding one’s own way in life is hard, exciting and full of possibilities.
I integrate techniques from a variety of theoretical orientations, including Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, Structural Dissociation, EMDR, CBT, Social Thinking, Mindfulness, Non-Violent Communication, and Buddhist Psychotherapy.
With over 25 years of working with adolescents and adults, my therapy style is authentic, empowering, strength based, compassionate, creative and fun. I am particularly skilled in working with trauma, managing strong emotions, and living with ADHD, Autism or Learning Disabilities. I enjoy supporting those looking for more purpose, self understanding, direction, peace, creativity or perspective. I have a great deal of experience working in multicultural and LGBTQ+ supportive contexts. I feel especially inspired by working with young adults because finding one’s own way in life is hard, exciting and full of possibilities.
![Photo of Dr. Jessica Vechakul - Therapy for Asians, LGBTQ, POC, High Performers, IFS, EFT, BSP, MPH, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09eaacc8-5a6d-4589-8f96-f55f228849d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy for Asians, LGBTQ, POC, High Performers
Marriage & Family Therapist, IFS, EFT, BSP, MPH, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102 (Online Only)
My specialties include trauma; narcissistic/abusive relationships; codependency/boundaries; perfectionism; career changes; grief from illness/death of a parent; Buddhist spiritual counseling; psychedelic integration; queer or interracial relationships; gender; sexuality; cultural identity; racism; intergenerational trauma; and adult children of alcoholics.
Feeling like you have to hide parts of yourself at work, or with your romantic partner or family? These pressures can make us lose touch with who we are and what makes us feel alive. Are you feeling lonely or not good enough, and longing to be fully accepted? Together, we can explore what matters most to you, so you can move towards the life you want. I can support you in transforming patterns that make you feel stuck or overwhelmed. I offer Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and Brainspotting, which are all proven approaches for healing trauma and reducing anxiety and depression.
My specialties include trauma; narcissistic/abusive relationships; codependency/boundaries; perfectionism; career changes; grief from illness/death of a parent; Buddhist spiritual counseling; psychedelic integration; queer or interracial relationships; gender; sexuality; cultural identity; racism; intergenerational trauma; and adult children of alcoholics.
Feeling like you have to hide parts of yourself at work, or with your romantic partner or family? These pressures can make us lose touch with who we are and what makes us feel alive. Are you feeling lonely or not good enough, and longing to be fully accepted? Together, we can explore what matters most to you, so you can move towards the life you want. I can support you in transforming patterns that make you feel stuck or overwhelmed. I offer Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and Brainspotting, which are all proven approaches for healing trauma and reducing anxiety and depression.
![Photo of Nicolette Sweeney Willard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8268b3b-c860-4a22-877b-bb99801c908e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicolette Sweeney Willard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94109
My favorite Buddhist proverb states "a lantern can light up a place that has been dark for ten thousand years".
Are you here because you're having a "dark night of the soul" and feeling hopeless? Or do you want to change a relationship pattern that keeps repeating no matter how much you try? Perhaps you want to transform your low self-esteem and FINALLY believe in yourself...You know that something has to change, but what and how? You have most likely thought yourself in circles around the problem, but you cannot think your way out of this one. Does all that thinking send you spiraling out and anxious, your inner-critic having a field day?
My favorite Buddhist proverb states "a lantern can light up a place that has been dark for ten thousand years".
Are you here because you're having a "dark night of the soul" and feeling hopeless? Or do you want to change a relationship pattern that keeps repeating no matter how much you try? Perhaps you want to transform your low self-esteem and FINALLY believe in yourself...You know that something has to change, but what and how? You have most likely thought yourself in circles around the problem, but you cannot think your way out of this one. Does all that thinking send you spiraling out and anxious, your inner-critic having a field day?
![Photo of Gregg Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c6363d0-a225-445d-989f-0926f73124fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gregg Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114 (Online Only)
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & EMDR with a strong personal attachment to Buddhist teachings & wisdom.
Book with me now through my website with Headway. Therapy is a pathway to healing through self discovery & acceptance. We carry parts of life with us only allowing experiences to inform our sense of self (confidence), our place in the world, & whether positive experiences are meant for us. It's easy to fall into a place of negativity, blaming & criticizing ourselves for something we didn't create, yet we perpetuate it. Allow therapy with me to help explore, realize, & accept your "best self" & to realize the power to shift your life experience by changing thoughts about it. Your truth lies within you, not in what others tell you.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & EMDR with a strong personal attachment to Buddhist teachings & wisdom.
Book with me now through my website with Headway. Therapy is a pathway to healing through self discovery & acceptance. We carry parts of life with us only allowing experiences to inform our sense of self (confidence), our place in the world, & whether positive experiences are meant for us. It's easy to fall into a place of negativity, blaming & criticizing ourselves for something we didn't create, yet we perpetuate it. Allow therapy with me to help explore, realize, & accept your "best self" & to realize the power to shift your life experience by changing thoughts about it. Your truth lies within you, not in what others tell you.
![Photo of Jessamyn Meyerhoff, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f33a4784-6ea0-40c6-8b7f-929d12d26043/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in Anxiety, Career questions and changes, couples, deep relational work/attachment trauma, Spiritual/ Buddhist approach, Prenatal and Postpartum anxiety and depression, family life with young kids, gender and sexuality, finding your life partner, and trans-generational trauma.
You may long to feel more connected, more invigorated in your work and more certain about your own capacity but instead be inexplicably riddled by anxiety, self recrimination, depression, a lack of motivation or persistent stuckness.
I specialize in Anxiety, Career questions and changes, couples, deep relational work/attachment trauma, Spiritual/ Buddhist approach, Prenatal and Postpartum anxiety and depression, family life with young kids, gender and sexuality, finding your life partner, and trans-generational trauma.
You may long to feel more connected, more invigorated in your work and more certain about your own capacity but instead be inexplicably riddled by anxiety, self recrimination, depression, a lack of motivation or persistent stuckness.
![Photo of Jeffrey Gianelli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2096458-8b69-4295-a05c-0895ffb567e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey Gianelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108
I incorporate principles from Buddhist psychology as well as mindfulness meditation.
Now offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). EDMR Consultant, Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 trained. I use these and other powerful tools, such as mindfulness, to help you heal from past traumas and difficulties as well as understand yourself better. This often leads to a deeper sense of compassion towards yourself and a better relationship with your life experiences. I create a safe space for you to explore the links between past and present, to see what you are still holding onto and to help you finally let go. I also teach a variety of skills and tools. Perhaps you've tried talk therapy and are ready to go deeper!
I incorporate principles from Buddhist psychology as well as mindfulness meditation.
Now offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). EDMR Consultant, Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 trained. I use these and other powerful tools, such as mindfulness, to help you heal from past traumas and difficulties as well as understand yourself better. This often leads to a deeper sense of compassion towards yourself and a better relationship with your life experiences. I create a safe space for you to explore the links between past and present, to see what you are still holding onto and to help you finally let go. I also teach a variety of skills and tools. Perhaps you've tried talk therapy and are ready to go deeper!
![Photo of Mike Lubofsky - Psychotherapist and Attorney, JD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e79c569b-5bea-4c55-baee-f7f4ccf9a915/1/320x400.png)
Psychotherapist and Attorney
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
My Reality Attunement Therapy for attorneys and non-attorneys incorporates Buddhist psychology and other modalities and is helpful to anyone interested in cultivating more grounded presence and inner peace.
We are all seeking reliable refuge. Most of us have internalized the notion that refuge is to be found in external phenomena – other people, places and things. While these external phenomena can be pleasing, reality demonstrates that these phenomena are inherently impermanent and unsatisfactory. Most of us have internalized likes and dislikes in ways that have crystallized in a belief in the existence of a "self" - the defense and protection of which has come to dictate much of our decision-making through adulthood.
My Reality Attunement Therapy for attorneys and non-attorneys incorporates Buddhist psychology and other modalities and is helpful to anyone interested in cultivating more grounded presence and inner peace.
We are all seeking reliable refuge. Most of us have internalized the notion that refuge is to be found in external phenomena – other people, places and things. While these external phenomena can be pleasing, reality demonstrates that these phenomena are inherently impermanent and unsatisfactory. Most of us have internalized likes and dislikes in ways that have crystallized in a belief in the existence of a "self" - the defense and protection of which has come to dictate much of our decision-making through adulthood.
![Photo of Sandra Kushnir - Meridian Recovery, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebf6605a-0f70-4dfc-bda4-9eb748987b70/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meridian Recovery
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
We integrate aspects of Buddhist philosophy, spirituality, and inner child healing in our approach.
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
We integrate aspects of Buddhist philosophy, spirituality, and inner child healing in our approach.
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
![Photo of Teri 'sachi' Swanberg, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/546649e4-460a-4896-ad28-43f9a71df497/3/320x400.jpeg)
Teri 'sachi' Swanberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Additionally, I work with an overarching Buddhist influence in working with emotional and physical awareness, and being present in the here and now.
My belief is everything is interconnected. When we hurt in one area of our lives, often times the other areas hurt with it. As simple as it may sound, sometimes feeling our feelings can be hard work. Truly understanding and being honest with authentic selves can be challenging and sometimes scary. No one should have to do this alone. Together, we can deeply listen and nurture your authentic self to help you heal and grow. We are not just talking together, we are experiencing. To learn more, visit my website at: nakaimatherapy.com
Additionally, I work with an overarching Buddhist influence in working with emotional and physical awareness, and being present in the here and now.
My belief is everything is interconnected. When we hurt in one area of our lives, often times the other areas hurt with it. As simple as it may sound, sometimes feeling our feelings can be hard work. Truly understanding and being honest with authentic selves can be challenging and sometimes scary. No one should have to do this alone. Together, we can deeply listen and nurture your authentic self to help you heal and grow. We are not just talking together, we are experiencing. To learn more, visit my website at: nakaimatherapy.com
![Photo of Maitri Joy, CHT, LMFT, CLC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c8424f7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Maitri Joy
Marriage & Family Therapist, CHT, LMFT, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I offer couples & individuals opportunity to heal difficult communications, overwhelming emotions and painful trauma, I borrow practices from several spiritual traditions, Native American, Buddhist, & Hindu; integrating them with cutting-edge coaching, energetic training, and shamanic practices to offer you a profound approach to personal growth, emotional intimacy and spiritual development. I support couples in finding a joyous sacred intimacy through the healing of their emotional, physical and spiritual pain. For individuals, I guide you in the deep knowing of yourself for emotional, mental and spiritual growth and awakening.
I offer couples & individuals opportunity to heal difficult communications, overwhelming emotions and painful trauma, I borrow practices from several spiritual traditions, Native American, Buddhist, & Hindu; integrating them with cutting-edge coaching, energetic training, and shamanic practices to offer you a profound approach to personal growth, emotional intimacy and spiritual development. I support couples in finding a joyous sacred intimacy through the healing of their emotional, physical and spiritual pain. For individuals, I guide you in the deep knowing of yourself for emotional, mental and spiritual growth and awakening.
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![Photo of Nancy Leticia Stockwell - N. Lette Stockwell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f381bef7-6289-4d7d-9667-5ec4f3645eb4/1/320x400.jpeg)
N. Lette Stockwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103 (Online Only)
My therapeutic lens is anti-racist, decolonial, intersectional feminist, and Buddhist.
Are you trans, queer, or LGBTQIA adjacent looking to better manage the effects of stress, mood problems or anxiety? Maybe you're exploring your relationship to some problematic habits or making some changes? You want a therapist who is warm, welcoming and insightful, but who isn't too psycho-babbley. I won't tell you that you're too sensitive or that your feelings don't make sense.
My therapeutic lens is anti-racist, decolonial, intersectional feminist, and Buddhist.
Are you trans, queer, or LGBTQIA adjacent looking to better manage the effects of stress, mood problems or anxiety? Maybe you're exploring your relationship to some problematic habits or making some changes? You want a therapist who is warm, welcoming and insightful, but who isn't too psycho-babbley. I won't tell you that you're too sensitive or that your feelings don't make sense.
![Photo of Kay (Karen) McGee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0f83110-8009-4f96-99c2-0159774ae2c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'll teach you how to access + trust your intuition, innate creativity + embodied wisdom using the teachings of modern psychology and Buddhist philosophy.
There are elements to all of us that are hidden and unknown until we encounter right timing. It is important to uncover these secret parts of self, yearning to be discovered, with the right support. A few things you should know about what it's like to work with me: My style is warm, witty, compassionate + forthcoming. I value transparency, kindness, justice + joy. I'm directive when called for + I like to challenge my clients to go deep. I draw from my own experience of trauma + healing.
I'll teach you how to access + trust your intuition, innate creativity + embodied wisdom using the teachings of modern psychology and Buddhist philosophy.
There are elements to all of us that are hidden and unknown until we encounter right timing. It is important to uncover these secret parts of self, yearning to be discovered, with the right support. A few things you should know about what it's like to work with me: My style is warm, witty, compassionate + forthcoming. I value transparency, kindness, justice + joy. I'm directive when called for + I like to challenge my clients to go deep. I draw from my own experience of trauma + healing.
![Photo of Brett Wheeler, LMFT, JD, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd14209d-f7f6-4ab4-bb00-d95d213edb4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brett Wheeler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, JD, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117
Waitlist for new clients
I have a background in mindfulness and evidence-based psychodynamic therapies, mentalization based therapy, somatic therapy for PTSD and developmental trauma, anger management, and the relationship between Buddhist practice and psychotherapy.
My practice focuses on issues of self-esteem, relational intimacy, shame, personality disturbances, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I work relationally and dynamically with a present-centered approach on issues as they are currently manifesting but with an eye to how they reflect deeper structures of clients' personalities and values. Therapy is not focused on fixing things, but on relaxing patterns of thinking, becoming more flexible in communicating emotion, building resilience, and being able to be more creative and trusting of oneself and others.
I have a background in mindfulness and evidence-based psychodynamic therapies, mentalization based therapy, somatic therapy for PTSD and developmental trauma, anger management, and the relationship between Buddhist practice and psychotherapy.
My practice focuses on issues of self-esteem, relational intimacy, shame, personality disturbances, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I work relationally and dynamically with a present-centered approach on issues as they are currently manifesting but with an eye to how they reflect deeper structures of clients' personalities and values. Therapy is not focused on fixing things, but on relaxing patterns of thinking, becoming more flexible in communicating emotion, building resilience, and being able to be more creative and trusting of oneself and others.
![Photo of Jeremy Bohrer, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b04822f-f657-46ff-b253-4b738d7d702e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy Bohrer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94112 (Online Only)
I tend to use mindfulness, positive psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, ACT, and Buddhist psychology in my approach.
100% Online Telehealth. Hi! I take it since you're here reading this that you are looking for a therapist. Don't be nervous, it's a piece of cake. I was once like you doing the exact same thing and I understand. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life or simply looking to explore some "bumps in the road?" Life isn't always a straight line and often times we need to step off the trail and take a look at the bigger picture. I can help you do that whether you need to dive into subconscious childhood trauma or learn new mindfulness practices. Give me a call, shoot me a text, or send me an email and let's talk about how I can help.
I tend to use mindfulness, positive psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, ACT, and Buddhist psychology in my approach.
100% Online Telehealth. Hi! I take it since you're here reading this that you are looking for a therapist. Don't be nervous, it's a piece of cake. I was once like you doing the exact same thing and I understand. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life or simply looking to explore some "bumps in the road?" Life isn't always a straight line and often times we need to step off the trail and take a look at the bigger picture. I can help you do that whether you need to dive into subconscious childhood trauma or learn new mindfulness practices. Give me a call, shoot me a text, or send me an email and let's talk about how I can help.
![Photo of Agnes Wang, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf97c59-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a practitioner of Buddhist meditation for 30 years I bring a mindfulness-based approach to my work.
For over 40 years I have worked with a range of issues in life transitions, be it related to separation and loss, career, parenting, relationship, illness, aging, death and spirituality. For couples, I am an impartial and supportive facilitator who helps you modify dysfunctional roles and patterns by offering effective communication skills to negotiate unmet needs, and deepen understanding, acceptance and intimacy. For individuals I offer an integrated psychodynamic, mindfulness training, cognitive and behavioral approaches to personal change and growth.
As a practitioner of Buddhist meditation for 30 years I bring a mindfulness-based approach to my work.
For over 40 years I have worked with a range of issues in life transitions, be it related to separation and loss, career, parenting, relationship, illness, aging, death and spirituality. For couples, I am an impartial and supportive facilitator who helps you modify dysfunctional roles and patterns by offering effective communication skills to negotiate unmet needs, and deepen understanding, acceptance and intimacy. For individuals I offer an integrated psychodynamic, mindfulness training, cognitive and behavioral approaches to personal change and growth.
![Photo of Augusta Gordon, LCSW-R, SIFI, RYT 200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0138f403-e28e-4b51-964b-1d9cd72c3f57/1/320x400.jpeg)
Augusta Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SIFI, RYT 200
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
I have 14 years of experience as a psychotherapist using psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, IFS, mindfulness, and Buddhist informed interventions.
I am taking new clients in California, and focusing on psychedelic prep, integration, and facilitation within psychotherapy both individually and in a group. I can support you in better understanding your symptoms and behaviors, and help you to move through the stages of change. I use a person-centered approach to help clients access their inner-guide and believe that we all carry the answers we need for ourselves.
I have 14 years of experience as a psychotherapist using psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, IFS, mindfulness, and Buddhist informed interventions.
I am taking new clients in California, and focusing on psychedelic prep, integration, and facilitation within psychotherapy both individually and in a group. I can support you in better understanding your symptoms and behaviors, and help you to move through the stages of change. I use a person-centered approach to help clients access their inner-guide and believe that we all carry the answers we need for ourselves.
![Photo of Julia Ward, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/461bd558-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Crises, transitions, and old patterns that no longer serve you can be daunting when you try to navigate them alone. I work to support you in discovering what you need and want in your life right now. I offer a kind, nonjudgmental space. In individual therapy I specialize in anxiety, managing difficult life situations/transitions, and exploring & establishing healthy boundaries. My work with couples is primarily informed by the Developmental Model of Couples Therapy, which holds that the relationship (the "couple bubble") is one that evolves through natural stages, each stage with its own challenges and opportunities.
Crises, transitions, and old patterns that no longer serve you can be daunting when you try to navigate them alone. I work to support you in discovering what you need and want in your life right now. I offer a kind, nonjudgmental space. In individual therapy I specialize in anxiety, managing difficult life situations/transitions, and exploring & establishing healthy boundaries. My work with couples is primarily informed by the Developmental Model of Couples Therapy, which holds that the relationship (the "couple bubble") is one that evolves through natural stages, each stage with its own challenges and opportunities.
![Photo of Heidi Landgraf Breakthrough Neurotherapy, LPCC, RSMT, RYT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/533d2e8a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Landgraf Breakthrough Neurotherapy
Counselor, LPCC, RSMT, RYT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
I work with a myriad of trauma-informed approaches such as LENS neurofeedback, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing to recover your true resilience. LENS neurofeedback assists in restoring optimal brain health, while EMDR can aid in processing distressing memories. Somatic psychotherapy can help you become aware of how your body holds trauma, and assist you in releasing it. You can feel clear, free, and deeply connected to the world and others around you again. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, CPTSD or other traumas, I can help free you from old blockages and help to restore your original, true nature.
I work with a myriad of trauma-informed approaches such as LENS neurofeedback, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing to recover your true resilience. LENS neurofeedback assists in restoring optimal brain health, while EMDR can aid in processing distressing memories. Somatic psychotherapy can help you become aware of how your body holds trauma, and assist you in releasing it. You can feel clear, free, and deeply connected to the world and others around you again. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, CPTSD or other traumas, I can help free you from old blockages and help to restore your original, true nature.
![Photo of Chia-Ying Chou, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48f88e2d-da67-4fb2-82ec-ed1c32c70d66/2/320x400.jpeg)
Let go, let in, and embrace - I believe these three steps can be the hardest, yet, with compassion, they can be the most life-giving and beautiful approaches to human life. It has always been my greatest pleasure to assist clients in the process of letting go, letting in, and embracing life more intimately. Clients I work with include individuals seeking to transform impacts of trauma or loss, relieve burden associated with hoarding or clutterring, learn more about self-love and love for and with others.
Let go, let in, and embrace - I believe these three steps can be the hardest, yet, with compassion, they can be the most life-giving and beautiful approaches to human life. It has always been my greatest pleasure to assist clients in the process of letting go, letting in, and embracing life more intimately. Clients I work with include individuals seeking to transform impacts of trauma or loss, relieve burden associated with hoarding or clutterring, learn more about self-love and love for and with others.
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Buddhist Therapists
Is buddhism beneficial for mental health?
While Buddhism itself is not a treatment for mental health conditions, its practices can greatly enhance mental well-being by introducing coping skills and ideas that promote overall wellness. Key Buddhist practices, such as mindfulness, have been shown to alleviate symptoms of various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma. Moreover, Buddhism's focus on self-compassion, non-judgment, and acceptance can benefit individuals with particularly negative or self-critical thought patterns.
What are the concepts and principles of buddhism as a therapeutic approach?
Core Buddhist principles are often used in therapy to help clients gain insight into their thoughts and emotions. Concepts such as suffering (dukkha) and impermanence (anicca) are applied to help clients recognize that common forms of suffering, like repetitive negative thought patterns, can be accepted and viewed as impermanent. The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path are additional core concepts utilized frequently in Buddhist therapy sessions. The Four Noble Truths highlight the existence of suffering as an inherent part of the human experience—an insight frequently used to move clients toward greater acceptance. The Eightfold Path, which includes right understanding, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right concentration, and right mindfulness, offers practical skills to alleviate suffering.
What is the buddhist approach and practice during a therapy session?
Therapists informed by Buddhist principles often integrate mindfulness and meditation practices into therapy sessions to help clients cultivate greater acceptance, compassion, and non-judgment toward themselves and others. Typically, Buddhist therapists guide clients through mindfulness exercises, such as breathing exercises or body scans, and encourage them to practice similar exercises outside of sessions. Additionally, many Buddhist therapists utilize elements of Positive Psychology or Compassion-Focused Therapy, which can help reduce symptoms of self-criticism and shame common among clients with various mental health conditions. In general, Buddhist therapists strive to embody the compassion and non-judgmental approach they promote, often incorporating exercises aimed at developing compassion in session, such as loving-kindness meditation (Metta).
Is mindfulness the same as buddhism in the context of therapy?
While Buddhist therapists frequently integrate mindfulness practices into therapy sessions, the terms mindfulness and Buddhism are not synonymous in the context of therapy. Therapists may use mindfulness techniques, such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), without identifying as a Buddhist therapist. In contrast, those practicing within a Buddhist belief framework typically encourage mindfulness therapies, in addition to foundational Buddhist beliefs, such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. These therapists may also guide clients toward a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy, unlike those who use Buddhist mindfulness principles without the broader spiritual context.