Existential Therapists in San Carlos, CA

Photo of Nathaniel Pyzik, MA, LPCC, BC-DMT
Nathaniel Pyzik
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Nathaniel is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Board-Certified Dance/Movement Therapist. Dance/movement therapy uses dance and movement to help explore and express thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Nathaniel also uses a person-centered approach and draws from a variety of techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and existential therapy. Through the collaborative and creative process of therapy, clients can learn to express themselves authentically, improve self-awareness, and create meaningful relationships with themselves and others.
Nathaniel is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Board-Certified Dance/Movement Therapist. Dance/movement therapy uses dance and movement to help explore and express thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Nathaniel also uses a person-centered approach and draws from a variety of techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and existential therapy. Through the collaborative and creative process of therapy, clients can learn to express themselves authentically, improve self-awareness, and create meaningful relationships with themselves and others.
(650) 275-6270 View (650) 275-6270
Photo of Penny Thomas-Proctor, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Penny Thomas-Proctor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Do you want to feel better about your self and improve your relationships with others? My approach is grounded in Humanistic/ Existential psychology and incorporates Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfulness-based techniques. Combining these approaches, the goal is to create a non-judgmental "curious" understanding about your emotions and yourself as a whole. It is my hope that you find acceptance for your emotions and all parts of yourself. We will also identify reactive thoughts and behaviors and replace them with intentional responses. Through intentional living, you can create and live a life that is meaningful with profound connections to others.
Do you want to feel better about your self and improve your relationships with others? My approach is grounded in Humanistic/ Existential psychology and incorporates Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfulness-based techniques. Combining these approaches, the goal is to create a non-judgmental "curious" understanding about your emotions and yourself as a whole. It is my hope that you find acceptance for your emotions and all parts of yourself. We will also identify reactive thoughts and behaviors and replace them with intentional responses. Through intentional living, you can create and live a life that is meaningful with profound connections to others.
(650) 248-2162 View (650) 248-2162
Photo of Annette Angulo - Annette Angulo Psychotherapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Annette Angulo Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070  (Online Only)
Choosing the right therapist is very important. The decision to start therapy is a courageous first step towards your journey of understanding and healing. I aim to provide support to anyone that chooses to take that journey in an empathic, reflective and non-judgmental approach. I have worked with people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and life's transitions. I am also bilingual and have many years of experience providing services in Spanish. I mostly have experience in existential-humanistic psychology, psychodynamic, relational/attachment based psychotherapy and somatic psychotherapy.
Choosing the right therapist is very important. The decision to start therapy is a courageous first step towards your journey of understanding and healing. I aim to provide support to anyone that chooses to take that journey in an empathic, reflective and non-judgmental approach. I have worked with people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and life's transitions. I am also bilingual and have many years of experience providing services in Spanish. I mostly have experience in existential-humanistic psychology, psychodynamic, relational/attachment based psychotherapy and somatic psychotherapy.
(650) 667-7656 View (650) 667-7656
Photo of Randi L Wren, MA, BCC, CC
Randi L Wren
MA, BCC, CC
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
We have been suddenly plunged into an existential crisis.
I am a seasoned spiritual health specialist, theologian, chaplain, and counselor. My passion is to discuss and reflect upon life's ultimate issues and guide one in deliberating existential questions. I use a hope-meaning-based spiritual model. This model blends reason and spirituality, science and faith, to form a unique psycho-spiritual practice to fight the darkness of suffering and loss and seek illumination. I specialize in helping clients make meaning and purpose in their own lives. We explore what it means to heal and how despair, sadness, and fear are a natural part of this process. We also face the fullness of death.
We have been suddenly plunged into an existential crisis.
I am a seasoned spiritual health specialist, theologian, chaplain, and counselor. My passion is to discuss and reflect upon life's ultimate issues and guide one in deliberating existential questions. I use a hope-meaning-based spiritual model. This model blends reason and spirituality, science and faith, to form a unique psycho-spiritual practice to fight the darkness of suffering and loss and seek illumination. I specialize in helping clients make meaning and purpose in their own lives. We explore what it means to heal and how despair, sadness, and fear are a natural part of this process. We also face the fullness of death.
(650) 405-1297 View (650) 405-1297
Photo of Corinne Hajnik, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Corinne Hajnik
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
If you are experiencing a lack of momentum and motivation in creating change we can work together to examine deeper meaning of current challenges you face. Clients seek therapy to explore and process past traumas, life transitions, feelings of anxiety, anger, grief, and isolation. If you are seeking skills to increase connection within relationships, and would like to foster a better work/life balance, therapy can offer a safe and secure environment to explore what’s meaningful in your life. We can collaborate on setting attainable goals that move you towards healthy choices, initiate personal insight, and enable well-being.
If you are experiencing a lack of momentum and motivation in creating change we can work together to examine deeper meaning of current challenges you face. Clients seek therapy to explore and process past traumas, life transitions, feelings of anxiety, anger, grief, and isolation. If you are seeking skills to increase connection within relationships, and would like to foster a better work/life balance, therapy can offer a safe and secure environment to explore what’s meaningful in your life. We can collaborate on setting attainable goals that move you towards healthy choices, initiate personal insight, and enable well-being.
(650) 412-6451 View (650) 412-6451
Photo of Paul Wright, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070  (Online Only)
I believe in your inherent wisdom and power, that repair and healing already lie within you. You may surprise yourself! In our work together, I will provide a safe, non-judgmental and supportive space for you and guide you in your process of healing and growth, while reminding you of your strengths and emphasizing self-compassion at every step. In taking a holistic approach, we can work to heal and integrate the different parts of yourself in order to move forward and change your thinking and behaviors to work for you instead of against you.
I believe in your inherent wisdom and power, that repair and healing already lie within you. You may surprise yourself! In our work together, I will provide a safe, non-judgmental and supportive space for you and guide you in your process of healing and growth, while reminding you of your strengths and emphasizing self-compassion at every step. In taking a holistic approach, we can work to heal and integrate the different parts of yourself in order to move forward and change your thinking and behaviors to work for you instead of against you.
(650) 610-2355 View (650) 610-2355
Photo of William H. Bynum, CBIS, Pre-Licensed Professional
William H. Bynum
Pre-Licensed Professional, CBIS
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
My ideal client is the person who is searching for solutions to their personal challenges, and needs assistance mapping out a plan of action. If you are this type of person seeking support then I dare say, I am possibly a good fit for you. Are your hopes and needs focussed on growth? We will find the tools for you to utilize. Are you needing to learn how to be an effective communicator? I may be a good fit for you. Are you hoping to receive encouragement to make it another day? I may be a good fit for you. Whatever your challenge in life is and you're ready to face it, I am here for you.
My ideal client is the person who is searching for solutions to their personal challenges, and needs assistance mapping out a plan of action. If you are this type of person seeking support then I dare say, I am possibly a good fit for you. Are your hopes and needs focussed on growth? We will find the tools for you to utilize. Are you needing to learn how to be an effective communicator? I may be a good fit for you. Are you hoping to receive encouragement to make it another day? I may be a good fit for you. Whatever your challenge in life is and you're ready to face it, I am here for you.
(650) 391-0448 View (650) 391-0448
Photo of Jessica Nasrah, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica Nasrah
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
I have helped a variety of clients of all ages with various issues, including trauma, anxiety, adjustment post-pandemic, anger management, grief/loss, social-emotional skills, and ADHD management. I genuinely enjoy working with children and have experience working with those with autism and special needs.
I have helped a variety of clients of all ages with various issues, including trauma, anxiety, adjustment post-pandemic, anger management, grief/loss, social-emotional skills, and ADHD management. I genuinely enjoy working with children and have experience working with those with autism and special needs.
(650) 648-7346 View (650) 648-7346
Photo of Paul S Slattery, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Paul S Slattery
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
Suffering is a certainty in our lives, but sometimes it becomes more than we can bear. Oftentimes, we can become caught up in blaming ourselves- and though sometimes there can be truth to the notion, it's not true enough to guide us towards healing. We may feel slowed down, stuck, agitated, angry, frustrated or sad. There is nothing wrong or unacceptable with you or your feelings in my practice. They are part of your truth that will guide you to a deeper level of knowing.
Suffering is a certainty in our lives, but sometimes it becomes more than we can bear. Oftentimes, we can become caught up in blaming ourselves- and though sometimes there can be truth to the notion, it's not true enough to guide us towards healing. We may feel slowed down, stuck, agitated, angry, frustrated or sad. There is nothing wrong or unacceptable with you or your feelings in my practice. They are part of your truth that will guide you to a deeper level of knowing.
(650) 418-2395 View (650) 418-2395
Photo of Sonia C Duggal, MS, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sonia C Duggal
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Relationship stress whether as a couple or in a family, can create havoc in our life and deeply impact our wellness. If you are having troubles with your partner/spouse, children, family members and your disharmony is is taking a toll on you, I am here to help you. I have journeyed with many couples, families and individuals providing a safe space to successfully navigate the complexities of their situations and find harmony in their relationships. I bring a gentle yet directive approach. Having lived and worked in different countries, I bring experience and ease in working with individuals from many different cultures.
Relationship stress whether as a couple or in a family, can create havoc in our life and deeply impact our wellness. If you are having troubles with your partner/spouse, children, family members and your disharmony is is taking a toll on you, I am here to help you. I have journeyed with many couples, families and individuals providing a safe space to successfully navigate the complexities of their situations and find harmony in their relationships. I bring a gentle yet directive approach. Having lived and worked in different countries, I bring experience and ease in working with individuals from many different cultures.
(650) 549-9343 View (650) 549-9343
Steven Hobbs
Psychologist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Waitlist for new clients
Each meeting expands my approach to finding solutions to human problems. It's my pleasure to help people enhance their quality of life, improve stress management skills, and renew their emotional resilience, whether the challenge is one of relationship, health, or performance. I have skills in cognitive and health psychology, biofeedback, and hypnosis to aid in rapid progress toward goals. Learning how to quickly gain self-control of one's mind and body easily increases confidence and improves mood. Because I'm focused and active in my work, clients often find my approach refreshing and rewarding.
Each meeting expands my approach to finding solutions to human problems. It's my pleasure to help people enhance their quality of life, improve stress management skills, and renew their emotional resilience, whether the challenge is one of relationship, health, or performance. I have skills in cognitive and health psychology, biofeedback, and hypnosis to aid in rapid progress toward goals. Learning how to quickly gain self-control of one's mind and body easily increases confidence and improves mood. Because I'm focused and active in my work, clients often find my approach refreshing and rewarding.
(650) 924-9394 View (650) 924-9394
Photo of Lisa A Montalvo, LMFT, CEAP, SAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa A Montalvo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
I have been a licensed therapist in the Bay Area for over 30 years. I provide a space that is welcoming, safe and comfortable. My style is non-judgemental, empathic and introspective. My goal is to help you learn about yourself and how to relate to others so that you can make positive changes that are lasting. I incorporate various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Short Term Solution Focused Therapy and Client Centered Therapy and Mindfulness based techniques. Therapeutic strategies are tailored to the individuals needs. I work with individuals, couples and adults.
I have been a licensed therapist in the Bay Area for over 30 years. I provide a space that is welcoming, safe and comfortable. My style is non-judgemental, empathic and introspective. My goal is to help you learn about yourself and how to relate to others so that you can make positive changes that are lasting. I incorporate various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Short Term Solution Focused Therapy and Client Centered Therapy and Mindfulness based techniques. Therapeutic strategies are tailored to the individuals needs. I work with individuals, couples and adults.
(650) 482-8311 View (650) 482-8311
Photo of Bernadette Shu, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bernadette Shu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Therapy is your opportunity to receive support, validation, guidance and healing. We will work together to address your concerns in a safe, accepting and non-judgmental environment. I focus on helping women at various stages of life who are going through traumatic experiences, stressful life transitions, grief & loss and anxiety & depression. I'm also trained to help perinatal/ postpartum women and mothers. In addition to my clinical training, I bring 20 years of Corporate sector experience to this field.
Therapy is your opportunity to receive support, validation, guidance and healing. We will work together to address your concerns in a safe, accepting and non-judgmental environment. I focus on helping women at various stages of life who are going through traumatic experiences, stressful life transitions, grief & loss and anxiety & depression. I'm also trained to help perinatal/ postpartum women and mothers. In addition to my clinical training, I bring 20 years of Corporate sector experience to this field.
(650) 549-9842 View (650) 549-9842
Photo of Anna McQuinn, PhD, MFT, PSY, Psychologist
Anna McQuinn
Psychologist, PhD, MFT, PSY
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Dr. McQuinn is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and a licensed Marital and Family therapist. Dr. Anna McQuinn has been a Tenured Professor of Notre Dame de Namur University where she has been chair of the Clinical Psychology Graduate Department since 1987. She has also been an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of San Francisco graduate Psychology program. Currently she is a Professor Emeritus at the NDNU & has a private practice in San Carlos. She believes that Psychotherapy Healing takes place within the relational model. There is a profound unconscious connection between therapist and client & a mutuality of influence.
Dr. McQuinn is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and a licensed Marital and Family therapist. Dr. Anna McQuinn has been a Tenured Professor of Notre Dame de Namur University where she has been chair of the Clinical Psychology Graduate Department since 1987. She has also been an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of San Francisco graduate Psychology program. Currently she is a Professor Emeritus at the NDNU & has a private practice in San Carlos. She believes that Psychotherapy Healing takes place within the relational model. There is a profound unconscious connection between therapist and client & a mutuality of influence.
(650) 508-1942 View (650) 508-1942
Photo of Sharon L Fu, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharon L Fu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
Who doesn't need therapy? Therapy is unique. It is a safe space where you can be completely who you are. Within the therapy relationship, you are able to say things that you have bottled up, you are given opportunity to identify your blind spots without judgment or shame, and you are able to attune to what you really want in life. I am a big believer in hearing your own voice, getting in touch with your values, and making decisions that align with what is important to you.
Who doesn't need therapy? Therapy is unique. It is a safe space where you can be completely who you are. Within the therapy relationship, you are able to say things that you have bottled up, you are given opportunity to identify your blind spots without judgment or shame, and you are able to attune to what you really want in life. I am a big believer in hearing your own voice, getting in touch with your values, and making decisions that align with what is important to you.
(650) 263-8428 View (650) 263-8428
Photo of Mark Purcell, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Mark Purcell
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
I strive to compassionately work with clients to reveal their true self by identifying the patterns and obstacles that often create internal stress and interpersonal conflict. I work with adolescents, children, and adults. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults with moderate to severe psycho-social difficulties. I have expertise treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, substance abuse, self-harming and psychotic disorders. As a community mental health psychologist I am able to collaborate with educational, legal, and psychiatric professionals. I also provide psychological evaluations, as wells as workshops for parents and trainings to professionals.
I strive to compassionately work with clients to reveal their true self by identifying the patterns and obstacles that often create internal stress and interpersonal conflict. I work with adolescents, children, and adults. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults with moderate to severe psycho-social difficulties. I have expertise treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, substance abuse, self-harming and psychotic disorders. As a community mental health psychologist I am able to collaborate with educational, legal, and psychiatric professionals. I also provide psychological evaluations, as wells as workshops for parents and trainings to professionals.
(650) 206-5520 View (650) 206-5520
Photo of Khaliun Jargalsaikhan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Khaliun Jargalsaikhan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070  (Online Only)
In my practice, I cultivate relationships that foster growth and help clients reach their full potential. I prioritize empathy and unconditional positive regard, recognizing the importance of understanding when clients are hurting, confused, anxious, or struggling with self-worth.
In my practice, I cultivate relationships that foster growth and help clients reach their full potential. I prioritize empathy and unconditional positive regard, recognizing the importance of understanding when clients are hurting, confused, anxious, or struggling with self-worth.
(415) 684-9186 View (415) 684-9186
Photo of Catherine McDonagh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine McDonagh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping high-achieving professionals, both individuals and couples, cultivate greater self-awareness, clarity, and inner peace. While external success may be apparent, it often doesn't align with one's internal experience. Many individuals struggle with relationship issues, anxiety, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, depression, or constant striving, which can overshadow an otherwise fulfilling life. I provide a safe space for clients to explore their energy and the dynamics in their environment, unravel their innermost thoughts, address difficult emotions, and nurture self awareness.
I specialize in helping high-achieving professionals, both individuals and couples, cultivate greater self-awareness, clarity, and inner peace. While external success may be apparent, it often doesn't align with one's internal experience. Many individuals struggle with relationship issues, anxiety, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, depression, or constant striving, which can overshadow an otherwise fulfilling life. I provide a safe space for clients to explore their energy and the dynamics in their environment, unravel their innermost thoughts, address difficult emotions, and nurture self awareness.
(650) 394-6886 View (650) 394-6886
Photo of Ellen Garfield - Ellen Garfield, LMFT. Specializing in EMDR  , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen Garfield, LMFT. Specializing in EMDR
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
IN-PERSON and ZOOM appts available. My style is engaged, curious, warm, direct, and my clients tell me they enjoy my sense of humor. I love working with individuals struggling with conflicts with family, friends, or work, those wanting to gain insight into themselves, and individuals in the process of healing from trauma. I have specialized training in EMDR (eye movement desensitization & reprocessing), which is an evidence-based practice shown to be effective in decreasing psychological distress caused by trauma and disturbing life experiences. I also incorporate parts work/IFS. I’m neurodiversity affirming and fat positive.
IN-PERSON and ZOOM appts available. My style is engaged, curious, warm, direct, and my clients tell me they enjoy my sense of humor. I love working with individuals struggling with conflicts with family, friends, or work, those wanting to gain insight into themselves, and individuals in the process of healing from trauma. I have specialized training in EMDR (eye movement desensitization & reprocessing), which is an evidence-based practice shown to be effective in decreasing psychological distress caused by trauma and disturbing life experiences. I also incorporate parts work/IFS. I’m neurodiversity affirming and fat positive.
(831) 854-7543 View (831) 854-7543
Photo of Robert Mitchell - Searching Pathways Therapy, PhD, Psychologist
Searching Pathways Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
I work with people who wish to change self-limiting beliefs and destructive behaviors. I'll assist them in becoming aware of triggers, habits and unexamined assumptions which keep them stuck in repetitive cycles. By developing insight and understanding, they're often empowered to make new choices that are more in harmony with who they are and what they truly want.
I work with people who wish to change self-limiting beliefs and destructive behaviors. I'll assist them in becoming aware of triggers, habits and unexamined assumptions which keep them stuck in repetitive cycles. By developing insight and understanding, they're often empowered to make new choices that are more in harmony with who they are and what they truly want.
(650) 215-6542 View (650) 215-6542
1
Existential Therapists

How does existential therapy work?

Existential therapy focuses on a patient’s inner experiences. The therapist tries to help the individual comprehend and alleviate symptoms by exploring their interior life. By confronting negative disquiet and emotions, the individual will hopefully become more open to finding meaning and purpose. This therapy can be administered to individuals or groups.

Is existential therapy evidence-based?

Existential therapy is an evidence-based practice. Research has determined that existential therapy can lead to significant improvement in the mental health of patients, and for some people it can be just as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy. The benefits of existential therapy are enduring, even long after treatment has ended.

How long does existential therapy last?

The goal of existential therapy is to understand a person’s internal experiences, which may sound like a lengthy process, but it does not have to be so in-depth. However, sessions are not short-term, and therapy can continue for months or up to a year. And because patients learn the theory behind existential therapy during treatment, they can also practice its tenets throughout life after therapy sessions have been completed.

Is existential therapy effective?

According to research, many patients find success with existential therapy. Researchers note that the therapy is particularly useful in improving feelings of isolation, feelings of purposelessness, as well as conditions such as anxiety and depression. Improvements in problem areas can persist even after the end of existential therapy, as individuals can continue working on themselves by using the tools they’ve developed during treatment.