Strength-Based Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Leila Kakunda, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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 Michelle Mehrabian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Mehrabian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121  (Online Only)
In our sessions, I will provide a comfortable environment where we can explore what may be weighing you down. Are you having a hard time feeling good about who you are, your relationships, or difficult life events? I can provide you a safe setting to speak from your heart, figure out what things in your life you need to shift, and learn how to get the life you deserve. I can help to empower you and help you manage uncomfortable feelings. I offer an empathetic and strength-based approach through exploring past experiences and giving suggestions to help you move toward the life you want.
In our sessions, I will provide a comfortable environment where we can explore what may be weighing you down. Are you having a hard time feeling good about who you are, your relationships, or difficult life events? I can provide you a safe setting to speak from your heart, figure out what things in your life you need to shift, and learn how to get the life you deserve. I can help to empower you and help you manage uncomfortable feelings. I offer an empathetic and strength-based approach through exploring past experiences and giving suggestions to help you move toward the life you want.
(628) 266-4821 View (628) 266-4821
Photo of Kristina Kenyon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristina Kenyon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I believe we all come into this world being enough as we are but sometimes there are challenges, losses, difficulties, or behaviors that get in the way of what you may be wanting or where you want to be in your life. Together, we can build insight and understanding and work towards making the changes you want to see.
I believe we all come into this world being enough as we are but sometimes there are challenges, losses, difficulties, or behaviors that get in the way of what you may be wanting or where you want to be in your life. Together, we can build insight and understanding and work towards making the changes you want to see.
(415) 226-4779 View (415) 226-4779
Photo of Guadalupe Solache, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Guadalupe Solache
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Therapy is a place to feel understood and safe. My approach to therapy is collaborative, warm, and strength-based. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My areas of interest include anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, transitions and adjustment, grief, parenting, and family communication.
Therapy is a place to feel understood and safe. My approach to therapy is collaborative, warm, and strength-based. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My areas of interest include anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, transitions and adjustment, grief, parenting, and family communication.
(415) 903-6059 View (415) 903-6059
Photo of Jenifer Butera, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenifer Butera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is client-centered, with mindful tending to each client's psychological space, exploring answers to problems, and discovering how to respond most effectively to changes. I am person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based in my approach, and I work with all mental health concerns in adults, especially with trauma, anxiety, work-related stress, disordered thinking, personality disorders, and depression.
My approach to therapy is client-centered, with mindful tending to each client's psychological space, exploring answers to problems, and discovering how to respond most effectively to changes. I am person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based in my approach, and I work with all mental health concerns in adults, especially with trauma, anxiety, work-related stress, disordered thinking, personality disorders, and depression.
(415) 322-3706 View (415) 322-3706
Photo of Diode De Dios, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diode De Dios
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
My name is Diode de Dios, pronounced like "Jodi." I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California, and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, grief, life transitions, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help clients make progress and feel better.
My name is Diode de Dios, pronounced like "Jodi." I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California, and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, grief, life transitions, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help clients make progress and feel better.
(415) 319-7616 View (415) 319-7616
Photo of Emmanuel Torres, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emmanuel Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I’ve had the privilege of working in this field for the past 5.5 years and have found it very rewarding. My therapeutic style is tailored to the individual and their strengths while using the following approaches: strength based, solution focus, mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. I truly believe with the right coaching, exploring, processing and guidance, we are able to overcome many of our life stressors.
I’ve had the privilege of working in this field for the past 5.5 years and have found it very rewarding. My therapeutic style is tailored to the individual and their strengths while using the following approaches: strength based, solution focus, mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. I truly believe with the right coaching, exploring, processing and guidance, we are able to overcome many of our life stressors.
(415) 663-2987 View (415) 663-2987
Photo of Jessica Hodge, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Hodge
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I also use a relationship-based therapy approach with a strength-based frame to help you develop coping skills and protective factors against stressors and negative relationships.
I believe in walking with individuals through their life experiences in a non-judgmental manner. I believe people are not a product of life circumstances; therefore, they do not need to live in a self-punishing manner. I believe individuals can process past traumas and issues resulting in a more fulfilling life. Gaining personal insight and personal growth is a strength that will manifest and multiply in relationships. Working with people is my passion, and I believe your past does not define your future.
I also use a relationship-based therapy approach with a strength-based frame to help you develop coping skills and protective factors against stressors and negative relationships.
I believe in walking with individuals through their life experiences in a non-judgmental manner. I believe people are not a product of life circumstances; therefore, they do not need to live in a self-punishing manner. I believe individuals can process past traumas and issues resulting in a more fulfilling life. Gaining personal insight and personal growth is a strength that will manifest and multiply in relationships. Working with people is my passion, and I believe your past does not define your future.
(415) 890-2567 View (415) 890-2567
Photo of Alex Eichenbaum, PhD, Psychologist
Alex Eichenbaum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Dr. Alex Eichenbaum is a licensed clinical psychologist who enjoys working with adults coping with anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders, and the impacts of surviving past traumas. He uses an integrative approach to therapy, employing evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral and mindfulness techniques to tailor treatment to your specific needs.  Dr. Eichenbaum emphasizes a collaborative, strength-based approach that values and affirms each person’s unique identity and culture.
Dr. Alex Eichenbaum is a licensed clinical psychologist who enjoys working with adults coping with anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders, and the impacts of surviving past traumas. He uses an integrative approach to therapy, employing evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral and mindfulness techniques to tailor treatment to your specific needs.  Dr. Eichenbaum emphasizes a collaborative, strength-based approach that values and affirms each person’s unique identity and culture.
(855) 674-0607 View (855) 674-0607
Photo of Leslie R Davis, JD, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie R Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
My counseling style is warm and compassionate, emphasizing the importance of providing a safe, strength-based, and non-judgmental space.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
My counseling style is warm and compassionate, emphasizing the importance of providing a safe, strength-based, and non-judgmental space.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
(415) 366-0587 View (415) 366-0587
Photo of Khaliun Jargalsaikhan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Khaliun Jargalsaikhan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117
I work from a Mindfulness-Based approach and draw from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Attachment-Based and Strength-Based, Trauma Informed modalities.
In my practice, I strive to create relationships with my clients that foster their growth and help them achieve their full potential. I value empathy and unconditional positive regard toward my clients. Understanding is called for when someone is hurting, confused, anxious, alienated, or doubtful of their self-worth. The gentle, empathic approach provides insight and healing. I respect the courage and vulnerability to come to therapy and try to take good care of my client's trust in me.
I work from a Mindfulness-Based approach and draw from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Attachment-Based and Strength-Based, Trauma Informed modalities.
In my practice, I strive to create relationships with my clients that foster their growth and help them achieve their full potential. I value empathy and unconditional positive regard toward my clients. Understanding is called for when someone is hurting, confused, anxious, alienated, or doubtful of their self-worth. The gentle, empathic approach provides insight and healing. I respect the courage and vulnerability to come to therapy and try to take good care of my client's trust in me.
(415) 684-9186 View (415) 684-9186
Photo of Tarrah D Wauson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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 Nathalie Servin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nathalie Servin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Therapy provides a safe container to unlearn who we were conditioned to be. I believe that this experience offers us liberation, which comes from healing our wounds and learning to feel more comfortable being our authentic selves. From a strength-based and trauma-informed approach, I utilize thoughtful questions and share practical tools tailored to your needs so that you leave the session feeling validated and encouraged to achieve your goals.
Therapy provides a safe container to unlearn who we were conditioned to be. I believe that this experience offers us liberation, which comes from healing our wounds and learning to feel more comfortable being our authentic selves. From a strength-based and trauma-informed approach, I utilize thoughtful questions and share practical tools tailored to your needs so that you leave the session feeling validated and encouraged to achieve your goals.
(415) 797-0650 View (415) 797-0650
Photo of Shelby McClure, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelby McClure
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I have worked in a wide variety of environments and with a wide variety of clients, including those in outpatient settings and with adolescents in a residential treatment facility. I am a strength-based therapist that works to empower her clients. I provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental space where they can more deeply examine their inner feelings and find ways to overcome life's challenges. I hope to help you along your journey of self-discovery, and to always provide you with a place where you can feel heard and understood.
I have worked in a wide variety of environments and with a wide variety of clients, including those in outpatient settings and with adolescents in a residential treatment facility. I am a strength-based therapist that works to empower her clients. I provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental space where they can more deeply examine their inner feelings and find ways to overcome life's challenges. I hope to help you along your journey of self-discovery, and to always provide you with a place where you can feel heard and understood.
(415) 630-4513 View (415) 630-4513
Photo of Gabriela Ruiz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabriela Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
I work from a strength-based approach, using evidence-based theories such as CBT and Motivational Interview.
I am Luciana Ruiz, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Oakland, California, and working via telehealth with individuals all over the state. I have been a medical social worker for most of my career, and that experience has strengthened my therapeutic approach. I used Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Grief Therapy to help my clients make progress. My experience includes working with people with chronic illnesses, seniors, and couples.
I work from a strength-based approach, using evidence-based theories such as CBT and Motivational Interview.
I am Luciana Ruiz, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Oakland, California, and working via telehealth with individuals all over the state. I have been a medical social worker for most of my career, and that experience has strengthened my therapeutic approach. I used Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Grief Therapy to help my clients make progress. My experience includes working with people with chronic illnesses, seniors, and couples.
(415) 704-0384 View (415) 704-0384
Photo of Katie Ortiz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Katie Ortiz, LCSW 117653 I am here merely as a guiding tool, a means to an end. My purpose is to assist you on your journey, helping you navigate through your experiences and empowering you to apply the insights gained in therapy to your life. My approach to therapy draws from a variety of models, tailored to meet your specific needs. These may include CBT/TF-CBT, interpersonal psychotherapy, solution-focused, structural family therapy, and strength-based therapy.
Katie Ortiz, LCSW 117653 I am here merely as a guiding tool, a means to an end. My purpose is to assist you on your journey, helping you navigate through your experiences and empowering you to apply the insights gained in therapy to your life. My approach to therapy draws from a variety of models, tailored to meet your specific needs. These may include CBT/TF-CBT, interpersonal psychotherapy, solution-focused, structural family therapy, and strength-based therapy.
(415) 993-7875 View (415) 993-7875
Photo of Lorraine J Moreci, MA,  AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
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 Marina Rotberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marina Rotberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Family is one of the most beautiful and important aspects of our lives. Navigating childhood and adolescence can be overwhelming, frustrating, challenging and confusing, at times. I use a strength-based approach through Integrative therapeutic modalities to build insight, self-esteem, confidence, balanced life, build connections and help find a client’s voice. I also help children and teens identify triggers, explore coping skills, learn self-advocacy, goal setting and how to live a healthier, happier life. I believe that a healthy family is at the core of well-adjusted happy children. I offer both individual and family therapy.
Family is one of the most beautiful and important aspects of our lives. Navigating childhood and adolescence can be overwhelming, frustrating, challenging and confusing, at times. I use a strength-based approach through Integrative therapeutic modalities to build insight, self-esteem, confidence, balanced life, build connections and help find a client’s voice. I also help children and teens identify triggers, explore coping skills, learn self-advocacy, goal setting and how to live a healthier, happier life. I believe that a healthy family is at the core of well-adjusted happy children. I offer both individual and family therapy.
(415) 496-4172 View (415) 496-4172
Photo of Debbie Grace P Lugtu, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbie Grace P Lugtu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108  (Online Only)
I create a safe space for my clients using a compassionate, warm, client-led and strength-based approach.
Are you looking to get to the root of the issue? Maybe you’re starting to recognize patterns and identified triggers that may have stemmed from childhood wounds or past relationships/experiences. My ideal client is curious about themselves and reflective as I use an insight-oriented approach to work together to identify patterns in your life and where they stem from. I also use a narrative theoretical orientation, believing that after we’ve understood ourselves using compassionate lens, we have the power to re-author our stories or create our own narrative.
I create a safe space for my clients using a compassionate, warm, client-led and strength-based approach.
Are you looking to get to the root of the issue? Maybe you’re starting to recognize patterns and identified triggers that may have stemmed from childhood wounds or past relationships/experiences. My ideal client is curious about themselves and reflective as I use an insight-oriented approach to work together to identify patterns in your life and where they stem from. I also use a narrative theoretical orientation, believing that after we’ve understood ourselves using compassionate lens, we have the power to re-author our stories or create our own narrative.
(949) 732-0074 View (949) 732-0074
Photo of Beth Pierce, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beth Pierce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
My therapeutic style is collaborative, active, and strength-based.
Do you feel stuck or disillusioned with the path that you’re on? Have you found success in your career, but the other pieces aren’t lining up like you imagined? Do you seem to “have it all” but find yourself struggling to find happiness & fulfillment? I specialize in working with people navigating those tumultuous 20s and 30s where so many of life’s biggest decisions, like relationships and career, are still playing out. Together we can address and overcome the things causing you to feel stuck, overwhelmed, and anxious. I will support you as you discover your most authentic self, your inner strength, and your greatest dreams.
My therapeutic style is collaborative, active, and strength-based.
Do you feel stuck or disillusioned with the path that you’re on? Have you found success in your career, but the other pieces aren’t lining up like you imagined? Do you seem to “have it all” but find yourself struggling to find happiness & fulfillment? I specialize in working with people navigating those tumultuous 20s and 30s where so many of life’s biggest decisions, like relationships and career, are still playing out. Together we can address and overcome the things causing you to feel stuck, overwhelmed, and anxious. I will support you as you discover your most authentic self, your inner strength, and your greatest dreams.
(415) 943-5965 View (415) 943-5965

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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.