Psychodynamic Therapists in South San Francisco, CA

Photo of Carol Gomez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Gomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080  (Online Only)
My therapeutic healing lens and orientation is embedded in Feminist Theory, Critical Race Theory, Liberation Psychology, somatic based healing, Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM), Strengths-based work, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Relational Psychodynamic and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
My foundational work and experience is rooted in decades of hands-on social justice, advocacy and community organizing work primarily with communities of color, immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ+ folx and survivors of partner violence, sexual violence and labor exploitation.
My therapeutic healing lens and orientation is embedded in Feminist Theory, Critical Race Theory, Liberation Psychology, somatic based healing, Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM), Strengths-based work, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Relational Psychodynamic and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
My foundational work and experience is rooted in decades of hands-on social justice, advocacy and community organizing work primarily with communities of color, immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ+ folx and survivors of partner violence, sexual violence and labor exploitation.
(415) 903-4648 View (415) 903-4648
Photo of Cristina Mariscal, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cristina Mariscal
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080  (Online Only)
My framework is based on client-centered, psychodynamic, trauma-informed, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy within a cultural lens.
I specialize in supporting adults, older teens, and couples facing difficult life transitions, relationship issues, intergenerational/ historical traumas, grief/loss, depression and anxiety. I provide support from a multicultural lens, taking into account physical, mental, spiritual, emotional wounds. My work is deeply rooted in empowering and supporting individuals on their journey of healing. I sit alongside them as they mend emotional/behavioral wounds and uncover inner strengths, insight and increase awareness about themselves.
My framework is based on client-centered, psychodynamic, trauma-informed, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy within a cultural lens.
I specialize in supporting adults, older teens, and couples facing difficult life transitions, relationship issues, intergenerational/ historical traumas, grief/loss, depression and anxiety. I provide support from a multicultural lens, taking into account physical, mental, spiritual, emotional wounds. My work is deeply rooted in empowering and supporting individuals on their journey of healing. I sit alongside them as they mend emotional/behavioral wounds and uncover inner strengths, insight and increase awareness about themselves.
(415) 749-9327 View (415) 749-9327
Photo of Danielle Daviscourt, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Danielle Daviscourt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South San Francisco, CA 94083  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Danielle, a psychodynamic depth therapist and alum of Pacifica Graduate Institute. As a registered associate MFT, and PCC, Reiki Master, and Coach, I work remotely with clients across California to offer a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, focusing on the physical, spiritual, social, energetic, and psychological aspects of self. My passion for Jungian works, dreams, spirituality, rites of passage, and initiations enriches our work, assisting with transformative healing experiences. Together, we can navigate the ups and downs, finding inspiration in every season of life.
Welcome! I'm Danielle, a psychodynamic depth therapist and alum of Pacifica Graduate Institute. As a registered associate MFT, and PCC, Reiki Master, and Coach, I work remotely with clients across California to offer a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, focusing on the physical, spiritual, social, energetic, and psychological aspects of self. My passion for Jungian works, dreams, spirituality, rites of passage, and initiations enriches our work, assisting with transformative healing experiences. Together, we can navigate the ups and downs, finding inspiration in every season of life.
(650) 547-1438 View (650) 547-1438
Photo of Jennifer W Cortright, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer W Cortright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
My training is based in a combination of psychodynamic and experiential psychotherapy. My emphasis is to facilitate a therapeutic relationship where vulnerable feelings can be safely expressed. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, addiction... can be seen as invitations from the psyche to explore our internal world with understanding and compassion. Psychotherapy provides a safe place for this internal exploration within a caring relationship of respect.
My training is based in a combination of psychodynamic and experiential psychotherapy. My emphasis is to facilitate a therapeutic relationship where vulnerable feelings can be safely expressed. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, addiction... can be seen as invitations from the psyche to explore our internal world with understanding and compassion. Psychotherapy provides a safe place for this internal exploration within a caring relationship of respect.
(415) 800-4990 View (415) 800-4990
Photo of Alex Silberstein, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alex Silberstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South San Francisco, CA 94080  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping adults overcome anxiety and depression. As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I focus on helping clients recover from the effects of trauma. I also enjoy working with couples to develop effective communication skills and reduce destructive conflict. I strive to provide clients with a warm, secure environment in which they feel safe to explore painful experiences from the past that need healing. My approach combines the perspective of long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy with more practical cognitive-behavioral methods, as well as using the latest research from neuroscience about how our minds develop and change.
I specialize in helping adults overcome anxiety and depression. As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I focus on helping clients recover from the effects of trauma. I also enjoy working with couples to develop effective communication skills and reduce destructive conflict. I strive to provide clients with a warm, secure environment in which they feel safe to explore painful experiences from the past that need healing. My approach combines the perspective of long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy with more practical cognitive-behavioral methods, as well as using the latest research from neuroscience about how our minds develop and change.
(415) 646-0421 View (415) 646-0421
Photo of Pauline Jarakian, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pauline Jarakian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
I employ Psychodynamic (past) and Cognitive Behavioral (present) as well as Attachment theory to look at factors that are maintaining current problems and collaborate together to establish therapy goals.
I am a longstanding Marriage Family and Child psychotherapist with extensive experience working with all traumas, depression, anxiety, attachment and relationship difficulties. I'm committed to being a culturally competent therapist, my practice is diverse and includes individuals, families, adults, adolescents, children and couples of all ages, races, genders and sexual orientations. I specialize in working with postpartum depression and infant parent therapy with mothers and babies. I supervise for MFT interns at USF's Family and Child Center and am an Adjunct Professor in USF's Graduate School of Counseling Psychology.
I employ Psychodynamic (past) and Cognitive Behavioral (present) as well as Attachment theory to look at factors that are maintaining current problems and collaborate together to establish therapy goals.
I am a longstanding Marriage Family and Child psychotherapist with extensive experience working with all traumas, depression, anxiety, attachment and relationship difficulties. I'm committed to being a culturally competent therapist, my practice is diverse and includes individuals, families, adults, adolescents, children and couples of all ages, races, genders and sexual orientations. I specialize in working with postpartum depression and infant parent therapy with mothers and babies. I supervise for MFT interns at USF's Family and Child Center and am an Adjunct Professor in USF's Graduate School of Counseling Psychology.
(415) 418-7476 View (415) 418-7476
Photo of Leopoldo F. Villela, PhD, Psychologist
Leopoldo F. Villela
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
The issues on spirituality, mental health and psychology are part of my practice and interests. The frames I use are Psychodynamic and Tibetan Buddhism. How to overcome psychological conditioning and personal narratives that are too extreme and unrealistic. Many times some people find themselves in situations that aggravate their emotional pain, no way out but rather than look inside of themselves look out there, hoping that their live will change.
The issues on spirituality, mental health and psychology are part of my practice and interests. The frames I use are Psychodynamic and Tibetan Buddhism. How to overcome psychological conditioning and personal narratives that are too extreme and unrealistic. Many times some people find themselves in situations that aggravate their emotional pain, no way out but rather than look inside of themselves look out there, hoping that their live will change.
(650) 530-0977 View (650) 530-0977
Photo of Ingrid Tauber, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Ingrid Tauber
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080  (Online Only)
I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and obtained a M.S.in Psychopharmacology in 2001. I've been in private practice for 40 years and an Assistant Clinical Professor at UCSF since 2005. My practice includes individuals and couples seeking help with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, loss, and grief. I work within a relational, psychodynamic theoretical model as a means of understanding and integrating the complex relationship that individuals and couples present. In my clinical work as a therapist and supervisor, I work collaboratively in pursuing goals and objectives.
I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and obtained a M.S.in Psychopharmacology in 2001. I've been in private practice for 40 years and an Assistant Clinical Professor at UCSF since 2005. My practice includes individuals and couples seeking help with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, loss, and grief. I work within a relational, psychodynamic theoretical model as a means of understanding and integrating the complex relationship that individuals and couples present. In my clinical work as a therapist and supervisor, I work collaboratively in pursuing goals and objectives.
(415) 894-0981 View (415) 894-0981
Photo of Louis Morello, PhD, Psychologist
Louis Morello
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94083
I believe in a nonpathologizing, developmentally informed approach that integrates cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic perspectives (e.
As a psychologist I evaluate and treat individuals who seek help for depression, anxiety, life dissatisfaction (from relationships and work stress), relational trauma (e.g. childhood abuse and emotional neglect) and addiction/compulsive behaviors that may co-occur with depression, anxiety or trauma/PTSD. Of note, you do not have to be in crisis to be in therapy; I often work with individuals who are interested in personal growth, long-term recovery issues, regaining meaning and passion after loss and sometimes stopping distressing interpersonal patterns. Treatment is generally trauma-informed and phase-oriented, integrating body-mind interventions and neurobiology. Please visit my website for details,
I believe in a nonpathologizing, developmentally informed approach that integrates cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic perspectives (e.
As a psychologist I evaluate and treat individuals who seek help for depression, anxiety, life dissatisfaction (from relationships and work stress), relational trauma (e.g. childhood abuse and emotional neglect) and addiction/compulsive behaviors that may co-occur with depression, anxiety or trauma/PTSD. Of note, you do not have to be in crisis to be in therapy; I often work with individuals who are interested in personal growth, long-term recovery issues, regaining meaning and passion after loss and sometimes stopping distressing interpersonal patterns. Treatment is generally trauma-informed and phase-oriented, integrating body-mind interventions and neurobiology. Please visit my website for details,
(650) 918-5330 View (650) 918-5330
Photo of Yvonne Smith Tarnas, MFT, PhD, Jungian, Analyst, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yvonne Smith Tarnas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD, Jungian, Analyst
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
I specialize in Jungian and psychodynamic psychotherapy, and I believe that by reclaiming lost or unknown pieces of ourselves, we can grow toward greater wholeness and satisfaction within our lives.
Difficult feelings can be the beginning of new self-understanding and growth. If you seek a greater sense of yourself and are ready to engage in a process that results in lasting transformation, then depth psychotherapy-an integration of mind, body and spirit-is the path for you. Depth work happens through a supportive environment where a therapeutic relationship forms and facilitates inner development towards your fuller potential.
I specialize in Jungian and psychodynamic psychotherapy, and I believe that by reclaiming lost or unknown pieces of ourselves, we can grow toward greater wholeness and satisfaction within our lives.
Difficult feelings can be the beginning of new self-understanding and growth. If you seek a greater sense of yourself and are ready to engage in a process that results in lasting transformation, then depth psychotherapy-an integration of mind, body and spirit-is the path for you. Depth work happens through a supportive environment where a therapeutic relationship forms and facilitates inner development towards your fuller potential.
(415) 787-4403 View (415) 787-4403
Photo of Victoria Zurkan, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victoria Zurkan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080  (Online Only)
I've been licensed since 2006. My experience in addiction is extensive, including work in inpatient, outpatient and detox. I tailor each client's treatment needs individually using evidence based EMDR, CBT, DBT and psychodynamic therapy. Together we will learn to pay close attention to aspects of yourself that you may be unable to touch on your own. I look for patterns in either behavior or thoughts. Examining past family dynamics and reaching unconscious behavior, I connect that information to how it affects our current lives. Currently I am doing telemedicine with couples, individuals and I run CBT and DBT addiction groups.
I've been licensed since 2006. My experience in addiction is extensive, including work in inpatient, outpatient and detox. I tailor each client's treatment needs individually using evidence based EMDR, CBT, DBT and psychodynamic therapy. Together we will learn to pay close attention to aspects of yourself that you may be unable to touch on your own. I look for patterns in either behavior or thoughts. Examining past family dynamics and reaching unconscious behavior, I connect that information to how it affects our current lives. Currently I am doing telemedicine with couples, individuals and I run CBT and DBT addiction groups.
(628) 214-2234 View (628) 214-2234
Photo of Tamara Tucker, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tamara Tucker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
My style is direct, transparent and positive. All work is supported by solid psychodynamic theory. I am comfortable with challenges. Most of my clients come in to address relationship issues, career and life-stage transitions, depression and anxiety. However, I have considerable experience in areas of disordered eating, addiction, and (Complex)PTSD. I believe that in order for successful transformational work to occur, the therapeutic relationship is central. Therefore, I offer an initial free 20 minute meeting to test for the ineffable 'fit.' I am a private practice out-of-network provider. WEBSITE: tamaratuckermft.com
My style is direct, transparent and positive. All work is supported by solid psychodynamic theory. I am comfortable with challenges. Most of my clients come in to address relationship issues, career and life-stage transitions, depression and anxiety. However, I have considerable experience in areas of disordered eating, addiction, and (Complex)PTSD. I believe that in order for successful transformational work to occur, the therapeutic relationship is central. Therefore, I offer an initial free 20 minute meeting to test for the ineffable 'fit.' I am a private practice out-of-network provider. WEBSITE: tamaratuckermft.com
(415) 799-8896 View (415) 799-8896
Photo of Martha Borja Acacio, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Martha Borja Acacio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
I hold over 25 years of experience working with youth, adolescents, young adults, adults and families. After earning my master's degree in Counseling at San Francisco State University, I accepted a position with Family Service Agency of San Francisco, then with the City and County of San Francisco Department of Public Health, Community Behavioral Services. In this position, I helped to create the Transitional Youth Service Program. In 2000, I received a Certificate of Honor award from the Mayor of San Francisco.
I hold over 25 years of experience working with youth, adolescents, young adults, adults and families. After earning my master's degree in Counseling at San Francisco State University, I accepted a position with Family Service Agency of San Francisco, then with the City and County of San Francisco Department of Public Health, Community Behavioral Services. In this position, I helped to create the Transitional Youth Service Program. In 2000, I received a Certificate of Honor award from the Mayor of San Francisco.
(650) 353-9141 View (650) 353-9141
Photo of Niroshika De Silva - Center for Rising Minds, Psychologist
Center for Rising Minds
Psychologist
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080  (Online Only)
The Center for Rising Minds was founded by Niroshika De Silva, PsyD, with the philosophy that the treatment for children, adults, and families should include a holistic approach, as no individual is exactly the same. We believe that treatment is most effective when providers from other disciplines collaborate in order to meet the needs of the whole individual. At Center for Rising Minds, we provide services across the lifespan, recognizing that children and adults can experience similar challenges that would benefit from psychotherapy, occupational therapy, or both.
The Center for Rising Minds was founded by Niroshika De Silva, PsyD, with the philosophy that the treatment for children, adults, and families should include a holistic approach, as no individual is exactly the same. We believe that treatment is most effective when providers from other disciplines collaborate in order to meet the needs of the whole individual. At Center for Rising Minds, we provide services across the lifespan, recognizing that children and adults can experience similar challenges that would benefit from psychotherapy, occupational therapy, or both.
(650) 686-5527 View (650) 686-5527
Photo of Katrina Watkins, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katrina Watkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
Hello, I'm Katrina Watkins, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, focusing on creating a safe, empathetic space for you to explore your concerns and strengths. I am dedicated to assisting my clients in the following areas: anxiety and stress management, depression and mood disorders, relationship and family issues, trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, self-esteem and confidence, addiction and substance abuse, mindfulness, work-related stress, LGBTQ+ issues, and more.
Hello, I'm Katrina Watkins, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, focusing on creating a safe, empathetic space for you to explore your concerns and strengths. I am dedicated to assisting my clients in the following areas: anxiety and stress management, depression and mood disorders, relationship and family issues, trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, self-esteem and confidence, addiction and substance abuse, mindfulness, work-related stress, LGBTQ+ issues, and more.
(650) 275-6256 View (650) 275-6256
Photo of Diana Gómez Ibarra, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Gómez Ibarra
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South San Francisco, CA 94080
Looking for help in this vulnerable process of healing? I'm honored to share space with people who bring the effects of Trauma and Loss to session. I am passionate about helping people with difficult pasts heal and feel more present. I help grievers work through the would-have could-have and should-haves that linger long after a loss. Have you spent more time explaining your Cultura to a therapist than the issues you wanted to focus on? Let's focus on you. I got you! I am a Bay Area Chicana therapist, that loves integrating culture as a means of healing, context and growth.
Looking for help in this vulnerable process of healing? I'm honored to share space with people who bring the effects of Trauma and Loss to session. I am passionate about helping people with difficult pasts heal and feel more present. I help grievers work through the would-have could-have and should-haves that linger long after a loss. Have you spent more time explaining your Cultura to a therapist than the issues you wanted to focus on? Let's focus on you. I got you! I am a Bay Area Chicana therapist, that loves integrating culture as a means of healing, context and growth.
(650) 458-0189 View (650) 458-0189
Photo of Brian Wolfe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brian Wolfe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080  (Online Only)
I like to help my clients learn about intense emotions coming in waves like on an ocean and how to notice body sensations which then escalate into undesired behaviors. With a combination of CBT and DBT tools, I like to educate my clients about the purpose and necessity of all emotions and how to step away from feelings that could result in "problem behaviors" which only make things worse. Once we learn how to manage this phenomena, we can feel successful to move on to work on more difficult relationships in our adult lives that cause us trouble whether it be interpersonal familial, or work.
I like to help my clients learn about intense emotions coming in waves like on an ocean and how to notice body sensations which then escalate into undesired behaviors. With a combination of CBT and DBT tools, I like to educate my clients about the purpose and necessity of all emotions and how to step away from feelings that could result in "problem behaviors" which only make things worse. Once we learn how to manage this phenomena, we can feel successful to move on to work on more difficult relationships in our adult lives that cause us trouble whether it be interpersonal familial, or work.
(510) 826-3865 View (510) 826-3865
Photo of Lea Reyes | Relationships, LMFT, LPC, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lea Reyes | Relationships
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080  (Online Only)
Struggles in your relationship can be overwhelming and confusing where you're constantly arguing over small things and feel a growing distance as a couple. "How did things get to this point and how do I fix it?" I want you to know that I understand because I have been in your shoes. I know the pain and frustration that comes with feeling disconnected in a relationship
Struggles in your relationship can be overwhelming and confusing where you're constantly arguing over small things and feel a growing distance as a couple. "How did things get to this point and how do I fix it?" I want you to know that I understand because I have been in your shoes. I know the pain and frustration that comes with feeling disconnected in a relationship
(714) 912-1745 View (714) 912-1745
Photo of Brianne Perriera, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brianne Perriera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080  (Online Only)
Welcome! First time seeking treatment? Then you have made an important step in finding help and connecting with a provider that's right for you. Returning to treatment? Then take pride in knowing your needs and when to reach out for support. I believe we have so many of the answers we seek and necessary skills within us already. I look forward to helping you in your journey to meet your own treatment goals through specifically chosen interventions and skills and I invite regular feedback and encourage discussion on effectiveness for you as the client. Let's get working towards the life and well-being you envision for yourself!
Welcome! First time seeking treatment? Then you have made an important step in finding help and connecting with a provider that's right for you. Returning to treatment? Then take pride in knowing your needs and when to reach out for support. I believe we have so many of the answers we seek and necessary skills within us already. I look forward to helping you in your journey to meet your own treatment goals through specifically chosen interventions and skills and I invite regular feedback and encourage discussion on effectiveness for you as the client. Let's get working towards the life and well-being you envision for yourself!
(341) 444-3907 View (341) 444-3907
Photo of John Kim, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080  (Online Only)
I treat depression, anxiety, couple conflicts, motivation issues, and career issues. I hope to help you get from getting by to getting well, to get from mere coping to full on thriving.
I treat depression, anxiety, couple conflicts, motivation issues, and career issues. I hope to help you get from getting by to getting well, to get from mere coping to full on thriving.
(415) 991-6471 View (415) 991-6471

See more therapy options for South San Francisco

Psychodynamic Therapists

Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?

Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?

Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?

Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?

Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.