In Person Therapists in Yountville, CA

I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in the field of community mental health for 20 years. In that time, and through my work with a variety of individuals and families, I have come to believe that therapy is most effective when it is engaging, collaborative and client centered.

Thank you for your interest. I specialize in individual therapy, as well as offer collaborative sessions with partners and family members. I have over 20 years of clinical experience supporting individuals and families in both hospital and intensive outpatient settings. I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, relationship problems, issues with self esteem, and distress precipitated by loss, abuse or traumatic events. I have specialized training working with families dynamics, and trauma and abuse issues, and extensive experience providing education and helping individuals develop effective coping skills to manage emotional distress, and symptoms of depression, anxiety and PTSD.

I enjoy working with teens, young adults, families, and anyone looking to gain new understanding in their lives. Although taking the first step in getting support can be difficult, it opens up the opportunity for change and empowerment. I like to help each individual identify their strengths and develop a better understanding of how they relate to others.

I work with a variety of issues including relationship issues (including couples therapy), depression, anxiety, parenting, and life stress including grief issues. I use a variety of approaches based on the needs of the client(s). I love my work as a therapist and am honored to work with clients and be part of the change that can happen.

Welcome. If you are feeling lost, struggling, overwhelmed or currently facing a painfully difficult time, I can help. Experiencing emotional pain and struggling with life issues are part of the process of living. Yet, when we find ourselves stuck in patterns, situations, or relationships that continue to be painful, we ask “Why can’t things be better?” or “What is wrong with me?” and eventually “Can I ever feel happy?” Often these are the issues that propel us to seek therapy. Emotional pain can show up as anger, fear, grief, confusion, anxiety, exhaustion, procrastination, etc. I believe, for change to occur, safety, empathy and respect are essential. I have come to experience an increasing sense of sacredness about our work together. It often takes courage to walk through the therapist’s door for the first time. As healing begins, I am reminded of the resiliency and courage of the human spirit.

My entire therapeutic approach is based around your needs, your experiences, and your strengths. I won't assume I understand your situation. Instead, I will listen and get to know your unique experience. I won't dictate answers or determine your path. But I will be honest with you about what I see, and I'm not afraid to tell you when something isn't working. While I take pride in my education and experience, I am most proud of my ability to engage my clients, help them to feel comfortable, and earn their trust.

Dr. Marrapese specializes in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), an evidenced based approach to treating a variety of clinical problems, including trauma, adverse life experiences, anxiety, depression and pain. EMDR targets past/current issues, and helps clients to face the future more adaptively. Dr. Marrapese also provides a range of psychological assessments, including criminal risk assessments and pre-employment evaluations. Dr. Marrapese is a POST certified provider, and has over 15 years experience working with law enforcement professionals.

When life and relationships get(or have been for a long time) tough. When anxiety gets in the way of enjoyment, fulfillment and productivity. When it is just harder than it used to be to get anything done. When you feel stuck or see a transition ahead, but feel unsure how to move forward. When you feel alone or lonely and need support to build a better lifestyle that fits your hopes. When self-esteem gets in your way or you find yourself depending on external things(i.e. people, substances, behaviors) to bring joy. ---An unbiased place to work through things like this is an important part of a change that is best for you.

My role as a professional counselor is to help clients navigate life's challenges. This may include dealing with abuses from the past, coping with a difficult medical diagnosis, or facing challenging life transitions such as moving into adulthood, children leaving "the nest", or death of a loved one. I have a special interest in helping support caregivers, grief and loss, and supporting clients dealing with cancer. I also enjoy working with clients from the military community, active duty, veterans and spouses.

I work with bright, thoughtful people with complicated lives. Many are the adult children of difficult parents, people-pleasers, over-thinkers, highly sensitive, or therapists themselves. Their challenges include life transitions, relationship problems, and questions about who they are and what they want. I trust each client's sense of what is most important to discuss, and I use client feedback and responses to learn what specific approach best suits the client's needs. My general way of working is conversational, warm, and collaborative, and I see my clients as the true experts on their experiences.

I am passionate about helping people, especially men and adolescents, navigate the storms of life and repairing the damage done by those in the past. Our human experience can be brutal, but you do not need to carry your pain alone! My approach is to build a strong and trusting relationship that will allow us to identify and overcome what is holding you back - as a team. In our work together, we will explore and discover what lies at the core of the challenges you are facing. I will help you to learn and practice the skills that should serve you well, now and for years to come.