EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Being a therapist is a lifelong passion for me and is rooted in my dedication to supporting adults, children, families, and communities in building safety, resilience, and hope. My journey has taken me from my home county of Santa Cruz where I advocated and ran groups for youth living in situations including domestic violence to working in Oakland shelters for youth 13-21. I have worked in serving famillies with San Francisco Child and Family Services, where I partnered with families navigating reunification with their children while providing psychoeducation and crisis counseling during critical moments. I have focused my professional development around harm reduction and culturally focused treatment, aligning with my commitment to social justice and culturally responsive care.

We live in a stressful world which leaves many of us feeling unsettled by anxiety, guilt, worry, sadness, anger, and irritability. Although change can be difficult, it is possible. I deeply care about my clients' well-being and I am dedicated to the process of uncovering a more fulfilled life. Therapy can be a profound experience for those eager to engage.

Hello, my name is Abram Andersen. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked in the field for 12 years. I strongly believe healthy relationships are the foundation for a happy healthy life. Relationships really matter! Sometimes things like depression, anxiety, and trauma can get in the way of experiencing relationships to their fullest. I am a holistic therapist who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With the CBT approach, we say, “Thoughts create feelings and feelings create behaviors or actions. We can work together to help you better understand your thoughts, feelings, and why you might behave as you do.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges. I specialize in working with clients who speak only Cantonese or Mandarin, providing culturally sensitive care tailored to their unique needs. I partner with my clients to manage mood changes, strengthen relationships, and navigate major life transitions. In our work together, I aim to help you uncover your strengths, develop practical strategies, and gain the confidence to move forward. My ultimate goal is to support you in building a more balanced, meaningful, and fulfilling life.

Thank you for taking this step in your journey to be right here. I am a strengths-based, EMDR Trained LCSW with the decades long experience, tools, and expertise to launch you toward your unlimited life. With a whole lot of unconditional acceptance, a judgment free space, and a bit of humor, I am a provider who will hold your life story with awe and a strengths-based perspective every step of the way.

I empower clients to explore their feelings and experiences authentically. This supportive environment can foster increased self-awareness, self-acceptance, and a stronger sense of self, which are crucial in alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression and promoting personal growth. IFS model helps me to bring to my session the tools to help clients by reduce the internal conflict that often fuels anxiety and depression.

Welcome! Dr. Kristi Hottenstein offers a personalized, holistic approach to therapy and coaching. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hottenstein has dedicated her career to guiding individuals through life's challenges and transitions. As the practitioner and owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients, drawing on her extensive education and certifications. Dr. Hottenstein is a National Board Certified Counselor, licensed in Arizona, California, Michigan, New Jersey, and Texas. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a master's in counseling from the University of La Verne, and a bachelor's in sociology from Alma College. In addition to her counseling credentials, she is certified in negotiation and mediation and holds a supervisory certification, enabling her to provide supervision to Limited License Professional Counselors. At Compass Counseling & Coaching, Dr. Hottenstein is committed to helping her clients navigate both difficult times and new adventures. "I chose the name Compass Counseling & Coaching for my practice because, at times, everyone needs a compass to help guide them," she explains. "I have a very holistic approach to counseling because no two people are the same. I see each client as an individual requiring their own unique approach." Dr. Hottenstein uses a variety of counseling techniques to encourage self-awareness and the acceptance of personal responsibility. Her belief is that the more we understand ourselves, the better equipped we are to respond to life's challenges. Whether you are seeking support in personal growth, relationship issues, or coping skills, Dr. Hottenstein is here to provide the guidance and support you need on your journey.

I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and my approach is rooted in warmth, empathy, and respect for each client’s unique experience. I aim to create a supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment. I use an integrative approach, blending CBT, ACT, CPT, and Exposure Therapy. These evidence-based methods help address issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress, fostering resilience and personal growth.

I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor in California with a doctorate in rehabilitation counselor education from Michigan State University. I have taught at three community colleges and four universities in the US. My book, Transgender Youth, was published in 2016 and I also co-authored a book, Trauma-Informed Care in 2021. I currently operate an online private practice providing therapy for anxiety, depression, and trauma to individuals in the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. *If you would like a therapy session on a day and time that is not listed, send me a message to make an exception for you.

Ladybird Daniel is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with extensive experience supporting individuals and families navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. Her areas of expertise include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attachment difficulties, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), mood disorders, severe anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, self-harming behaviors, parent-child conflict, bereavement, adoption-related issues, and major life transitions. Ladybird earned her Master’s degree in Counseling from California State University, Sacramento in 2014. Since then, she has provided compassionate, evidence-based care in both individual and family settings, drawing upon an integrative therapeutic approach tailored to each client’s unique needs. Her therapeutic style emphasizes building a strong, trusting relationship founded on empathy, respect, and collaboration. Ladybird incorporates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Informed Care, and Client-Centered Therapy to help clients develop insight, emotional regulation, and practical coping skills. She believes therapy is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, where clients are encouraged to explore their strengths, confront challenges, and create meaningful change at their own pace. Committed to creating a safe and supportive space, Ladybird strives to help clients feel understood and validated, fostering resilience and hope throughout the healing process. She works closely with clients to establish personalized treatment goals and equips them with tools to navigate life’s complexities both in and outside of the therapy room. Originally from North Carolina, Ladybird enjoys returning home to visit and indulge in classic Southern cuisine. She is also passionate about outdoor activities such as backpacking, camping, and hiking, which provide her with a meaningful connection to nature and balance in her life. Outside of her clinical work, she volunteers as a foster parent for a local animal shelter and finds great joy in caring for animals in need.

My ideal client is someone who needs help reaching their highest potential and decrease emotional suffering. They should be ready and willing to begin receiving guidance on how to reach their peak. I believe in self-determination and that individuals can find solutions with the right support. I offer a person centered approach that relies on the client's self-determination. I am experienced working those with dual diagnosis, mood disorders, and anxiety compassionately to help them manage symptoms. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have more questions. I am always willing to answer questions to make sure my services are a good fit.

Hello, My name is Steven Nelson. I'm a licensed Marital and Family Therapist for 8 years. I always find it to be an honor to help others find their solutions and journey. There can always be a positive aspect to a struggle or an unfortunate situation. "If you seek, you will find solutions." At times we just need that support to help see it. In addition to my Psychological Therapy license, I hold specialties certifications in Drug and Alcohol addiction, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Sex Addiction, Trauma and Domestic Violence prevention.

Hi, possible client! You may be going through a stressful moment in your life. You may have had some complex trauma occur in your past. Or you may have a teen who is experiencing some mental health difficulties. Maybe you're looking for someone who may have more in common with you to help you through your challenges. Whether you are looking for a space to feel supported and discuss your trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship, life goals, or to simply feel seen, I may be the therapist for you.

Hello, I am a therapist who focuses on improving the lives of his clients. I will help empower them to enrich their lives. Together we can explore methods on helping the individual deal with everyday life stressors and also past trauma. I am someone who wants to see their clients excel and be able to manage life's difficulties. Hoping to help my clients see positive results in therapy.

I come to my practice with life experience and have lived in Europe and know the challenges of making life transitions. I use a laid back approach and focus on meeting the clients where they are to really understand the changes they wish to make. I firmly believe in the therapeutic allegiance and the client therapist working together for the optimum outcome.

Aloha! My name is Koalani, and I am a LMFT in California. I specialize in anxiety, stress management; life transitions. I have special knowledge in child development, and in maternal/paternal mental health, and will support postpartum challenges and experiences affecting clients and their partners during pregnancy and the postpartum period. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults in schools, hospitals, military installations, and in private practice.

I’m a holistic, trauma-informed therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate the challenges of mental health and substance use. Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck—exhausted by cycles of relapse, emotional pain, or instability. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can explore your story, uncover patterns, and develop tools for lasting change. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a deep respect for your unique experiences, empowering you to heal, connect, and create a life aligned with your values.

I am a psychotherapist and a theologian. I understand that people are imperfect, but there is always room for improvement. Oftentimes, when we expand our knowledge and skills in managing interpersonal relationships, we can experience more joy in life. As a therapist, I help clients overcome psychological issues preventing them from thriving in and maintaining healthy and meaningful relationships. Empowering individuals and couples and obtaining skills to help them live harmonious, confident, happier lives is satisfying.

I am an experienced therapist who has worked with people with many different issues and problems. I like what I do. I want to meet people where they are and provide a supportive, safe relationship where they can open up and talk about pressing issues and concerns. Together we can then find new approaches to cope with old problems. I have experience working with older adults in a variety of settings. I received my PhD in Psychology from a school which also which also included training in Christian Theology and Ministry. However I have worked with clients with a variety of spiritual or non spiritual backgrounds.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based out of California. I have been in practice for approximately 10 years now, helping families manage and overcome challenges that life brings. I have assisted adolescents with managing through challenging emotions. I have assisted young adults in managing through life transitions and developmental milestones. I have assisted many others in managing and overcoming traumas.

Hi, I'm Dr. Kisha Bashkiharatee. My background includes a Masters in Clinical and School counseling, and my PhD is in Family Studies. I have loved being a part of the mental health field since I took my first psychology class in high school, but since it was really hard to find counseling jobs in high school, I decided to continue my education. At each level, I have been able to learn more about myself and become more grounded in my field. Sometimes in life, it feels like we are heading to a destination, but we don’t have the whole road map. It can be scary, confusing, and lonely. I want to support individuals in finding the tools to help navigate, redirect, and reorient their lives, and I would be greatly honored to be a part of your journey.

Do you want a better day tomorrow than you had yesterday? Do you worry about things you have no control over? Do you ask, “Is this all there is to my life?” What happened to your dreams, your goals, your “someday I’ll be…I’ll do…, I’ll have…”? Hello, please call me Stephanie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 20 years in the helping profession. I love the Martial Arts for it’s discipline of the body, mind, and spirit. I believe everyone should learn some Self-Protection techniques for all aspects of life; Physical, Mental, Emotional, Spiritual, Financial etc. Wellbeing is my personal ambition. My two favorite words are Peace and Hope. I also have a faithful trust in God. I am not in charge.

Hi, my name is Michael (Mike) Chavez, LCSW, and I provide individual therapy to adults facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, active listening, and collaboration. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we’ll explore what’s not working in your life and develop practical tools and strategies to create positive, lasting change. Sometimes that means identifying and replacing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors with ones that better align with your values and goals. My goal is to help you feel more empowered, balanced, and resilient.

My name is J.P. De Oliveira Estevão, and I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (L.P.C.C.). I provide a supportive, collaborative space where clients can explore challenges, build insight, and work toward meaningful change. I use proven methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic approaches, and Adlerian ideas to customize treatment just for you. My goal is to help you understand yourself better, find ways to cope with challenges and build a happier life.

Hi, I’m Melat, and I’m passionate about helping people discover their strengths and create meaningful change in their lives. I know that starting therapy can feel overwhelming, so I work hard to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and supported. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and strength-based approaches to tailor our work to your unique needs. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, my goal is to help you find clarity, build confidence, and move toward the life you want

Hi, I am Greg, You are given a safe space to discuss what you may be going through. Are you struggling with anxiety, being authentic, feeling overwhelmed or having relationship issues? Are you in a transitional period in life? Together we can identify protective factors and strengths to build upon. We can use myth, personal narrative, mindfulness and somatic exercises to address mind, body and soul. You may be nervous seeking therapy, but you deserve a guide in your healing journey. Let’s work together to walk the path.

Hi! I'm Nancy Strong, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I received my masters degree from the University of Oklahoma and have been practicing for approximately 25 years. I help children, teens and adults. My clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their future. Lets be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to ADHD, PTSD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, anxiety, depression, anger and stress /self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life.

Thank you for sharing information about yourself. I'm so happy that you reached out for help. I am Robert Nwanganga, a licensed therapist. I have been a Social Worker since 2003. I also need to let you know that I am more interested in finding out why a certain behavior is occurring than I am in demonizing you for exhibiting the behavior. I have worked with a diverse populations and I have learned that therapy has to be personal if it is to be effective. I am committed to working with you in finding what modality works with your personality and focus on your strength in dealing with the situation that brought you to us.

Sometimes we all need a little extra support during tough times. Let me be that support for you. Therapy can be a very scary process for many people. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for you and to provide you with the tools and resources needed to get through your day to day struggles. I strive to facilitate a space where clients can process shame, guilt, isolation, self-forgiveness and hopelessness. I am passionate about what I do. When you are ready to begin your journey and start your healing process, I would love the opportunity to walk along with you.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I offer compassionate and professional therapeutic guidance to address problematic situations negatively impacting your overall functioning (in relationships, work, or general overall life). I have extensive experience working with adults and teens who are in crisis and need support. Focusing on brief therapy, I assist people in stabilizing their functioning and feeling better. I am also a practicing Christian and am here for you!

Hi, I'm Casandra, and I'm glad you are here! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with a master's degree from the University of Southern California. I decided to become a therapist because I love being able to help others. One of my favorite things is getting to know others and helping them to discover (or re-discover) who they are. Getting to help others realize their potential and overall improve their mental and emotional well-being is something I enjoy doing and consider it such a privilege.

I’m Herschel O’Brien, a clinical counselor with extensive experience in trauma-informed, client-centered care. I specialize in helping individuals navigate emotional challenges, build resilience, and reconnect with their strengths. My approach is grounded, compassionate, and collaborative, drawing from modalities like mindfulness, narrative therapy, and systems thinking. Whether you're facing trauma, mood instability, or life transitions, I offer a safe space where healing is possible and meaningful growth can take root. I believe in empowering clients to become the authors of their own lives, with clarity, confidence, and emotional insight.

Hi I'm Natalya Kuzmicheva, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my Masters from California State University of Los Angeles. I have been practicing for 14 years helping clients, young and mature, to balance their emotions, to explore obstacles and challenges, and to find a unique way to overcome them. I also have an experience of being trained and working with clients suffering with consequences of trauma.

Hi, my name is Ariane and I am a California-based LCSW. I earned my Masters at the University of Illinois but returned to my home-state to further my career. I've been licensed for over 3 years, but have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years. I provide a safe space for clients to work through their struggles without judgement and guiding clients toward their goals. I meet clients where they are at and work together while providing an outside perspective and psycho-education as needed.

Hi there, I'm Jonathan, a licensed marriage and family therapist. Congratulations on taking your first step toward wellness and recovery! I specialize in helping people with issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management, marital/pre-marital issues, and more. It is my personal and professional commitment to assist and support you in any way possible on this journey of change. I have been practicing therapy since 2005 and completed my Bachelor's degree at Appalchian State University in Boone NC (class of 2003). I completed my Master's in MFT Psychology at Phillips Graduate Institute of Psychology in Chatsworth, CA (class of 2005).

Hi, I am a Licenced Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working as a therapist for 10 years. My goal is to provide guidance, support, and feedback in a safe therapeutic space to ultimately help you heal and strengthen your resilience. I help my clients identify areas they would like to develop and learn new coping skills in order to enhance strengths and abilities which can help them achieve a greater degree of happiness and contentment in their lives.

Hi, my name is Lisa Perkins, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I specialize in helping people overcome and manage the challenges in their lives. I empower people to see and reach beyond their circumstances. Who you are, where you are and what you are experiencing today does not have to be your tomorrow. Can you imagine becoming who you are meant to be? I can, "Piece by Peace."

I am passionate about helping people deal with life challenges that cause them distress. My first goal is to help you identify what the problems are, how they impact relationships in your life, and what goals you want to work on to bring understanding, calm, peace, and joy back into your life. You are the expert in your life, and working together with me, I will challenge your thinking patterns to help you see alternative outcomes that align with the goals you are working toward.

Hello there, I'm Brian Mitchell. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a client-centered approach to therapy, focusing on trauma and PTSD. I tailor my approach to each client's unique needs and experiences. I am trained in several evidence-based therapies, including CBT, EMDR, and TF-CBT, as well as mindfulness techniques and stress reduction strategies. I work to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to work towards healing and learning coping skills. My attraction to a career as a therapist stemmed from a desire to help marginalized populations find their voice and advocate for their needs. What drives me to do this work is a deep passion for helping others find a better path forward in their lives.

With a faith-based perspective, I provide solution-focused & mindfulness-based cognitive therapy strategies to promote individual care for client growth. I communicate with compassion, directness, and an emphasis on problem solving strategies. My faith-based perspective informs my supportive and pragmatic approach to helping you develop greater coping skills towards personal growth and healing. Over the past 20+ years, I have partnered with Federal, County, and Private Agencies in meeting the needs of diverse clientele populations.

My name is Dave Doerken, a licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). I have worked extensively within the queer community, addressing issues ranging from childhood/adult trauma, substance use & recovery, shame/perfectionism, emotional regulation and coping strategies, to societal and internalized oppression. My approach is warm, relational, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I work from a trauma-informed, attachment-centered lens and believe in the resilience of the human spirit. My goal is to help you better understand your story, heal from past traumas, and reevaluate painful patterns that do not serve you in ways they might have in the past. I hope to support you build meaningful, connected relationships—with others and with yourself.

I am a licensed professional in California with extensive experience in the mental health industry. With 5 years of dedicated work and an additional 9 years of complementary experience, I have worked in various settings including the criminal justice system, high-acuity psychiatric units, applied behavioral analysis, geriatrics, substance abuse facilities, and PHP/IOP/RTC levels of care. Thank you for considering me as your therapist.

Are you down on yourself, beating yourself up with thoughts like "I'm not good enough, I'm a failure, I should work harder than I do or I'll never get what I want out of life?" Do you focus on your flaws rather than your strengths and maybe have even forgotten what your strengths are? I can help you identify, challenge and change those distorted, negative, self defeating ideas to give you a more realistic, compassionate and affirming sense of yourself. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I can help you focus on your strengths, many of which you may not have even been aware of, build your self esteem and begin to love yourself again. Having been a psychotherapist for 27 years, I start where you are, help you figure out what you want in your life and give the you the tools to get there so that you can have the joy and excitement you deserve. I look forward to assisting you on your journey.

Hi there, I'm Gut (Goot)! Thanks for looking at my profile, "the journey of 1000 miles begins with one step". I am a Veteran looking to assist others with their own "1000" mile journey. My approach I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to assist individuals on their perspective journeys. I utilize Solution Focused Brief Therapy primarily with couples. My focus I have found that my style and approach work well with individuals who prefer a straightforward, assertive approach. My communication style is assertive, direct, with a curious undertone to solicit perspective. My journey in mental healthcare I wanted to assist with preventing Veteran suicides. My goals for you My goal is not that of a pastor; I do not want you to keep coming back, but to take what we have learned and continue the journey.

Hello, I’m Cristina Osollo! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 12 years of experience. My primary focus is substance abuse, depression, trauma, anxiety, and relationship discord. I take an integrative approach to therapy, using evidence-based frameworks to provide concrete tools and strategies for symptom reduction and deeper exploration. I believe we all have what it takes to create the life we are meant to live. I invite you to take the step of finding out what is possible for you. Through a process of discovery, awareness, and a commitment to self-understanding, there is a hope of embodying your truest self. Bringing a delicate balance of effort, care, and experience, it would be my privilege to accompany you on this intimate and very often, deeply satisfying journey.

Hi! My name is Junise Dorestin and I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a children social service worker with Child Protective Services. I have been working in the field of mental health for over 10 years. I obtained my Masters of Art in Psychology emphasis Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University in 2008. I have experienced in working with incarcerated individuals, families, children and young adult. I use a broad range of treatment method to assist individuals and families in the process of reaching their goals. As a LMFT, I am passionate about helping others work through their struggles and built insight. I work those who are struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and stress. I have work with those with psychotic disorders and dual diagnoses.

Hello! My name is Mackenzie Maurer and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I've been working as a clinical therapist for the last 7 years. I graduated with my MSW from Cal State University, Los Angeles in 2017 and became licensed in 2021. I became a social worker because it aligned well with my belief in social justice and working as a therapist has only strengthened this belief. I am lucky to really love what I do and I feel honored to get to witness my clients' growth in the therapeutic process.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience supporting individuals navigating depression, anxiety, and life’s everyday challenges. I take a compassionate, client-centered approach and primarily use Mindfulness-Based Therapy to help you build awareness, reduce stress, and develop healthier coping skills. In our work together, you can expect a safe, supportive space where you’ll learn to manage difficult thoughts and emotions, stay grounded in the present moment, and reconnect with what matters most to you. Whether you're seeking relief from overwhelming feelings or looking to strengthen your emotional resilience, I'm here to walk alongside you on that journey.

I enjoy meeting new people. Each client I have is a new story. My objective is to listen and work collaboratively with you. Everybody gets challenged in this life. I would like to hear your needs and help you find your way through them. Life is short. If I can help you discover a happier life, that will be outstanding. I have a sense of humor. I thinks that's necessary in this life. Please feel free to call me Jen.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) based in Irvine, California, and I work with clients throughout the state via tele-health. I work with Adults and specialize in anxiety and stress disorders using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help my clients explore their triggers, emotions, develop coping skills, and achieve positive life changes.