Therapists in San Mateo, CA

I specialize in serving GIFTED PROFESSIONAL AND CREATIVE ADULTS AND COUPLES. Being gifted is a minority experience, which is hard to own or talk about due to cultural (mis)attributions of elitism and arrogance, so many gifted people have not explored this aspect of their identity and how this may be related to difficulties in their life. You may feel out of step with the world or misunderstood, and not know why, or that you have to hide aspects of yourself. Or have trouble making friends, be told you’re "too intense", feel socially awkward, not understand why others seem to respond negatively to your ideas, or feel deeply disappointed with the world’s imperfections. IN MY OFFICE, YOU CAN BE UNRESERVEDLY YOURSELF. Talking frankly about being gifted can improve your self-esteem and offer relief from self-doubt, loneliness, anxiety, or depression, as you develop strategies to meet the majority culture more effectively. Before becoming a psychologist, I worked for 25 years in startups, nonprofits, academia, and F500 companies. I hold a Stanford MBA and Berkeley MSEE, and have special training in assisting gifted clients. I've also published research on the creative process.

I use a strength-based approach to foster genuine self-acceptance & to support clients in finding meaning. My philosophy centers around building & harnessing connections between the body, emotions, thoughts & behaviors to create healing & growth. This is an active, evidence-based approach that addresses the whole person. Treatment is uniquely individualized & with over a decade of clinical experience, I am competent in helping clients to not only heal but to make real gains. This can involve setting/tracking measurable goals for therapy to help guide our work and offer insight into obstacles along the way.

It's 3AM and you're wide awake – sleepless with that aching emptiness inside. Your heart is pounding and you can feel it in your throat. You're longing for someone to tell you what to do about your broken heart.All you can think about is the fact that your loved one is gone. Completely overwhelmed with sadness and fear, wandering from room to vacant room, you wonder when your heartache will ever end. It’s been impossible to focus. Friends sometimes say things that make no sense: “Just give it time.” “Keep busy, you'll get through this..." One friend, post your break up, said: "You'll meet someone better." What?!!? Your heart aches.

Are your seeking a more peaceful and harmonious life?  One that can hold both the challenges and the goodness?  Therapy can help. My style is warm, empathic, and collaborative.  I use evidence-based techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and brain science. I would like to help you tackle what is impeding you and open up new options so that you can make good decisions and create more happiness for you and your loved ones.

One of my specialties is mindfulness awareness for Men- that is, helping men who have historically struggled with a mind - body connection, find that connection for themselves. While I feel that everyone would benefit from this, I'm particularly passionate about helping men achieve this. There is a power in that connection. Through various techniques I teach you how to process and gain control over your thoughts and emotions - with the goal of processing trauma, reducing depression, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation. I have seen it work. I have seen the change in people and observed this physical phenomenon. There is hope for you

Are you deciding to try therapy for the first time, or considering a return to this work in a new phase of life? This leap, whether for you, or for your relationship, can be incredibly vulnerable. Healing + change require personal commitment, and trust in the therapist you choose to guide you through the process of re-patterning. The Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Integrative Coaching I provide is insightful, proactive, and inspirational. I will support you to more fully connect with yourself, and more deeply in your relationships. When you are grounded, and your relationships are solid, your work in the world will be meaningful.

I believe that we are all just people trying to do the best we can. Because each one of us is unique, I employ a non-judgmental approach utilizing treatment techniques that suit you and your situation. We will work together to identify the improvements you wish to make in your life, and the steps required to achieve it. I have a very empathetic and compassionate approach towards my clients, and I believe in meeting them where they are in this journey towards self-enlightenment.

I am sensitive to the hope and vulnerability of people seeking help. I know that reaching out to a mental health professional takes courage and trust. There also may be skepticism. From the very beginning, I respect patient needs and questions and provide answers.