Individuals

I believe each person has the capacity to live a meaningful and fulfilling life, and that we each carry an internal blueprint for what that might look like in our own unique way. Trauma, loss, difficult life transitions, inequity, oppression, health challenges, and distressing social and environmental events can sometimes make that path feel difficult—or even impossible—to find. Over time, the effects of these experiences can begin to feel like personal failings, creating self-doubt and shame that can leave us feeling stuck.

In the beginning of therapy, we’ll spend time getting to know one another and developing a plan that reflects what you hope to gain from our work together. You don’t need to arrive knowing exactly what you need or even what your goals are. Part of my role is to help you explore what isn’t working, identify what you would like to change, and develop a clearer sense of where you want to go.

As our work develops, I use a flexible, individualized approach to identify tools and practices that fit your needs, history, and circumstances. My approach is collaborative, meaning that decisions about your therapy are made with you, not for you. I am psychodynamically trained and integrate somatic and mindfulness practices, CBT, and relational approaches. Many of my clients appreciate having exercises or practices to work with between sessions. These can be helpful for maintaining focus and building momentum, but they are always optional.

Above all, I strive to create a warm, supportive, and stigma-free environment where you can bring your whole self. Therapy can be a place to explore your relationships with yourself and others, sexuality and identity, patterns that may no longer serve you, and the internal or external challenges you are navigating. Together, we can approach these experiences with curiosity and compassion while building on the strengths and wisdom you already possess.

 Contact Me If
*you are curious about whether my services might be right for you or
*you would like to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Heidi F. Yoder, MFT
415-378-7506
hfymft@gmail.com