Welcome to my practice. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist (License# PSY16844) who works with individuals, couples and families wanting to improve certain aspects of their lives. Whether you struggle with depression or anxiety, chronic or acute medical conditions, the effects of traumatic experiences, or difficulties in your imitimate relationships, I can help you facilitate the changes you wish to make in order to have a more fulfilling life. I work regularly with adults, couples, healthcare providers and the LGB community. I am a member of the California Psychological Association,the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress, the National Center For Crisis Management, and the Anxiety Disorders Association of America. Since the "right fit" is a very important part of the therapy experience, I would encourage you to contact me by phone so that we can determine if I might be the right therapist for you.



Services
Individual psychotherapy
Couple's therapy
Family therapy
Consultation services
Brief therapy or long-term therapy options available.
Areas of Expertise
My experience includes helping with the following issues:

Health issues (chronic pain, cancer, autoimmune conditions).
Trauma / PTSD (past and current) /sexual abuse.
Depression / mood fluctuation.
Anxiety / worry / nervousness.
Fear (of job loss, finances, health).
Ongoing work stress.
Couple's relationship issues.
Poor self-image / low self-esteem.
Feeling alone or misunderstood.
LGBT-related concerns.
Grief / Loss

Ways I Can Help:

RELATIONSHIP ISSUES:
Forming and maintaining a healthy relationship with an intimate partner can be a tremendous challenge. Learning how to listen, negotiate conflicts, build trust, experience intimacy and avoid the “pile-up effect” can often feel daunting to even the most committed couples.

In my practice, I work with couples who wish to:

1. improve communication skills
2. increase emotional intimacy
3. increase sexual intimacy
4. resolve conflicts in a healthy way
5. improve and/or rebuild issues of trust

TRAUMA
Experiencing a traumatic event, can have far-reaching effects in many areas of your life. Whether you have survived sexual and/or physical abuse, a terrible accident or the sudden and unexpected death of a loved one, discussing the event can be an important step toward healing.

In my practice, I help survivors of trauma to:

1. understand the emotional and physical symptoms which can be associated with trauma.
2. develop healthy coping strategies
3. address associated issues, such as shame, guilt, isolation, fear, or anxiety.
4. re-establish a feeling of safety.

HEALTH ISSUES
Dealing with a new or chronic medical condition can be extremely stressful. Whether it be cancer, A.L.S., chronic pain or a recurring mood disorder, your life can be impacted in many different ways. While the illness may affect you, it does not have to define you or stop you from having rich and fulfilling experiences.

In my practice, I help individuals and couples as they:

1. adjust to a new medical condition
2. adapt to physical changes and/or limitations
3. develop and/or strengthen coping strategies
4. reduce stress
5. let go of “what was” and accept “what is.”
6. re-evaluate priorities and set new goals

Office Information:

Unfortunately, I do not accept insurance at this time. I do offer a sliding scale for those with financial limitations who are unable to pay my standard fee.

Appointments are available Monday through Friday, and I am frequently able to schedule an appointment within 72 hours of your initial call.

I encourage you to contact me to discuss your specific situation and to determine if I am the right therapist to assist you.

For more information, visit my website at:

http://debramarks.weebly.com


Direct phone and confidential voicemail: 415-221-7833
Email: drdebramarks@att.net