Gloria Saltzman, Therapist 94115, Therapist San Francisco

Gloria Saltzman, MA, MFA

Profession(s):
Psychotherapy, Social Work, Social Work
License Status:
I'm a licensed professional.
Primary License:
Marriage and Family Therapist - 22460

My Approach to Helping

Various psychological theories exist that may be used to heal human suffering. The container that holds all of these theories is the relationship. When a compassionate relationship between a client and a therapist is formed, and when there is an experience of comfort, understanding and care, struggles with the self and with others can lessen and life can become less anxiety filled; relationships with others can evolve and become less worrisome. I spend many sessions getting to know each person who comes to see me. By learning about their life story and current life situation, I try to understand their struggles, as much as I can trying to look into their experience of life from the inside out. In an interactive and direct manner we unfold unhealthy patterns and together create new pathways that hopefully lead to an increase in well being.

More Info About My Practice

My commitment to an awareness of social and political influences on people's lives and psyches opens up an even wider sphere of understanding. These influences may impact identity and mental health in many realms including; sexuality, gender, spirituality and social status. By establishing a strong and comfortable relationship and approaching the work with compassion and respect, a safety develops which creates an atmosphere that allows for the exploration of difficult topics ultimately promoting change. I welcome a diverse clientele, men and women of all backgrounds and sexual orientations. Some of my areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, grief, couples and pre-marital counseling, life transitions relating to careers relationships, and relocations. Also, compulsive overeating and binge eating, chronic illness, and end of life support.

Why Going to Therapy Does Not Mean You are Weak or Flawed

Since human consciousness has existed, we have had the need to confide in each other. There have always been members of society that have been available to help people sort out thoughts and feelings that upset them; to talk through situations that are troubling and need to be sorted out. Whether a medicine man or woman, a shaman or a priest, a pastor,a rabbi or a teacher or therapist, every culture offers an open ear, a shoulder to lean on. Now, in our times, the field of psychology is a particular arena that studies human behavior with the goal of helping people to feel more whole and content in their lives. By seeking out therapy, it is evidence of strength of character, to be able to look at inside to better understand oneself and our relationship to others.

The Duration and Frequency of Therapy

Relationships do not form overnight. A truly connected relationship between two people takes it's own time to grow roots and thrive. There is no set time limit as to how long a therapeutic relationship will last. Each one us had a different story and we each have needs that differ from one another. Together the therapist and the client determine what the goals of therapy are. Together they work toward unraveling the ties around what ever struggles someone is focusing on. As the work progresses, the length of the therapeutic relationship reveals itself.

Services I Provide

Individual Therapy & Counseling
Marriage, Couples, or Relationship Counseling
Consultation
Clinical Supervision

Ages I Work With

Adults

Languages I Speak

English

Groups I Work With

I work with adult men and women from all walks of life.
My work is primarily long term and focuses on building a trusting relationship.
Many people who come to see me are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationships of all sorts,and career changes to name a few. Also, I see many folks who struggle with food and their relationship to their body and self-image. I have experience working with end of life issues, chronic illness, low self-esteem, and adult children from a variety of dysfunctional families.My experience also has been with people in recovery and individuals who cause themselves physical self-harm such as cutting.