Amy Wertheimer, Ph.D.

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stuck? Just going through the motions without much joy? Have you been trying to help yourself, but only finding superficial relief? Are you ready to delve into what’s really bothering you? To name it clearly, understand why it’s happening, and work toward lasting change? In an open and collaborative way, we can explore what brings you to therapy - mood swings, worries, behavior patterns, relationship issues, job demands. I want you to feel genuinely seen and heard. I will ask many questions, particularly about your past, because it provides valuable context for understanding how you think, feel, and act in the present. Uncomfortable feelings will inevitably arise, and we will practice holding them with honesty & compassion so that you can know & accept your full self. With a balance of empathy, candor, and wit, I will challenge you to confront obstacles to change and to acknowledge certain realities. The process probably won’t be easy or quick, but you are worthy of the effort and time. ~~~~~ AREAS OF FOCUS Anxiety & Worry Body Image, Food, & Exercise Concerns Depression & Mood Fluctuations Family Conflict Grief & Loss Infertility & Miscarriage Interpersonal Difficulties LGBTQ+ Concerns Life Transitions OCD Panic Attacks Perfectionism & Procrastination Pregnancy & Postpartum Stress Substance Use ~~~~~ THERAPY APPROACH My approach to therapy integrates theoretical and strategic elements from the following: Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Attachment Theory Internal Family Systems (IFS) Mindfulness Relational Psychotherapy Existentialism Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Harm Reduction ~~~~~ EDUCATION & TRAINING B.A. Psychology Stanford University, 1999 Ph.D. Counseling Psychology University of Southern California, 2006 Pre-doctoral Internship UCLA Counseling & Psychological Services, 2005-2006 Post-doctoral Fellowship UC Berkeley Counseling & Psychological Services, 2006 - 2007 Practicum & Dissertation Research Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center, 2004 - 2006 CA Psychologist License: #21720, 2007 ~~~~~ I provide individual psychotherapy to adults over the age of 18. I am currently seeing all patients virtually, and can do so with anyone residing in California. I may be resuming in-person sessions in San Francisco later this year. I am not in-network with any insurance panels, but I can provide you with a Superbill to submit for potential out-of-network coverage. I also provide professional consultation to other licensed psychotherapists.