Catherine Nafissi, MFT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
"The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind"
William James
About Me
Catherine has been a psychotherapist in a private practice setting for over 20 years, focusing on anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, mood disorders, building self-esteem and confidence. Catherine uses an eclectic therapeutic approach.
Prior to that, Catherine was a licensed clinician at Uplift Family Services, assisting children and adolescents placed in kinship and Foster Care. While at Uplift Family Services, she worked closely with parents and foster parents, helping them to access needed community resources, and facilitating wraparound services for the children and their families. She has assisted numerous families in creating support networks, enabling youth to live successfully in their natural community environment.
Catherine received her M.A. in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. She is currently a member of California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and speaks fluent Farsi.
A Bit About Therapy
I implement effective psychotherapy methods to instill self-understanding among patients and encourage them to adopt new attitudes and feelings towards life situations. It is essential to keep in mind that therapy is not a magic pill or a quick fix: therapy is a healing process that necessitates participation and investment from the patient and caretaker alike. But in the end, making small changes to self-defeating behavior and coping with feelings of sadness, fear, and pain can bring life-altering results.
Services
Individual Therapy
Children 3-18 years old
I have been working extensively with children using a strength-based approach. I am experienced in the areas of depression, social anxiety, self-esteem issues, academic stressors, and behavioral issues. I work one-on-one with children in a safe, confidential and caring environment. I utilize CBT techniques for skill building and play therapy techniques with children. I also offer parenting support and training.
Adults
My approach to psychotherapy is very similar to therapeutic coaching where I am direct and solution-focused. I work collaboratively with my clients and help them address their issues. I have experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, confidence issues, work stressors and relationship issues.
Your well-being is my ultimate concern. Since 2000, I have provided patients in the San Francisco Bay area a wide range of psychotherapy and counseling services to suit their needs. Whether you’re an individual or a family looking for help - my therapy sessions are designed to strengthen your confidence, and assist you in the healing process.