Psychotherapy can dramatically change the way we communicate with those around us and interact with the world as a whole.
We often get stuck in thoughts and behaviors that hinder our ability to live life in alignment with how we see ourselves. Effective therapy provides a warm, non-judgemental, and confidential environment in which to explore maladaptive patterns getting in the way of these goals. It is an investment in yourself, to get out of your own way and live the best life you can.
Jacques Russell,
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist No. 97144
Supervised by Kin Leung, LMFT No. 46119
Who I am and how I work
A Bay Area native, I received my undergraduate degree in psychology at UC Berkeley. I subsequently earned my Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at the Wright Institute, also in Berkeley. Initially training in a community mental health setting, I have extensive experience treating a wide range of emotional challenges, relationship, LGBTQ, and addiction issues. A former EMT, I am also practiced in first responder and trauma related difficulties.
I believe in evidence-based interventions and tailoring therapy to what the client needs in the moment. Sometimes we need behavioral techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to efficiently alleviate depression and/or anxiety. Sometimes exploring history and the narrative that got us to where we are is the right path. My integrative approach pulls from many orientations including mindfulness techniques, psychodynamic therapy, and examining past and present relationships. I bring humor, practicality, and transparency into the therapeutic environment.