In-Person in San Francisco, CA 94131
In-Person in Austin, TX 78701
Online in California, Florida, Texas
After 25 years as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA, TX & FL. I know conflict is not the problem. Conflict is natural in close relationships. What matters most is HOW couples talk to each other when emotions run high. That’s why I created the research-based Happily Partnered Playbook — to help couples end negative cycles and grow closer.
Client Focus
Session Format: Couple, Family, Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Adult, Young Adult
Demographic Expertise: Asian, Black / African American, Buddhist, Hindu, Hispanic / Latino, Jewish, LGBTQ+, Women clients.
Languages: English
Treatment Approach
- Biopsychosocial Therapy Takes into account biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding mental health. It looks at the whole person, not just symptoms.
- Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) Builds skills in self-kindness and compassion toward others. It is especially helpful for people who struggle with shame or self-criticism.
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Focuses on strengthening emotional bonds in couples or families. It helps people identify negative cycles and create more secure connections.
- Family Systems Therapy Looks at problems within the context of the family as a whole. It aims to improve communication and balance in family relationships.
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy Based on decades of research, this method gives couples tools to improve communication, manage conflict, and strengthen intimacy.
- Imago Relationship Therapy Helps couples understand how childhood experiences influence adult relationships. It teaches communication techniques to deepen connection.
- Internal Family Systems (IFS) Helps clients heal by working with different ‘parts’ of themselves, like inner critics or wounded children. It fosters harmony within the self.
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) Combines mindfulness practices with CBT to prevent depression relapse. It helps people notice thoughts without judgment and respond more calmly.
- Multicultural Therapy Acknowledges the role of culture, race, and identity in mental health. It values diversity and adapts treatment to each person’s background.
- Narrative Therapy Encourages people to view problems as separate from themselves and reframe their life story. It helps build resilience and self-identity.
- Neuropsychology Examines how brain function affects thinking, memory, and behavior. It often involves assessment and rehabilitation strategies.
- Person-Centered Therapy (Rogerian) Emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity. It provides a safe space for self-discovery and growth.
- Relational Psychotherapy Emphasizes the healing power of the therapist-client relationship. It uses trust and safety as a foundation for change.
- Schema Therapy Identifies deep-rooted negative patterns formed in childhood. It combines CBT, attachment theory, and experiential methods for change.
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) Focuses on solutions and future goals rather than past problems. It is practical, short-term, and goal-driven.
Approach Description: Debbie specializes in helping couples move from reactive conflict to responsive connection—transforming moments of disconnection into opportunities for closeness and growth. Whether clients are dating, married, or navigating long-term partnerships, she guides them to understand each other’s emotions, repair quickly after conflict, and strengthen the bond that sustains love.
Fees & Insurance
Fees
- Average Session Fee $250
- Accepts Insurance
- Depending on your specific plan and benefits, coverage may be available through major insurers such as Aetna, Cigna/Evernorth, UnitedHealthcare/Optum, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Anthem, Humana, and others. However, not all couples therapy is considered medically necessary. The best first step is to book a free 15-minute consultation so we can briefly discuss what you’re looking for and whether using insurance may be an option.
Education & Credentials
Debbie Cherry LMFT
- Female
- License # 3077
- Licensed in FL
- Practicing Since 2004
Education: Graduate training at the University of Southern California (USC), with 20+ years of experience. Advanced training includes EFT, Gottman Method, Imago, IBCT, PACT, attachment-based therapy, neuroscience-informed relationship work, and infant/early childhood attachment.
Debbie Cherry Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available In-Person in San Francisco, CA 94131 and Austin, TX 78701
- Available Online for residents of California, Florida, Texas
Debbie Cherry, LMFT is an attachment-based couples therapist serving clients in Texas, including Austin, Dallas, Houston & coaching worldwide. She helps partners communicate better, resolve conflict, and rebuild connection using practical TOOLS. Her approach integrates EFT, the Gottman Method, PACT, and Imago Therapy... with weekend availability.