In-Person in San Francisco, CA 94110
Online in California
My approach is eclectic, inclusive and multi-modal--reflecting the complexity and paradox within each of us. I specialize at the intersection of gender, sexual and relational diversity + ethnic diversity + neurodiversity. Respectful of clients' spiritual grounding and cultural identity. Geared towards achieving greater balance, peace of mind and effectiveness in life. As a creative writer, I am seasoned in working with fellow creatives to support their generativity and self-acceptance. Often, my work is with alt high achievers addressing everyday anxieties as well as broader existential issues. Prior sojourns in Dotcom era tech, journalism and the entertainment industry inform my real-world perspective. Well-traveled, bohemian, intellectual and transpersonal within the therapeutic milieu, I collaborate with clients in both practical and transcendent processes.
Client Focus
Session Format: Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Adult, Senior
Demographic Expertise: Asian, LGBTQ+, Pacific Islander, Women clients.
Treatment Approach
- Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) Helps people accept difficult thoughts and feelings instead of fighting them, while committing to actions that reflect their values. It blends mindfulness with practical behavior strategies.
- Biopsychosocial Therapy Takes into account biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding mental health. It looks at the whole person, not just symptoms.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) One of the most widely used approaches, CBT helps people identify unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier patterns. It is effective for anxiety, depression, and many other concerns.
- 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.
- Contemplative Psychotherapy Combines mindfulness and meditation practices with modern psychology. It encourages awareness and compassion as part of the healing process.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Combines CBT with mindfulness to help regulate emotions, tolerate stress, and build stronger relationships. Originally designed for borderline personality disorder, it’s now used more broadly.
- Eclectic Therapy Draws from different therapeutic methods based on what fits each client best. It is flexible and personalized rather than following one single model.
- Existential / Humanistic Therapy Encourages people to explore meaning, freedom, and authenticity in their lives. It focuses on personal growth and living in alignment with one’s values.
- Experiential Therapy Involves hands-on activities to bring emotions into the present moment. It helps clients process feelings more deeply than through conversation alone.
- Feminist Therapy Addresses how gender roles, power, and social inequality affect mental health. It empowers clients to challenge limiting beliefs and systems.
- Hypnotherapy Uses guided relaxation and focus to access the subconscious mind. It is often used for habits, anxiety, and pain management.
- Integrative Therapy Combines techniques from multiple approaches into a customized plan. It adapts to each client’s unique situation and needs.
- 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.
- Psychoeducational Therapy Provides education and coping tools about mental health conditions. It empowers clients with knowledge and practical skills.
- Psychosocial Therapy Looks at how social and environmental factors affect psychological health. It emphasizes relationships, community, and resilience.
- Relational Psychotherapy Emphasizes the healing power of the therapist-client relationship. It uses trust and safety as a foundation for change.
- Social Constructionist Therapy Looks at how social and cultural context shapes identity and problems. It helps clients create new narratives of meaning.
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) Focuses on solutions and future goals rather than past problems. It is practical, short-term, and goal-driven.
- Somatic Therapy Helps clients notice how emotions are stored in the body. It uses breath, movement, and awareness for healing trauma and stress.
- Transpersonal Therapy Integrates spirituality and higher states of consciousness with psychology. It encourages growth beyond the individual self.
Approach Description: I endeavor to hold space to foster insight, healing and consciousness expansion. Typically, clients begin to see some progress within the first few sessions. I strive to strike a balance between measurable outcomes and evidence-based interventions as well as visionary and more freeform explorations.
Education & Credentials
Josie Valderrama PsyD
- Female, Gender Fluid
- License # PSY27913
- Licensed in CA
- Practicing Since 2015
Education: I have a doctorate and masters in clinical psychology from Alliant International University, California School of Professional Psychology. I also hold a bachelor's in history from Occidental College.
Finances
Fees
- Average Session Fee 200
- Accepts Insurance
- Paneled with 9+ insurers via Headway -- see my profile there to verify your coverage
Josie Valderrama Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available In-Person in San Francisco, CA 94110
- Available Online for residents of California
- Online Therapy Details: Zoom
My practice is a diverse blend of approaches which embodies both the cerebral and felt-sense intuition. As a 30-year resident of San Francisco, I am particularly attuned to the needs of Bay Area clients as they face challenges endemic to our locality. I work with folks in tech, medicine, mental health, academia, the creative arts, entertainment and more.