Tina Fossella, MA, MFT

Mindful Psychotherapy & Joyful Creativity

 

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Certified Internal Family Systems Therapist

I earned my Masters Degree in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology at Naropa University where I trained in integrating mindfulness practices into psychotherapy. I continued to study and practice in the Buddhist tradition for over fifteen years and draw upon my experience of yoga and meditation in counseling individuals, couples, and groups. I believe the most healing force in the universe is pure unconditional love and from this quiet place all growth happens. I have found that when you accept yourself as you are and feel compassion for your situation, that change is a natural result. It comes from the self-love that inevitably creates a meaningful life and loving relationships. Having traversed the healing journey myself, I learned each step of the way that a successful treatment must include the somatic, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual aspects of a person. Thus I emphasize the healing power of unconditional presence and work holistically to help you feel safe in your body while addressing unresolved emotional issues.

 
 
 

Internal Family Systems Therapy

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative, evidence-based psychotherapy founded on the trust that each of us possess a core Self that is wise, compassionate, and whole. Once this Self is recognized and brought to the forefront of our identity it can help us live a more fulfilling, productive, and joyful life. This Self is capable of healing other parts of the personality that are the often cause difficulties in our relationships. Many of us who have suffered trauma and loss have parts that are burdened by these experiences, frozen in the past, obscuring our view of reality. Through a prescribed step by step method we can help these parts release the pain and outdated beliefs about who we are. It is truly a liberating process!

IFS also helps us develop “Self Leadership” which means learning to respond to life’s challenges from this innate source of wisdom, compassion and calm. This framework helps us be less reactive, more patient, and loving towards ourselves and each another. I have found that IFS can be used to help everyone, regardless of mental health diagnosis or not. Approaching life via Self Leadership, you will develop more self governance, more internal balance, and more harmony in your external world. Free yourself from the burdens of the past and feel more joy in the present moment!

 

individual psychotherapy

People come to see me for a variety of reasons including:

  • Trauma recovery and resolution

  • Stress and worry about the future

  • Depression and feeling dissatisfied with life

  • Grieving a loss or having difficulty letting go

  • Feeling stuck in the past and outdated habitual patterns

  • Loneliness and wanting better relationships

  • Life transitions, new partner, new job, identity changes

  • Asking questions such as, “Who am I?” and “Why am I here?”

  • Feeling blocked in creative or spiritual practices

Our work is focused on the present; keeping your therapeutic goals for the future in sight while engaging and addressing material from the past as necessary. I work individually with clients of all ages, particularly those in their mid-twenties to late-thirties who are questioning their identity and reflecting on the life choices they have made so far. Some of the benefits of counseling include the cultivation of greater self-awareness, developing better coping strategies, a greater capacity for intimacy in relationships, release from the past, less fear and anxiety, relief from depression, greater self-acceptance, improved health and happiness.

couples psychotherapy

Many couples use therapy to work with:

  • Relationship transitions (moving in, getting engaged, separating, etc.)

  • Improving communication

  • Deepening intimacy, connection and trust

  • Working through built up anger and resentment

  • Discussing difficult issues such as money and sex

  • Picking up the pieces after affairs and infidelities

Couples therapy is not just about having problems in your relationship. Many successful couples use couples therapy as a way of maintaining a healthy relationship. Couples find that therapy creates a safe space where they can regularly discuss what needs attention and communicate what is currently working or not working in their relationship. Being in a relationship can be challenging at times!

My couples work is interactive and supportive, geared toward efficient problem-solving and the working through of presenting issues through the cultivation of clear communication, greater empathy, and compassion. The work can help to alleviate pain that occurred in the relationship and increase greater sensitivity for how you impact and experience each other today

 

Get in touch

Free Yourself From the Past and Live Fully in the Present Moment.
Contact me today for a free initial consultation.

Fee is $200 for fifty minute session.

Office location:
126 Church Street
San Francisco, CA  94114

T: (415) 706-5907
E: tfossella@gmail.com