Couples therapists in California

I’m Rachel Benjamin, and I help individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges to build more authentic, connected, and empowered lives. Together, we’ll identify the patterns and barriers that have been holding you back and work toward lasting change around your strengths and values. If you are thinking about starting therapy, or returning after some time away, but feeling unsure, you’re not alone. Taking that first step can bring up a mix of emotions. If you’re wondering whether now is the right time, it likely means you’re ready to begin exploring meaningful change.

Welcome. I’m Erika and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Francisco. My deep interest in understanding others and my belief in the transformational power of therapy is what drew me into this work. I received my Masters in Counseling Psychology from The University of San Francisco and my passion for serving marginalized populations led me into community mental health. I worked in various positions as a substance use counselor, therapist, clinical supervisor, and clinical director. I also have experience within a private practice setting. In my free time, I enjoy fostering my relationships with family, friends, and community, working with my hands making stained glass and gardening, going outdoors—especially the ocean, and running.

Being a therapist and helping people overcome feelings of isolation and conflict is one of my life's greatest joys. I specialize in helping individuals, families, and couples work through depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship issues. I also provide critical assistance through domestic violence and rape counselling. It is important to me to help patients along on their journey through professional, evidence based counselling.

Hello and welcome! There is so much I want to share with you!

I acknowledge that finding a therapist can sometimes feel overwhelming because you want to find a good fit, someone who “gets” you, so I thank you for being here.

I identify as a Latinx, cis gender woman, feminist, BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ ally, and spiritual. I am the granddaughter of immigrants from Mexico and the daughter of working class parents. Before coming to Marriage and Family Therapy, I earned a Master’s degree in Women’s Studies, and wrote my thesis on the jurisprudence of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. I am aware of the dominant societal structures, narratives, expectations and pressures that can impact your story and how you live it. I look forward to being alongside you as you write a preferred story – one that is fully authored by you.

Prior to focusing on Marriage and Family Therapy, I worked for close to nineteen years in higher education leadership, advising and mentoring college students at a public university in Southern California. The relationships I fostered with students and the stories they shared with me inspired me to move into Marriage and Family Therapy. Like my work with the students, my therapy work is filled with compassion, empathy and understanding. And while there may sometimes be difficult conversations and tears in our work, I also invite in laughter, lightness and joy.

I am currently scheduling online and in-person appointments. I am available Mondays- Thursdays, and Saturdays.

My experience is centered on collaborating with youth, adults, and families. During these developing years and shifting dynamics, additional care for our health is needed. I work with emotional regulation, relational rifts, enhancing communication, and acceptance of self.

With attachment focused therapy as my base, I utilize mindfulness and experiential approaches in our work together. Our conversations and therapeutic activities are guided by your experience and goals.