Hi there, thanks for stopping by to explore my bio. My name is Marla. I’m a licensed psychotherapist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. I specialize in depth therapy, integrating the modalities of psychodynamic psychotherapy, somatic therapy, and psychedelic psychotherapy to offer you customized experience of healing and transformation informed by your own strengths and inclinations.
As an only child with a vivid imagination and rich inner life, I was constantly asking “Why?” My search for meaning has led me along a winding path from philosophy to art to psychology.
I was called to the work of psychotherapy during my own journey of recovery, self-discovery, and transformation. Motivated by a desire to understand how the mind works, I arrive without preconceptions, curious to know more about the unique landscape of your own inner world.
My practice is grounded in empathy, insight and authenticity. I hold a profound respect for the complexity of the human experience and the mysteries of psyche. Whether you are navigating trauma, seeking clarity, or desiring personal growth, I bring an open heart and an open mind to help guide you through your process.
Colleagues often describe me as high minded, precise, and deep, with a beautiful presence that fosters trust and connection. I’m known for my ability to track and resource clients, providing the scaffolding needed for you to feel supported and safe as you move through your therapeutic process
My academic background reflects the integrative and creative approach I bring to therapy.
Each of these educational milestones has informed my ability to approach psychotherapy with both analytical depth and creative insight so I can explore the complexities of your inner world with both precision and intuition.
I am a lifelong learner and have benefited from intensive workshops with thought leaders in the fields of trauma and relationships including Bessel van der Kolk and Esther Perel. I have also obtained certifications in Jungian-Oriented Psychotherapy at the CG Jung Institute and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy through the Hakomi Institute. These experiences have enabled me to cultivate a therapeutic space grounded in contemporary research, expertise and best practices for psychotherapy so you can feel safe to freely explore your inner world.
I have over a decade of clinical experience supporting individuals, couples and families in private practice and at leading treatment centers in the San Francisco Bay Area, including Alta Mira Recovery Programs, New Perspectives Center for Counseling, Haight Ashbury Psychological Services, Ohlhoff Recovery Programs, and others focused on trauma, addiction recovery, and mental health treatment. Working extensively with substance use disorders and addiction recovery early in my career, I developed an understanding of the interplay between trauma and self-destructive patterns of compulsive behavior. These experiences shaped my understanding of the complexity of recovery and transformation, allowing me to support clients in finding freedom and deeper connection in their lives.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy, an insight oriented approach that supports greater self-awareness and understanding of unconscious patterns, is at the heart of my work. A safe and reflective space for understanding your inner world, this approach explores the connections between your present experiences and past dynamics, offering clarity into recurring patterns. Integrating past experiences with present awareness, facilitates long-term change and greater emotional freedom. This approach is particularly powerful for those seeking to create fulfilling relationships and meaningful personal growth.
I frequently integrate elements of mindful somatic psychotherapy into my practice, focusing on the connection between your mind and body as a resource for healing trauma and self-regulation. By tuning into sensations, movements, and emotions that arise in the body, we can access direct pathways to healing. This approach is especially supportive for addressing trauma, as it helps you reconnect with your physical body in a safe and empowering way. Offering tools for stress management and self-regulation, somatic therapy helps you feel grounded, balanced and whole in your everyday life.
For long term clients interested in exploring expanded states of consciousness, I offer a safe, structured framework for legal psychedelic assisted psychotherapy in collaboration with a prescribing physician. Providing ethical, trauma-informed care requires nuance and caution. I approach the work with a deep respect for the potential of consciousness expanding medicine to catalyze lasting transformation in a healing environment. Whether you’re addressing symptoms of PTSD, depression, or addiction, I will provide the emotional scaffolding you need to process your experience, integrate insights, and embody new ways of being in your life.
My practice offers a safe and welcoming space for individuals from all walks of life. Whether you are navigating trauma, repairing your relationships, seeking empathic support, or exploring the depths of your inner world, you are welcome here with me. I offer therapy in person at my Tiburon office or online for clients throughout California. It is my privilege to support you on your path. Contact me today to schedule a consultation and begin your path toward clarity, healing, and deeper connection.
If my story resonates with you, reach out for a free consultation — I’d love to hear from you.
