Audrey Martin

Change - real change - is one of the most difficult things we can undertake as humans. Whether in one's work, one's relationships, or within one's self - behaviorally, emotionally, intellectually, or physically - there are many forces, both internal and external, that can make lasting substantive changes to one's life incredibly difficult to achieve.

Understanding those forces is what happens in psychotherapy. Through talking and listening we hope to understand together what is known, but also what has been difficult to know. In conversation, recalled and shared experiences, and moments of discovery, the unconscious components that have had an influence can be brought into awareness. This awareness brings opportunity to the situation - not just to understand, but to work through the conflict and bring fuller agency to one's wishes. In addition, this can allow for one to emerge with greater confidence, a deeper sense of knowing one's self, and an increased feeling of freedom.

For most people, some aspects of both fear and hope are present as they work to share honestly, tolerate their vulnerability, and create space to both think and feel. In this process, each person’s relationship with the therapist is important, and can lead to greater insight about internal experiences, as well as offering new ways of relating to one's self and others.

As a therapist, I have an active, open way of working. I am curious, engaged, honest, and direct. I take people’s need for change very seriously, and I am an advocate for finding ways to help people live with greater depth, satisfaction, and choice. While this can involve diligence, resilience, and perseverance, I find that play and creativity are also integral in helping people make fundamental changes.

I am an experienced psychotherapist with offices in both San Francisco and Berkeley. I provide therapy for adults and adolescents as my primary focus. I meet with individuals, couples, and families to help them overcome areas of emotional and relational difficulties.

EXPERIENCE
I have been an active participant in the Bay Area mental health community for almost 20 years, and in private practice since 2001.