Carrie Likeness

Seeking support takes courage, and I want to acknowledge that. Whether you’re navigating uncertainty, daily pressures, or exploring your identity or relationships, I strive to provide a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space where your experiences are honored and met with curiosity and compassion.

Many people begin therapy because life has left them feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck—whether through prolonged stress, trauma, grief, anxiety, or major life transitions. Together, we’ll work to resolve long-standing patterns, untangle internal conflicts, build practical coping skills, and reconnect you with a sense of clarity, meaning, vitality, and resilience.

I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and life transitions, with a particular focus on operational and academic stress. Before becoming a therapist, I spent 14 years in Human Resources supporting SF Bay Area technology companies and a law school, giving me firsthand insight into workplace dynamics, leadership challenges, and academic pressures.

I work with people navigating life’s challenges and transitions, including those balancing significant responsibilities at home, at work, in academic settings, or in service to others. This includes first responders and professionals in healthcare, mental health, education, public safety, and the justice system.

I support LGBTQ+ individuals, people exploring gender, sexuality, or identity, and individuals from diverse relationship structures, including polyamorous and other consensually non-monogamous relationships. I also welcome creative professionals, college and graduate students, and older adolescents (16+) preparing for graduation, college, career paths, and other important life transitions.

Clients often describe me as grounded, collaborative, compassionate, and direct when needed. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship where people feel respected, understood, and accepted as they are. My perspective is shaped by both professional experience and lived experience, giving me a deep appreciation for the complexities of service, caregiving, disability, trauma, and resilience. Authenticity is central to my work, and I believe meaningful change grows through curiosity, connection, and a therapeutic relationship that honors each person’s unique experiences, strengths, and capacity for growth.

I am extensively trained in EMDR and integrate evidence-based therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, Compassion-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS)-informed interventions, and existential perspectives when appropriate. Rather than relying on a single approach, I tailor therapy to your goals, strengths, and unique circumstances.

I do not provide court-ordered therapy or services related to custody, forensic evaluation, mediation, or other legal proceedings.

Our work begins with collaboration. During our first session, we’ll review your concerns, explore your history and current strengths, identify treatment goals, and develop a plan tailored to your needs. Therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and we’ll regularly adjust our approach based on your progress and feedback.