David Watson

I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and have witnessed firsthand how impactful and transformative it can be. My clinical approach is person-centered and collaborative, with a keen interest in how the unconscious influences our behavior. Helping clients understand themselves better is an important aspect of my work.

I have a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University and a Bachelors in Communication from the University of Georgia. I am a licensed and registered Psychotherapist here in California, LMFT #150660.

I have a dedicated daily meditation practice and also love to participate in silent retreats as often as possible. My contemplative practice informs my work as a clinician by helping me stay grounded, attuned, and present for whatever may arise in session.

I am also a certified mindfulness educator through Mindful Schools and have taught mindfulness to a wide variety of folks. From working with youth in juvenile hall to instructing high school faculty members (teaching the teachers) to facilitating groups in a wellness center for our aging population, I have helped people from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds learn and embrace the benefits of living their life more mindfully.

Creating a safe environment and atmosphere where you can feel comfortable and at ease is an important first step in our process. Deeply listening so that you feel seen, heard, understood, and respected is foundational in our time together, as well as working collaboratively to help you identify and overcome obstacles to inner calm, peace, and happiness.

My theoretical approach is integrative and customized to address each individual client’s life circumstances, needs, and wishes. Client-centered and collaborative, our work together can embrace advanced evidenced-based treatments, as well as explore how the unconscious influences our behavior, with the most important detail being that it all works for you.

Finding meaning in our lives, healing, and becoming whole again, as well as thriving (not just surviving) in daily life, are examples of potential goals for our time together. Within that framework, we will customize our work to meet and embrace your unique personality and needs.

When someone offers the unique gift of truly listening, our joy is enhanced and our pain is reduced. A compassionate listener can join you in the celebration of the joyful in your life, but more importantly, that same empathic listener can help unburden you by attuning to your internal life and helping to carry the weighty load of your struggle and pain.