Kim Strong
Licensed Clinical Social Worker #29475

Individual Adult Therapy
EMDR
Clinical Supervision

San Francisco Office
Virtual

• Trauma + PTSD

• Self-esteem

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Stress Management

• Navigating Life Transitions

• Figuring out Life Path / Young Adults

• Relationship Challenges

• Adult Children of Emotionally Challenging Parent(s)

• Grief and Bereavement

• BA in Psychology, University of Arizona

• Masters in Social Work, University of Southern California

• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Certification

• Gottman Couples Therapy- Level 1

Clients typically come to me with concerns about depression, anxiety, stress management, challenges in their personal and professional relationships, or unwanted behavioral patterns they are looking to change. Many of my clients have had negative and traumatic experiences that have affected their lives in ways that burden them with unwanted feelings, beliefs, behaviors and toxic relationships. My clients are often seeking an authentic and dynamic therapeutic relationship.

I take a whole human approach to my work with clients. I strive to create an environment in which clients can be their real and authentic selves. It’s important to me that clients feel safe and comfortable enough to be vulnerable and open to being supported in their healing. As complex and unique human beings, I believe that healing and growth can be discovered in many different forms. The work I do with clients is collaborative, evidence-based, and from a holistic lens. I use two different modalities of therapy when working with clients including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Both incorporate the client’s developmental history, as well as specific interventions for the issues they’re facing. I help clients to challenge old beliefs systems that are getting in the way of the kind of life they want to live. Additionally, I help clients learn new ways of thinking and reacting to themselves and the world around them. I want clients to feel like they know themselves better and can tune into their strengths and accept their challenges with compassion. I want them to learn how to be the best version of themselves when they’re alone and when they’re with others. My hope is that clients will look forward to their sessions and be motivated to do meaningful work together.

I studied psychology at the University of Arizona. I then went on to earn a Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I specialize in working with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, stress management, and conflicts in their interpersonal relationships. I’ve worked in various mental healthcare settings including outpatient, hospice inpatient units, inpatient psychiatric units, private practice, and community mental health. I’ve worked with clients ranging in ages 16-100 years old.

I feel so honored to be able to do this work! The human experience in spirit, mind, and body is fascinating to me. I’m humbled to hold space for people who are struggling, providing them hope within despair. I really enjoy being with clients when they discover new parts of themselves and then learn how to love, nurture, and evolve those parts. I feel honored to be just a small part of my clients’ lifelong journey of self discovery. My client’s inspire me every day with their strength, resilience, tenacity, and perseverance.

Being a desert transplant from southern Arizona, moving to the Bay Area was like when Dorothy opens the door to the wonderful world of OZ! I was so thrilled to be soaking in diversity, creativity, and the most beautiful parts of nature I had ever seen. I’ve been fortunate to have both enriching and challenging experiences in life that have led me to this profession and this place in the world. I spent time as a teenager and young adult traveling to different cities around the world to help others in need of better housing, education and other resources. The people I met and the diverse cultures I submerged myself in only enhanced my appreciation for the human experience. In my own human experience, some of my joy is derived from quality time with family and friends, the exploration of nature, the practice of yoga and hip hop dancing, urban hiking and seeking out the unique food and drink the SF Bay area has to offer.

“Kim is an excellent therapist and her use of EMDR for treatment of PTSD was absolutely amazing and highly effective. This is on top of Kim being a very warm and kind person. I would recommend her to anyone who is looking for a therapist or struggling with PTSD.”

“Kim is so skilled! I've worked with a number of therapists over the years and she's by far the best. I find her style and approach to be incredibly helpful and i'm grateful to get to work with her.”

“Kim is the best! She's the right blend of empathetic and tough and really pushes me to deal with things head on.”

“I love the straight forwardness and feedback.”

“I am very thankful to be working with Kim. She is a great listener and has had some really wonderful suggestions and ways of framing things. It has been helping me deal with my day to day immensely and giving me tools I can use long term.”

“Left my first session feeling full of joy and optimism. “

“I felt like I was able to converse with Kim in an open and honest dialogue. Looking forward to my next session.”

“I felt very comfortable because Kim seems very knowledgeable, caring and considerate. I am excited to go back! ”

“Kim is very open to going at a pace I feel comfortable with in understanding my history, while also thinking through different ways of supporting my goals going forward – rather than just those I came to the table with/expected up front. ”

“Kim is very patient and understanding. Even when I am not myself or have trouble keeping up with basic tasks, she still supports me without judgment.”

“Kim has always been kind and supportive. She helps put my thoughts and feelings into words. I always look forward to my sessions with her.”

“Kim is wonderful. I look forward to our sessions each week. She makes me feel comfortable, seen, and understood. She offers great perspective on issues I raise, and I feel like I can achieve my goals through our continued conversations.”