Compassionate Therapists in San Ramon, CA
In-Person Therapy For Anxiety, Depression, Stress, and Life Transitions
Serving the communities of San Ramon, Alamo, Danville, Dublin, Pleasanton
Online Therapy Services in CA and NV
CHILDREN | TEENS | ADULTS | FAMILIES
Ready to talk? Call or Text (925)212-8014
Is Therapy The Next Best Step For You?
If you're here, you've likely been reflecting on your life and recognized the need for additional support. You are seeking answers because something doesn't quite feel "right."
If this resonates with you, know that you are not alone. Taking the first step towards therapy shows courage and commitment to your well-being. You are willing to explore your thoughts and feelings, develop self-awareness, and make the changes necessary to live a more fulfilling life.
Let's explore together how individual therapy can support you in overcoming obstacles, improving relationships, and achieving a greater sense of well-being.
Therapy Specialties in San Ramon for Individuals, Children, and Families
From anxiety and depression to relationship challenges, we provide compassionate support tailored to your unique needs.
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Our Therapy Practice in San Ramon, CA
We are a small, intentional, purpose-driven, and evidence-based therapy practice in San Ramon, CA — providing in-person therapy for the Alamo, Danville, Dublin, Pleasanton, & San Ramon areas. We work with children, teens, and adults - focusing on coping with a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and ongoing stress. Our licensed therapists will help you learn how to adapt, survive, and thrive no matter what comes your way. We firmly believe that creating a solid and trusting connection with you, our client is the foundation for an effective and productive experience in therapy.
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Our Approach to Therapy
Therapy at Ritenour Counseling in San Ramon, CA, is intentional, purpose-driven, and empowering. We honor and respect your boundaries and desire for what you want to get out of therapy. We use a variety of theoretical approaches in our work but rely primarily on cognitive-behavioral therapy, object relations, and family systems to structure therapy sessions.
Through the years, we have found that the best work is achieved when the trust we have built together in therapy is strong. This allows your mental health care to evolve as you do.
Hi, I'm Michelle.
Welcome to Ritenour Counseling in San Ramon, CA.
Deciding to start therapy takes real courage — and the fact that you're here, reading this, already says something important about you. I don't take that lightly.
I'm a licensed therapist, a certified anxiety treatment professional, and a former educator trained at UC Berkeley. That combination shapes everything about how I work. My years in education taught me that growth doesn't happen by accident — it happens through structure, intention, and the right support at the right time. I bring that same philosophy into the therapy room.
What that looks like in practice: you'll always know what we're working toward. We'll build a plan together, move at a pace that stretches you without overwhelming you, and track your progress in real time. Therapy with me isn't open-ended meandering — it's purposeful, organized, and designed around you.
I'm proud to work alongside a team of therapists at Ritenour Counseling who share this approach — compassionate professionals who believe that good therapy should feel both supportive and effective. Together, we've built a space where you can explore what's hard, discover what's already strong, and build something lasting.
We're evidence-based, continually learning, and genuinely invested in your growth.
Whatever brought you here — you're in the right place. We're ready when you are.
Find A Therapist in San Ramon
As you find the right therapist, you may have questions about the therapy process. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to get your questions answered and learn more about how we can work together.
Resources for Stronger Couples
Explore expert tips, insights, and strategies to help couples communicate better, resolve conflicts, and deepen their connection.
Improve Your Relationship with IBCT: Benefits of Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy
Couples Therapy Before Marriage: Why Pre-Marital Counseling is Essential
How Intensive Couples Therapy Can Quickly Resolve Deep-Rooted Issues
The Best Couples Therapy Questions to Ask Your Partner and Therapist
Strengthening Your Bond: Practical Couples Therapy Exercises
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Looking for a good therapist can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. We understand that you may have many questions and concerns about seeking help for mental health disorders and starting therapy. To make this journey a bit easier, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions.
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Mental health counseling involves working with a licensed counselor or therapist to address and manage mental health issues, mental illnesses, and emotional disorders. It includes various forms of psychotherapy and evidence-based therapy techniques to improve emotional health and overall quality of life.
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Therapy can provide support for managing stress, anger, and other emotional issues. It helps develop critical thinking skills and stress management techniques, which can significantly enhance your daily life and overall mental health.
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I do not accept insurance; however, you can often be reimbursed for a percentage of each session if you have a PPO plan and identify me as an “out-of-network” provider. I can provide you with a monthly statement to submit to your insurance plan.
Here are some helpful questions to ask your insurer:
Do I have mental health coverage for an out-of-network provider? Do I have a yearly deductible I must meet before being eligible to receive benefits? How many sessions are allowed per calendar year?
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Our counselors specialize in different types of psychotherapy, including cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, family therapy, and couples therapy. Each type of therapy is designed to address specific mental health concerns and improve emotional well-being.
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Our practice offers comprehensive counseling for a wide range of mental health matters. Our licensed therapists and mental health professionals are experienced in treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, codependency, depression, and issues related to being highly sensitive. We also provide support for infidelity, parenting challenges, perinatal/postpartum concerns, PTSD, relationships, self-harm, and trauma.
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During your visit, you can expect to be welcomed in a safe and non-judgmental space to discuss your concerns, goals, and progress with one of our compassionate therapists. Sessions typically involve various therapeutic techniques tailored to your specific needs and challenges.
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Deciding whether to seek counseling can be a big step, and it's important to listen to your inner experiences. You might consider reaching out to a mental health professional if you're feeling overwhelmed by stress or anxiety or if you're struggling to manage daily life. Other signs that you might benefit from therapy include difficulty coping with major life changes, dealing with unresolved trauma, experiencing relationship issues, or battling addiction.