Steven Reidbord, MD

Psychiatrist

“Psychiatrist and psychiatric educator with psychodynamic therapy emphasis. In-person only.”

About Me

I’m a serious-but-lighthearted psychiatrist with a private practice in San Francisco. I mainly offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, which I cleverly disguise by making it non-stuffy and non-mysterious. I also prescribe psych medication when needed, write and speak about my field, and have taught psychiatry residents (doctors specializing in psychiatry) for decades. I have a YouTube channel where I post 10-15 minute videos about psychiatry, psychotherapy, and related topics every two weeks. Outside of work, I study and practice Aikido, a Japanese martial art with a uniquely pacifist philosophy.

Approach

My foundation is psychodynamic: working with you to uncover the underlying emotional pushes and pulls that bubble up as anxiety, depression, self-sabotage, dysfunctional relationships, and much else. I believe this lies at the root of much suffering. But I'm not a purist. Depending on your situation and interest, I sometimes include cognitive interventions, lifestyle suggestions (exercise, relaxation, meditation, mindfulness, etc), discussions of spirituality and meaning, and more. And I prescribe medication sometimes too, but always in the context of psychotherapy. Basically, whatever seems helpful and works for you.

Contact Steven

Ask a quick question or arrange a time to meet.

Basic Information

San Francisco, United States

In-person

Services

I meet with adults and couples in person in San Francisco.

Services Offered:

Psychiatry
A branch of medicine specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, including the prescribing of medication.
Learn more about Psychiatry
Psychodynamic Therapy
A therapy that explores how past experiences and unconscious patterns shape current feelings, relationships, and behaviour.
Learn more about Psychodynamic Therapy
Integrative Psychotherapy
An approach that draws on multiple therapeutic models, tailored to the individual, rather than following a single method.
Relationship Counselling
Counselling for couples or partners focused on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and strengthening emotional connection.

Works With:

Adults
Couples

Area of Expertise

Scope of Practice:

Personal Development
The ongoing process of self-awareness, self-improvement, and reaching one's potential, pursued not because something is wrong but to live more fully.
Depression
A mood disorder marked by persistent low mood, loss of interest or pleasure, and changes in energy, sleep, or appetite that impair daily functioning.
Learn more about Depression
Grief, Loss & Bereavement
The emotional, physical, and psychological response to the death of a loved one or another significant loss, varying widely in duration and expression.
Learn more about Grief, Loss & Bereavement
Identity & Self-Image
A person's sense of who they are, including their values, beliefs, roles, and self-perception, and the distress that arises when this sense is unclear, fragmented, or negative.
Intimacy Issues
Difficulties with emotional or physical closeness in relationships, including fear of vulnerability, avoidance of connection, or sexual concerns.
Learn more about Intimacy Issues
Anxiety
Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.
Learn more about Anxiety
Shame
A deep, painful emotion involving the belief that one is fundamentally flawed or unworthy, which can affect self-perception and relationships.
Learn more about Shame
Guilt or Forgiveness
Persistent feelings of guilt, shame, or difficulty forgiving oneself or others that weigh on emotional well-being and relationships.