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

Services

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

Services Offered:

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Psychiatry
A branch of medicine specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, including the prescribing of medication.
Learn more about Psychiatry
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Psychodynamic Therapy
A therapy that explores how past experiences and unconscious patterns shape current feelings, relationships, and behaviour.
Learn more about Psychodynamic Therapy
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Integrative Psychotherapy
An approach that draws on multiple therapeutic models, tailored to the individual, rather than following a single method.
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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:

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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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Anxiety
Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.
Learn more about Anxiety
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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
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Guilt or Forgiveness
Persistent feelings of guilt, shame, or difficulty forgiving oneself or others that weigh on emotional well-being and relationships.