
Marissa Shepard, (AMFT#147832)
Therapist | Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
How I Help
I work with children ages 2–17, as well as their families and parents, to support a range of concerns including behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, trauma, and parent-child disconnection. My therapeutic style is rooted in a relational and psychodynamic approach, while integrating elements of CBT, play therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and Child-Parent Psychotherapy. I tailor my work to meet each child where they are developmentally, and I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and playful environment that fosters connection, healing, and meaningful growth.
Who I Work With
- Children, preteens, and teens (2 years old – 17 years old)
- Parents
- Families
- I specialize in supporting kids and parents navigate life transitions, grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral concerns
Modalities & Tools I Use
- Play therapy
- Art therapy
- Attachment-based therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Trauma-informed therapy
- Family Systems Therapy
Credentials & Training
- Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (2024)
- Master’s of Arts in Counseling Psychology, University of San Francisco (2024)
- Bachelor’s of Science in Child Studies, Santa Clara University (2021)
About Me
I am an associate marriage and family therapist born and raised in the Bay Area and have been working with children, parents, and families in one capacity or another for the past 13 years. I have spent my time as a therapist working in different settings such as in schools, clients’ homes, and office spaces providing trauma-informed, client-centered therapy and addressing a range of concerns and difficulties. I’m committed to creating a warm, welcoming, and calm space for all my clients to show up as they are. Outside of work, you can find me surfing, swimming, practicing yoga, or spending time with family and friends.