Stirling Somers, MBA, M.S., MFT
Psychotherapy for Children, Teens and Adults in Marin
415.737.5053 || stirling@stirlingtherapy.com
About Stirling
TRUST AND CHEMISTRY
I start with where you are. I see every client as a whole person with unique gifts. My approach is pragmatic, dynamic, and solution oriented based on client-centered goals. My chemistry is warm, calm, and congruent --- sprinkled with a sense of humor. To establish trust, the environment is honest, open and safe. I believe that everyone deserves to experience connection, and through connection, joy.
CLINICAL EXPERIENCE
My theoretical lens is integrative; drawing from Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), Attachment Theory and Family Systems. I weave clinical experience with current neuro science, epigenetic studies and evidenced based research to guide my clinical interventions and diagnoses for all age groups. I specialize in mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, complex PTSD (especially when experienced as a child), acute trauma, parent-child attachment disorders, ADHD, developmental transitions, child illness, and grief/loss. I frequently provide trainings on the impact of childhood trauma/toxic stress called Adverse Child Exposures (ACE’s). My therapeutic work settings have included both elementary school and college academic settings, as well as group practice and private practice.
BACKGROUND
My background in health science has directed my 30 year career in the health care industry. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I was a corporate health care consultant and later became Founder of the Silicon Valley Employers Forum (SVEF), a health care think tank based in Silicon Valley. I am a member of Marin CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) and it is my work with foster children that inspired me to become a licensed psychotherapist.