James O'Dowd

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James O'Dowd, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist, PSY 18588 415.725.0804 Psychotherapy and Counseling For Children, Teens, Adults, and Couples in San Francisco.

Welcome to my website...
Welcome to my website. I am a Clinical Psychologist with ten years of experience working with children, teens, families, adults, and couples. A common theme I've encountered in my practice is the incredible ability people have for positive change. I envision my role as helping people facilitate the transformations they want in their lives.
It can be difficult to make the decision to talk to a psychologist. Many people run into this problem when considering psychotherapy. While change can often be desperately needed, getting the help to do so can also stir up feelings of fear and uncertainty. Many of us find that falling back on familiar patterns of behavior feels safer - even if it means enduring the pain and suffering from which we want relief. These first few steps are often the hardest and I want you to know that I appreciate and understand the courage it takes to make the call for help. I am available for a free phone consultation to help you move forward.

Many couples come for help when their relationship has hit a significant 'bump' in the road. It is during these periods when it becomes clear to us just how difficult it is to be in a relationship. These breakdowns can often leave us feeling painfully alone and isolated ...

Being a teenager is hard and raising one can be even harder. I appreciate and respect the challenges teens and families experience during this life stage and believe this time presents a unique opportunity for growth by all family members.

While parents often find themselves successful in many other areas of their lives, parenting a teenager can often feel like a losing battle. No wonder! Teens demand more freedom and space at a time in their lives...

Our lives involve circumstances which present numerous crossroads. Sometimes, for a multitude of reasons, we get stuck at these junctures, feel unable to move forward, and can even feel emotionally paralyzed...