MEET LINDSEY MANDELL, LMFT | THERAPIST IN SAN FRANCISCO

Real talk. Real self-discovery. Real growth.

Science-backed therapy that’s grounded, direct, and deeply human. 

It’s time to reclaim who you’ve always been (or become who you’ve always wanted to be).

Life shapes us in ways we don’t always expect—through experiences, relationships, or the pressures we carry with us. And sometimes, even after doing our best to cope on our own, we realize that support could make all the difference. 

I’m here to help you connect with who you are at your core and tap into your own strength.

Your lived experience—who you are, where you come from, and how the world has shaped you—matters deeply. You’ve been moving through life, learning and adapting in ways that have helped you survive, even if you don’t always recognize it. Now it’s time to nurture yourself so you can move forward knowing not only who you are, but exactly what you need.

Specialties

GET TO KNOW ME

I have expertise, but you’re always going to be the expert of “you.”

Becoming a therapist was a natural path that always felt right. I am naturally drawn to connecting with people, hearing their stories, and being a safe place for support. Over time, it became clear this is what I’m meant to do—driven by my desire to offer more than just support. I consider it a gift and a privilege to work with people and witness their growth.

My approach is relational and humanistic, meaning we’ll grow, reflect, and learn together in real-time. I bring research, psychoeducation, and somatic tools into our work, but the foundation is always connection. I check in regularly because your perspective matters to me—I want to understand what’s working and what’s not, both from your experience and my clinical assessment. In our sessions, I keep things moving by balancing support with directness, without pushing you anywhere you’re not ready to go.

I show up to every session as my full, human self—you don’t have to perform for me, and I won’t for you.

Sometimes we’ll sit in the heavy, hard stuff, and other times, we’ll keep it light (because laughter can be just as healing as insight). Ultimately, I’m committed to being here for you and providing exactly what you need—fully present, tuned in, and ready to meet you where you are.

My integrative approach focuses on:

  • Bringing awareness to your thoughts, emotions, and body’s sensations, by strengthening the mind-body connection to better understand yourself.

  • Helping you recognize patterns and the different parts of yourself—where they come from and how they show up in your life.

  • Incorporating both science and deep emotional work—understanding and feeling.

  • Balancing structure and flexibility, meeting you where you are.

  • Encouraging both reflection and action—insight that leads to real shifts.

What I’m currently…

LISTENING TO, READING, WATCHING, ETC:

"No Bad Parts"

by Richard Schwartz

EXPLORING:

MY BACKGROUND

I support a wide range of clients, including fellow therapists and healthcare professionals who need a space to process their own experiences. I also have deep experience working with queer, gay, and trans individuals, providing an affirming and understanding space where they can navigate their experiences, challenges, and growth on their own terms.

    • Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (License No. 146643) 

    • Santa Clara University M.A. in Counseling and Psychology (Health Psychology Focus)

    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Trained – The Institute for Creative Mindfulness (EMDRIA Certified)

    • Brainspotting Phase 1 – Pacific Brainspotting

    • Emotional First Brainspotting Aid for those affected by war or a natural disaster – Brainspotting Help Foundation

    • Clinical Applications of Internal Family Systems Therapy – PESI

    • Fundamentals of Emotionally Focused Therapy (individuals and couples) (EFT) – ICEEFT

    • Polyvagal-Informed Common Factor Approach to Trauma – SCV-CAMFT

    • Managing Loss and Change – Title IV-E, County of Santa Clara Training Collaborative

    • CBT: A Clinical Perspective for Therapists – Title IV-E, County of Santa Clara Training Collaborative

    • Culturally Respectful and Relevant Services – Title IV-E, County of Santa Clara Training Collaborative

    • Suicide Risk Assessment & Crisis Management – Title IV-E, County of Santa Clara Training Collaborative

    • Intake and Treatment Planning – Brainspotting Institute

    • California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)

    • Long Beach-South Bay CAMFT (LB-SB CAMFT)

    • San Francisco CAMFT (SF CAMFT)

    • EMDR International Association (EMDRIA)

    • Psychology Today

FEEL MORE GROUNDED IN WHO YOU ARE AND CAPABLE FACING WHAT COMES NEXT.

Not sure if we’re the right fit? Just reach out—I’d love to chat.

I have sessions available in-person in San Francisco or online across California.