"We found our sessions with you extremely valuable. They allowed us to see things and say things we might not otherwise have been able to. Thank you for your talent and skill in helping us solve our problems." -N.T. & A.B.

I offer weekly and biweekly couples/relationship therapy sessions. Relationship therapy can be a great place to understand yourself and each other on a deeper level and make important changes in your relationships. Couples/relationships typically see me for issues related to communication challenges, difficulty managing intense emotions during arguments, and trouble repairing or recovering from recurring disagreements. Most couples who come to me generally have one or more partners with a history of relational trauma or childhood abuse or neglect (physical, psychological, and emotional).

If you’re curious about relational and complex trauma, go here.

For more information about my education and training, go here.​

Healing trauma through connection

Intimate relationships can be a source of great joy and fulfillment, but also an area in which our deepest fears and vulnerabilities arise. Problems in relationships often come from old ways of coping that served you in the past but now keep you from trusting and connecting.

How we get stuck

Sometimes we get caught in negative cycles that eat away at intimacy and a sense of having a loving and trusting relationship. These cycles tend to be self-reinforcing and keep you trapped in hurtful interactions.

Transforming difficult interactions

​I can help you identify your negative cycles, stop them, and create new habits of communication so you can feel close and connected to your loved ones again. We'll work collaboratively to strengthen and rebuild your strong emotional bond. This emotional security and sense of comfort is what ultimately allows you to resolve conflict, increase vulnerability, communicate better, and live happier lives. ​

​Schedule your free 20 minute consultation today

Access my availability calendar below. No need to play phone or email tag! All sessions are held via Zoom. I have a beautiful office in downtown SF but have yet to set a date to resume in-office sessions. Let’s talk about how you can start living your best life!

Schedule your free introductory call

My Therapeutic Approach

As your therapist, I know that your relationships are deeply important to you. If your relationships are in trouble, other parts of your life suffer too. I'll help you quickly get to the heart of your challenges and figure out steps you can take right now to move toward where you want to be. I'll help you see and break out of harmful relationship patterns, recognize your inner strengths and wisdom, and empower you to trust yourself in your everyday life. 

My life's work is to help adults heal their underlying trauma so they can be free to create the kinds of lives and relationships they want. My approach is to trust and empower you in our work, so that you can learn to trust and believe in yourself. 

​I strive toward cultural sensitivity and invite feedback about your particular experience in the world, and with me as your therapist.

For information about my education and training, go here.

For my practice policies and frequently asked questions, go here.

And if you’re curious about relational and complex trauma, go here.

Smadar Salzman, LMFT, (she/her) Relational & Complex Trauma Specialist

Diverse populations are always welcome in my practice, including all cultures, sexual orientations, genders, and relationship structures.

You can transform relationships impacted by trauma!

Schedule 20 minutes for us to talk for free. We’ll talk about what’s going on in your relationship, I'll answer your questions, and if we all agree we're a good fit, we'll move forward from there!

Schedule your free introductory call