Garen Karnikian, AMFT
Psychotherapist Associate
San Francisco CA
I like to start our work by honoring the part of you who knew that you don’t have to bear this pain alone; the brave part that encouraged you to reach out & ask for help.
In the beginning, we’ll work slowly, as we discover where you are & where you’re coming from. Slowing down creates the space necessary to be curious about our pain. I will walk alongside you as you determine where you want to go. I will listen and ask you questions with compassion & curiosity.
In time, you may find that you already contain the potential for healing within. Rather than fixing anything, I’ll accommodate you on your journey towards the inner healing wisdom within you, passed down through generations by your ancestors.
I don’t subscribe to the belief that I will “heal” you. We heal in relationship – I’d be honored to accommodate you.
I’m a queer first-generation Armenian-American living on unceded Ohlone land, also known as the Bay Area. 'Garen' (he/him) is the name of the indigenous homeland of my paternal ancestors on the Armenian Highlands, occupied by Turkey. I’m currently an associate at Queer LifeSpace, a SF-based community mental health clinic serving LGBTQIA+ members.
I'm naturally empathetic and attuned to those around me. I value my own curiosity, and I help foster the same curiosity in others to facilitate their self-awareness & self-acceptance.
I graduated from the California Institute of Integral Studies with a Masters in Counseling Psychology. My research focuses on intergenerational resilience, ancestral grief work & the impact of settler-colonial violence/Zionism on our bodies.