About Us
Golden Gate Counseling Services is a thriving group practice founded by psychotherapists Amy Rice, PhD, PMH-C and Caleb Birkhoff, LMFT. The two met in 2016 while working in Kaiser Permanente’s Addiction Medicine Clinic where they witnessed the adverse impact of inadequate therapeutic support. Combining their extensive professional backgrounds in diverse mental health settings, including residential substance abuse facilities, community clinics, hospitals, childbirth education centers, academic institutions, and private practice settings, they set out to provide effective, accessible, and individualized mental health care.
At the heart of our mission is a community of therapists who believe in the value of feeling safe, and feeling seen. Warmth and sincerity are the pillars of our approach, providing a safe space free of judgment where clients can work on those unique issues that bring them to therapy. Each therapist brings their distinctive background, working to build a collaborative and mutually respectful relationship with each client. We are dedicated to breaking down barriers to quality care and are committed to fostering wellness for all through our approach grounded in empathy, humor, and honesty.
“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change”
-Wayne Dyer
Why teletherapy works
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Life can be hectic, and finding the time for self-care can feel like a challenge. That's where teletherapy comes in. With teletherapy, you can avoid the hassle of commuting to appointments, looking for parking, and fitting them into your busy schedule. Research has shown that teletherapy offers comparable outcomes to traditional in-person therapy, making it a convenient and effective option for individuals with busy lives. By eliminating travel time and allowing you to attend sessions from the comfort of your own space (home, work, or travel), teletherapy makes prioritizing and attending to your mental health easier than ever before.
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We believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, regardless of their location or circumstances. Teletherapy breaks down barriers to access by offering therapy sessions that are just a click away. Whether you live in a rural area, have mobility challenges, or simply prefer the convenience of virtual appointments, teletherapy ensures that support is readily available when you need it most. Research published in the Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare has demonstrated that teletherapy improves access to mental health services for individuals in underserved communities, helping to bridge the gap in care (Hilty et al., 2013). With teletherapy, help is always within reach.
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A question we get a lot, "Does teletherapy really work?" The answer is a resounding yes. Numerous studies have shown that teletherapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Research published in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders found that teletherapy interventions led to significant improvements in symptoms of anxiety and depression, with outcomes comparable to traditional face-to-face therapy (Spurgeon et al., 2016). By harnessing evidence-based approaches and fostering strong therapeutic alliances, teletherapy empowers you to achieve meaningful and lasting change from the comfort of your own home.
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Your comfort and privacy are paramount to us. Teletherapy allows you to participate in therapy from a space where you feel safe and secure, you get to decide where that is. Research indicates that clients often feel more comfortable discussing sensitive topics in a familiar environment, leading to increased disclosure and therapeutic progress. With teletherapy, you have the freedom to explore your thoughts and feelings in a setting that feels most comfortable to you, enhancing the therapeutic experience.
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Life is full of surprises, but your therapy shouldn't be interrupted by unexpected events. Teletherapy offers continuity of care, ensuring that you can maintain regular contact with your therapist regardless of external circumstances. Whether you're traveling, dealing with inclement weather, or facing a global pandemic, teletherapy allows you to stay connected and supported every step of the way. Research and experience has demonstrated to us the importance of continuity of care in improving treatment outcomes and reducing the risk of relapse. With teletherapy, you can rest assured that your therapeutic journey will remain uninterrupted, no matter what life throws your way.
What you need for teletherapy
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Stay connected
All you need is a reliable internet connection to join our video visits. Whether you're using a computer, tablet, or smartphone, staying connected is easy and hassle-free.
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Choose your device
Use whatever device works best for you – a laptop, tablet, or your smartphone. Our video conferencing platforms are compatible with most devices, so you can join sessions from the comfort of your own space. Make sure you have the program downloaded before your first appointment.
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Simple setup
Joining a video visit is as easy as clicking a link or downloading a user-friendly app. No tech-savvy skills required – just a few simple clicks, and you're ready to go.
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Clear communication
Enjoy clear audio and video quality during your sessions, ensuring that you can connect with your therapist effortlessly and without any interruptions.
Phone-only visits
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Ready to talk
If video isn't your thing, don't worry – we also offer telephone visits. All you need is a working phone line, and you're all set for your session.
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No downloads necessary
With telephone visits, there's no need to download any apps or worry about technical glitches. Simply pick up the phone, and we'll take care of the rest.
We promise it’s easy
Friendly Support: We're here to make your teletherapy experience as smooth as possible. If you have any questions or encounter any difficulties, our friendly team is ready to help you every step of the way.
Step-by-Step Guidance: From setting up your first session to joining video calls, we provide clear and simple instructions to ensure that you feel confident and comfortable throughout the process.
Seamless Connection: Joining a teletherapy session has never been easier. With our user-friendly platforms and straightforward setup, you can focus on what matters most – your well-being.