Erika Maruyama LMFT
About Me
Welcome. I’m Erika and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Francisco. My deep interest in understanding others and my belief in the transformational power of therapy is what drew me into this work. I received my Masters in Counseling Psychology from The University of San Francisco and my passion for serving marginalized populations led me into community mental health. I worked in various positions as a substance use counselor, therapist, clinical supervisor, and clinical director. I also have experience within a private practice setting. In my free time, I enjoy fostering my relationships with family, friends, and community, working with my hands making stained glass and gardening, going outdoors—especially the ocean, and running.
My approach
Therapy is a commitment to the positive transformation and evolution of the self. It can be utilized as an incredibly powerful tool to promote understanding and build greater insight in order to make choices that create meaningful change. Working together is collaborative, as I respect your expertise in your own life. My approach is warm, engaged, and reflective, while also challenging patterns that may no longer serve you. I offer a compassionate and emotionally safe space where I can support you in developing a deep self connection where you can uncover wounds and defenses that limit you. Healing can then occur and allow you to realign yourself in order to move through this world with increased meaning, purpose, and integrity.
I use an integrative approach and am particularly oriented to psychodynamic/analytic theories, relational theory, existential theory, mindfulness-based therapy, somatic therapy, cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies, and acceptance commitment therapy. I draw upon various modalities and will tailor therapy to suit your unique needs while incorporating a culturally humble lens that honors the diverse background that you come from.
Who I Work With
I work with individual adults managing a wide range of challenges, including life transitions, anxiety—whether general, personal, or work related—and the pursuit of professional fulfillment. Many clients come to therapy seeking support for relationship difficulties, wanting to improve emotional regulation and strengthen communication. Others are struggling with feelings of loneliness and isolation, hoping to build deeper connections and a stronger sense of community. Some are exploring questions of identity, integrating different parts of themselves, and searching for greater meaning in life. I also help clients process unresolved experiences, including past trauma, grief, and loss. For those navigating substance use concerns, I offer a harm reduction approach tailored to their goals and needs. With my experience in community mental health, I’m competent and comfortable working with individuals managing chronic and serious mental health conditions. I’m also skilled at collaborating with prescribing providers to ensure comprehensive support.