Emily Bonelli-Padow, LCSW
A Space for Growth
Services
Pragmatic, empathetic and compassionate support for individuals, parents and couples.
I offer mindfulness-based, trauma-informed therapy that gently explores how our past experiences, early relationships, and generational patterns shape the way we feel and relate in the present. These patterns can sometimes lead to anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, or a sense that life just isn’t as fulfilling as it could be. Many of us carry a strong inner critic that can take the wheel—fueling overwhelm and keeping us disconnected from our deeper wisdom and worth.
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With extensive training in supporting parent-child relationships, stress reduction, co-parenting, life transitions, codependency, and family systems impacted by addiction—as well as the effects of trauma, including sexual abuse and assault—I strive to create a safe, supportive, and compassionate space for healing and growth.
For individuals, I draw from various theories, and both professional and personal experiences to meet you where you are. I believe in avoiding a one-size-fits-all mentality, recognizing that diverse experiences and relationships require different methods of understanding ourselves and others. One of my greatest joys as a therapist is helping clients discover what truly resonates with them, fostering a sense of well-being and connection.
For parents, I offer consultations from pregnancy through the teenage years, addressing the challenges that each stage presents. Together, we can discuss your child's developmental milestones and find effective ways to support them while also prioritizing your own well-being.
For couples, I provide a nurturing space to deepen understanding of one another and the dynamics of your relationship. Whether you're beginning the parenthood journey or transitioning to an empty nest, I offer a caring non-judgmental environment to explore conflicts and alignments, helping you decide whether to nurture intimacy and trust or to part ways
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Coming soon: In-person therapy for school-age children. Please me know if you're interested.
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The theories and methods I incorporate include: - Mindfulness Practices - Attachment Theory - Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) - Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) - Systems Therapy - Narrative Therapy - Internal Family Systems (IFS) - Somatic Interventions - Feminist Theory - Conscious Uncoupling Informed - Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) - Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping) - Psychoeducation on child development - Psychoeducation on how trauma impacts the body
A Bit About Me
Looking for a therapist can be anxiety provoking and challenging. For two decades, I’ve worked with children and adults in various stages of their lives from those suffering from acute issues to those just feeling stuck and seeking a gentle nudge. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from Temple University and a Master’s in Social Work from California State University East Bay. I’ve worked in various nonprofit organizations, including supporting chronically homeless, a rape crisis center, and a family support center in San Francisco. I completed my graduate school hours working in schools and at an outpatient clinic. My sociology background grounds me in looking at how social forces shape us; my therapy practice creates a safe and comfortable place to untangle these internalized messages. We'll work together to figure out new tools to break patterns that no longer serve you that can create stress, anxiety, body discomfort and pain.
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I believe having a space to explore our stories can help us better understand ourselves which leads to feeling more grounded and whole. This kind of reflection can translate into staying calm while our child is having a mega meltdown or better dealing with a difficult coworker or romantic partner. I believe we can transform our past and current painful experiences into opportunities for growth.
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When I'm not working with clients, I can be found out in nature walking and hiking with friends and family while trying to manage my societal outrage by taking meaningful political volunteer actions.
I also love puzzles, cats and watercolors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you take insurance?
I do not take insurance. I am an "out of network provider," so can provide you with superbills to submit to your insurance company. You'll want to see if you have out of network mental health coverage.
Do you have in person availability?
No, I am currently only offering virtual, with plans to have in person available for children soon.
Are you going to just agree and not say much in sessions?
No! I am not a "blank slate" therapist. I find the more genuine and authentic I am, the more freedom and openness my clients experience. I believe we are changed through meaningful dialogue and heartfelt connection.
I Want to Hear From You
Serving clients virtually in California
Based in San Francisco
Call or email to schedule a free 15 minute
phone consultation to see if we are a good fit.
415-862-7084
