David Chen
PsyD
Therapy for partners who want to do the work, together.
What clients say
We came in barely speaking. David helped us find our way back to each other — not by avoiding the hard conversations, but by finally having them.
The pre-marital sessions were the best investment we made in our marriage. We still use the frameworks three years later.
About me
I'm a licensed psychologist who works almost exclusively with couples — including pre-marital, post-affair, and partners navigating the long, slow rebuild after a hard year. My approach is grounded in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method.
I grew up in the Bay Area, trained at PGSP-Stanford, and have been in private practice for 12 years. I see couples in person in San Francisco's Mission district and via secure video across California.
Most couples I work with aren't in a crisis — they're stuck in the same loop, and they're exhausted by it.
My approach
Most couples I work with aren't in a crisis — they're stuck in the same loop, and they're exhausted by it. I believe most couples don't need to communicate better — they need to feel safer. My job is to help you say the hard things and stay close while you do.
Education & credentials
PsyD
- PsyD, PGSP-Stanford Consortium
- External training: ICEEFT Level 3 EFT, Gottman Level 3
Languages spoken
What to expect
We begin with a 90-minute joint intake so I can understand each of your perspectives and what's brought you here. I then meet with each of you individually — usually one session each — before we settle into the regular weekly rhythm of couples work. Ongoing sessions are 75 minutes, focused on the cycle underneath the conflict rather than the surface-level argument. Most couples start to notice a shift within six to ten sessions, though the timeline depends on the complexity of what we're working through.
Areas of focus
Couples
Most couples don't need to fight less — they need to feel safer when they do. EFT helps us get underneath the cycle to the longing and the fear that drive it.
Pre-marital
Six to ten sessions, focused on the conversations most couples don't have until year three. Money, in-laws, conflict styles, sex, and what 'partnership' actually means to each of you.
Affairs + repair
After an affair, the question isn't only 'do we stay?' — it's 'who are we now?' I work with both partners through the long, non-linear rebuild.
Communication
Communication tools fail when there's no safety. We start by rebuilding emotional safety, then the skills land.
Who I work with
My specialty is helping partners turn toward each other, even when it's hard. We work on the patterns underneath the fight — not just the fight itself.
Services offered
“Therapy for partners who want to do the work, together.”
For new clients
$275 per 75-minute couples session
Not sure if you're covered? I'll help verify your benefits before we begin.
Cancellation policy
I ask for 48 hours notice so I can offer that time to another client who needs it. Sessions cancelled with less notice are billed in full — I appreciate your understanding.
Good Faith Estimate
Under the No Surprises Act, uninsured and self-pay clients have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected costs before starting services. Learn more.
Frequently asked questions
Resources
A small library of grounding, breathing, and reflection practices you can return to any time. None of these replace working with David — they're meant to support you between sessions.
These practices are just the beginning.
In our work together we can build a personalized toolkit for your specific patterns and challenges.
Schedule a consultThese practices are general self-care suggestions, not personalized clinical advice. If something doesn't feel right for you, please bring it up in your next session.
Let’s work together
Reach out to schedule a free consultation or ask any questions you have.
This form is for general inquiries only. If you’re in crisis, call or text 988.