Israel Katz, M.D. - Psychoanalytic Therapy, Psychoanalysis, and Psychiatry in San Francisco
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist in San Francisco offering psychoanalytic therapy, psychoanalysis, and psychiatric consultation in both English and Spanish.
Many people seek treatment because something in their lives continues despite their efforts to change it. They may find themselves returning to similar relationship situations, struggling with anxiety or depression, or feeling unsettled in ways that are hard to explain.
I provide a steady setting where you can speak freely and explore these experiences as they unfold over time, making it possible to notice patterns that may not have been clear before.
My Approach
My approach is psychoanalytic. It begins with speaking freely and with careful listening to what emerges in thoughts, feelings, and relationships. Together, we begin to make connections and put into words things that may not be fully known or obvious at first.
As a psychiatrist, I can also provide psychiatric consultation and medication treatment. For some people, medication can be helpful alongside this process, while for others, psychoanalysis or psychoanalytic therapy on its own may be enough.
Experience and Perspective
My practice draws on many years of clinical experience across diverse settings and a wide range of concerns. My bilingual and bicultural background shapes how I listen and think about language, experience, and the particular histories of each person.
Specialties
Depression
Are you having trouble sleeping or finding a reason to get out of bed in the morning? Perhaps you are struggling to accomplish everyday tasks, such as eating properly, maintaining personal hygiene, or just getting out of the house. Have you lost interest in the things that used to give you pleasure? Do you feel numb to happiness, love, or even pain?
Relationships
Do you feel unappreciated, disconnected or alone? Do you sacrifice your own needs for your spouse or have trouble asserting yourself, even in platonic or professional relationships? Perhaps you struggle to trust others, fear abandonment, or worry about infidelity. Or, conversely, you may be going through a separation or divorce and want guidance and support navigating this new aspect of your life.
Anxiety
Are you consumed by seemingly irrational fears or self-doubt? Do you have trouble relaxing, or sleeping through the night, or do you wake up exhausted without knowing why? Perhaps intrusive thoughts or a pervading sense of doom overshadows everything you do, and you don’t understand why you can’t feel as free as others seem to.
Trauma
Are memories of an accident, physical attack or painful loss still haunting you? Perhaps you have trouble managing relationships or trusting partners because you suffered abuse or neglect as a child. Or, it could be that social and political factors, such as being the victim of hostile legislation or having to navigate discrimination or injustice in your community, are driving your symptoms of trauma.
Beginning the Process
If you are considering psychoanalytic therapy, psychoanalysis, or psychiatric consultation, please get in touch to arrange an initial consultation.