Online in California,
British Columbia, Ontario (Online Only)
As a result of years of dedicated practice, I have had the privilege of supporting clients through a diverse range of challenges. This journey has refined my therapeutic approach into a distinct, holistic methodology that integrates the profound insights acquired from extensive study under both the venerable wisdom masters of the East and the renowned healers of the West. This fusion of knowledge and perspectives equips me to provide therapy that is not only deeply insightful but also highly effective, customized to meet the specific needs of each client. My approach is designed to honor the unique journey of every individual, offering a path to healing and growth that is as compassionate as it is empowering. Please feel free to contact me in order to have a free 15 minute introductory phone call.
Client Focus
Session Format: Couple, Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Adult, Senior, Young Adult
Demographic Expertise: Asian, Black / African American, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Hispanic / Latino, Jewish, LDS/Mormon, LGBTQ+, Men, Middle Eastern, Military / Veterans, Muslim, Women clients.
Languages: English
Treatment Approach
- Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
- Compassion Focus Therapy
- EMDR
- Emotionally Focused (EFT)
- Imago Relationship Therapy
- Internal Family Systems
- Multicultural
- Psychosocial
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
- Transpersonal
Approach Description: My approach to wellness and healing is deeply rooted in a rich tapestry of Eastern philosophy and practices, seamlessly woven together with the rigorous study of Western therapeutic methods. This unique confluence has evolved into a comprehensive, integrative framework that not only broadens the horizons of traditional therapy but also enriches the therapeutic experience with depth and diversity.
In addition to the foundational pillars of my practice, I actively incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. CBT offers a structured, hands-on approach to solving problems and teaches clients to recognize and reframe distorted thinking patterns, while IFS provides a transformative model of psychotherapy that helps individuals to heal by understanding the complex systems within themselves.
Role-playing and visualization techniques are employed as dynamic tools to explore personal challenges and potential solutions, allowing clients to rehearse and experience change in a safe and supportive environment. These methods enhance emotional insight and promote the development of new, healthier behavioral patterns.
Recognizing the profound impact of physical health on mental well-being, my practice also emphasizes the importance of nutrition, exercise, and sleep hygiene. Tailored nutritional guidance supports overall health and contributes to the management of mood and energy levels, while a personalized exercise regimen acts as a natural antidepressant, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Moreover, advocating for good sleep hygiene practices ensures that clients are equipped with strategies to improve sleep quality, a critical component of mental health and emotional regulation.
This holistic synthesis of Eastern and Western philosophies, combined with a multifaceted therapeutic approach, offers a path to healing that addresses the mind, body, and spirit. It is my belief that through this integrative method, clients can achieve profound personal growth and lasting well-being.
Education & Credentials
Philip Starkman MSW, RSW
- Male
- License # BCCSW RSW No. 14637 and OCSWSSW RSW No. 772393
- Licensed in British Columbia and Ontario
- Practicing Since 1971
Education: Masters Degree in Social Work (MSW), California State University Fresno
Extensive trainings in many therapeutic modalities
Very extensive trainings in meditation, yoga, nutrition, exercise
Finances
Fees
- Average Session Fee $150 per hour
- Out of Network
- The client pays for each session and receives a receipt, which they will then submit to their insurance provider.
Philip Starkman Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available Online for residents of California, British Columbia, Ontario
- Online Therapy Details: Secure Video Platform
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have engaged in intensive studies while residing in Asian monasteries under some of the most esteemed masters of our time. Similarly, I hold in high regard the invaluable guidance, inspiration, and encouragement bestowed upon me by numerous mentors in Western psychotherapy, who have profoundly shaped my practice. My approach seamlessly weaves together these Eastern and Western influences, enriched also by my personal research into nutrition and exercise, enabling me to provide a truly holistic therapy, counseling, and coaching service. My clientele encompasses individuals navigating through depression, anxiety, addictions, eating disorders, grief, and profound trauma. In addition, through Coaching I support individuals aiming to enrich their life's journey. Coaching is tailored for those seeking to elevate and deepen the quality of their life and enhance their skills—be it in sports, career, relationships, finances, health and well-being and spiritual pursuits — without the explicit need for psychotherapy. I serve adults from diverse cultural backgrounds, a reflection of my twelve years spent studying in India, Nepal, Burma, and Japan. My practice is inclusive, welcoming clients of all sexual orientations and socio-economic backgrounds, including tradespeople, professionals, homemakers, artists, athletes, and actors etc. I have extensive experience in teaching meditation for years to thousands of people, leading both weekly sessions and intensive retreats from one to ten days. As a result, Mindfulness Meditation and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy have come to form cornerstone practices within my services, tools I deem essential for most clients. My Services Include:
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT);
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy;
Practices of Loving Kindness;
Meditation Guidance;
ADHD Management Strategies;
Couples and Premarital Counseling;
Interventions for Depression and Anxiety;
Strategies for General Stress and Workplace Stress Reduction;
Grief Counseling;
Addiction Counseling: addressing alcohol, drugs, nicotine, eating disorders, sex, pornography, and gambling;
Lifestyle Counseling, including Nutritional Counseling and Exercise Plans;
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT);
Performance Enhancement Coaching;
Support for Spiritual Crisis;
Pain Management Techniques;
Yoga Therapy and Breathwork.
I warmly invite inquiries about any aspect of my work and look forward to discussing how we can collaborate on your journey toward well-being.