What patients are saying
Overall rating
5.00
Average wait time
4.33
Bedside manner
5.00
“The session I had was exactly what I needed and I am looking forward to co tinging on with more appointments. I receive a variety of ideas for combatting issues I am dealing with and I was met with a lot of compassion and understanding. It is hard to ask for help but I am glad I did. I feel hopeful after my session with Dr. Sasha. ”
Karen O.January 13, 2026Video visit
“While Dr. Sasha could not meet my needs, a NEXUS letter for the VA, he pointed me in the right direction with several optioms.”
Robert S.December 18, 2025Video visit
About Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov
Focus areas
Addiction / Substance Abuse
Stress Management
Anxiety
Young Adult Issues
Depression
Clientele seen
Teenagers (13-17)
Seniors (65+)
Groups
Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Couples
Treatment approaches
Art Therapy
Culturally Sensitive
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Eclectic
Compassion Focused
Emotionally Focused
Identity
Gender
MaleEthnicity
White
Languages spoken
English, Russian
Getting to know Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov
If you are here, it probably means you are needing some help, which can be a hard thing to admit, and even a harder thing to ask for. Maybe you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress. Maybe you are coping with trauma, addictions, relationship issues, grief, or just any other “life stuff”. Maybe you are doing ok and just looking to grow and understand yourself on a deeper level, perhaps seeking answers to spiritual and existential questions. Whatever is on your heart and mind, I will be firmly in your corner. Together, we will explore, clarify, and work to resolve issues at the root of your concerns, clearing a path to a happy life.
Whatever you might be experiencing right now, my heart goes out to you. Life can really suck. At times, seemingly impossible to “figure out”. Through my own life experiences and clinical work, I have experienced and witnessed profound suffering. Through all of that, I’ve learned there is a way. Reach out. I’d love to hear from you and help you find that way.
For almost 20 years, I have worked in residential and outpatient settings, providing direct care and supervising. Although I have specialized in treating substance use disorders, I also have significant experience helping patients experiencing anxiety, depression/mood issues, trauma, ADHD, and other mental health and spiritual challenges, all of which usually co-occur with, if not ultimately precede addictions.
My approach is holistic, dynamic, and engaging. I blend mindfulness, psychodynamic insights, and practical strategies within an evidence-based framework. Together, we will clarify whatever concerns you might be facing and any patterns that might be at play. We will work to clear a pathway to healing and discover solutions for any obstacles or problems you might be facing. I will be firmly in your corner and empower you to claim your own place in your life and in the world at large.
What should a new client know about working with you?
I understand it can be daunting and overwhelming to find just the right person for your work in therapy. It’s an investment of time and money, it takes courage to open up to a stranger, and you never know how long it will take to build trust. Good therapists can be hard to find. I’ve invested heavily in my own therapeutic journey (over 9 years cumulatively over 20 yrs, ongoing) and continually cultivate and practice a growth-oriented, reflective attitude. If any of the following resonates, we could be a good fit.
While there are many modalities one might employ in therapy, we know that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in the healing process. I do my best to create a safe and nonjudgmental space, in which you could, at your own pace and as you feel comfortable, share what is on your mind and heart; a place where you could feel safe, deeply supported, heal, and grow.
Deep compassion, authentic care, and non-judgmental presence, along with commitment to your success and unwavering belief in your potential and ability to heal, are the cornerstones of my practice. On that foundation, I tailor my approach based on your unique circumstances and needs.
Some additional info could perhaps be helpful for you. I've a BA in Physics from Reed (thesis in biophysics), worked as a software engineer in Portland, OR for 4 yrs, and came to the Bay Area to get a Dr. in Clinical Psychology, with an aim to integrate spirituality, psychology, and science. I’m a former refugee and came to the USA at the age of 15 and a half. For the past 17+ years, I have been working with folks struggling with addiction and numerous other challenges, most of whom are within the Criminal Justice system. I am also the current President of the Association for Transpersonal Psychology and have been certified in Org Design and Transformation, as well as Psychodrama. Additionally, led by inner spiritual calling, I have traveled extensively in Arizona and the Four Corners area.
What is your typical process for working with clients?
I work from a holistic, systems worldview, informed by psychodynamic, emotionally-focused, as well as humanistic-existential and transpersonal approaches. I weave mindfulness with other evidence-based practices.
Depending on circumstances and needs, in our initial few sessions we will establish a secure and safe connection, explore your current issues as well as history so I can do my best to understand you and your experience, and clarify any questions you might have.
Our ongoing work will be continually tailored to what arises and what your needs are. It could include supportive, exploratory, process-oriented, or a combination of these approaches.
I also weave humor where levity could do some good and laughter can remind us that we are more alive than sometimes we might think or feel. What ails us might become a messenger and opportunity for transformation, rather than a hindrance and an unbearable weight.
I fully believe in your ability to heal and will assist you on your journey towards wholeness. How that will look depends on the individual/system but folks I work with attest to experiencing hope, healing, and positive transformation. I look forward to working with you.
Out-of-pocket fees and assistance
Initial session: $300 for 50 minutes
Ongoing session: $300-360 for 50 minutes
- Sliding scale: Offers lower out-of-pocket fees on an individual basis, typically based on your ability to pay
More information on payments and coverage
Initial session rate: $300 for 50 minutes
Ongoing session rate: $300 - $500 for 50 minutes
Unfortunately, I do NOT provide MEDICATION MANAGEMENT. Also, I do NOT currently accept INSURANCE. I can, however, if needed, provide a SUPERBILL which you can submit to your insurance for reimbursement. Regarding medication management—unfortunately, psychologists are not able to prescribe in California (and most other states in the US, except a handful few; perhaps in a few more years).
Office locations
Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov, PhD also offers online video visits for patients
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Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Sofia University, PhD in Clinical Psychology
- Reed College (Bachelor's)
Professional memberships
- Association for Transpersonal Psychology
- American Psychological Association
NPI number
1902956881
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
5.00
Wait time
4.33
Bedside manner
5.00
Your trust is our top concern, so providers can't pay to alter or remove reviews. We also don't publish reviews that contain any private patient health information. Learn more here
7 reviews
Most relevant
The session I had was exactly what I needed and I am looking forward to co tinging on with more appointments. I receive a variety of ideas for combatting issues I am dealing with and I was met with a lot of compassion and understanding. It is hard to ask for help but I am glad I did. I feel hopeful after my session with Dr. Sasha.
January 13, 2026Karen O.Verified patientVideo visit
While Dr. Sasha could not meet my needs, a NEXUS letter for the VA, he pointed me in the right direction with several optioms.
December 18, 2025Robert S.Verified patientVideo visit
So helpful. I can't say enough about him. First and foremost, he is such a great listener. I suspect that's why he is so good at helping you find solutions to life issues, whatever they are. He's helped me through extremely complicated issues rooted in childhood and family, and he's helped me through more daily issues like work-related situations. He has a real intuition about what you need from him to help you figure things out. Best therapist I've ever had.
November 19, 2025David C.Verified patientVideo visit
I had the privilege of working with Sasha as my therapist, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the experience. Sasha created a warm and welcoming environment that instantly put me at ease. His empathy and active listening made me feel heard and understood, which is invaluable.
Sasha’s expertise and professionalism are evident in every aspect of his practice. He tailored our sessions to my specific needs and goals, offering valuable insights and practical strategies for managing my mental health challenges. His deep knowledge of various therapeutic approaches ensured that our sessions were effective and beneficial.
Sasha is a remarkable therapist. His compassionate, knowledgeable, and client-centered approach has made a profound impact on my life, helping me navigate through challenging times and fostering personal growth. I wholeheartedly recommend Sasha to anyone seeking a therapist who genuinely cares and makes a positive difference.
October 20, 2023Daoud S.Verified patientVideo visit
Less than 6 months agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
Less than 6 months agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
February 1, 2025Connery A.Verified patient
How soon can I make an appointment with Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov?
Generally, Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Dr. Avanesov's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov accepting new patients?
Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Dr. Avanesov's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Dr. Avanesov is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Dr. Avanesov using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov work with?
Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov works with Dr. Sasha Avanesov.
Where is Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov's office located?
Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov has 3 office locations, including in San Francisco and Redwood City, view full addresses on Dr. Avanesov's profile.
What are common reasons for patients to see Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov?
Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov frequently sees patients for Depression, New Patient Visit, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Sleep Problems. You can see other visit reasons for Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov on their profile.
What languages does Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov speak?
Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov speaks English and Russian.
How do patients rate Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov in reviews?
7 patients have reviewed Dr. Alexander Sasha Avanesov. The overall rating for this doctor is 5/5. They have a 5/5 rating for bedside manner and a 4.33/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.