C. Jezzie Zimbardo, MFT

I work primarily from a cognitive-behavioral orientation, which means that the focus of therapy tends to be on patterns of thought, feeling and behavior in our present lives — with an understanding that we must be willing to revisit the past sometimes in order to fully understand the present. I also often draw from solution-focused, mindfulness/acceptance, or somatic approaches.

The most important aspect of my approach to therapy, however, is that I believe that mystery and confusion undermine the process, and that clients benefit most when they fully understand and collaborate in what is happening. For this reason, I strive to be straightforward and use plain language about the suggestions that I’m making (or not making), and why I believe these suggestions will help my clients toward their goals. I also work to cultivate an environment where clients will feel comfortable asking questions and giving feedback about therapy. 

Specializations

I have broad expertise around LGBTQ issues in adults, including family building, gender transition, and non-binary identities.

I have deep expertise helping people with complicated experiences and histories around gender, sexuality, and trauma.

I work with a lot of neurodiverse clients, including many with autism. Since the pandemic I have begun exploring alternative therapy formats with some of my clients, such as mixing asynchronous, text-based support with monthly telehealth sessions.

I see couples/throuples/etc. who are poly and/or involved in BDSM, and I have a pretty good track record around sex therapy, especially for folks with female anatomy.

My standard fee is $175 per 50-minute individual session. Sliding scale is available by discussion. I accept Anthem insurance.

l earned my bachelors at Penn State University in 1999 and my MA from the University of San Francisco in 2003. I have worked with issues of gendered violence at Penn State, Empower Yolo, WOMAN, Inc., and for Burning Man Emergency Services. I’ve worked with queer and trans issues for the former New Leaf Services and for Dimensions Clinic, and spent several years volunteering with San Francisco Sex Information. I have taught for organizations including UC Davis, the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology, Sonoma State University and the Society of Janus. You can see from my biography that issues of queerness, gender, and sexual and physical trauma and healing have always been close to my heart, and this is reflected both in my work and in my life.

In 2009 I had the honor to be selected as a founding member of the Community Advising Network with UC Davis Student Health and Counseling Services. For six years I served as the on-site Community Counselor for the Women’s Resources & Research Center and the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Resource Center, giving me a deep respect for both the joys and challenges of life on campus in this millennium.

Some of my interests include writing, music and Buddhist philosophy.

I chose the cover image for my practice (the keyboard and violin at the top of the page) after noticing how often wellness-related sites depict a beautiful natural landscape. I also adore hiking when I can, and nature can be a tremendous balm for the soul. As someone who has lived with chronic illness all of my life, this particular remedy is not always available to me. I wanted to expand the imagery to include some things that can also soothe and nourish homebodies.

I am also an out and proud geek, so if that’s something that you’d like in a therapist then I might be the droid you’re looking for. 😉

Please contact me for a free phone consultation of up to 30 minutes to discuss your needs and my services.

719 Second Street, Davis, CA 95616

(530) 768-2610

jezziemft@gmail.com

Marriage and Family Therapy License #45838