James Zengerle, AMFT,

(He/Him) • Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

*Under supervision by David Khalili, LMFT LMFT #89087

San Francisco, CA • Telehealth across California

The Work

I am a queer therapist dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, and relationship constellations. I provide a safe, affirming space where all identities and expressions are respected, including those who are part of the kink and non-monogamous communities. My work centers on compassion, curiosity, and collaboration, helping clients move through shame, grief, and life transitions toward deeper connection and authenticity.

Rather than pathologize who you are, I work from a queer lens that recognizes the impact of systemic oppression while celebrating resilience, creativity, and joy. I support clients in navigating the complexities of identity, intimacy, and belonging, and I honor the many ways people create and sustain relationships. Whether you are exploring your gender or sexual identity, addressing sexual concerns, navigating open relationships, or working through past hurts, my goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and empowered.

Sex therapy is a central part of my work. I create an open, shame-free space to discuss pleasure, identity, and erotic expression. Together, we can address challenges such as mismatched desire, sexual pain, performance concerns, or the impact of trauma, always approaching these conversations with respect, sensitivity, and a focus on what brings fulfillment for you. I am also asexual and aromantic informed and affirming.

I believe therapy works best as a collaborative process. You are an expert on your own life, and my role is to bring curiosity, insight, and tools to help you meet your goals. I integrate relational, intersectional, death-positive, and trauma-informed frameworks. We may explore attachment patterns, communication skills, and values while also acknowledging the cultural, familial, and systemic forces shaping your experiences.

My hope is for clients to leave sessions with a stronger sense of self, greater capacity for intimacy, and the tools to foster relationships and (a)sexual lives that feel nourishing and aligned. Healing and growth are possible when we have the space to tell out stories without judgment, and I am honored to hold that space with you.

Specialties

  • Grief

  • LGBTQ Support

  • Kink and Polyamory Support

  • Sexual Dysfunction/Intimacy

  • Depression and Mood Disorders

  • Building or Maintaining Relationships

  • Self Worth Issues

  • Asexuality/Aromanticism


Education

  • California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco CA, August 2024 – Present

    Philosophy Doctorate in Human Sexuality

  • University of San Francisco, Department of Psychology, San Francisco CA, August 2021 – May 2024

    Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, Concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy

    4.0 GPA in a 60-unit program

Certifications & Training

  • Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT# 149346)

  • Marriage and Family Therapy Associate, SF Therapy Collective, San Francisco, CA

  • Master of Arts MFT Trainee, YMCA Youth Service Bureau, San Francisco, CA

  • Master of Arts MFT Trainee, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA

Fee

  • Individuals: $190/50 min

  • Couples: $245/75 min

Some sliding scale availability is based on need.

Insurance:

  • Optum

  • United HealthCare

Get reimbursed for private pay sessions! Learn more about courtesy billing.



Ready to connect?


I offer relational therapy for individuals, couples, multi-partner systems, and groups. Currently accepting new clients via telehealth statewide and limited in-person sessions in San Francisco.