Interpersonal Counselor

Renate Stendhal, Ph.D. is a counselor with over thirty years of experience. She offers intuitive listening and common-sense conversation for couples and individuals, with a special focus on LGBTQ people.

“I am comfortable with unconventional life-styles and visions of life. Life experience and common sense (the least common of our senses) are worth more than psychological theories. In my interactive conversations with clients the goal is to mutually create an environment where the secret and hidden self can emerge. Whether you are in a crisis, at a crossroads or simply at a loss, I invite you to talk and make sense of your experience. I encourage soul-searching, intuition and dreams. I help you find language for your feelings, and invite you to reflect about existential questions like the meaning of life.

After her psychological studies, MA and PhD degrees and years of practice, Renate chose not to work under the label “therapist.“ She does not diagnose or offer “treatment.” Instead, she chose an unconventional, spiritual path. She is ordained by AIWP, the Association for the Integration of the Whole Person. (AWP Guidelines)

Her offices are in Point Reyes Station, one hour north of San Francisco. You can also talk to her on the phone, online or on Skype, wherever you are. Contact Renate.

TESTIMONIALS:

I worked with Renate Stendhal on and off for many years. As a counselor and guide, she led me through the labyrinths of my experiences—and the stories I had constructed around them—and taught me to stare unflinchingly at some difficult truths. There is immense freedom as a result of such work. I am grateful to Renate for her courage and brilliance, for leading me to the other side. Aja Duncan, San Francisco

A few years ago, Violeta came home and said, 'This book, this woman! I will contact her even if she lives in America. She will for sure help us.' I thought to myself: okay, we’ll see. Yes, it worked! We could talk to you, see you on Skype, could explain our feelings, and were guided by you. Step by step you showed us the right direction. The distance played no role at all. It was a  marvelous experience. We are still together — but wouldn't be if it weren't for you. Heartfelt gratitude and hugs! Petra and Violeta, Germany

Working with Renate was one of the most rewarding times in my life.  My contact with Renate started when my lesbian relationship started to unravel, and with her guidance, it did not.  Over a four-year period, Renate went from being my counselor to my writing coach and, finally, to my provost, all because she ignited my desire to learn and write.  Renate was my way companion for those four years - she creatively showed me the way from there to here. Kathleen DePuyt, Santa Rosa

I have worked with Renate, off and on, for several years – about personal and work issues.She has been immensely helpful – she is smart, straight forward, intuitive, and yet down to earth – a great sounding board, and a tremendous support when things were tough. Dr. Anne, Berkeley

Renate Stendhal has been my counselor for many years. She seems to always have a uniquely wise and humorous perspective on the many waves of life through which we all must navigate. Her loving solidity and common sense have helped me through countless crises and she is a true friend. Jai Uttal, Fairfax