Anna Benassi

Anna Benassi holds dual roles as Clinical Co-Chair & Executive Director of CIIS Clinics and Assistant Professor in the Department of Counseling Psychology at the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS). Their work integrates over 30 years of clinical experience in hospital, clinic, and private practice settings across the SF Bay Area. Anna specializes in Gestalt therapy, queer-affirmative practices, and Buddhist psychological principles.

Education:

• Vocational Nursing Certificate (New Haven Vocational School of Nursing)
• Bachelor of Arts in English (San Francisco State University)
• Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (CIIS Integral Counseling Psychology Program)

Research & Clinical Focus: Anna's work emphasizes phenomenological approaches to therapy, neurobiology of attachment, and culturally-responsive practices for non-conforming queer/polyamorous families. Their Buddhist practice since 1993 informs trauma-informed clinical approaches. Anna pioneered Gestalt therapy training through the Bay Area Gestalt Institute, serving as acting director and current board member.

Leadership & Teaching: Over 20 years of group facilitation experience (police officers to licensed clinicians), plus supervision roles supporting LMFT license candidates. Teaches courses including 'Therapeutic Communication,' 'Couples Therapy,' and the innovative 'Psychology of Harry Potter.'

Advocacy: Longtime queer activist with HIV/AIDS crisis response experience, currently supporting marginalized communities through clinical practice and institutional leadership.