Professional Staff

Alapaki Yee, MFT
Salvatore Garanzini, MFT

Sam Garanzini, MFT, is the Executive Director and Cofounder of the Gay Couples Institute, based in San Francisco and Palm Springs, CA. He and his husband, Alapaki Yee, MFT, also a Cofounder and Clinical Director, are licensed therapists who have helped over 4000 same-sex couples improve their relationships.

They are both Certified Gottman Therapists who published a ground-breaking peer-reviewed research study with Drs. John and Julie Gottman showing the effectiveness of the Gottman Method Couples Therapy with same-sex couples. Salvatore is also an adjunct professor in the University of San Francisco Counseling Psychology Department.

They created the Gay Relationship Revolution Program - a powerful system for helping same-sex couples in committed relationships, as well as individuals looking to rapidly increase their relationship happiness and satisfaction in just 90 days. This program removes the obstacles they felt as a young gay person, going to therapy and reading relationship books when they really wanted a straightforward plan.

So if you want a crystal clear and predictable roadmap to help you create a long-lasting connection with a partner, as well as feel personally confident in your relationship abilities, click here to schedule an initial session!

Salvatore Garanzini, MFT

As a gay teen in Missouri, I found it really difficult to meet a serious boyfriend, and then somehow keep a relationship going. I struggled with this well into my 20's even after moving to San Francisco.

A teacher at heart, I started as an adjunct professor at the University of San Francisco when I was just 28 years old.

I've been certified to teach the Gottman Method to other therapists since 2009, and taught psychopharmacology for twelve years at USF.

Today, I run the professional development and training division of our Institute, helping therapists learn solid skills and better serve the LGBTQ+ community.

Over many years we've seen firsthand how great couples therapy can improve the relationships of our close friends and family.

My life's goal is to make sure that when you reach out to a professional for advice, you get an answer you can trust.

Alapaki Yee, MFT

As the Clinical Director and Lead Therapist at the Gay Couples Institute, I have the privilege of impacting the lives of countless gay couples.

Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to work with thousands of couples, helping them improve their relationships through better communication, understanding, and mutual respect.

At the Institute, I am deeply committed to applying the same principles and techniques that I advocate to my clients in my own life.

Together with my husband, Sam, we navigate the ups and downs of our relationship using these very skills. Although we aren't perfect, these strategies have kept us happily together for over 20 years.

What I cherish most about my role is seeing the real-world impact of our work. It's incredibly rewarding to know that I've played a part in helping couples not just coexist but thrive together, building lasting and meaningful bonds.