Conscious self- development begins in adolescence. Teenagers experience a huge amount of pressure from school, friends, and society. Most kids in high school become overwhelmed by this at some point- they often struggle with balancing their academic load with social and personal needs. This group focuses on high school social dynamics, academic pressure, and the transitions between grade levels, including moving out of the childhood home. Members have a space to vent and connect with other kids experiencing similar challenges. The group process facilitates social skills practice like deescalating, listening and reflecting, and conflict resolution.
Hosted by Holly Frances
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94618
Anxiety can be so overwhelming and persistent that it feels like it's taking over. Sadness, grief, and depression may feel so heavy and unmanageable that the simple but vital parts of life such as sleeping, eating, and work are difficult or complicated. Your pain might be related to a recent stressful event like heartbreak or the death of someone close to you, or maybe it is less acute but feels endless. Perhaps there is an atmosphere of dread, loneliness, fear, and frustration. Relationships become conflict- ridden or devoid of real feeling. There is a sense that you're doing it wrong or always making the same mistakes.
CalPsychiatry is a group of informed, empathetic and team-oriented psychiatrists. We have specialties in treatment of mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders (including OCD), ADHD, addiction and women's mental health. We have practices in San Francisco, Oakland, Palo Alto and throughout Southern California. We offer appointments to fit your schedule, including weekends and evenings.
Hosted by Juliet Morgan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94609
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a psychiatrist and neuropsychiatrist working with a variety of clients in-person and over tele-health. I specialize in the integrative treatment of patients with mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, neuropsychiatric illness, and healing from trauma. I am a board certified neurologist, and understand the complex interplay between the structural “hardware” and emotional “software” in the brain. I have been featured in several media outlets including KQED and CBS for my work with clients with COVID-19 patients. I also teach extensively on neuropsychiatry and neuroanatomy at UCSF.
Women of Color: Learn mindfulness skills to help you increase your calm, sense of peace and comfort within yourself, and to lessen your overwhelm. A six week online course with lessons delivered by email, then followed up with live online group meetings for support and practice. Create your own personal self care plan, develop a sense of self compassion and offer accountability to yourself and to others. Starts September 2019. See Signature Mindfulness Course on website.
Hosted by Cindi Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94602
To receive a FREE E-COURSE using mindfulness, titled "More Calm, Less Worry in Your Busy Life" please check out the page on my website.
I am a bilingual bicultural psychotherapist working with adults and couples who are having problems in their relationships and/or who feel badly about themselves or their life situation. The in-depth work I do focuses on one's feelings and significant relationships - past and present. With compassion and deep personal respect, I help my clients to deal with the painful issues, losses and complex struggles of living. I work well with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, parenting issues, inter-racial couples, life transitions, loss, and trauma; toward repairing the relationships that are inevitably affected by these problems.
You might find after some time in recovery, challenges come up in navigating an often stressful world, that could sabotage your clean days. Sharing your challenges as well as your successes with other like minded people, problem solving together while fostering further support, can make the difference. This is a psycho-educational group of 6-12 members, where regular attendance, is required.
Hosted by Jann Scott
Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94610
Are you like so many, not finding the joy in your life that you deserve? Perhaps your inner voice is telling you lies about yourself which you believe. Could worry and sadness be occupying more space than you want to give, yet you don’t know how to stop it? You might also be self medicating with unhealthy habits, which only worked for a short time. If you’re ready to learn what is preventing you from having the kind of life you deserve, and want to cultivate skills that stands to bring you well being, please give me a call. Since you're reading this, it shows me you have the motivation and desire to make positive changes.
BIPOC Adult Open Studio Art Therapy Group is an opportunity to fellowship, nurture mindfulness, and explore self through creative expression in art practice. This group provides a welcoming and supportive environment where individuals from Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities can explore personal creative expression and establish an accessible wellness routine. Art-making can serve as a powerful tool for processing, navigating life transitions, and fostering resilience. You can expect creative exploration, cultural affirmation, and community connection. This group is for adults of all genders ages 21+.
Hosted by Danielle Swan
Pre-Licensed Professional, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94610
Is your child struggling with anxiety, depression or a big life change or a recent trauma? Are you an adult navigating grief or a transitional phase in your life and overwhelmed with stress, worry, or fear? As an Art Therapist, using a trauma-informed approach, we will work collaboratively and creatively to meet your goals. I will help you access coping skills, establishing routines, and hold space for emotional expression. I specialize in working with individuals from marginalized communities, ages 4 through adulthood, with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
This group is a six-week therapy group for women, blending the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model and mindfulness. This group is tailored for those navigating grief, trauma, relationship shifts, and career challenges along with a safe space for exploration. I offer guided exercises, discussions, & compassionate support to empower you to deepen your self-awareness and resilience. Each session delves into parts recognition, self-compassion, healing exiled parts, and integrating the inner self. Join this transformative journey, celebrating progress and setting intentions for ongoing transformation. 'Embracing Change' offers women strength, solace, and authentic resilience. Contact me for a free consultation.
Hosted by Kelly Albrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94609
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
Childhood trauma is defined as an event or events experienced by a child that is emotionally painful, frightening, or distressful, which can often lead to lasting mental and physical effects. Symptoms of childhood trauma in adults can include but are not limited to anger, depression, emotional outbursts, addiction, low self-esteem, and social disconnectedness. This group is for adult survivors of (childhood) physical, sexual, and or emotional abuse. The purpose of the group is to provide an open, safe, and supportive space for survivors to process unresolved feelings and build connections and friendships while healing from childhood trauma together.
Hosted by Christine Rivlin
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94609
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
Offering a blend of didactic skill based training and supportive group process, the Moving Through Emotional Crisis Group offers support to anyone suffering from intense depression, anxiety or trauma related symptoms. This 90 minute group is divided into approximately 30 minutes of skills training and 60 minutes of supportive group processing. Skills training for managing emotional distress are based on various modalities, including DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) Skills. Group members are encouraged to provide support and compassion to one another to provide a safe, healing environment.
Hosted by Mary Deyo
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94602
Having struggled with depression and anxiety myself, I truly empathize with the emotional pain you are experiencing.
Anyone who is currently struggling with emotional pain and wanting to change, is my ideal client. I am here to guide you through a journey into your mind and heart, to help you face your greatest fears, and discover your unimaginable strength. Out of the ashes, rises the phoenix and out of a personal crisis, comes tremendous growth and healing. Whether you are dealing with mood swings, depression, anxiety, addiction, panic, trauma or relationship issues, I am here to help.
Hello shy introvert! Do you have an Inner Critic that won’t quit? From morning to night, that critical voice in your head says things like, “what’s wrong with me?” & “I’m going to disappoint everyone!” Our dating & social anxiety group can help you find calm, confidence, & companionship. Learn practical, evidence-based techniques for working with & ultimately eliminating your anxiety. Connect with like-minded peers & practice new skills in a safe environment. Gain the self-esteem and courage needed to build deep, satisfying relationships. Sign up at socialanxietysupportcenter.com
Hosted by Social Anxiety Support Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, RDT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94612
Our Care Coordinator will speak with you about your social anxiety struggles, help you choose a therapist, and get you started with a first session: www.
Hello, fellow introvert! Do you ever find yourself thinking, “no one likes me!” or “what’s wrong with me?" Does shyness keep you from confidently connecting with friends, romantic partners, and colleagues? Perhaps you know deep down that you'd be happier if you had more authentic relationships, but avoiding people (and therefore rejection) feels, well…safer. If so, you may be struggling with social anxiety. You probably feel like you never received the "How to Not Be an Awkward Human" manual. Well, good news - we've helped hundreds of shy individuals like you build confidence and develop deep, meaningful relationships.
Virtual ACT for Anxiety and Depression workshop: 8-week course to help you find your path to a life worth living. Whether you struggle with lifelong anxiety and/or depression, feel stuck in life or overwhelmed by current events, this group can help you find meaning and promote action/change. During these trying times, there is an increase in anxiety and depression and subsequent need for more support. Being part of a group can help you feel supported and part of a community. Learn more: https://www.drnicolepoell.com/groups
Hosted by Nicole Poell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94611
Right now, you are doing something very courageous! You are taking the first step toward a more meaningful and rich life. You might sense that your thoughts and feelings are holding you back from truly living your life. You might have had traumatic life experience(s) that shaped your life in a way that is unfulfilling and terrifying. You might feel plagued by depression and/or anxiety, feel uncomfortable in your own skin or as if you are not performing to your best abilities. I want to commend you for taking this step and I would feel honored to be on this journey with you, helping you live a more satisfying, engaged and full life.
Hosted by Brittaney Latta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94603
It's important to talk about your loved one, honor your emotions and recognize the various stages of mourning. With loss also comes changes in self-identity and the role a person plays in life. This group is a safe space where you can share your story without judgment, and find comfort and understanding among others who are going through a similar experience. This group will assist you in exploring your thoughts on identity changes and also have a safe space to explore your unresolved feelings.
Hosted by Cathy Trenary
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94609
I believe in a holistic, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach to healing anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
Are you feeling stressed and anxious? Do you feel wound up without your usual stress outlets? Have you thought about meditating or tried an app, but it didn't last? In this guided journey of mindfulness, I teach you all the tools and information I teach clients, so that you can learn how to feel more calm and at ease, and gain control over anxiety. To access the course, visit my website, click My Services, then click Everyday Mindfulness for Stress & Anxiety.
Hosted by Elana Morgulis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94611
Are you going through a major change in your life? Maybe you feel anxious, lost, or stressed while wishing for clarity, confidence, and support. Therapy is a safe space for us to get to the root of what's going on, so you can move through the stuckness and challenge, and show up as your authentic self in life. I'll help you navigate difficult life experiences, learn self-care tools, communicate effectively, make sense of conflicting feelings, and cultivate a deeper connection with yourself and others.
Offering a blend of didactic skill based training and supportive group process, the Moving Through Emotional Crisis Group offers support to anyone suffering from intense depression, anxiety or trauma related symptoms. This 90 minute group is divided into approximately 30 minutes of skills training and 60 minutes of supportive group processing. Skills training for managing emotional distress are based on various modalities, including DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) Skills. Group members are encouraged to provide support and compassion to one another to provide a safe, healing environment.
Hosted by Mary Deyo
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94602
Having struggled with depression and anxiety myself, I truly empathize with the emotional pain you are experiencing.
Anyone who is currently struggling with emotional pain and wanting to change, is my ideal client. I am here to guide you through a journey into your mind and heart, to help you face your greatest fears, and discover your unimaginable strength. Out of the ashes, rises the phoenix and out of a personal crisis, comes tremendous growth and healing. Whether you are dealing with mood swings, depression, anxiety, addiction, panic, trauma or relationship issues, I am here to help.
This online group will provide community and support for living with anxiety. Many of us were experiencing high levels of anxiety before the COVID19 crisis. If you are feeling overwhelmed, fearful, alone and unsure about what to do, this is an opportunity to find refuge and cultivate practical tools for navigating high levels of stress and uncertainty. The group will incorporate meditation, guided imagery, psycho-education and giving and receiving support.
Hosted by Jennifer Lilly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94609
In addition to relationship issues, I also specialize in anxiety, depression, social anxiety, PTSD, and stress related concerns.
Do you have relationships in your life that are not working, and no matter what you do, it doesn't seem to get better? Are you looking for a partner, but find that it never seems to work out? Do you feel disconnected from others and are longing for relationships that are solid and fulfilling? Relationships take work and psychotherapy is an opportunity to understand who you are in relationship and how to create and healthy and supportive connections. I work with both individuals and couples to explore, cultivate and sustain intimacy.
Does dating scare you? Do you worry you'll die alone but also feel too scared to open your heart to someone? Our dating and social anxiety group can help you find companionship; learn practical, evidence-based techniques for working with and ultimately eliminating your dating anxiety; connect with like-minded peers and practice new skills in a safe environment; gain the self-esteem and courage needed to build deep, satisfying relationships; and find companionship with the support of a highly-trained, compassionate social anxiety specialist (who happens to be a dating coach, too!). Apply today at bayareadatingcoach.com.
Hosted by Bay Area Dating Coach
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RDT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94612
Dating can be scary. Because when you’re looking for real love (not just a fling), dating matters, and that can make it stressful. Add to that being an introvert and struggling with anxiety, and it can feel like a lonely battle! Thankfully, you don’t need to go through this alone. At Bay Area Dating Coach, our team of experienced, caring therapists want to support you and help you find your Person. We're here to help you discover what’s holding you back in dating and get the tools you need to find love. We’ll guide & support you in your journey to understand yourself and find the loving relationship you’re dreaming about.
The Teen Art Therapy group is for girls, genderqueer, non-binary, and trans teens between the ages of 14-18. This art therapy group integrates therapeutic art making, journaling, and talk therapy and focuses on self esteem, social skills, transitions, relationships, body image, identity, and managing stress and symptoms such as anxiety and depression. (For 18 year olds who are no longer in high school, we have a young adult group.) Sundays 5:30-7:00pm $70 / 90 min session. Facilitated by Lauren Chester, MPS, ATR-BC, LCAT (she/they)
Hosted by East Bay Art Therapy
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR-BC, LCAT, ATCS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94610
Our Art Therapists on staff work with ages 4 and up and have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, self harm, suicidal ideation, grief, life transitions, LGBTQ+ & neurodivergent folx, & more.
Are you looking for a new creative way to deal with difficulties in life and get in touch with your best self? Do you feel like you’ve tried everything with your child, but they struggle to benefit from traditional talk therapy? As art therapists, we incorporate talk therapy with art making to help our clients unlock their creative potential, look at problems with fresh eyes, and develop new creative coping skills for managing difficult emotions. If you or your child is feeling blocked by past trauma, stuck in destructive patterns, or overwhelmed by depression or anxiety, then I encourage you to reach out. You are not alone.
This group offers a holistic, trauma-informed therapeutic approach. Honest dialogue is used to help members develop more agency in their lives and build relationship skills. The group aims to help members discover strengths, uncover and realign belief systems, improve their ability to relate and interact with others, receive feedback, and identify how societal/cultural themes influence their identities and lives. Members are invited to both share and learn about each other's lived experiences outside and inside of the group. In developing awareness of collective common ground while identifying differences, feelings of authenticity, connection and support become more accessible.
Hosted by Erica S Wheeler-Dubin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94611
I am seeking clients who are open to discovering what makes them unique through a creative and imaginative process; Clients whose goals may range from deeper self knowledge, to decreasing experiences with anxiety and depression, to understanding how trauma plays itself out in their relationships, to being able to resource themselves, etc; Clients interested in exploring their strengths as well as their more scary parts. I believe that the experience of pain and suffering is normal and healing happens in connection with others; others who can hold and stay with the difficulty and provide curiosity and support.
Does your child struggle with constant worrying or anxious ruminations? Are their fears getting in the way of their ability to enjoy life? This group will present the origins of anxiety in a way that children can understand and resonate with. Understanding their anxious response is the first step to overcoming their fears. This group draws partially from the Coping Cat curriculum, teaching skills that children can use with the help of a parent or on their own in order to manage their anxiety.
Hosted by Kate Ekman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94610
Currently offering two groups for children ages 5-12 targeting emotional regulation/social skills and anxiety.
Could your child use some help with managing big feelings and impulses? Are these difficulties interfering with their functioning at school, home, or with friends? Does your child struggle with constant worrying or anxious ruminations? Are their fears getting in the way of their ability to enjoy life? My therapeutic skills groups are designed for kids who could use work on emotional regulation, social skills, and managing anxiety. Confidence Club can help your child master those skills and build confidence for life! Kids' groups are 12 week modules. Teen anxiety support group accepting ongoing referrals.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) offers structured support for emotional regulation, stress coping, and improved relationships in individuals struggling with various issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, and personality disorders. This group can assist you in learning effective mindfulness practices, distress tolerance, and communication skills. Group sessions focus on sharing experiences, validating each other, and learning DBT techniques. The group setting encourages connection, empowerment, and consistent practice of therapeutic tools. The eight-session program covers various DBT skills, ultimately aiming to promote healing and reclaiming a sense of self-control.
Hosted by Veronica Ghabour
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94609
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
See more therapy options for Oakland
Anxiety Support Groups
What are the most common treatments for anxiety?
Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other popular forms of therapy are popular, depending on a patient’s experience. Exposure therapy, for instance, can be useful for people dealing with fears and phobias, or who have experienced traumatic events. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy may be useful for patients who need help with emotion regulation. Anxiolytic medications, like benzodiazepines, can also help with calming a person enough to focus on the skills they’ve learned, and physical exercise has been shown to help symptoms of anxiety across the board.
How long does therapy for anxiety take to work?
The amount of time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. Anti-depressant medications typically take two to four weeks before a benefit is felt. Anti-anxiety medications are felt typically within 20-30 minutes. Medications are best used to offer a patient a better headspace in which to work on techniques learned in therapy. Exercise, improved sleep habits, and meditation are effective, but takes weeks or months to show results.
When should I seek treatment for anxiety?
Everyone feels anxious at times, but when anxiety causes disruption to your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Such disruption can be mental, physical, or both: having fear dominate your thoughts, avoiding situations or objects that bring on feelings of anxiety, or experiencing shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or panic attacks. When these symptoms are recurrent and distressing, it may be time to talk to someone.
How effective is treatment for anxiety?
Treatment for anxiety has been shown to be moderately to highly effective, according to a large body of psychology studies and analyses. For some people, treatment using CBT or exposure therapy alone is effective. Others respond best to a combination of medication and therapy.