Photo of Gwen J Sanders, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94611, CA
Gwen J Sanders
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
As a PhD in Art Therapy and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC), I infuse art therapy into my work with my clients only if it appears they would benefit.
My clients are most often dealing with communication concerns, issues of intimacy and complications related to life changes. When traumatic events impact their daily lives, they may seek assistance. Occasionally couples and families experiencing stress in their relationships may need an objective listener and guide to help them figure out how to reestablish balance. With the many demands of life and work, we work together to find pleasure in their families and for parents to reinstate parental authority within the family structure.
As a PhD in Art Therapy and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC), I infuse art therapy into my work with my clients only if it appears they would benefit.
My clients are most often dealing with communication concerns, issues of intimacy and complications related to life changes. When traumatic events impact their daily lives, they may seek assistance. Occasionally couples and families experiencing stress in their relationships may need an objective listener and guide to help them figure out how to reestablish balance. With the many demands of life and work, we work together to find pleasure in their families and for parents to reinstate parental authority within the family structure.
(510) 403-8093 View (510) 403-8093
Photo of Hannah Rudsten, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94611, CA
Hannah Rudsten
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
My approach is to intertwine guided meditations with creative expression such as art, , journaling, movement, and psychodrama.
Hello! My name is Hannah, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults ages 18+, primarily female identified, navigate pivotal life transitions. Whether you're a young adult fostering independence, a parent stepping into the realm of empty nesting, or someone embracing a new career, I'm here to offer you guidance and support. My hope is to walk alongside you during these times of change, uncertainty, and growth, providing a safe space for exploration, healing, and empowerment. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of transition, uncovering hidden opportunities for personal evolution and resilience.
My approach is to intertwine guided meditations with creative expression such as art, , journaling, movement, and psychodrama.
Hello! My name is Hannah, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults ages 18+, primarily female identified, navigate pivotal life transitions. Whether you're a young adult fostering independence, a parent stepping into the realm of empty nesting, or someone embracing a new career, I'm here to offer you guidance and support. My hope is to walk alongside you during these times of change, uncertainty, and growth, providing a safe space for exploration, healing, and empowerment. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of transition, uncovering hidden opportunities for personal evolution and resilience.
(510) 216-1979 View (510) 216-1979
Photo of Cheryl Feldman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94611, CA
Cheryl Feldman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Art can access thoughts and feelings we are not aware of, through open expression and not about "being the perfect artist".
Children and teens are more aware of their own internal states and the world around them than ever before, while the family unit takes on more stress. This combination can create anxiety, depression, acting out behaviors, confusion, and educational struggles for many. Through a strength-based perspective I focus on communication, relationships, boundaries, and self-care. I work with youth (and families) to explore their patterns of interactions with others and encourage self-awareness and growth in these areas. Developing a relationship with a child or teen takes time and care, both of which I have done for nearly twenty years.
Art can access thoughts and feelings we are not aware of, through open expression and not about "being the perfect artist".
Children and teens are more aware of their own internal states and the world around them than ever before, while the family unit takes on more stress. This combination can create anxiety, depression, acting out behaviors, confusion, and educational struggles for many. Through a strength-based perspective I focus on communication, relationships, boundaries, and self-care. I work with youth (and families) to explore their patterns of interactions with others and encourage self-awareness and growth in these areas. Developing a relationship with a child or teen takes time and care, both of which I have done for nearly twenty years.
(510) 256-7864 View (510) 256-7864
Photo of Charles Marco Aquilina, Psychologist in 94611, CA
Charles Marco Aquilina
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BA, AA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Hi there, I primarily work in substance use recovery (abstinence and harm reduction) and trauma recovery. I also have specialized training in treating anxiety, depression, and sleep issues/insomnia. My treatment orientation is based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy concepts, however the foundation of my early training was Psychodynamic.
Hi there, I primarily work in substance use recovery (abstinence and harm reduction) and trauma recovery. I also have specialized training in treating anxiety, depression, and sleep issues/insomnia. My treatment orientation is based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy concepts, however the foundation of my early training was Psychodynamic.
(510) 878-3486 View (510) 878-3486
Photo of Laura (Lo) Wesely, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94611, CA
Laura (Lo) Wesely
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Whether sitting with individuals or partners, I am here to remind you of what you already know but might have forgotten: you are enough. Many clients find their way to me because they want to work through challenges related to their identity, acculturation, sexuality, gender expression, relationship formation, and early traumas. My identities as a queer, non-monogamous, sex- and kink-positive, immigrant woman tend to attract potential clients who share some of these positionalities.
Whether sitting with individuals or partners, I am here to remind you of what you already know but might have forgotten: you are enough. Many clients find their way to me because they want to work through challenges related to their identity, acculturation, sexuality, gender expression, relationship formation, and early traumas. My identities as a queer, non-monogamous, sex- and kink-positive, immigrant woman tend to attract potential clients who share some of these positionalities.
(510) 462-3503 View (510) 462-3503
Photo of Mekdes Yilma, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94611, CA
Mekdes Yilma
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
As Audre Lord said, "Self-care is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation." Hello, I'm Mekdes! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working out of Fresno, CA. Deciding to seek counseling services is a huge step. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, or parenting challenges, participating in therapy can give you the boost that you need to start living your best life again! As a therapist, I consider it a privilege to be allowed to walk alongside you on your journey of healing.
As Audre Lord said, "Self-care is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation." Hello, I'm Mekdes! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working out of Fresno, CA. Deciding to seek counseling services is a huge step. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, or parenting challenges, participating in therapy can give you the boost that you need to start living your best life again! As a therapist, I consider it a privilege to be allowed to walk alongside you on your journey of healing.
(510) 480-3651 View (510) 480-3651
Photo of Lauren Hoernig, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94611, CA
Lauren Hoernig
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Adults/Teens/Families. Bring your anxiety or depression, issues with identity, life purpose and meaning, your trauma, your grief. I draw on 15+ years of experience as a case manager, special educator, and wilderness first responder.
Adults/Teens/Families. Bring your anxiety or depression, issues with identity, life purpose and meaning, your trauma, your grief. I draw on 15+ years of experience as a case manager, special educator, and wilderness first responder.
(510) 867-3496 View (510) 867-3496
Photo of Shannon Knorr, Pre-Licensed Professional in 94611, CA
Shannon Knorr
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I enjoy in working with; self esteem & worth, trauma healing & recovery, body image & body positivity, disordered eating & relationship to body, belonging as our birthright, transforming deep shame into liberation, body & sex shame, relationships and boundaries, anxiety, stress & hyper-vigilance, nervous system imbalances, life transitions & identity, honoring grief, loss & death, life threatening illness, cancer, auto-immune disease, rites of passage, aging, adolescence, menopause, women's empowerment, highly sensitive people & empaths, people pleasers, intergenerational trauma & ancestral healing, mothering & the mother wound.
I enjoy in working with; self esteem & worth, trauma healing & recovery, body image & body positivity, disordered eating & relationship to body, belonging as our birthright, transforming deep shame into liberation, body & sex shame, relationships and boundaries, anxiety, stress & hyper-vigilance, nervous system imbalances, life transitions & identity, honoring grief, loss & death, life threatening illness, cancer, auto-immune disease, rites of passage, aging, adolescence, menopause, women's empowerment, highly sensitive people & empaths, people pleasers, intergenerational trauma & ancestral healing, mothering & the mother wound.
(510) 983-4457 View (510) 983-4457
Photo of Austin Heafey, Psychologist in 94611, CA
Austin Heafey
Psychologist, MFT, Psy D
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Everyone deserves support– life can be overwhelming. Our sessions provide a safe, encouraging space for you to slow down and focus on what’s important. As an advocate for you, your family, or your child, we create solutions that help you find healing.
Everyone deserves support– life can be overwhelming. Our sessions provide a safe, encouraging space for you to slow down and focus on what’s important. As an advocate for you, your family, or your child, we create solutions that help you find healing.
(415) 594-4159 View (415) 594-4159
Photo of Nancy Gonzalez-McKenzie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94611, CA
Nancy Gonzalez-McKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
You are the expert in your life and I look forward to meeting with you where you are in life.
You are the expert in your life and I look forward to meeting with you where you are in life.
(619) 949-1362 View (619) 949-1362
Photo of Patricia Banchik Rothschild, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94611, CA
Patricia Banchik Rothschild
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Waitlist for new clients
My experience comes from 31 years of helping children, adults, couples and families in both Community Mental Health and Private Practice. My approach is eclectic and tailored to each individual's needs to facilitate healing and growth. Through my years of experience I have witnessed over and over again people coming into therapy with great pain, discomfort and despair but with time, (sometimes within a very short time) their symptoms diminish and a whole new person emerges. Crisis times can be extremely painful and distressful but they can also be opportunities for growth and healing through therapy.
My experience comes from 31 years of helping children, adults, couples and families in both Community Mental Health and Private Practice. My approach is eclectic and tailored to each individual's needs to facilitate healing and growth. Through my years of experience I have witnessed over and over again people coming into therapy with great pain, discomfort and despair but with time, (sometimes within a very short time) their symptoms diminish and a whole new person emerges. Crisis times can be extremely painful and distressful but they can also be opportunities for growth and healing through therapy.
(510) 403-8151 View (510) 403-8151
Photo of Rachel A Erwin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94611, CA
Rachel A Erwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Piedmont, CA 94611
I am passionate about supporting people to quickly move through psychological blocks that create stress and stop the flow of creative, productive energy. I focus on facilitating freedom from anxiety and depression created by past experiences, opening the mind to what is present and possible, instead of old and no longer useful. I work extensively with the therapeutic technique known as EMDR, which is clinically proven to be an effective treatment for Anxiety/Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I am an EMDRIA approved Consultant and a Trainer for the Trauma Recovery Humanitarian Assistance Program. www.emdrhap.org
I am passionate about supporting people to quickly move through psychological blocks that create stress and stop the flow of creative, productive energy. I focus on facilitating freedom from anxiety and depression created by past experiences, opening the mind to what is present and possible, instead of old and no longer useful. I work extensively with the therapeutic technique known as EMDR, which is clinically proven to be an effective treatment for Anxiety/Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I am an EMDRIA approved Consultant and a Trainer for the Trauma Recovery Humanitarian Assistance Program. www.emdrhap.org
(510) 863-4970 View (510) 863-4970
Photo of Marshawn Rodgers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94611, CA
Marshawn Rodgers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Hello, my name is Marshawn Rodgers. I am a psychotherapist who is available to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to express feelings, fears, struggles, and eventual victories. Congratulations on taking the first steps to heal. Begin by acknowledging your courage to discuss your struggles and make your hope a reality. I would welcome the opportunity to work with you.
Hello, my name is Marshawn Rodgers. I am a psychotherapist who is available to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to express feelings, fears, struggles, and eventual victories. Congratulations on taking the first steps to heal. Begin by acknowledging your courage to discuss your struggles and make your hope a reality. I would welcome the opportunity to work with you.
(619) 413-0135 View (619) 413-0135
Photo of Adriana N Taranta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94611, CA
Adriana N Taranta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Are you concerned about your child’s behavior? Are you struggling to understand what is happening for your child? Are you finding parenting overwhelming? I work with children and parents to help them make meaning of life’s challenges and work with children and parents, both individually and together. I bring more than twenty years of experience providing therapy, consultation, and assessments with children and their families to my clinical practice. I have experience working with children and families around many issues including, loss, attachment, adoption, anxiety, depression, atypical development, learning differences and trauma.
Are you concerned about your child’s behavior? Are you struggling to understand what is happening for your child? Are you finding parenting overwhelming? I work with children and parents to help them make meaning of life’s challenges and work with children and parents, both individually and together. I bring more than twenty years of experience providing therapy, consultation, and assessments with children and their families to my clinical practice. I have experience working with children and families around many issues including, loss, attachment, adoption, anxiety, depression, atypical development, learning differences and trauma.
(510) 661-3529 View (510) 661-3529
Photo of Aditi Uttarwar - Little Seedlings Therapy Center, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 94611, CA
Aditi Uttarwar - Little Seedlings Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and a registered dance movement therapist. My expertise encompasses postpartum, pregnancy, parenting, as well as support for infants, children, and families. My therapeutic approach is rooted in harnessing the body's wisdom, allowing us to explore and effect change through the body. I guide you in understanding body signals and collaboratively develop strategies to facilitate the desired transformations. I believe in the power of nonverbal communication and self-expression to foster emotional growth and strengthen connections within these vital relationships.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and a registered dance movement therapist. My expertise encompasses postpartum, pregnancy, parenting, as well as support for infants, children, and families. My therapeutic approach is rooted in harnessing the body's wisdom, allowing us to explore and effect change through the body. I guide you in understanding body signals and collaboratively develop strategies to facilitate the desired transformations. I believe in the power of nonverbal communication and self-expression to foster emotional growth and strengthen connections within these vital relationships.
(510) 390-9581 View (510) 390-9581
Photo of Sally Walstrom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94611, CA
Sally Walstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
You feel like something is off. You’re feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, disconnected, stuck. You want to understand your own reactions, build healthy and sustaining relationships, feel grounded and present in your day to day life. I can help! With over a decade of experience, I provide LGBTQIA-affirming and trauma-responsive therapy for youth, adults, and families. Using evidence-based techniques like expressive arts, somatics, and dialectical behavioral skills, I support people finding meaning and connection after trauma and chronic stress.
You feel like something is off. You’re feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, disconnected, stuck. You want to understand your own reactions, build healthy and sustaining relationships, feel grounded and present in your day to day life. I can help! With over a decade of experience, I provide LGBTQIA-affirming and trauma-responsive therapy for youth, adults, and families. Using evidence-based techniques like expressive arts, somatics, and dialectical behavioral skills, I support people finding meaning and connection after trauma and chronic stress.
(510) 764-3070 View (510) 764-3070
Photo of Olisha Hodges, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94611, CA
Olisha Hodges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Not accepting new clients
Are you experiencing a difficult time? Looking for support? My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet your individual needs, as you are the expert on your life! My goal is to partner with you as you navigate through this difficult time. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with ten years experience working with children and families in various non-profit, school and county capacities. My private practice is dedicated to supporting school-age, teen and adult clients to make the most out of their resources and relationships. I provide psychotherapy services to those in need.
Are you experiencing a difficult time? Looking for support? My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet your individual needs, as you are the expert on your life! My goal is to partner with you as you navigate through this difficult time. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with ten years experience working with children and families in various non-profit, school and county capacities. My private practice is dedicated to supporting school-age, teen and adult clients to make the most out of their resources and relationships. I provide psychotherapy services to those in need.
(510) 907-6476 View (510) 907-6476
Photo of Betty Tharpe, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94611, CA
Betty Tharpe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Not accepting new clients
I work with adults, adolescents, children and couples / families. If you are anxious, depressed, or lonely; in a troubled relationship, grieving, haunted by childhood trauma, or painful, confusing feelings; it can be hard to make headway alone. There are times when the reason for coming to therapy is clear (a loss, a crisis), other times a feeling that something is holding you back, or keeping you from your self.
I work with adults, adolescents, children and couples / families. If you are anxious, depressed, or lonely; in a troubled relationship, grieving, haunted by childhood trauma, or painful, confusing feelings; it can be hard to make headway alone. There are times when the reason for coming to therapy is clear (a loss, a crisis), other times a feeling that something is holding you back, or keeping you from your self.
(510) 735-8960 View (510) 735-8960
Photo of Victoria Bravo, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94611, CA
Victoria Bravo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Not accepting new clients
We all go through difficult times at some point in our lives. How we adjust, cope, and learn from these experiences will help us regain the sense of empowerment, inspiration and resilience to endure the many stages in life. Todos pasamos por momentos dificiles en nuestras vidas, pero el como nos ajustamos y lo que aprendemos de esas experiencias, es lo que nos ayudara a volver a sentir la capacidad, inspiracion y fortaleza para sobrellevar las diferentes etapas de nuestra vida.
We all go through difficult times at some point in our lives. How we adjust, cope, and learn from these experiences will help us regain the sense of empowerment, inspiration and resilience to endure the many stages in life. Todos pasamos por momentos dificiles en nuestras vidas, pero el como nos ajustamos y lo que aprendemos de esas experiencias, es lo que nos ayudara a volver a sentir la capacidad, inspiracion y fortaleza para sobrellevar las diferentes etapas de nuestra vida.
(510) 746-8137 View (510) 746-8137
Art Therapy

How does art therapy work?

The process of making art allows people to express themselves. Art-making can take many forms, such as painting, collage, or sculpting. The therapist asks questions that the work elicits, such as how the person felt while creating their piece, or if any memories surfaced that they can discuss. The therapist will then work with the patient to process their experience, understand themselves better, and work toward change.

Does art therapy help with trauma?

Art therapy can be a valuable treatment option for those suffering from trauma. Traumatic experiences such as combat, rape, or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. The physical nature of creating art can also help people feel rooted in the body, which may benefit those who feel disconnected from their body in the aftermath of trauma.

How long does art therapy last?

The duration of art therapy varies, but a common length for treatment is 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people may see improvement in just a few weeks, while others may choose to remain in therapy longer term. Patients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

What are the limitations of art therapy?

Art therapy is helpful for many people, but a limitation is that it doesn’t have as robust an evidence base as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. The evidence on art therapy is mixed; some research demonstrates its benefits, while other research suggests that it has little impact on patients.