Photo of Gwen J Sanders, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, 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 Eleanor Ruckman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Eleanor Ruckman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Life is challenging. We all benefit from receiving support as we navigate transitions, relationships, and the constancy of change. I have 20 years' experience supporting people who span a diverse range of ages and cultural backgrounds. My approach integrates body and sensory awareness with relaxation practices. I offer information about how neurobiological processes impact functioning and experience. The therapeutic relationship is collaborative and dynamic as we observe and shift unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. Some people choose to make art as part of most meetings; others prefer to mostly talk.
Life is challenging. We all benefit from receiving support as we navigate transitions, relationships, and the constancy of change. I have 20 years' experience supporting people who span a diverse range of ages and cultural backgrounds. My approach integrates body and sensory awareness with relaxation practices. I offer information about how neurobiological processes impact functioning and experience. The therapeutic relationship is collaborative and dynamic as we observe and shift unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. Some people choose to make art as part of most meetings; others prefer to mostly talk.
(510) 257-9746 View (510) 257-9746
Photo of Share Your Story Therapy and Coaching, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Share Your Story Therapy and Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94608
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults, adolescents, and couples. I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family, comedy, theatre, film making, creative writing, improvisation, nature, traveling, film and television, documentaries, dancing and making art of all kinds. I graduated from the High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Texas. In college I studied theatre, documentary film and creative writing. I have a BA from Columbia College Chicago.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults, adolescents, and couples. I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family, comedy, theatre, film making, creative writing, improvisation, nature, traveling, film and television, documentaries, dancing and making art of all kinds. I graduated from the High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Texas. In college I studied theatre, documentary film and creative writing. I have a BA from Columbia College Chicago.
(925) 430-6899 View (925) 430-6899
Photo of Joan Bechtel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Joan Bechtel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
How do we break the spell of trauma? Shame, internalized gaslighting, trust issues, addictions and all the rest. How do we break free? The funny answer is not by fighting them as enemies. But by befriending them. Once we befriend them, they lose their power over us. But how do we befriend an enemy that lives in our Unconscious? Dreams, art, play, and imagination are all natives of this realm. so they are perfect guides through our underworld of rich personal symbolism to befriend shadow elements and integrate repressed capacities, replenishing vitality. Fun breaks the spell.
How do we break the spell of trauma? Shame, internalized gaslighting, trust issues, addictions and all the rest. How do we break free? The funny answer is not by fighting them as enemies. But by befriending them. Once we befriend them, they lose their power over us. But how do we befriend an enemy that lives in our Unconscious? Dreams, art, play, and imagination are all natives of this realm. so they are perfect guides through our underworld of rich personal symbolism to befriend shadow elements and integrate repressed capacities, replenishing vitality. Fun breaks the spell.
(925) 705-4006 View (925) 705-4006
Photo of Krista L Hawkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Krista L Hawkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Art therapy taps into the subconscious to accelerate the discovery of repeated patterns and to heal old wounds that interfere with living a fulfilling life.
Are you feeling feeling stressed out, overwhlemed, and burned out! Are you burning the candle at both ends! Do you find yourself saying, I will do A, when B happens! Something has to give! I help women in all phases of life manage their stress, find life balance, and gain clarity during life transitions to increase their overall well-being. If you are reading this, then you are probably craving more intimate connections, a fulfilling career, more meaning, and joy. The fact that you are searching for a therapist shows you are ready to act and transform your life! Contact me to set up a free 15-minute consultation.
Art therapy taps into the subconscious to accelerate the discovery of repeated patterns and to heal old wounds that interfere with living a fulfilling life.
Are you feeling feeling stressed out, overwhlemed, and burned out! Are you burning the candle at both ends! Do you find yourself saying, I will do A, when B happens! Something has to give! I help women in all phases of life manage their stress, find life balance, and gain clarity during life transitions to increase their overall well-being. If you are reading this, then you are probably craving more intimate connections, a fulfilling career, more meaning, and joy. The fact that you are searching for a therapist shows you are ready to act and transform your life! Contact me to set up a free 15-minute consultation.
(424) 390-7626 View (424) 390-7626
Photo of Stef Bell, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Stef Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
Creativity and art making can be so healing and life-changing.
My ideology is inspired by the juxtaposition of American narratives, originating from the Deep South and Urban Midwest. Growing up in a Pro-Black, Christian Baptist home I learned how gender, sexuality, and white supremacy can greatly affect our culture, happiness and well-being. Early exposure to the mental healthcare system taught me that oppression can be as multi-layered and intersectional as the oppressed, and diagnosis will continue to be an act of oppression if it ignores cultural context, societal phobias, and systemic oppression. For a great number, our mental health is a representation of how we survive our social climate.
Creativity and art making can be so healing and life-changing.
My ideology is inspired by the juxtaposition of American narratives, originating from the Deep South and Urban Midwest. Growing up in a Pro-Black, Christian Baptist home I learned how gender, sexuality, and white supremacy can greatly affect our culture, happiness and well-being. Early exposure to the mental healthcare system taught me that oppression can be as multi-layered and intersectional as the oppressed, and diagnosis will continue to be an act of oppression if it ignores cultural context, societal phobias, and systemic oppression. For a great number, our mental health is a representation of how we survive our social climate.
(510) 240-5906 View (510) 240-5906
Photo of Kelly Bassin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Kelly Bassin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I use play therapy, art therapy & eco therapy with children and teens.
Do you find yourself at a crossroads or yearning for more? You may be at a breaking point or you may want to make some changes and you don't know where to start. I will ensure a safe and warm environment for exploration. We will move at a pace comfortable for you. Taking the leap of faith into therapy takes courage. We will engage in a process of empowerment to help you feel more centered & grounded in yourself. I work with individuals, couples, children, & families. I am here to listen, empathize & deepen your self-understanding . We will take a look at your inner longings and the parts of your life which may not be serving you.
I use play therapy, art therapy & eco therapy with children and teens.
Do you find yourself at a crossroads or yearning for more? You may be at a breaking point or you may want to make some changes and you don't know where to start. I will ensure a safe and warm environment for exploration. We will move at a pace comfortable for you. Taking the leap of faith into therapy takes courage. We will engage in a process of empowerment to help you feel more centered & grounded in yourself. I work with individuals, couples, children, & families. I am here to listen, empathize & deepen your self-understanding . We will take a look at your inner longings and the parts of your life which may not be serving you.
(209) 408-1547 View (209) 408-1547
Photo of Sacramento Transformation Center , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sacramento Transformation Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94606
I also have a full studio in my office for art therapy.
I have been a practicing LCSW for 20 years. I believe that people can change for the better at any time in their lives. Our daily responsibilities often get in the way of us prioritizing our mental health, however there is no better time than now to start your growth journey. I am here to help you. I am very open minded and non judgmental. You can tell me anything and be assured that I will listen with compassion. I worked in healthcare most of my career and specialize in end of life, caregiver compassion fatigue and adjustment issues related to managing chronic illnesses. I also work with tweens, teens and adults of all ages.
I also have a full studio in my office for art therapy.
I have been a practicing LCSW for 20 years. I believe that people can change for the better at any time in their lives. Our daily responsibilities often get in the way of us prioritizing our mental health, however there is no better time than now to start your growth journey. I am here to help you. I am very open minded and non judgmental. You can tell me anything and be assured that I will listen with compassion. I worked in healthcare most of my career and specialize in end of life, caregiver compassion fatigue and adjustment issues related to managing chronic illnesses. I also work with tweens, teens and adults of all ages.
(530) 454-8348 View (530) 454-8348
Photo of EMDR Therapist Dean Jones, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
EMDR Therapist Dean Jones, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
As a well-seasoned therapist, I have a balance of wisdom and knowledge. I have worked with various demographics assisting in the healing process of various forms of trauma. I also provide training to clinicians as well, EMDR. With me, you will get experience, compassion, and sensitivity to your needs as we work together collaboratively to heal the wounds of the past that will allow for joy presently and in your future. It is possible as I have witnessed it hundreds of times. Let the healing start now. I am also a culturally focused therapist with a special interest in reprocessing racialized trauma and other form of oppression.
As a well-seasoned therapist, I have a balance of wisdom and knowledge. I have worked with various demographics assisting in the healing process of various forms of trauma. I also provide training to clinicians as well, EMDR. With me, you will get experience, compassion, and sensitivity to your needs as we work together collaboratively to heal the wounds of the past that will allow for joy presently and in your future. It is possible as I have witnessed it hundreds of times. Let the healing start now. I am also a culturally focused therapist with a special interest in reprocessing racialized trauma and other form of oppression.
(510) 216-1664 View (510) 216-1664
Photo of Adriana Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Adriana Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
Hi, I'm Adriana! My name is Adriana Gonzalez and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Riverside, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am dedicated to serving adolescents and their families and specialize in treating anxiety, stress, and behavioral health disorders using solution-focused and family-centered treatment to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build the necessary skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life.
Hi, I'm Adriana! My name is Adriana Gonzalez and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Riverside, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am dedicated to serving adolescents and their families and specialize in treating anxiety, stress, and behavioral health disorders using solution-focused and family-centered treatment to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build the necessary skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life.
(510) 680-2302 View (510) 680-2302
Photo of Vast Love, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Vast Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
I offer therapy in CA and coaching internationally through an online format. My primary focus is supporting people with issues related to non-monogamy through a trauma informed lens. My practice is kink, queer, trans, monogamy, poly, open relationship, RA, neurodivergent, and quirk friendly. I’m passionate about sharing tools that can help others experience secure relationships in whatever structures feel like the best fit for the unique values, desires, and ways of being of the individuals involved. My ideal clients are simply people who want to show up as their most authentic & actualized selves.
I offer therapy in CA and coaching internationally through an online format. My primary focus is supporting people with issues related to non-monogamy through a trauma informed lens. My practice is kink, queer, trans, monogamy, poly, open relationship, RA, neurodivergent, and quirk friendly. I’m passionate about sharing tools that can help others experience secure relationships in whatever structures feel like the best fit for the unique values, desires, and ways of being of the individuals involved. My ideal clients are simply people who want to show up as their most authentic & actualized selves.
(510) 880-4195 View (510) 880-4195
Photo of Mia Turner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Mia Turner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
My work with every client and family is personalized, trauma-informed, rooted in strengths, collaborative, neurodiversity-affirming, and culturally tailored to your needs and experiences. I believe that each client possesses the intergenerational heirlooms of innate resilience, spirituality, and introspection that serve as tools to assist in your healing journey. You are the expert of your experience and I am here to offer hope and support you as you share your narrative and author a new chapter of healing, continuing to grow into your best self, discovering balance, serenity, joy, and connecting with yourself and surroundings.
My work with every client and family is personalized, trauma-informed, rooted in strengths, collaborative, neurodiversity-affirming, and culturally tailored to your needs and experiences. I believe that each client possesses the intergenerational heirlooms of innate resilience, spirituality, and introspection that serve as tools to assist in your healing journey. You are the expert of your experience and I am here to offer hope and support you as you share your narrative and author a new chapter of healing, continuing to grow into your best self, discovering balance, serenity, joy, and connecting with yourself and surroundings.
(510) 737-7485 View (510) 737-7485
Photo of Matthew R. Hicks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Matthew R. Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands, my aim is to introduce clarity, authenticity, and self-motivation. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I’ve been successfully treating adults, families, and youth for over 20 years facilitating their self-growth. I teach techniques to better manage the emotional stress of everyday life. I have also focused on extensive training in anxiety/depression, play therapy, parenting, treating past and recent trauma, OCD, addiction, and working with family systems.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands, my aim is to introduce clarity, authenticity, and self-motivation. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I’ve been successfully treating adults, families, and youth for over 20 years facilitating their self-growth. I teach techniques to better manage the emotional stress of everyday life. I have also focused on extensive training in anxiety/depression, play therapy, parenting, treating past and recent trauma, OCD, addiction, and working with family systems.
(510) 683-5273 View (510) 683-5273
Photo of Teresa Cole, Counselor in Oakland, CA
Teresa Cole
Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
I specialize in trauma (EMDR certified), grief and loss, career, disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families dealing with all types of issues and mental health disorders. My approach is process oriented and goal directed while providing psycho-education and resources. I will help you access your inner strength and build tools to cope, grow, and heal.
I specialize in trauma (EMDR certified), grief and loss, career, disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families dealing with all types of issues and mental health disorders. My approach is process oriented and goal directed while providing psycho-education and resources. I will help you access your inner strength and build tools to cope, grow, and heal.
(510) 588-5277 View (510) 588-5277
Photo of Mirely Vasquez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Mirely Vasquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619
Bienvenidos/Welcome! I am a bilingual/bicultural Spanish-speaking therapist located in the East Bay area of California. I have been working with children, teens, and adults of color struggling with an array of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship satisfaction, life purpose, trauma, postpartum depression, and spirituality, related to life transitions, family stress, trauma, and grief. Although my work has focused on the unique needs of minorities and underrepresented individuals, being a member of that community is certainly not a requirement for your personal development.
Bienvenidos/Welcome! I am a bilingual/bicultural Spanish-speaking therapist located in the East Bay area of California. I have been working with children, teens, and adults of color struggling with an array of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship satisfaction, life purpose, trauma, postpartum depression, and spirituality, related to life transitions, family stress, trauma, and grief. Although my work has focused on the unique needs of minorities and underrepresented individuals, being a member of that community is certainly not a requirement for your personal development.
(510) 916-3215 View (510) 916-3215
Photo of Olivia Clear, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oakland, CA
Olivia Clear
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MS, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Are you searching for a therapist to help you integrate your insights into change in your day-to-day life? Do you need a space filled with wonder, openness, & curiosity where you can safely explore your inner world? Perhaps you want to talk about the psychedelic state you experienced during Ketamine Therapy or other 'non-ordinary' states like meditation but feel afraid your therapist won’t get it or know how to make meaning with you? Do you wonder if it’s possible to find someone who will honor the impact of your experiences, your story, and your path in a safe, co-creative relationship?
Are you searching for a therapist to help you integrate your insights into change in your day-to-day life? Do you need a space filled with wonder, openness, & curiosity where you can safely explore your inner world? Perhaps you want to talk about the psychedelic state you experienced during Ketamine Therapy or other 'non-ordinary' states like meditation but feel afraid your therapist won’t get it or know how to make meaning with you? Do you wonder if it’s possible to find someone who will honor the impact of your experiences, your story, and your path in a safe, co-creative relationship?
(510) 680-2623 View (510) 680-2623
Photo of Patricia Banchik Rothschild, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Patricia Banchik Rothschild
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
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 Charles Marco Aquilina, Psychologist in Oakland, 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 Roksana Sarrafan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Roksana Sarrafan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I bring a wealth of multicultural knowledge and experience to the table, ensuring you receive professional services built on respect and trust. Let’s bust the myth together: therapy isn’t just for those who’ve faced trauma. Whether you’re seeking clarity, a self-esteem boost, or solutions to life’s challenges, talking with a therapist can be life-changing!
As a therapist, I bring a wealth of multicultural knowledge and experience to the table, ensuring you receive professional services built on respect and trust. Let’s bust the myth together: therapy isn’t just for those who’ve faced trauma. Whether you’re seeking clarity, a self-esteem boost, or solutions to life’s challenges, talking with a therapist can be life-changing!
(510) 257-9758 View (510) 257-9758
Photo of Tracy Chocholousek, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Tracy Chocholousek
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
I believe that the human spirit is oriented toward growth and expansion. My intention when working together is to serve as a collaborator, ally and accountability partner toward your highest good. To hold space for your whole self, to focus on resilience, and encourage you on your path toward living your best life. My work focuses on custom-crafting simple, evidence-based practices that can make a difference in your daily life - creative practices that will help decrease stress and anxiety, address trauma big and small, and foster better communication and relationships. These practices could range from guided visualization to CBT.
I believe that the human spirit is oriented toward growth and expansion. My intention when working together is to serve as a collaborator, ally and accountability partner toward your highest good. To hold space for your whole self, to focus on resilience, and encourage you on your path toward living your best life. My work focuses on custom-crafting simple, evidence-based practices that can make a difference in your daily life - creative practices that will help decrease stress and anxiety, address trauma big and small, and foster better communication and relationships. These practices could range from guided visualization to CBT.
(510) 561-2085 View (510) 561-2085
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.