Photo of Anika Thielbar, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Anika Thielbar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I have been privileged to have experienced a very diverse clientele. Currently I am accepting clients who are LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, those who are working on trauma or traumatic pasts, 'outside the box' or deep thinkers, and/or those who have lived diverse/alternative lives. When contacting me, please say what about this profile you were interested in, and why you think we might be a good match.
I have been privileged to have experienced a very diverse clientele. Currently I am accepting clients who are LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, those who are working on trauma or traumatic pasts, 'outside the box' or deep thinkers, and/or those who have lived diverse/alternative lives. When contacting me, please say what about this profile you were interested in, and why you think we might be a good match.
(510) 296-3637 View (510) 296-3637
Photo of Lili Nakita Kroutilina, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lili Nakita Kroutilina
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA, LMP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94606  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed in your life? Lost your sense of self and confidence? Confused by how to set boundaries and build healthy relationships? I am here for you! I can help you understand what is happening in your life and how you can heal, grow, and transform to be living the life you want. I have a trauma-informed, integrative style based on mindfulness, somatic psychology, ecotherapy, expressive arts, humanistic and transpersonal psychology, neuroscience, spirituality, and my background in holistic health, nutrition, massage, and fitness. I have a gentle yet directive, relational style
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed in your life? Lost your sense of self and confidence? Confused by how to set boundaries and build healthy relationships? I am here for you! I can help you understand what is happening in your life and how you can heal, grow, and transform to be living the life you want. I have a trauma-informed, integrative style based on mindfulness, somatic psychology, ecotherapy, expressive arts, humanistic and transpersonal psychology, neuroscience, spirituality, and my background in holistic health, nutrition, massage, and fitness. I have a gentle yet directive, relational style
(925) 900-5373 View (925) 900-5373
Photo of Heather Hardeman Galvano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Heather Hardeman Galvano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
It can be vulnerable to start therapy; it takes courage. I believe it can be very rewarding and is one of the most powerful paths of transformation. Being in therapy is an opportunity to look at your life, and to learn new ways of relating to yourself, to others, and to your circumstances. This process can ease the pain of whatever difficulty you may be going through. It is an opportunity to not have to be alone with your pain, but to have the support and guidance of someone who is familiar with the terrain of the human psyche.
It can be vulnerable to start therapy; it takes courage. I believe it can be very rewarding and is one of the most powerful paths of transformation. Being in therapy is an opportunity to look at your life, and to learn new ways of relating to yourself, to others, and to your circumstances. This process can ease the pain of whatever difficulty you may be going through. It is an opportunity to not have to be alone with your pain, but to have the support and guidance of someone who is familiar with the terrain of the human psyche.
(210) 248-8068 View (210) 248-8068
Photo of Leticia Vaca Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Leticia Vaca Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You don't have to struggle with day-to-day life difficulties alone. Are you facing personal growth blocks, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief/ loss, life transitions, family challenges, health or injury problems, work stress, or other types of emotional pains? My clients are diverse and I take the time to get to know your unique needs and goals. My approach is warm, sincere, and direct. You can expect a safe space to express yourself, relief from overwhelming thoughts and emotions, learn tools and get the right support to aid in healing. We can work together to help you regain balance in your life and feel empowered.
You don't have to struggle with day-to-day life difficulties alone. Are you facing personal growth blocks, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief/ loss, life transitions, family challenges, health or injury problems, work stress, or other types of emotional pains? My clients are diverse and I take the time to get to know your unique needs and goals. My approach is warm, sincere, and direct. You can expect a safe space to express yourself, relief from overwhelming thoughts and emotions, learn tools and get the right support to aid in healing. We can work together to help you regain balance in your life and feel empowered.
(510) 564-7817 View (510) 564-7817
Photo of Rebecca Pottenger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Rebecca Pottenger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
As a marriage and family therapist I create a safe and compassionate space so you can address unhealed wounds and access the part of you that knows how to heal, so that resilience and a way forward can be found, and self-esteem and self-confidence built. My experiential and embodied approach to psychotherapy can help you unearth the roots of inner conflict, discover inner reservoirs of wisdom, and heal unresolved trauma and emotional wounding.
As a marriage and family therapist I create a safe and compassionate space so you can address unhealed wounds and access the part of you that knows how to heal, so that resilience and a way forward can be found, and self-esteem and self-confidence built. My experiential and embodied approach to psychotherapy can help you unearth the roots of inner conflict, discover inner reservoirs of wisdom, and heal unresolved trauma and emotional wounding.
(949) 421-6277 View (949) 421-6277
Photo of Frank Banks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Frank Banks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
Is one or more of your kids on the Spectrum or have the ASD/ADD/OCD triad? In your relationship, is one of you on the spectrum and one not and is that causing misunderstandings and problems? Are you on the spectrum and having trouble understanding the non-spectrum people and world around you? I can help you bridge differences and deal with conflicts and meltdowns in an empathetic and constructive way. Also, I work for with LGBTQ people and couples with a variety of mental health concerns like anxiety and depression. It's hard growing up different from your peers. It can cause low self esteem, crippling self doubt and anger.
Is one or more of your kids on the Spectrum or have the ASD/ADD/OCD triad? In your relationship, is one of you on the spectrum and one not and is that causing misunderstandings and problems? Are you on the spectrum and having trouble understanding the non-spectrum people and world around you? I can help you bridge differences and deal with conflicts and meltdowns in an empathetic and constructive way. Also, I work for with LGBTQ people and couples with a variety of mental health concerns like anxiety and depression. It's hard growing up different from your peers. It can cause low self esteem, crippling self doubt and anger.
(415) 802-0854 View (415) 802-0854
Photo of Kai Lillie, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Kai Lillie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
What brings you here? If you are scrolling through these pages, you are likely looking for support, either for yourself or someone you care about. While it is easier now to find psychological support, finding the right person to work with is as important as ever. While working with me you will be received in a warm, non-judgmental, and curiosity filled environment. While considering what brought you into therapy, we will reflect on the circumstances contributing to where you are today. Our focus will be on integrating what has been in order to develop into what can be.
What brings you here? If you are scrolling through these pages, you are likely looking for support, either for yourself or someone you care about. While it is easier now to find psychological support, finding the right person to work with is as important as ever. While working with me you will be received in a warm, non-judgmental, and curiosity filled environment. While considering what brought you into therapy, we will reflect on the circumstances contributing to where you are today. Our focus will be on integrating what has been in order to develop into what can be.
(510) 990-9815 View (510) 990-9815
Photo of Debra Warshaw Taube, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Debra Warshaw Taube
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94604
Psychotherapy isn't one size fits all. It's a unique relationship that develops and responds to your needs, life-experiences, gender/ethnic/cultural identity, challenges and resources. You may be feeling stuck-repeating painful patterns, wanting to make changes but not knowing how. Or you're a survivor of sexual violence and the ways you've been coping aren't working anymore. I meet you where you are and bring my clinical and life experience, deep listening, compassion, acceptance, warmth and creativity. Together we create and draw on the power of a safe, accepting therapeutic relationship to support your growth and wholeness.
Psychotherapy isn't one size fits all. It's a unique relationship that develops and responds to your needs, life-experiences, gender/ethnic/cultural identity, challenges and resources. You may be feeling stuck-repeating painful patterns, wanting to make changes but not knowing how. Or you're a survivor of sexual violence and the ways you've been coping aren't working anymore. I meet you where you are and bring my clinical and life experience, deep listening, compassion, acceptance, warmth and creativity. Together we create and draw on the power of a safe, accepting therapeutic relationship to support your growth and wholeness.
(415) 949-1174 View (415) 949-1174
Photo of Caroline Mok, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Caroline Mok
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94607
I provide individual, couples, and group psychotherapy to children and adults. I have experience in treating numerous psychological disorders and supporting patients through difficult times, grieving, pandemic related stress, conflictual relationships, and troubling emotions. Along with the general areas of psychology, I specialize in the treatment of trauma. I have worked as a trauma researcher for ten years at the Palo Alto VA and Palo Alto University, publishing a book chapter on personality disorders and paper in the Journal of Threat Assessment and Management. I also provide assessment and expert witness services.
I provide individual, couples, and group psychotherapy to children and adults. I have experience in treating numerous psychological disorders and supporting patients through difficult times, grieving, pandemic related stress, conflictual relationships, and troubling emotions. Along with the general areas of psychology, I specialize in the treatment of trauma. I have worked as a trauma researcher for ten years at the Palo Alto VA and Palo Alto University, publishing a book chapter on personality disorders and paper in the Journal of Threat Assessment and Management. I also provide assessment and expert witness services.
(510) 827-1036 View (510) 827-1036
Photo of CK Olivieri Blackmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
CK Olivieri Blackmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
(518) 269-5458 View (518) 269-5458
Photo of Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
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Photo of Luba Palter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Luba Palter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Perhaps you have felt you do not fit in somehow in your family, your community, or the larger world. Perhaps you have been navigating multiple cultural identities inside. Perhaps you have felt like your spirit is tender and the struggles of your life are too much to bare. Perhaps you have felt that other people have figured it out and you have been comparing your insides to other people's outsides. And you have felt alone, maybe scared, and confused. And now you want someone to help you be with it all. Now you want a compassionate heart and a steady presence to navigate these emotional terrains.
Perhaps you have felt you do not fit in somehow in your family, your community, or the larger world. Perhaps you have been navigating multiple cultural identities inside. Perhaps you have felt like your spirit is tender and the struggles of your life are too much to bare. Perhaps you have felt that other people have figured it out and you have been comparing your insides to other people's outsides. And you have felt alone, maybe scared, and confused. And now you want someone to help you be with it all. Now you want a compassionate heart and a steady presence to navigate these emotional terrains.
(341) 895-7167 View (341) 895-7167
Photo of Sandra Berger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sandra Berger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
Sandra Berger a Marriage and Family Therapist (52999) with 16 years of experience. I work with a systemic, holistic, and depth-oriented approach. I focus on balancing personal needs and individual journeys against the background of our collective experiences. Sessions focus on optimizing our internal and external resources, improving the quality of our relationships, and increasing capacity to meet daily challenges. I enjoy working with clients 14 years old and up. Issues around identity and culture are particularly fascinating.
Sandra Berger a Marriage and Family Therapist (52999) with 16 years of experience. I work with a systemic, holistic, and depth-oriented approach. I focus on balancing personal needs and individual journeys against the background of our collective experiences. Sessions focus on optimizing our internal and external resources, improving the quality of our relationships, and increasing capacity to meet daily challenges. I enjoy working with clients 14 years old and up. Issues around identity and culture are particularly fascinating.
(661) 486-4109 View (661) 486-4109
Photo of Kanika Shelly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Kanika Shelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
Call all people who are seeking to be connected to a healthy family community. You Can have it. Explore the power of connecting or reconnecting to your family, whether it is your family of origin or chosen. I offer psychotherapy and healing heart services to Families and Couples (Blended Families, families experiencing conflict and co-parenting challenges) and groups (Transitional Age Youth 19-24 years). I aim to help people build healthy relationships with themselves and those around them. If you seek a healthy and compassionate sense of self to share with others, especially family and chosen family alike.
Call all people who are seeking to be connected to a healthy family community. You Can have it. Explore the power of connecting or reconnecting to your family, whether it is your family of origin or chosen. I offer psychotherapy and healing heart services to Families and Couples (Blended Families, families experiencing conflict and co-parenting challenges) and groups (Transitional Age Youth 19-24 years). I aim to help people build healthy relationships with themselves and those around them. If you seek a healthy and compassionate sense of self to share with others, especially family and chosen family alike.
(510) 726-8860 View (510) 726-8860
Photo of Yashu Jiang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Yashu Jiang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I work with adolescents, adults, and couples seeking insight, self-knowledge, and healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Many of my clients are immigrants or children of immigrants from families where mental health and therapy are not routine topics of conversation. Coming to therapy can feel strange and intimidating. I strive to provide a warm and supportive space for clients to face the things in their lives that are distressing, to confront painful aspects of themselves and their pasts, and make positive and lasting changes.
I work with adolescents, adults, and couples seeking insight, self-knowledge, and healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Many of my clients are immigrants or children of immigrants from families where mental health and therapy are not routine topics of conversation. Coming to therapy can feel strange and intimidating. I strive to provide a warm and supportive space for clients to face the things in their lives that are distressing, to confront painful aspects of themselves and their pasts, and make positive and lasting changes.
(510) 391-5768 View (510) 391-5768
Photo of Claire Greenwood, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Claire Greenwood
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
I provide contemporary psychoanalytic psychotherapy, focusing on individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges, and with an emphasis on queer, trans and non-binary experiences. My approach integrates a keen understanding of queer and gender issues, recognizing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in these contexts. I believe that our psychological symptoms are deeply connected to our early experiences, family histories, and the broader societal systems we inhabit, including those related to race and gender identity, class, and sexual orientation. I also offer EMDR for trauma and phobias.
I provide contemporary psychoanalytic psychotherapy, focusing on individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges, and with an emphasis on queer, trans and non-binary experiences. My approach integrates a keen understanding of queer and gender issues, recognizing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in these contexts. I believe that our psychological symptoms are deeply connected to our early experiences, family histories, and the broader societal systems we inhabit, including those related to race and gender identity, class, and sexual orientation. I also offer EMDR for trauma and phobias.
(415) 341-9809 View (415) 341-9809
Photo of Lisa Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lisa Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
If you’re looking for an empathic, trauma-informed therapist, you're in the right place. Maybe you're struggling to understand yourself and your relationships and are ready to heal old wounds. Do you feel conflicted about your sexual fantasies and desires? Want to experience more ease and pleasure? Depth psychotherapy will help you feel more at peace and become more self-accepting. For partners, parents, polycules and adult family members: Do you want to understand each other better and stop the repetitive cycles? Let’s get to the bottom of it and deepen your connection.
If you’re looking for an empathic, trauma-informed therapist, you're in the right place. Maybe you're struggling to understand yourself and your relationships and are ready to heal old wounds. Do you feel conflicted about your sexual fantasies and desires? Want to experience more ease and pleasure? Depth psychotherapy will help you feel more at peace and become more self-accepting. For partners, parents, polycules and adult family members: Do you want to understand each other better and stop the repetitive cycles? Let’s get to the bottom of it and deepen your connection.
(510) 369-1134 View (510) 369-1134
Photo of Mehreen Zahoor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Mehreen Zahoor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
I’m changing what I’ve written here. The world feels like a dumpster fire and I’m human enough to admit it. Are you feeling anxious and depressed? Do you need a safe space to talk about the frustration and fears you’re facing? I want to offer you that. We have been called resilient in the face of adversity for so long. And it’s intensely tiring to be glorified and honored for a having survival response. That’s what it is- survival. Therapy can be a place where you can leave your resiliency at the door and share your vulnerabilities.
I’m changing what I’ve written here. The world feels like a dumpster fire and I’m human enough to admit it. Are you feeling anxious and depressed? Do you need a safe space to talk about the frustration and fears you’re facing? I want to offer you that. We have been called resilient in the face of adversity for so long. And it’s intensely tiring to be glorified and honored for a having survival response. That’s what it is- survival. Therapy can be a place where you can leave your resiliency at the door and share your vulnerabilities.
(415) 881-3784 View (415) 881-3784
Photo of Judith Sachs, PhD, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Judith Sachs, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
(415) 840-3721 View (415) 840-3721
Photo of Betty Tharpe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, 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
Attachment-based Therapists

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.