Therapists in Oakland, CA
Sara Rabinovitch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612 (Online Only)
Welcome! It is so nice to meet you. I work best with clients who are motivated to change and looking for a short-term and skills-based approach. You can expect sharp clinical precision, collaboration, deep human kindness, realness, and radical open-mindedness. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and professor at USC Keck School of Medicine. I am also a certified Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) teacher with 15+ years of formal mindfulness training. I specialize in research-supported Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfulness-Based therapies.
Welcome! It is so nice to meet you. I work best with clients who are motivated to change and looking for a short-term and skills-based approach. You can expect sharp clinical precision, collaboration, deep human kindness, realness, and radical open-mindedness. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and professor at USC Keck School of Medicine. I am also a certified Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) teacher with 15+ years of formal mindfulness training. I specialize in research-supported Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfulness-Based therapies.
Gregory Bendau
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Do you struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt or low self-esteem? Do you find yourself avoiding social engagements or so preoccupied with excessive worrying? Finding ways to navigate these difficult feelings can help you get back on track. I use a psychodynamic approach and CBT that focuses on uncovering patterns of behavior and ways of relating to ourselves and others that are often outside of our awareness. I also consider how our past impacts who we are today. Through acceptance and empathy, we will establish a trusting therapeutic relationship and work together toward your personal growth and self-discovery.
Do you struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt or low self-esteem? Do you find yourself avoiding social engagements or so preoccupied with excessive worrying? Finding ways to navigate these difficult feelings can help you get back on track. I use a psychodynamic approach and CBT that focuses on uncovering patterns of behavior and ways of relating to ourselves and others that are often outside of our awareness. I also consider how our past impacts who we are today. Through acceptance and empathy, we will establish a trusting therapeutic relationship and work together toward your personal growth and self-discovery.
Jonathan Willett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I work to build a warm, empathic relationship with my clients to create an environment where we can think together about the issues that bring you to therapy and how best to resolve them. I am informed by psychodynamic theory and utilize this rich tradition to explore unconscious defenses, maladaptive patterns and underlying schemas that can cause a person to repeat problematic behaviors despite their best efforts to change. I also draw from Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfullness practices to support clients with acquiring the tools they need to make those changes.
I work to build a warm, empathic relationship with my clients to create an environment where we can think together about the issues that bring you to therapy and how best to resolve them. I am informed by psychodynamic theory and utilize this rich tradition to explore unconscious defenses, maladaptive patterns and underlying schemas that can cause a person to repeat problematic behaviors despite their best efforts to change. I also draw from Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfullness practices to support clients with acquiring the tools they need to make those changes.
Rosemary Ehat
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Not accepting new clients
These past years have been a struggle for all of us. Many of the issues we faced before the Pandemic have been intensified. Perhaps the challenges of these times have resulted in the development of inner resources you didn't know you had. Perhaps you, like most others, have experienced more loneliness and isolation. Reaching out for help takes courage. Perhaps therapy, even for a limited time, could help you develop inner and outer resources to stabilize and enrich your experience of your life as it is right now. Call me for a free 15 minute consultation to see if I might be a good match for your needs.
These past years have been a struggle for all of us. Many of the issues we faced before the Pandemic have been intensified. Perhaps the challenges of these times have resulted in the development of inner resources you didn't know you had. Perhaps you, like most others, have experienced more loneliness and isolation. Reaching out for help takes courage. Perhaps therapy, even for a limited time, could help you develop inner and outer resources to stabilize and enrich your experience of your life as it is right now. Call me for a free 15 minute consultation to see if I might be a good match for your needs.
Cary Littell
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
People seek therapy when they feel unhappy, anxious, stuck in patterns and relationships that don't serve them or acting in ways that are self-destructive. Therapy can address and change outmoded ways of being. The therapeutic relationship is key to this work: It offers the possibility of exploring and understanding more effective and satisfying ways of relating to ourselves and others. I work with children, adolescents and adults in individual therapy, using a collaborative approach that centers on empathy, understanding, curiosity and exploration.
People seek therapy when they feel unhappy, anxious, stuck in patterns and relationships that don't serve them or acting in ways that are self-destructive. Therapy can address and change outmoded ways of being. The therapeutic relationship is key to this work: It offers the possibility of exploring and understanding more effective and satisfying ways of relating to ourselves and others. I work with children, adolescents and adults in individual therapy, using a collaborative approach that centers on empathy, understanding, curiosity and exploration.
Sage Leitson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
We all have the capacity to feel a full array of emotions, which serve to both protect us and connect us to others. However, often due to socialization, family of origin, or individual temperament, we learn that some emotions are dangerous to feel and express. Through individual therapy, the therapist is the "trusted other" who can help both acknowledge and witness the emotions that may have been long hidden. When these emotions are uncovered, we can more easily discover our true want and needs.
We all have the capacity to feel a full array of emotions, which serve to both protect us and connect us to others. However, often due to socialization, family of origin, or individual temperament, we learn that some emotions are dangerous to feel and express. Through individual therapy, the therapist is the "trusted other" who can help both acknowledge and witness the emotions that may have been long hidden. When these emotions are uncovered, we can more easily discover our true want and needs.
Alycia Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612 (Online Only)
Since obtaining my license, I have worked full time at a Community Health Clinic where I provide therapy to black and brown people in Oakland with diagnosis of mostly PTSD, Anxiety and Depression. My therapy style involves using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for clients to gain insight into how their thoughts influence their emotions and behavior. I also used a strength-based approach to help clients gain insight into what their strengths are and what is going well in their lives.
Since obtaining my license, I have worked full time at a Community Health Clinic where I provide therapy to black and brown people in Oakland with diagnosis of mostly PTSD, Anxiety and Depression. My therapy style involves using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for clients to gain insight into how their thoughts influence their emotions and behavior. I also used a strength-based approach to help clients gain insight into what their strengths are and what is going well in their lives.
Robert Bartner
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Everyone can find life's challenges too difficult at times, but if you continually feel overburdened or struggle with negative patterns you've been unable to change on your own, I can be helpful. As a psychoanalyst with over twenty years of clinical experience, I specialize in helping people work through problems that have consistently held them back from fulfilling their goals. Patients often see me who are disappointed with important aspects of their life.Whether you've experienced a temporary setback, or suffer with a more chronic issue, a deeper inquiry into the problem can make all the difference.
Everyone can find life's challenges too difficult at times, but if you continually feel overburdened or struggle with negative patterns you've been unable to change on your own, I can be helpful. As a psychoanalyst with over twenty years of clinical experience, I specialize in helping people work through problems that have consistently held them back from fulfilling their goals. Patients often see me who are disappointed with important aspects of their life.Whether you've experienced a temporary setback, or suffer with a more chronic issue, a deeper inquiry into the problem can make all the difference.
Cindy Sachs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, ABD, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Most people I've seen in my many years of practice seek psychotherapy in response to personal loss, trauma, relationship difficulties in love or work, or self defeating thought or behavior patterns that have become unmanageable. As we begin to meet on a regular basis, the anxiety, depression or crisis that propelled them into my office starts to calm. Broader questions like “Why do I keep waiting to live my life in the way I always imagined it to be?” and “Why have my personal or professional accomplishments not provided the fulfillment I hoped for?” then begin to emerge.
Most people I've seen in my many years of practice seek psychotherapy in response to personal loss, trauma, relationship difficulties in love or work, or self defeating thought or behavior patterns that have become unmanageable. As we begin to meet on a regular basis, the anxiety, depression or crisis that propelled them into my office starts to calm. Broader questions like “Why do I keep waiting to live my life in the way I always imagined it to be?” and “Why have my personal or professional accomplishments not provided the fulfillment I hoped for?” then begin to emerge.
Mary Fleisch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Trauma leaves us feeling broken, overwhelmed, & anxious in our relationships. Perhaps you're fed up with constant triggers in everyday situations, feeling distant from loved ones, or overwhelmed by the nagging voice that whispers "you're not enough." Maybe you can't even recall a time when things felt different. But one thing's for sure- you're over feeling terrible all the time. You're ready for relief. You're ready to experience joy in daily life without the constant mind chatter. You're ready for deep, intimate relationships where you can feel safe, loved & connected. You're ready to finally feel good.
Trauma leaves us feeling broken, overwhelmed, & anxious in our relationships. Perhaps you're fed up with constant triggers in everyday situations, feeling distant from loved ones, or overwhelmed by the nagging voice that whispers "you're not enough." Maybe you can't even recall a time when things felt different. But one thing's for sure- you're over feeling terrible all the time. You're ready for relief. You're ready to experience joy in daily life without the constant mind chatter. You're ready for deep, intimate relationships where you can feel safe, loved & connected. You're ready to finally feel good.
Sara Bisikirski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
With 20 years of experience, I work with individual adults, adolescents and couples from a trauma-informed model that integrates DBT, psychodynamic, family systems and Mindful Self-Compassion perspectives. Through therapy I can help you to achieve your goals, develop an increased understanding of yourself and build new ways of coping with life’s challenges. As a Certified Mediator with a background in divorce mediation I can lend informed support to those struggling with divorce-related challenges. Furthermore as a transracially adoptive mom of two I hold a strong interest in helping others navigate the world of parenting.
With 20 years of experience, I work with individual adults, adolescents and couples from a trauma-informed model that integrates DBT, psychodynamic, family systems and Mindful Self-Compassion perspectives. Through therapy I can help you to achieve your goals, develop an increased understanding of yourself and build new ways of coping with life’s challenges. As a Certified Mediator with a background in divorce mediation I can lend informed support to those struggling with divorce-related challenges. Furthermore as a transracially adoptive mom of two I hold a strong interest in helping others navigate the world of parenting.
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Anjuelle Floyd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
Everyone is doing the best that we can. It's not always easy to see this. Life is challenging at best. It drains hope from our lives at its worst. When we are able to hold ourselves in the best light, life and the world take on greater meaning and purpose. I work to help clients accept they are doing their level best, while facilitating them to develop more self-compassion. Accepting ourselves without judgement allows us to the see the gifts that we are, and use our challenges as points of growth.
Everyone is doing the best that we can. It's not always easy to see this. Life is challenging at best. It drains hope from our lives at its worst. When we are able to hold ourselves in the best light, life and the world take on greater meaning and purpose. I work to help clients accept they are doing their level best, while facilitating them to develop more self-compassion. Accepting ourselves without judgement allows us to the see the gifts that we are, and use our challenges as points of growth.
Let's Talk! Jesse Westfall MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I view my role to be that of a listener, supporter, encourager, and advocate. With me, you can expect to be heard and validated, while also challenged as we work to create new patterns and beliefs.
I view my role to be that of a listener, supporter, encourager, and advocate. With me, you can expect to be heard and validated, while also challenged as we work to create new patterns and beliefs.
Luisa Mancera
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you're doing everything you're supposed to do, but feeling constantly stressed, overwhelmed, or helpless? Are you stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns? Are you living in your head so much that it’s getting in the way of your relationships, health, or work? Are you constantly busy yet feel unfulfilled, like the ‘go’ button is stuck in the on position? Maybe this is you, or maybe this is your partner. I’ve worked with lots of clients like this — working through trauma, identity issues, anxiety, and stress to live a healthier, more meaningful life.
Do you feel like you're doing everything you're supposed to do, but feeling constantly stressed, overwhelmed, or helpless? Are you stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns? Are you living in your head so much that it’s getting in the way of your relationships, health, or work? Are you constantly busy yet feel unfulfilled, like the ‘go’ button is stuck in the on position? Maybe this is you, or maybe this is your partner. I’ve worked with lots of clients like this — working through trauma, identity issues, anxiety, and stress to live a healthier, more meaningful life.
Anaïs Wong
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608 (Online Only)
I started specializing in neurodivergence as soon as I realized that there were many others who have also struggled to understand who they are and be accepted in a neurotypical society. If like me, you have always felt different, and are now wondering about what makes you different, it may be time for a formal assessment. This is especially important if you are looking for neurodivergent-specific supports (e.g., therapy, couple's counseling, books), personalized recommendations (i.e., "what next?", at-home strategies), and accommodations at work/school.
I started specializing in neurodivergence as soon as I realized that there were many others who have also struggled to understand who they are and be accepted in a neurotypical society. If like me, you have always felt different, and are now wondering about what makes you different, it may be time for a formal assessment. This is especially important if you are looking for neurodivergent-specific supports (e.g., therapy, couple's counseling, books), personalized recommendations (i.e., "what next?", at-home strategies), and accommodations at work/school.
Holistic Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Holistic Family Therapy serves families who seek stronger connections, effective communication and reduced chaos. I am primarily a DBT therapist and workwith families, and older adolescents.
Holistic Family Therapy serves families who seek stronger connections, effective communication and reduced chaos. I am primarily a DBT therapist and workwith families, and older adolescents.
Eren Berkenkotter
Psychologist, RN, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Are you a worrier? Overwhelmed? Anxious about challenges in your life? I offer individual talk therapy so you will feel better, find your strengths, and can be yourself. Therapy is a focused time, place, and person to think things through with. It helps you gain perspective, feel connected, and feel understood. I use warmth and creativity to help you find compassion and insight to draw upon, especially for when you are preoccupied by your worries and dilemmas.
Are you a worrier? Overwhelmed? Anxious about challenges in your life? I offer individual talk therapy so you will feel better, find your strengths, and can be yourself. Therapy is a focused time, place, and person to think things through with. It helps you gain perspective, feel connected, and feel understood. I use warmth and creativity to help you find compassion and insight to draw upon, especially for when you are preoccupied by your worries and dilemmas.
Stephen Kusch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Do you ever find that the more you try to get rid of painful emotions, the more overwhelmed you feel? Life can sometimes feel like a straw finger puzzle: the more you pull, the tighter the grip. This is partly because life is challenging. It is also because in times of stress, we are wired to protect ourselves by focusing on potential dangers. Although adaptive for some situations, this wiring can become a closed feedback loop: the harder you try, the more you see only problems; and the more problems you see, the more you lose sight of the strengths and resources that facilitate change.
Do you ever find that the more you try to get rid of painful emotions, the more overwhelmed you feel? Life can sometimes feel like a straw finger puzzle: the more you pull, the tighter the grip. This is partly because life is challenging. It is also because in times of stress, we are wired to protect ourselves by focusing on potential dangers. Although adaptive for some situations, this wiring can become a closed feedback loop: the harder you try, the more you see only problems; and the more problems you see, the more you lose sight of the strengths and resources that facilitate change.
Cari Donovan - Certified Emdr And Somatic Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
You are unique, and therapy should be, too. I specialize in supporting people who have had experiences or identities that are beyond mainstream culture's rigid boxes. I’m a Certified EMDR Therapist with extensive knowledge in Somatic Therapy and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). Rooted in a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I use well-researched methods to help people deal with PTSD, anxiety, and events that have upended life.
You are unique, and therapy should be, too. I specialize in supporting people who have had experiences or identities that are beyond mainstream culture's rigid boxes. I’m a Certified EMDR Therapist with extensive knowledge in Somatic Therapy and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). Rooted in a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I use well-researched methods to help people deal with PTSD, anxiety, and events that have upended life.
Victoria Alberini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
In 2015, I left my job at Google to pursue a career that better catered to my lifelong passion for human interaction and relationships. My background in tech tailors my practice to those working in Silicon Valley, but my clients yield from all walks of life. I specialize in working with couples, adult individuals, those who have experienced trauma, those struggling with questions about their career and work life, mothers, women, pregnancy, and postpartum clients. To learn more about me, please visit victoriaalberini.com.
In 2015, I left my job at Google to pursue a career that better catered to my lifelong passion for human interaction and relationships. My background in tech tailors my practice to those working in Silicon Valley, but my clients yield from all walks of life. I specialize in working with couples, adult individuals, those who have experienced trauma, those struggling with questions about their career and work life, mothers, women, pregnancy, and postpartum clients. To learn more about me, please visit victoriaalberini.com.
See more therapy options for Oakland
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Oakland, CA
2,000+
Average cost per session
$185
Therapists in Oakland, CA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
81% | Relationship Issues |
74% | Self Esteem |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Grief |
66% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
59% | Aetna |
48% | Cigna and Evernorth |
44% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Oakland, CA see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
22% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Oakland?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.