Therapists in Oakland, CA

Music therapy is intended for children, teens and adults who have a strong connection to music, play and art, and who believe that starting with their creativity & strengths can help create therapeutic change. This creative form of therapy uses music in all of its facets. No musical skills are necessary. I work with children and teens who struggle with social-emotional challenges due to trauma, life changes, learning challenges, academic/social pressures that can result in anxiety and depression. For adults, music therapy might provide a richer and more intuitive experience with which to explore and cope with anxiety and depression.

Thank you for visiting me. I know preparing yourself to find a therapist that you feel comfortable with and someone you can trust is not easy. It takes a lot of courage. If you’ve gotten to this point of being ready to speak with someone new, you’re doing a great job. I consider the therapeutic relationship as one of the most important factors for healing. I prioritize making my clients feel at ease and understood. My main goals in our work together will be to always have hope that everything is healable and to always treat you and your journey with the upmost respect and compassion.

Most people come to see me because they are experiencing some sort of distress that they want help with. What they come to discover is that therapy can be about so much more than relieving pain. I facilitate a process of reflection and self-discovery that can help you connect to your inner creativity and capacity to grow. I focus on helping you expand your relationships, your ability to love and receive love. And together we search for your sense of meaning, purpose, and fulfillment in life.

I combine LENS Neurofeedback with ancient wisdom, warmth and caring. Are you longing for someone positive to talk to who cares and understands? Someone who has experience with anxiety, ADHD, head trauma, PTSD, depression and finding your place in life and love? I can hold your issues and teach you mindfulness which brings happiness and relief. Days, evenings, some insurance.

I trust that people come to therapy seeking a more authentic happiness; and I work as best as I can to help clients let go of concepts and mistaken views of themselves that have led to more pain and confusion. I work with individuals, couples, children and families, bringing warmth and understanding to the relationships and life problems that surround us. Sometimes the first call is the most difficult. I am often available to speak briefly or will return your call as soon as possible, making the next steps and new perspectives possible.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed or anxious? Are you struggling with confidently meeting life's obstacles? I have been able to help where others have failed. My 38 years in practice, training and life experience allows me to provide a warm and deeply caring connection which is necessary for healing. I am very interested in meeting you and assisting in your transformation to the happy, healthy, connected person you always hoped you would be. Over the years I have discovered that therapy is the beginning in having a truly authentic and happy existence. I can also assist you in developing a daily practice of mindfulness.

We collaborate together, targeting difficulties and utilizing personal strengths to support your vision and growth. Examples: parenting the child you have, changing repetitive, downward spirals in intimate relationships, taking on anxiety w/new strategies, setting boundaries and making connections, experimenting with new approaches to old problems. My approach is tailored to your needs, guided by my experience. Together we track progress. In practice since 1979, I see all ages and most problems. I enjoy long-term depth psychotherapy as well as short-term problem solving therapy. I work with parents, couples, families and individuals and consult for psychotherapists.

Couples: You used to be so in love and now it feels like you are living with a roommate or maybe even an enemy. It used to be you and your partner against the world, but now you can't even start a conversation without the same patterns of miscommunication leading to a fight or more distance. Sex life? Yeah, we used to have one. You are craving that feeling of being on the same page, feeling connected, cared for, loved, having great conversations and having fun together. Maybe you've lived too long in misery, but it's not too late. Resuscitate your relationship, renew your passion, have joy again. We are here for you.

Each of us are unique individuals; complex and ever-changing. We are often affected by family, relationships, work, and even spiritual dynamics. I strive to understand my clients' point of view so that I may collaboratively develop a treatment plan that is as unique as they are.

Have you felt different from others growing up? Are you questioning your gender identity or sexual orientation? Navigating coming out to friends or family? Or do you struggle with focusing, making appointments or deadlines on time, or turning many of your great ideas into reality? If so, then you’re not alone. Many people question their gender identity, sexual orientation, or just don’t quite fall into the outdated ways of being that society has laid out, and struggle with what that means for their lives. If any of these questions or statements resonate with you, then you have come to the right place.

Supporting children to develop awareness & thrive. I support children & their parents develop an understanding around what is creating and maintaining challenges; and, bring more regulation and less stress to everyday living. My work is influenced by current research on play therapy, neurobiology, attachment and the mind body connection. I am also a registered Yoga Teacher, and incorporate Eastern approaches into treatment such as yoga, meditation & sensory awareness practices.