Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Albany, CA

Photo of Richele Howell, Psychologist, PhD
Richele Howell
Psychologist, PhD
Albany, CA 94706
In my view, it is never too late to look within oneself and create the change that fits who you are, not who you think you should be or who you have been in the past. It is my goal to create safety by providing a compassionate and open space to explore together what your particular needs are and how I can best be of help to you in meeting those needs. Clients frequently come in with life transition or relationship issues, they might be experiencing a troubling set of symptoms or notice patterns that keep getting in their way. I deeply respect the courage it takes to take that first step toward change.
In my view, it is never too late to look within oneself and create the change that fits who you are, not who you think you should be or who you have been in the past. It is my goal to create safety by providing a compassionate and open space to explore together what your particular needs are and how I can best be of help to you in meeting those needs. Clients frequently come in with life transition or relationship issues, they might be experiencing a troubling set of symptoms or notice patterns that keep getting in their way. I deeply respect the courage it takes to take that first step toward change.
(510) 800-9882 View (510) 800-9882
Photo of Medisa Payvarpour, Psychologist, PsyD
Medisa Payvarpour
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706
A typical treatment plan may involve identifying values and goals, developing mindfulness and acceptance skills, challenging unhelpful thoughts, and taking committed action towards a more meaningful life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, grappling with existential questions, or navigating the complex emotions of life's transitions? Life's journey is filled with unexpected changes—career shifts, relationship evolutions, personal losses—that can leave you questioning your path and purpose. It's natural to feel adrift during these times, but you don't have to face them alone. In our work together, we'll create a safe and compassionate space to explore your feelings, understand your experiences, and develop strategies to manage anxiety and find meaning amidst uncertainty.
A typical treatment plan may involve identifying values and goals, developing mindfulness and acceptance skills, challenging unhelpful thoughts, and taking committed action towards a more meaningful life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, grappling with existential questions, or navigating the complex emotions of life's transitions? Life's journey is filled with unexpected changes—career shifts, relationship evolutions, personal losses—that can leave you questioning your path and purpose. It's natural to feel adrift during these times, but you don't have to face them alone. In our work together, we'll create a safe and compassionate space to explore your feelings, understand your experiences, and develop strategies to manage anxiety and find meaning amidst uncertainty.
(510) 876-4994 View (510) 876-4994
Photo of Andrzej Karwacki, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrzej Karwacki
Marriage & Family Therapist
Albany, CA 94706
I use a body-mind approach that blends mindfulness, guided imagery, and practical tools like cognitive reframing.
Life can feel chaotic when you're carrying the weight of anxiety, relationship strain, or unresolved pain. Maybe you find it hard to slow down, speak up for yourself, or stay connected with those who matter. You might be trying to show up for your family while ignoring your own needs. Whether you're seeking relief, clarity, or stronger emotional tools, therapy offers space to explore what’s beneath the surface. My clients want more than symptom relief — they want deeper self-connection and a sense of agency in their lives and relationships.
I use a body-mind approach that blends mindfulness, guided imagery, and practical tools like cognitive reframing.
Life can feel chaotic when you're carrying the weight of anxiety, relationship strain, or unresolved pain. Maybe you find it hard to slow down, speak up for yourself, or stay connected with those who matter. You might be trying to show up for your family while ignoring your own needs. Whether you're seeking relief, clarity, or stronger emotional tools, therapy offers space to explore what’s beneath the surface. My clients want more than symptom relief — they want deeper self-connection and a sense of agency in their lives and relationships.
(510) 662-0051 View (510) 662-0051
Photo of Barbara Howell, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Barbara Howell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706
I have training and experience in a variety of therapeutic approaches--play therapy, Filial Therapy, expressive arts, sand tray, EMDR, and mindfulness, as well as "talk" therapy.
Sometimes, the stress of daily life can exhaust our ability to cope. A child struggling in school, family conflicts, traumatic events, major life transitions, the loss of a loved one, friend, or pet, financial and/or medical issues, pregnancy and the birth of a child—all of these experiences can leave us feeling overwhelmed, helpless, and defeated. From experience and research, we know that stressful experiences--sudden or chronic--can lead to feelings of disconnection, sadness, anxiety, low self-esteem, and conflict within ourselves and with our friends and loved ones.
I have training and experience in a variety of therapeutic approaches--play therapy, Filial Therapy, expressive arts, sand tray, EMDR, and mindfulness, as well as "talk" therapy.
Sometimes, the stress of daily life can exhaust our ability to cope. A child struggling in school, family conflicts, traumatic events, major life transitions, the loss of a loved one, friend, or pet, financial and/or medical issues, pregnancy and the birth of a child—all of these experiences can leave us feeling overwhelmed, helpless, and defeated. From experience and research, we know that stressful experiences--sudden or chronic--can lead to feelings of disconnection, sadness, anxiety, low self-esteem, and conflict within ourselves and with our friends and loved ones.
(510) 545-4329 View (510) 545-4329
Photo of Gina Fahouri, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Gina Fahouri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94707
Gina Fahouri is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is bilingual in Spanish and has been providing psychotherapy services for over 15 years. Her bicultural background gives her good insight in how to help diverse individuals and families from all backgrounds manage issues ranging from family conflict to depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic mental illness and co occurring drug and alcohol issues. Gina chose a career as a Marriage and Family Therapist in part because of her own positive experiences with therapy around the time she was about to graduate from high school. Gina was fortunate enough to have a therapist of her
Gina Fahouri is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is bilingual in Spanish and has been providing psychotherapy services for over 15 years. Her bicultural background gives her good insight in how to help diverse individuals and families from all backgrounds manage issues ranging from family conflict to depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic mental illness and co occurring drug and alcohol issues. Gina chose a career as a Marriage and Family Therapist in part because of her own positive experiences with therapy around the time she was about to graduate from high school. Gina was fortunate enough to have a therapist of her
(510) 292-1766 View (510) 292-1766
Photo of Sean Sullivan, Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Sean Sullivan
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Albany, CA 94706
My education and training come from Harvard University, UCSF, University of Massachusetts Medical School's Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Clinic, and >20 years of practice.
Hello. I'm an experienced psychologist and psychotherapist who is passionate about providing therapy for people experiencing a variety of challenges. We can work through recent events and life changes, difficult or shifting relationships, anxiety, burnout, stress, trauma or sadness. I invite you to call me at 415-335-7542 to connect and explore whether we feel like a good fit to work together.
My education and training come from Harvard University, UCSF, University of Massachusetts Medical School's Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Clinic, and >20 years of practice.
Hello. I'm an experienced psychologist and psychotherapist who is passionate about providing therapy for people experiencing a variety of challenges. We can work through recent events and life changes, difficult or shifting relationships, anxiety, burnout, stress, trauma or sadness. I invite you to call me at 415-335-7542 to connect and explore whether we feel like a good fit to work together.
(415) 800-4693 View (415) 800-4693
Photo of Mey Saephan - Mey Saephan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Mey Saephan, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94707
Waitlist for new clients
Has your love, joy, and excitement in your relationship slowly faded away? Does it seem that no matter what you say or do, things are just not getting better, and you feel further from resolving your conflicts and understanding your loved ones? There is a way back to enjoying your relationships again. I have been doing this work for over 28 years, and I know that if you have not left the relationship, there is still hope. Learn how to get rid of the unhealthy patterns and learn new skills to get unstuck and enrich your marriage, family, and all your relationships.
Has your love, joy, and excitement in your relationship slowly faded away? Does it seem that no matter what you say or do, things are just not getting better, and you feel further from resolving your conflicts and understanding your loved ones? There is a way back to enjoying your relationships again. I have been doing this work for over 28 years, and I know that if you have not left the relationship, there is still hope. Learn how to get rid of the unhealthy patterns and learn new skills to get unstuck and enrich your marriage, family, and all your relationships.
(510) 771-8506 View (510) 771-8506
Photo of Peter P Bernhardt, MFT
Peter P Bernhardt
Verified Verified
Albany, CA 94706
My mindfulness approach, based on over 30 years experience, will help you get immediate relief through new perspectives and skills.
I support women and men to free themselves of the pain of living in old roles and negative communication.
My mindfulness approach, based on over 30 years experience, will help you get immediate relief through new perspectives and skills.
I support women and men to free themselves of the pain of living in old roles and negative communication.
(510) 497-0537 View (510) 497-0537
Photo of Amy Poppers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amy Poppers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Albany, CA 94707
Maybe you feel stuck but you aren't quite sure why. There's a sense that something is off, and you know something needs to change. With my warm, collaborative, and insight-oriented approach, we will explore your thoughts and feelings, and work together to identify root causes and shed old patterns that are no longer working for you. From this place of deeper understanding, you can feel more at home within yourself, and experience a greater capacity for joy, comfort, and ease.
Maybe you feel stuck but you aren't quite sure why. There's a sense that something is off, and you know something needs to change. With my warm, collaborative, and insight-oriented approach, we will explore your thoughts and feelings, and work together to identify root causes and shed old patterns that are no longer working for you. From this place of deeper understanding, you can feel more at home within yourself, and experience a greater capacity for joy, comfort, and ease.
(510) 953-4275 View (510) 953-4275
Photo of Deborah Joy, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Deborah Joy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Albany, CA 94706
My work integrates traditional approaches with new ways of thinking such as attachment theory, positive psychology and mindfulness.
I have been working for over 30 years helping a wide range of people create lasting, meaningful changes in their lives. My INDIVIDUAL THERAPY is personally tailored to each client. I use a solution focused approach for short-term issues and an in-depth model for longer term problems. In COUPLES THERAPY I work to create positive connections of closeness and depth, fostering intimacy and trust. In my DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, ABUSE AND ANGER THERAPY my goal is to establish abuse free relationships based on trust, cooperation and mutual support. Through my THERAPY FOR HABIT CHANGE unwanted problematic patterns are transformed.
My work integrates traditional approaches with new ways of thinking such as attachment theory, positive psychology and mindfulness.
I have been working for over 30 years helping a wide range of people create lasting, meaningful changes in their lives. My INDIVIDUAL THERAPY is personally tailored to each client. I use a solution focused approach for short-term issues and an in-depth model for longer term problems. In COUPLES THERAPY I work to create positive connections of closeness and depth, fostering intimacy and trust. In my DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, ABUSE AND ANGER THERAPY my goal is to establish abuse free relationships based on trust, cooperation and mutual support. Through my THERAPY FOR HABIT CHANGE unwanted problematic patterns are transformed.
(510) 292-4185 View (510) 292-4185
Photo of Callie Millington, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, LMHC, LPC
Callie Millington
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, LMHC, LPC
3 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706
I work from an interpersonal, attachment-based, and Family Systems lens, and incorporate trauma-informed modalities of somatic awareness, mindfulness, and IFS/parts work.
In the container of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, we will build awareness of your process—physical, mental, emotional, and interpersonal—as it unfolds both in and out of session. This combination of connection and awareness, over time, can transform the way you relate to yourself, to others, and to the wider world.
I work from an interpersonal, attachment-based, and Family Systems lens, and incorporate trauma-informed modalities of somatic awareness, mindfulness, and IFS/parts work.
In the container of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, we will build awareness of your process—physical, mental, emotional, and interpersonal—as it unfolds both in and out of session. This combination of connection and awareness, over time, can transform the way you relate to yourself, to others, and to the wider world.
(415) 873-3364 View (415) 873-3364
Photo of Julia Barker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Julia Barker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Albany, CA 94706
With a unique blend of psychological expertise, practical tools, and transformational spiritual practices (such as mindfulness meditation and visualization), I can help you transform your unconscious patterns into conscious choices.
In our fast-paced world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and disconnected. As a holistic therapist, I address not only your mind, but also your body and spirit. Together, we explore the root causes of your struggles. Whether you’re navigating relationships, battling anxiety, or boosting your self-confidence, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
With a unique blend of psychological expertise, practical tools, and transformational spiritual practices (such as mindfulness meditation and visualization), I can help you transform your unconscious patterns into conscious choices.
In our fast-paced world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and disconnected. As a holistic therapist, I address not only your mind, but also your body and spirit. Together, we explore the root causes of your struggles. Whether you’re navigating relationships, battling anxiety, or boosting your self-confidence, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
(510) 630-1096 View (510) 630-1096
Photo of Laine Demetria - Laine Demetria: Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Laine Demetria: Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706
Do you feel trapped by your past and anxious about your future, unable to live in the present? This malaise of modern living is often a sign of past trauma. I can help you uncover and release the experiences that keep you from living a full and zestful life. My primary focus is women and parents, particularly those with a history of trauma. We’ll explore the feelings that arise in your body, and notice their links to your thoughts and behaviors. I’ll empower you to choose a more positive narrative, to look at your life through a different lens.
Do you feel trapped by your past and anxious about your future, unable to live in the present? This malaise of modern living is often a sign of past trauma. I can help you uncover and release the experiences that keep you from living a full and zestful life. My primary focus is women and parents, particularly those with a history of trauma. We’ll explore the feelings that arise in your body, and notice their links to your thoughts and behaviors. I’ll empower you to choose a more positive narrative, to look at your life through a different lens.
(415) 800-3249 View (415) 800-3249
Photo of Jason Hsu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jason Hsu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Albany, CA 94706
I'm Jason Hsu, an LCSW with a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. Having personally experienced the challenges and transformative power of therapy, I am driven to destigmatize conversations about mental health within Asian-American communities. My dedication to this work remains unwavering, and I look forward to accompanying you on your journey toward greater well-being and fulfillment. My therapeutic style is characterized by warmth, enthusiasm, and, when appropriate, humor. I maintain a client-led approach to goal setting, allowing objectives to shift and evolve as insights develop.
I'm Jason Hsu, an LCSW with a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. Having personally experienced the challenges and transformative power of therapy, I am driven to destigmatize conversations about mental health within Asian-American communities. My dedication to this work remains unwavering, and I look forward to accompanying you on your journey toward greater well-being and fulfillment. My therapeutic style is characterized by warmth, enthusiasm, and, when appropriate, humor. I maintain a client-led approach to goal setting, allowing objectives to shift and evolve as insights develop.
(510) 694-4603 View (510) 694-4603
Photo of Chantal Rohlfing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chantal Rohlfing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Do you want to heal from your past and find greater peace and joy in your life? I applaud you for taking the first step in seeking therapy. I'll help you to move through your self-blame and embrace your magnificence. I provide a free 20-minute initial consultation to see if we are a good fit. If you are struggling with work, relationship or parenting stress, childhood abuse, life transitions or loss I will teach you how to shift old patterns, heal, and make positive changes. You can feel better and thrive!
Do you want to heal from your past and find greater peace and joy in your life? I applaud you for taking the first step in seeking therapy. I'll help you to move through your self-blame and embrace your magnificence. I provide a free 20-minute initial consultation to see if we are a good fit. If you are struggling with work, relationship or parenting stress, childhood abuse, life transitions or loss I will teach you how to shift old patterns, heal, and make positive changes. You can feel better and thrive!
(510) 900-5561 View (510) 900-5561
Photo of Michal Rokach Shamay, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, R-DMT
Michal Rokach Shamay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, R-DMT
Albany, CA 94706
My approach combines Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Dance and Movement Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Somatic Psychology, AEDP, and Psychodynamic Therapy, providing a flexible pathway to healing
Therapy is a collaborative process that fosters greater well-being, self-understanding, and fulfilling relationships. I offer a mind-body approach, working with adults, teenagers, and children facing various psychological and emotional challenges. Healing occurs when the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—is engaged in the therapeutic process. I integrate verbal and non-verbal modalities. With adults, I use somatic psychology and AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) to help clients develop self-awareness and ease. For children, I offer play therapy to create a safe space for emotional expression.
My approach combines Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Dance and Movement Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Somatic Psychology, AEDP, and Psychodynamic Therapy, providing a flexible pathway to healing
Therapy is a collaborative process that fosters greater well-being, self-understanding, and fulfilling relationships. I offer a mind-body approach, working with adults, teenagers, and children facing various psychological and emotional challenges. Healing occurs when the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—is engaged in the therapeutic process. I integrate verbal and non-verbal modalities. With adults, I use somatic psychology and AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) to help clients develop self-awareness and ease. For children, I offer play therapy to create a safe space for emotional expression.
(510) 944-1549 View (510) 944-1549
Photo of Alberto Barrera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alberto Barrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Albany, CA 94706
I have over 20 years of experience supporting adults through behavior change and towards healing, mindfulness and wellness.
Welcome and bienvenidos. Do you want help in dealing with big changes, loss, and the unexpected turns in life? Are you feeling stuck or unsure of how to move forward? Would you like to break free from depression, anxiety, grief or unproductive thoughts? Are you struggling with the challenges of intergenerational conflict, identity, culture shock, or discrimination? I create a non-judgmental and welcoming space to help you better understand yourself and uncover your own strengths. I support you in building confidence and skills to make life changes, find healing and self-acceptance. I also conduct immigration evaluations for adults.
I have over 20 years of experience supporting adults through behavior change and towards healing, mindfulness and wellness.
Welcome and bienvenidos. Do you want help in dealing with big changes, loss, and the unexpected turns in life? Are you feeling stuck or unsure of how to move forward? Would you like to break free from depression, anxiety, grief or unproductive thoughts? Are you struggling with the challenges of intergenerational conflict, identity, culture shock, or discrimination? I create a non-judgmental and welcoming space to help you better understand yourself and uncover your own strengths. I support you in building confidence and skills to make life changes, find healing and self-acceptance. I also conduct immigration evaluations for adults.
(510) 947-8870 View (510) 947-8870
Photo of Dana McMullen, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Dana McMullen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Albany, CA 94706
I have worked with adults, couples, adolescents and children for over 25 years. I offer a free telephone consultation as you explore what your needs are in finding a therapist and whether you feel I might be of help to you.
I have worked with adults, couples, adolescents and children for over 25 years. I offer a free telephone consultation as you explore what your needs are in finding a therapist and whether you feel I might be of help to you.
(510) 466-1217 View (510) 466-1217
Photo of Michael Waldon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Michael Waldon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Albany, CA 94706
Current offerings include a weekly men's group for cis and trans men and groups for meditation and mindfulness practice.
I believe that speaking honestly to a compassionate human listener can be healing. I’ve trained in relational psychodynamic, somatic (or body-based) therapies, group therapy, anti-oppressive practices, and the treatment of trauma. I also draw on extensive personal practice and study of Zen Buddhism. I currently see California based clients in-person or online and I see New York based clients online.
Current offerings include a weekly men's group for cis and trans men and groups for meditation and mindfulness practice.
I believe that speaking honestly to a compassionate human listener can be healing. I’ve trained in relational psychodynamic, somatic (or body-based) therapies, group therapy, anti-oppressive practices, and the treatment of trauma. I also draw on extensive personal practice and study of Zen Buddhism. I currently see California based clients in-person or online and I see New York based clients online.
(510) 726-4281 View (510) 726-4281
Photo of Meire Santos, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PsyD, LMFT
Meire Santos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PsyD, LMFT
Albany, CA 94706
I integrate into the analysis the physical, mental, emotional, and social parts of the self (Integral) in a mindfulness-based, body inclusive, and experiential perspective (Hakomi).
I also use different therapeutic frameworks according to the person's needs ranging from Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Narrative. A special area of interest includes working with trauma using EMDR and inner child healing not as pure techniques but more as integrated adjuncts to the therapy.
I integrate into the analysis the physical, mental, emotional, and social parts of the self (Integral) in a mindfulness-based, body inclusive, and experiential perspective (Hakomi).
I also use different therapeutic frameworks according to the person's needs ranging from Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Narrative. A special area of interest includes working with trauma using EMDR and inner child healing not as pure techniques but more as integrated adjuncts to the therapy.
(510) 606-8607 View (510) 606-8607

See more therapy options for Albany

Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists

How does mindfulness-based cognitive therapy work?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy originated in the work of John Kabat-Zinn of the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He developed mindfulness-based stress reduction, which is a technique found in yoga and meditation. MBCT is a combination of this type of stress reduction and cognitive behavioral therapy; it essentially quiets emotional distress through mindfulness, utilizing proper breathing and meditation. These techniques aim to bring the individual into the present moment when in a state of distress.

When do I know if I need treatment with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

If an individual’s mind is filled with emotional distress and general negativity, the person may feel trapped. A mindfulness-based cognitive therapist can help a person change their thinking patterns as well as their behavior through calm acceptance and compassion. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.

What should I expect from mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

This therapy often takes place in group sessions. A therapist will work with the group as well as with each individual. Meditation and breathing exercises are core practices that aim to invite inquiry and discovery into a person’s troubled mental state. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviors and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more realistic way. This therapy is supportive, accepting, and warm.

Is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy effective?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with major depressive disorder have benefitted from this type of therapy; the person accepts their distressed thoughts and also moves into healthier patterns of thinking. This therapy also aims to move an individual away from automatic negative responses. This type of therapy can bring a person lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioral habits.