Therapists in Berkeley, CA
Percy Raynier Castellanos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702
If you are seeking a Queer, bilingual (English/Spanish), multicultural therapist of color with whom you can discuss the issues listed in my profile and website, then you are welcome to contact me to see if we are a good fit.
I am drawn to support clients heal the anxiety, guilt and shame from trauma. This may include trauma related to abuse, bullying, accidents, harassment, religious impositions, discrimination, and more. My clients often want to feel less anxiety, better manage their triggers, enjoy sexual intercourse with their partner(s), and redefine themselves from the trauma they experienced. Grounding techniques, challenging learned beliefs, asserting needs, and living more for self, are common themes in my practice and essential for post-traumatic growth. Integrating identities (e.g. race, ethnicity, sexuality, etc.) is common in my practice.
If you are seeking a Queer, bilingual (English/Spanish), multicultural therapist of color with whom you can discuss the issues listed in my profile and website, then you are welcome to contact me to see if we are a good fit.
I am drawn to support clients heal the anxiety, guilt and shame from trauma. This may include trauma related to abuse, bullying, accidents, harassment, religious impositions, discrimination, and more. My clients often want to feel less anxiety, better manage their triggers, enjoy sexual intercourse with their partner(s), and redefine themselves from the trauma they experienced. Grounding techniques, challenging learned beliefs, asserting needs, and living more for self, are common themes in my practice and essential for post-traumatic growth. Integrating identities (e.g. race, ethnicity, sexuality, etc.) is common in my practice.
Eliot Altschul
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Having been in the field for over 30 years, I consider myself to be a seasoned generalist. I enjoy working with people presenting with a broad range of psychological concerns. Some of my areas of interest and specialty include Sexuality and Gender, Identity Development, Mindfulness, and Spirituality. My work is inclusive and queer-affirming. I enjoy working with relationship dynamics of all types, and my approach is interpersonal and depth oriented.
Having been in the field for over 30 years, I consider myself to be a seasoned generalist. I enjoy working with people presenting with a broad range of psychological concerns. Some of my areas of interest and specialty include Sexuality and Gender, Identity Development, Mindfulness, and Spirituality. My work is inclusive and queer-affirming. I enjoy working with relationship dynamics of all types, and my approach is interpersonal and depth oriented.
Lucas Dangler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94720 (Online Only)
I provide teletherapy to clients in Pennsylvania and California (I am licensed in both states). I work with adults (18-65) who are struggling with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, acute stress, substance use, and challenges with interpersonal relationships, major life transitions, coming out, gender, and queer identity development. I use EMDR therapy and client-centered, mindfulness-based, cognitive-behavioral interventions to support people in healing from traumatic experiences and unresolved grief by helping them reprocess disturbing, burdensome memories so that they become less intrusive, distracting, and painful.
I provide teletherapy to clients in Pennsylvania and California (I am licensed in both states). I work with adults (18-65) who are struggling with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, acute stress, substance use, and challenges with interpersonal relationships, major life transitions, coming out, gender, and queer identity development. I use EMDR therapy and client-centered, mindfulness-based, cognitive-behavioral interventions to support people in healing from traumatic experiences and unresolved grief by helping them reprocess disturbing, burdensome memories so that they become less intrusive, distracting, and painful.
Dr. Richard Espinoza
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702
My shortterm treatment offers an intensive, 12-week program specific for male and masc-presenting folks within the LGBTQ+ community.
Above all, I love my work as a psychologist. This profession allows me to act as both scientist and artist, and I take joy from watching people evolve in their lives. Blending science & art, therapy is a unique process where we talk over events of your life, some in the distant past, and some happening currently.
My shortterm treatment offers an intensive, 12-week program specific for male and masc-presenting folks within the LGBTQ+ community.
Above all, I love my work as a psychologist. This profession allows me to act as both scientist and artist, and I take joy from watching people evolve in their lives. Blending science & art, therapy is a unique process where we talk over events of your life, some in the distant past, and some happening currently.
Kip Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94720
I offer a holistic and growth-oriented approach to psychotherapy that honors the body, mind, spirit, and natural world. Drawing on my activist roots and more than a decade of clinical experience, I bring a deep sensitivity to issues of complex trauma, grief and loss, social justice, spiritual emergence, and LGBTQ+ mental health.
I offer a holistic and growth-oriented approach to psychotherapy that honors the body, mind, spirit, and natural world. Drawing on my activist roots and more than a decade of clinical experience, I bring a deep sensitivity to issues of complex trauma, grief and loss, social justice, spiritual emergence, and LGBTQ+ mental health.
Jeffrey Gianelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94701
I specialize in working with Trauma/ PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, LGBTQIA+, and self esteem issues, using IFS, EMDR, ACT, and mindful self compassion.
I am EDMR certified and Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 trained. I use these powerful tools and others like ACT to help you tap into your mind and uncover and transform limiting patterns and beliefs. Healing is about bringing the unconscious to the conscious level, which allows our true self to emerge, and my techniques are designed for this purpose. I create a safe space for you to explore the links between past and present, to see what you are still holding onto and to help you finally let go. I also teach a variety of skills and tools. Perhaps you've tried talk therapy and are ready to go deeper. If so, this may be for you.
I specialize in working with Trauma/ PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, LGBTQIA+, and self esteem issues, using IFS, EMDR, ACT, and mindful self compassion.
I am EDMR certified and Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 trained. I use these powerful tools and others like ACT to help you tap into your mind and uncover and transform limiting patterns and beliefs. Healing is about bringing the unconscious to the conscious level, which allows our true self to emerge, and my techniques are designed for this purpose. I create a safe space for you to explore the links between past and present, to see what you are still holding onto and to help you finally let go. I also teach a variety of skills and tools. Perhaps you've tried talk therapy and are ready to go deeper. If so, this may be for you.
Michael Marsman, Jungian Analyst & Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
That said, much of my work is with those in the LGBTQ, recovery and spiritual (eastern and western) communities.
We seek therapy because at some level we imagine that life could be better. We all suffer in different ways and suffering is universal, but it is precisely that suffering that leads us into a process of discovering how our deepest selves want to be expressed in the world and then to find the inner resources to live that out. In its truest sense, psychotherapy – which means “tending to the soul” – is not only concerned with alleviating symptoms, resolving issues, or adapting to life’s demands (though these are important), but ultimately with living lives that are more joyful, creative and free.
That said, much of my work is with those in the LGBTQ, recovery and spiritual (eastern and western) communities.
We seek therapy because at some level we imagine that life could be better. We all suffer in different ways and suffering is universal, but it is precisely that suffering that leads us into a process of discovering how our deepest selves want to be expressed in the world and then to find the inner resources to live that out. In its truest sense, psychotherapy – which means “tending to the soul” – is not only concerned with alleviating symptoms, resolving issues, or adapting to life’s demands (though these are important), but ultimately with living lives that are more joyful, creative and free.
Eliot M. Lev
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94720 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In the journey towards healing and self-discovery, finding a therapist who truly understands the intersectionality of your experiences is key. As a therapist and part of the trans, queer, ethnic minority, multicultural, immigrant, trauma survivor, and (dis)ability communities, I'm dedicated to honoring all that makes you - you. The uniqueness of your journey, recognition of your experiences, and collaboration will be at the core of our work.
In the journey towards healing and self-discovery, finding a therapist who truly understands the intersectionality of your experiences is key. As a therapist and part of the trans, queer, ethnic minority, multicultural, immigrant, trauma survivor, and (dis)ability communities, I'm dedicated to honoring all that makes you - you. The uniqueness of your journey, recognition of your experiences, and collaboration will be at the core of our work.
Julien Heart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and community from rural areas, as someone who understands the experience of isolation and judgment. I have a warm, soulful, collaborative, empathic, non-judgmental approach to therapy. My goal is to help individuals find their inner voice and truth, heal from new and old wounds, and repair interpersonal conflict with their loved ones. I work with all genders, LGBTQ+, gender expansive clients. Individual, family therapy, couples therapy, sex therapy. Accepting new clients virtually. I am also accepting supervisees currently registered with the BBS.
I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and community from rural areas, as someone who understands the experience of isolation and judgment. I have a warm, soulful, collaborative, empathic, non-judgmental approach to therapy. My goal is to help individuals find their inner voice and truth, heal from new and old wounds, and repair interpersonal conflict with their loved ones. I work with all genders, LGBTQ+, gender expansive clients. Individual, family therapy, couples therapy, sex therapy. Accepting new clients virtually. I am also accepting supervisees currently registered with the BBS.
Scott Balderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94703
I have enjoyed working as a therapist for the gay and straight community in the Castro for over 20 years.
I enjoy working with clients who want more than traditional "talk" therapy. I understand you might feel like just talking about your life cannot change your experience of it. You may be asking how can therapy make a difference? My approach is informed by the practice of mindfulness - the non-judgmental observation of the present moment. Research has shown mindfulness to be a highly effective treatment for depression, anxiety, and addiction. How is working in mindfulness different? In mindfulness we learn how to shift our emotional state from one of suffering to more empowered states of aliveness.
I have enjoyed working as a therapist for the gay and straight community in the Castro for over 20 years.
I enjoy working with clients who want more than traditional "talk" therapy. I understand you might feel like just talking about your life cannot change your experience of it. You may be asking how can therapy make a difference? My approach is informed by the practice of mindfulness - the non-judgmental observation of the present moment. Research has shown mindfulness to be a highly effective treatment for depression, anxiety, and addiction. How is working in mindfulness different? In mindfulness we learn how to shift our emotional state from one of suffering to more empowered states of aliveness.
Jason Leith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94703
Sometimes we come to therapy with a specific problem we want help in addressing. Other times, we have a sense that things just haven't come together or are falling apart, or we simply feel stuck. Wherever you are, that’s a great place, and, really, the only place, to start. I work with teenagers, adults, and couples, with issues around anxiety and depression, substance use, sexuality and gender, trauma and abuse, and mixed backgrounds.
Sometimes we come to therapy with a specific problem we want help in addressing. Other times, we have a sense that things just haven't come together or are falling apart, or we simply feel stuck. Wherever you are, that’s a great place, and, really, the only place, to start. I work with teenagers, adults, and couples, with issues around anxiety and depression, substance use, sexuality and gender, trauma and abuse, and mixed backgrounds.
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Wes Hardcastle-Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704 (Online Only)
I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which allows clients to see and understand connections between their stressful situations, their thoughts and beliefs, and resulting emotional difficulty. While I also employ the use of a Strengths-based model and collaborative treatment planning the therapy I practice is structured and makes use of agenda-setting at the beginning of sessions and homework after the session is completed. The homework is not overly time-consuming and it enhances therapy much like the saying "The more you put into something the more you get out of it."
I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which allows clients to see and understand connections between their stressful situations, their thoughts and beliefs, and resulting emotional difficulty. While I also employ the use of a Strengths-based model and collaborative treatment planning the therapy I practice is structured and makes use of agenda-setting at the beginning of sessions and homework after the session is completed. The homework is not overly time-consuming and it enhances therapy much like the saying "The more you put into something the more you get out of it."
Christopher Corey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94720
My approach is a flexible, organic experience of healing for many emotional concerns, particularly anxiety, grief, fear, shame, loneliness, guilt, sexual and creative blockages. We work to bring the hidden into the light. I embrace all gender expressions and sexual orientations. I have experience supporting a variety of relationship configurations and lifestyles, and can assist in navigating issues that can surface in these choices, such as boredom, jealousy, intimacy blockages, differing needs and desires, sexual and emotional satisfaction.
My approach is a flexible, organic experience of healing for many emotional concerns, particularly anxiety, grief, fear, shame, loneliness, guilt, sexual and creative blockages. We work to bring the hidden into the light. I embrace all gender expressions and sexual orientations. I have experience supporting a variety of relationship configurations and lifestyles, and can assist in navigating issues that can surface in these choices, such as boredom, jealousy, intimacy blockages, differing needs and desires, sexual and emotional satisfaction.
Chad Tynan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704 (Online Only)
I love working with highly motivated couples and individuals who are ready to do the hard work of healing. Maybe you’ve spent years getting degrees or a dream job at the expense of connection to others. Perhaps alcohol or drugs helped you cope for a while but they’ve created some problems of their own. The pressure to succeed can be traumatic and distance you from those you love. I want to help you realign to succeed in life and love!
I love working with highly motivated couples and individuals who are ready to do the hard work of healing. Maybe you’ve spent years getting degrees or a dream job at the expense of connection to others. Perhaps alcohol or drugs helped you cope for a while but they’ve created some problems of their own. The pressure to succeed can be traumatic and distance you from those you love. I want to help you realign to succeed in life and love!
Matthew Engel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94703 (Online Only)
It's hard to find the right therapist. I get it! My intention is to be as straightforward and compassionate as possible. I work with people from many walks of life. Regardless of culture, economics, gender identity, sexual orientation or vocation, we all seek greater meaning, depth, authenticity & inner peace. I draw from 25+ years of professional experience blending insights and supportive tools from psychology and non-denominational spirituality. Whether you're newer to this process or a "seasoned client," I work best with people who are committed to inner growth. I provide psychotherapy as well as life and business coaching.
It's hard to find the right therapist. I get it! My intention is to be as straightforward and compassionate as possible. I work with people from many walks of life. Regardless of culture, economics, gender identity, sexual orientation or vocation, we all seek greater meaning, depth, authenticity & inner peace. I draw from 25+ years of professional experience blending insights and supportive tools from psychology and non-denominational spirituality. Whether you're newer to this process or a "seasoned client," I work best with people who are committed to inner growth. I provide psychotherapy as well as life and business coaching.
Matthew Moreno
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
I specialize in working with adults and couples seeking support and growth. Whether you're navigating individual challenges or relationship dynamics, my compassionate approach fosters healing and transformation. Through evidence-based techniques and a client-centered focus, we'll collaboratively explore your concerns, develop coping strategies, and cultivate resilience. Together, we'll embark on a journey towards greater self-awareness, connection, and well-being.
I specialize in working with adults and couples seeking support and growth. Whether you're navigating individual challenges or relationship dynamics, my compassionate approach fosters healing and transformation. Through evidence-based techniques and a client-centered focus, we'll collaboratively explore your concerns, develop coping strategies, and cultivate resilience. Together, we'll embark on a journey towards greater self-awareness, connection, and well-being.
Mauricio Lask
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
Whether you are struggling with difficult emotions or you would like to have a more vital life, therapy can help guide your personal journey. There are moments when we all struggle, get lost, and stray off the path towards our goals. We get stuck in unhelpful patterns that are hard to break free from. Insight into these patterns can lead to making different choices that are empowering and life-affirming. I create a warm and inviting space for exploration and personal growth. While I provide therapy for adolescents and adults, I also provide psychological evaluations to clients across the lifespan.
Whether you are struggling with difficult emotions or you would like to have a more vital life, therapy can help guide your personal journey. There are moments when we all struggle, get lost, and stray off the path towards our goals. We get stuck in unhelpful patterns that are hard to break free from. Insight into these patterns can lead to making different choices that are empowering and life-affirming. I create a warm and inviting space for exploration and personal growth. While I provide therapy for adolescents and adults, I also provide psychological evaluations to clients across the lifespan.
Lane McConnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94709 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, borderline personality, sexuality issues or addiction? These are some of the areas I specialize in. I believe therapy can help you find the solutions you need to move forward to have a happier life. Have you struggled to find an effective type of therapy that works for you? I tailor my therapy approach to you based on what has and has not worked for you in the past. Together we will set therapy goals to help you remove present barriers, suffering and emotional pain so you can live your life to your upmost potential. Additional information: www.lanemcconnelltherapy.com
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, borderline personality, sexuality issues or addiction? These are some of the areas I specialize in. I believe therapy can help you find the solutions you need to move forward to have a happier life. Have you struggled to find an effective type of therapy that works for you? I tailor my therapy approach to you based on what has and has not worked for you in the past. Together we will set therapy goals to help you remove present barriers, suffering and emotional pain so you can live your life to your upmost potential. Additional information: www.lanemcconnelltherapy.com
John R. Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Have you experienced awful or traumatic experiences in your life? Have these experiences left you feeling dazed and confused about who you are and how to navigate life? Does your brain and body feel overly tired? Do you worry about just about everything? Have difficulty with decisions and follow through? Perhaps you’re engaging with alcohol, drugs, food, and other things in unhelpful ways to try to numb emotional pain. Negative life experiences leave negative imprints on your brain and body. Heal your brain and body to change your life.
Have you experienced awful or traumatic experiences in your life? Have these experiences left you feeling dazed and confused about who you are and how to navigate life? Does your brain and body feel overly tired? Do you worry about just about everything? Have difficulty with decisions and follow through? Perhaps you’re engaging with alcohol, drugs, food, and other things in unhelpful ways to try to numb emotional pain. Negative life experiences leave negative imprints on your brain and body. Heal your brain and body to change your life.
Robert A. Vargas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94710
Do you struggle with a negative inner critic that is affecting your work or personal relationships? Or are you going through a particularly difficult time in your life and your inner critic is much more noticeable and stressful? Would you like to feel more in control of your inner critic rather than it being in control of you? Are you ashamed of this aspect of yourself and silently struggle with it?
Do you struggle with a negative inner critic that is affecting your work or personal relationships? Or are you going through a particularly difficult time in your life and your inner critic is much more noticeable and stressful? Would you like to feel more in control of your inner critic rather than it being in control of you? Are you ashamed of this aspect of yourself and silently struggle with it?
See more therapy options for Berkeley
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Berkeley
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Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.