Christian Therapists in El Cerrito, CA

Photo of James Edwards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
James Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes we get to places in life where we get stuck. Maybe it’s an issue at the job or at home. Perhaps you’ve been dealing with feelings of depression, anxiety, or overwhelming anger. It is my goal to help you sort out how to deal with your challenges and support you develop into a better you. I also know that I am an African American cisgender male, and I want to use my presence in the therapy field to help increase the comfort level for males and minorities to receive clinical services.
Sometimes we get to places in life where we get stuck. Maybe it’s an issue at the job or at home. Perhaps you’ve been dealing with feelings of depression, anxiety, or overwhelming anger. It is my goal to help you sort out how to deal with your challenges and support you develop into a better you. I also know that I am an African American cisgender male, and I want to use my presence in the therapy field to help increase the comfort level for males and minorities to receive clinical services.
(510) 621-6234 View (510) 621-6234
Photo of Joy Wong Liu, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Joy Wong Liu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Christian therapist with a deep respect for your unique history and personal journey.
Do you often feel ashamed and not good enough, even though others think you have it all together? Do you find yourself caring for those around you, all the while wondering when it will be your turn to get what you need? Does the intensity of your negative feelings sometimes scare you?
I am a Christian therapist with a deep respect for your unique history and personal journey.
Do you often feel ashamed and not good enough, even though others think you have it all together? Do you find yourself caring for those around you, all the while wondering when it will be your turn to get what you need? Does the intensity of your negative feelings sometimes scare you?
(510) 296-6511 View (510) 296-6511
Photo of Ruchika Mehta, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Ruchika Mehta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
Exhausted by the "weight of belonging" and the constant pressure to perform? Through Somatic Psychotherapy, we move beyond traditional talk therapy to resolve the relational wounds held in your body. I help you bridge the gap between who the world expects you to be and who you truly are—moving from chronic internal pressure to a state of grounded, psychospiritual alignment.
Exhausted by the "weight of belonging" and the constant pressure to perform? Through Somatic Psychotherapy, we move beyond traditional talk therapy to resolve the relational wounds held in your body. I help you bridge the gap between who the world expects you to be and who you truly are—moving from chronic internal pressure to a state of grounded, psychospiritual alignment.
(510) 640-8415 View (510) 640-8415
Photo of Traci Williams, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Traci Williams
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
Hello, I am Traci Williams (LPC2105) and I have worked in the education and nonprofit industry for over 30 years providing me with a background in serving children, youth, and families. My approach is using the belief in hope and the ability to overcome adversity by examining what experiences we have had that influence our thinking and ability to move forward. Family history and trauma impact us, but with the proper support and understanding, we all have the potential to succeed and be at peace. My theoretical approach includes family systems, person-centered perspective, as well as cognitive behavioral.
Hello, I am Traci Williams (LPC2105) and I have worked in the education and nonprofit industry for over 30 years providing me with a background in serving children, youth, and families. My approach is using the belief in hope and the ability to overcome adversity by examining what experiences we have had that influence our thinking and ability to move forward. Family history and trauma impact us, but with the proper support and understanding, we all have the potential to succeed and be at peace. My theoretical approach includes family systems, person-centered perspective, as well as cognitive behavioral.
(816) 310-4294 View (816) 310-4294
Photo of Marco Pantoja, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Marco Pantoja
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My name is Marco Pantoja I am a LMFT, I provide a faith-based practice where science and religion do not contradict each other but run parallel with one another. My practice is aimed at simplifying mental health by identifying underlying reasons why the mental health symptoms are present. From substance abuse and depression to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, I have over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. I am comfortable with working with various types of diagnosis.
My name is Marco Pantoja I am a LMFT, I provide a faith-based practice where science and religion do not contradict each other but run parallel with one another. My practice is aimed at simplifying mental health by identifying underlying reasons why the mental health symptoms are present. From substance abuse and depression to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, I have over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. I am comfortable with working with various types of diagnosis.
(213) 318-4046 View (213) 318-4046
Photo of Lise Serrie Stern, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Lise Serrie Stern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Online Only
Whatever it is that brought your here, whether it is a personal crisis, long term wounds of trauma, or the disappointment of a life not fully lived. You are not alone. These are the very human concerns that we all share. Along with a desire to heal into greater fullness, authenticity, creativity and more meaningful connection with ourselves and others. I believe that we all know what want most deeply - and even, how to get there. But we are blocked by limiting beliefs about ourselves, often from the past.
Whatever it is that brought your here, whether it is a personal crisis, long term wounds of trauma, or the disappointment of a life not fully lived. You are not alone. These are the very human concerns that we all share. Along with a desire to heal into greater fullness, authenticity, creativity and more meaningful connection with ourselves and others. I believe that we all know what want most deeply - and even, how to get there. But we are blocked by limiting beliefs about ourselves, often from the past.
(510) 880-1668 View (510) 880-1668
Photo of Jessica Balderas, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jessica Balderas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I'm Jessica Balderas, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am beyond passionate about helping people find their ultimate sense of fulfillment and become their best selves. I focus creating on a warm, non-judgmental, genuine vibe in hopes to create a space where clients can let their guard down, be themselves, and start their healing journey.I take a real-world, client-centered approach to therapy, combining elements of relational attachment theory, CBT, solution-focused therapy, and art therapy to create a truly unique and transformative experience.
I'm Jessica Balderas, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am beyond passionate about helping people find their ultimate sense of fulfillment and become their best selves. I focus creating on a warm, non-judgmental, genuine vibe in hopes to create a space where clients can let their guard down, be themselves, and start their healing journey.I take a real-world, client-centered approach to therapy, combining elements of relational attachment theory, CBT, solution-focused therapy, and art therapy to create a truly unique and transformative experience.
(707) 735-0405 View (707) 735-0405

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Khinmaysoe Chu - KC - Behavioral Addiction, Trauma, Neurodivergence, Pre-Licensed Professional, aMFT, APCC
KC - Behavioral Addiction, Trauma, Neurodivergence
Pre-Licensed Professional, aMFT, APCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling lonely, fearful, sad, angry, jealous, grief, overwhelmed, anxious, or hopeless? Feeling stuck in self-sabotaging behaviors that feel out of control? In crisis in your relationship and don’t know what to do next? You are not alone. There is hope and a future to help you find peace, wholeness, and change towards a path to healing. You can break the cycles of shame, addiction, abuse, and trauma that may have trapped you in your emotional pain. You were created to live to your fullest potential, and I want want to help you to know that and live in that potential. I am an ASAT, AMFT, and APCC to support you.
Are you feeling lonely, fearful, sad, angry, jealous, grief, overwhelmed, anxious, or hopeless? Feeling stuck in self-sabotaging behaviors that feel out of control? In crisis in your relationship and don’t know what to do next? You are not alone. There is hope and a future to help you find peace, wholeness, and change towards a path to healing. You can break the cycles of shame, addiction, abuse, and trauma that may have trapped you in your emotional pain. You were created to live to your fullest potential, and I want want to help you to know that and live in that potential. I am an ASAT, AMFT, and APCC to support you.
(510) 800-7282 View (510) 800-7282
Photo of Rita Del Toro, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Rita Del Toro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I am a client-centered therapist who provides a supportive, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore challenges and work toward meaningful change. I believe therapy should feel collaborative, empowering, and tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. I have experience working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, adjustment-related stress, grief, and or major life transitions. I meet clients where they are and move at a pace that feels comfortable and sustainable.
I am a client-centered therapist who provides a supportive, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore challenges and work toward meaningful change. I believe therapy should feel collaborative, empowering, and tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. I have experience working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, adjustment-related stress, grief, and or major life transitions. I meet clients where they are and move at a pace that feels comfortable and sustainable.
(760) 977-5967 View (760) 977-5967
Photo of Maurice C Shaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Maurice C Shaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am currently taking on new insurance clients in California. My goal is to empower individuals who call the Bay Area home to live their best lives by utilizing my education, skills, and experience to enhance evidenced based practices. My experience as a child welfare social worker has gifted me with the ability to support individuals who are struggling with the most challenging issues which could include attachment issues, behavioral challenges, family discord, couples, anxiety, depression and anger management. Additionally, I have a passion for working with the underserved African American and L.G.B.T.Q. community.
I am currently taking on new insurance clients in California. My goal is to empower individuals who call the Bay Area home to live their best lives by utilizing my education, skills, and experience to enhance evidenced based practices. My experience as a child welfare social worker has gifted me with the ability to support individuals who are struggling with the most challenging issues which could include attachment issues, behavioral challenges, family discord, couples, anxiety, depression and anger management. Additionally, I have a passion for working with the underserved African American and L.G.B.T.Q. community.
(510) 945-3678 View (510) 945-3678
Photo of Joe Saavedra, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, CCTP, SATP
Joe Saavedra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, CCTP, SATP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) trained in IFS, I am absolutely passionate about helping those impacted by sexual integrity issues. I work with "addicted parts" using individual, couple, and group therapy modalities. I am quite aware of relational trauma that partners of sex, porn, and relationship addicts experience, and I compassionately work to guide addicted parts through isolating and shame-filled experiences. My role is to help reduce this shame and systematically get to the root of the addictive and compulsive behaviors that have led to intimacy disorder issues.
As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) trained in IFS, I am absolutely passionate about helping those impacted by sexual integrity issues. I work with "addicted parts" using individual, couple, and group therapy modalities. I am quite aware of relational trauma that partners of sex, porn, and relationship addicts experience, and I compassionately work to guide addicted parts through isolating and shame-filled experiences. My role is to help reduce this shame and systematically get to the root of the addictive and compulsive behaviors that have led to intimacy disorder issues.
(657) 534-7146 View (657) 534-7146
Photo of Gencia Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Gencia Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103
Do you want peace of mind? Let me help you get it! Life is not lived without the experience of doubt, confusion, nor uncertainty. Many have experienced pain, hurt, failure and disappointment. These experiences may be relative to interpersonal relationships, workplace challenges, phases of life/ life transitions or personal growth and achievement. During these times we may be consumed with an array of emotions ranging from fear, anger, hopelessness and simply do not know what to do - how to fix it, manage it, or move forward.
Do you want peace of mind? Let me help you get it! Life is not lived without the experience of doubt, confusion, nor uncertainty. Many have experienced pain, hurt, failure and disappointment. These experiences may be relative to interpersonal relationships, workplace challenges, phases of life/ life transitions or personal growth and achievement. During these times we may be consumed with an array of emotions ranging from fear, anger, hopelessness and simply do not know what to do - how to fix it, manage it, or move forward.
(909) 406-7915 View (909) 406-7915
Photo of Dr. Justin C. Lutz, Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Dr. Justin C. Lutz
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a firm believer that therapy is a process and starting therapy can be overwhelming and anxiety provoking. From finding a good fit between yourself and a clinician to being open and vulnerable with another person – the prospect is at times a lot to take in and can feel monumental. Regardless of what it is that brings you to therapy, reaching out is the first step and I wanted to congratulate you on the courage it took to take those steps and let you know that things can get better, you can solve that problem and you can reach that goal.
I am a firm believer that therapy is a process and starting therapy can be overwhelming and anxiety provoking. From finding a good fit between yourself and a clinician to being open and vulnerable with another person – the prospect is at times a lot to take in and can feel monumental. Regardless of what it is that brings you to therapy, reaching out is the first step and I wanted to congratulate you on the courage it took to take those steps and let you know that things can get better, you can solve that problem and you can reach that goal.
(949) 828-3050 View (949) 828-3050
Photo of Jennifer Starks, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jennifer Starks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Concord, CA 94518
Thrive offers a multicultural approach to mental health. Although we treat vast varieties of issues, we specialize in the treatment of childhood, family, and social trauma. You don't have to be a child to benefit from processing your own childhood/family of origin trauma. We treat adults, youth, couples, and families. We also facilitate various group therapy. Through use of trauma-informed solutions-focused positive psychology theories and mindfulness practices amongst others, you and your clinician will develop specialized sessions to aid you in processing issues, overcoming obstacles, and achieving therapeutic goals.
Thrive offers a multicultural approach to mental health. Although we treat vast varieties of issues, we specialize in the treatment of childhood, family, and social trauma. You don't have to be a child to benefit from processing your own childhood/family of origin trauma. We treat adults, youth, couples, and families. We also facilitate various group therapy. Through use of trauma-informed solutions-focused positive psychology theories and mindfulness practices amongst others, you and your clinician will develop specialized sessions to aid you in processing issues, overcoming obstacles, and achieving therapeutic goals.
(209) 210-4477 View (209) 210-4477
Photo of Lucia Acosta, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, ICST
Lucia Acosta
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, ICST
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I’m Lucia Acosta, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, passionate about helping adolescents and adults navigate the challenges of anxiety, stress, and life’s complexities. I am bicultural, bilingual in Spanish, and provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your emotions, share your experiences, and work toward meaningful change. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, I’m here to help you find clarity and confidence as we navigate your healing journey together.
Hello, I’m Lucia Acosta, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, passionate about helping adolescents and adults navigate the challenges of anxiety, stress, and life’s complexities. I am bicultural, bilingual in Spanish, and provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your emotions, share your experiences, and work toward meaningful change. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, I’m here to help you find clarity and confidence as we navigate your healing journey together.
(415) 226-4212 View (415) 226-4212
Photo of Johanna Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Johanna Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stretched thin? You don’t have to navigate it alone! I’m Johanna, a first-generation Latina therapist supporting adults with anxiety, generational wounds and life transitions through compassionate, culturally affirming care.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stretched thin? You don’t have to navigate it alone! I’m Johanna, a first-generation Latina therapist supporting adults with anxiety, generational wounds and life transitions through compassionate, culturally affirming care.
(415) 878-3134 View (415) 878-3134
Photo of Karyn Pascoe, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Karyn Pascoe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Fairfax, CA 94930
You might be asking questions that don’t have easy answers. Maybe you’ve built a full life, but it no longer feels right. You’ve reached your goals, but now you wonder what they mean. You could be facing a loss or change, and your usual ways of coping aren’t helping anymore. I work with adults who want to go deeper. My clients are thoughtful, sensitive, and capable people who want more than just relief from symptoms. They want to understand themselves better and live with more clarity and purpose.
You might be asking questions that don’t have easy answers. Maybe you’ve built a full life, but it no longer feels right. You’ve reached your goals, but now you wonder what they mean. You could be facing a loss or change, and your usual ways of coping aren’t helping anymore. I work with adults who want to go deeper. My clients are thoughtful, sensitive, and capable people who want more than just relief from symptoms. They want to understand themselves better and live with more clarity and purpose.
(415) 779-0920 View (415) 779-0920
Photo of Sequoia San Juan, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Sequoia San Juan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I offer a space where your pain can soften, your story can unfold gently, and you can be met with warmth and compassion without judgment. I draw from CBT, TF-CBT, MI, mindfulness, and person-centered, holistic practices — not as rigid techniques, but as tools we weave into the moments when you need grounding, clarity, or a way to steady yourself. Over time, your voice gets stronger. Your patterns make more sense. And the parts of you that learned to survive begin to feel safe enough to soften.
I offer a space where your pain can soften, your story can unfold gently, and you can be met with warmth and compassion without judgment. I draw from CBT, TF-CBT, MI, mindfulness, and person-centered, holistic practices — not as rigid techniques, but as tools we weave into the moments when you need grounding, clarity, or a way to steady yourself. Over time, your voice gets stronger. Your patterns make more sense. And the parts of you that learned to survive begin to feel safe enough to soften.
(805) 749-5029 View (805) 749-5029
Photo of Arbella Odishoo Parrot, Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Arbella Odishoo Parrot
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
2 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Life is tough for all of us. Careers, families, relationships, health; what brings joy can also cause stress. Whether it feels like a crisis or a long standing issue that isn't getting better, therapy can help address your difficulties. These may include marriage/family conflicts, excess worry/stress, lack of motivation, career dissatisfaction, to name just a few. For young people it may be worries about the future, stress from parents, drug/alcohol/food challenges. Or perhaps you are managing a life threatening illness or are a loved one's caregiver. We will work together to help relieve your pain and get to a calmer, happier you.
Life is tough for all of us. Careers, families, relationships, health; what brings joy can also cause stress. Whether it feels like a crisis or a long standing issue that isn't getting better, therapy can help address your difficulties. These may include marriage/family conflicts, excess worry/stress, lack of motivation, career dissatisfaction, to name just a few. For young people it may be worries about the future, stress from parents, drug/alcohol/food challenges. Or perhaps you are managing a life threatening illness or are a loved one's caregiver. We will work together to help relieve your pain and get to a calmer, happier you.
(415) 967-7202 View (415) 967-7202
Photo of Erik Sean Bidinger-Boggess, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erik Sean Bidinger-Boggess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am not only a therapist but a real person. Everyone struggles with mood and thoughts and sometimes we all need help navigating the intensity of these experiences. I hope to be a guide for you as you walk through whatever challenges are keeping you from moving forward. This process will be challenging and will take work, however if you take away one thing from reading this, it is that you are not alone and there are people out there waiting to offer help.
I am not only a therapist but a real person. Everyone struggles with mood and thoughts and sometimes we all need help navigating the intensity of these experiences. I hope to be a guide for you as you walk through whatever challenges are keeping you from moving forward. This process will be challenging and will take work, however if you take away one thing from reading this, it is that you are not alone and there are people out there waiting to offer help.
(559) 551-2451 View (559) 551-2451

See more therapy options for El Cerrito

Christian Therapists
Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?
Therapists and clients don’t need to share the same belief system or background to be able to work effectively together, but a therapist whose training includes a focus on cultural competence may be better able to form a therapeutic bond with individuals from a range of backgrounds, as they will have experience in tailoring their approach to each client—and will be prepared to acknowledge and consider the effects of culture, religion, and other factors on each individual.

Why is it important to find a therapist sensitive to Christian values?
Each person brings a unique history and background to therapy, making it important to find a licensed therapist who is trained in a broad range of treatment modalities. In addition, for people who grow up in a faith tradition that strongly influences the way they conduct their everyday life, finding a therapist who understands or shares that background can ease the disclosure of sensitive information and facilitate the therapeutic process. For some clients, a Christian therapist is likely to incorporate faith-based principles into emotional healing techniques.

How do I recognize an effective Christian therapist?
Christian therapists are licensed mental health professionals—holding a master’s or doctoral degree in medicine, nursing, psychology, counseling, social work, or marriage and family therapy—who are also familiar with Christian beliefs and values. They have an understanding of the importance that Christian principles play in the lives of individuals and families, which allows them to be especially sensitive to the kinds of struggles that can affect daily functioning. Like all effective therapists, a Christian therapist will have undergone training and certification in a variety of treatment modalities that help people through crises and enable them to master the challenges of life.

Why might someone feel comfortable with a Christian therapist?
While training, qualifications, and experience are always important, research has long established that a strong alliance between client and therapist is a major contributor to therapeutic success. An alliance is likely to be strengthened with a therapist who not only is responsive to questions and concerns but also shares a client’s faith and values. Sensitivity to spiritual matters as well as to everyday struggles can provide a welcome sense of safety and contribute to the bond between client and therapist, both of which support the therapeutic process.

Who is included in Psychology Today’s directory of Christian therapists?
The directory of Christian therapists includes professionals who have shared their background in their profiles. However, not all therapists choose to disclose this information, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. The directory also shows therapists who indicate that they have extensive experience working with Christian clients, regardless of their own background or religious affiliation.