Therapists in Oakland, CA
Trauma takes many forms; often in the guise of unprocessed grief and loss. Loss of employment, financial insecurity, divorce, separation, domestic violence and abuse; all must be mourned. We become stuck; often not understanding our own reactions to people, places and things. Our partners, children, colleagues and superiors can appear to feel unfairly entitled to what we have to offer. Our ability to tolerate distress is limited.
Trauma takes many forms; often in the guise of unprocessed grief and loss. Loss of employment, financial insecurity, divorce, separation, domestic violence and abuse; all must be mourned. We become stuck; often not understanding our own reactions to people, places and things. Our partners, children, colleagues and superiors can appear to feel unfairly entitled to what we have to offer. Our ability to tolerate distress is limited.
My practice emphasizes integral, psychodynamic psychotherapy and consultation for a variety of psychological, relational, medical, cultural, and spiritual issues. I specialize in working with adults who grapple with anxiety, depression, loss, stress, health, disability, identity, sexuality, relationships, transitions, trauma, creativity, spirituality, life path/purpose/meaning and fulfillment. I also enjoy providing consultation to colleagues. Building on my twenty five years of private practice experience as a licensed clinician, it is my joy to combine private practice in Oakland/Emeryville with my teaching at CIIS.
My practice emphasizes integral, psychodynamic psychotherapy and consultation for a variety of psychological, relational, medical, cultural, and spiritual issues. I specialize in working with adults who grapple with anxiety, depression, loss, stress, health, disability, identity, sexuality, relationships, transitions, trauma, creativity, spirituality, life path/purpose/meaning and fulfillment. I also enjoy providing consultation to colleagues. Building on my twenty five years of private practice experience as a licensed clinician, it is my joy to combine private practice in Oakland/Emeryville with my teaching at CIIS.
I work with the belief that all beings have the inherent ability to be well and their best selves. Through traumatic experiences, the pace of life, and other circumstances that challenge us, we can lose our way. We'll explore your internal inspiration, and the needs and strengths that might have become buried over time and what in the external pieces of your life, work, relationships, habits and stressors can be addressed with a focus on moving you forward to life you deserve to have.
I work with the belief that all beings have the inherent ability to be well and their best selves. Through traumatic experiences, the pace of life, and other circumstances that challenge us, we can lose our way. We'll explore your internal inspiration, and the needs and strengths that might have become buried over time and what in the external pieces of your life, work, relationships, habits and stressors can be addressed with a focus on moving you forward to life you deserve to have.
As of September 2026, I am accepting new clients for both in-person work and teletherapy.
I specialize in helping high-achieving professionals with anxiety, substance use, and related issues. My approach centers on shifting fundamental feelings and emotions and avoiding extensive intellectualized analysis of near-term stressors and personal history. I provide therapy that is focused, ambitious, and finite.
I believe good therapy should start to work relatively quickly (in the first 2-6 sessions). If change doesn't start in that timeframe, we'll talk about what or who might serve you better.
As of September 2026, I am accepting new clients for both in-person work and teletherapy.
I specialize in helping high-achieving professionals with anxiety, substance use, and related issues. My approach centers on shifting fundamental feelings and emotions and avoiding extensive intellectualized analysis of near-term stressors and personal history. I provide therapy that is focused, ambitious, and finite.
I believe good therapy should start to work relatively quickly (in the first 2-6 sessions). If change doesn't start in that timeframe, we'll talk about what or who might serve you better.
Are you struggling with addiction but feel unsure about traditional approaches like 12-step groups, rehabs, or even total abstinence? You're not alone! Many people don’t seek help because they feel this way. I specialize in taking the power out of addictive behaviors by uncovering the trauma and difficult family experiences that impact your life under the surface. With this awareness, you can learn how to start healing yourself with acceptance and love. Helping you recognize your strengths and replacing harmful behaviors with more meaning and joy is the goal. I'm here to be in your corner, as an ally and as a guide.
Are you struggling with addiction but feel unsure about traditional approaches like 12-step groups, rehabs, or even total abstinence? You're not alone! Many people don’t seek help because they feel this way. I specialize in taking the power out of addictive behaviors by uncovering the trauma and difficult family experiences that impact your life under the surface. With this awareness, you can learn how to start healing yourself with acceptance and love. Helping you recognize your strengths and replacing harmful behaviors with more meaning and joy is the goal. I'm here to be in your corner, as an ally and as a guide.
I'm a licensed clinical social worker in both California & Nevada with 10 years of experience helping individuals, teens, families and couples to navigate stress, heal from past hurts and make changes that persist once therapy ends (and it will end!).
I believe in the intrinsic strength of all people and trust that our internal systems naturally lean towards healing. That said, sometimes our experiences, upbringings—even our biology or physical bodies—can feel like they are creating barriers to living the life we want. I will partner with you to look at all parts of your story so that you get to decide the narrative that drives it.
I'm a licensed clinical social worker in both California & Nevada with 10 years of experience helping individuals, teens, families and couples to navigate stress, heal from past hurts and make changes that persist once therapy ends (and it will end!).
I believe in the intrinsic strength of all people and trust that our internal systems naturally lean towards healing. That said, sometimes our experiences, upbringings—even our biology or physical bodies—can feel like they are creating barriers to living the life we want. I will partner with you to look at all parts of your story so that you get to decide the narrative that drives it.
I began my work in the mental health field supporting mothers and infants, helping to foster strong early relationships and emotional resilience. That experience continues to shape the way I understand the impact of early attachment, trauma, and the healing power of relationships. Over the years, my work has evolved, and I now primarily serve adults ages 25 and up who are navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, or the lingering effects of trauma. I also help couples improve communication, rebuild trust, and deepen emotional connection by learning to listen and express needs more clearly.
I began my work in the mental health field supporting mothers and infants, helping to foster strong early relationships and emotional resilience. That experience continues to shape the way I understand the impact of early attachment, trauma, and the healing power of relationships. Over the years, my work has evolved, and I now primarily serve adults ages 25 and up who are navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, or the lingering effects of trauma. I also help couples improve communication, rebuild trust, and deepen emotional connection by learning to listen and express needs more clearly.
Hello. My name is Dr. Alandrea Martin. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I received my Masters from Argosy University in Alameda, California and my doctorate from Walden University. I have been practicing 15+ years. I am passionate about helping individuals achieve success while going through struggles and life challenges. I also work with couples and families to help support them to increase communication and conflict resolution.
Hello. My name is Dr. Alandrea Martin. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I received my Masters from Argosy University in Alameda, California and my doctorate from Walden University. I have been practicing 15+ years. I am passionate about helping individuals achieve success while going through struggles and life challenges. I also work with couples and families to help support them to increase communication and conflict resolution.
I believe that inside each of our struggles there is a choice and it's from this place that we can reconnect to and reclaim our inherent wisdom and power. My intention in our work together is to help shed light on the path to help guide you home to yourself
I believe that inside each of our struggles there is a choice and it's from this place that we can reconnect to and reclaim our inherent wisdom and power. My intention in our work together is to help shed light on the path to help guide you home to yourself
Therapy for people becoming more of themselves. If trauma, chronic stress, or overwhelm have left you feeling disconnected from yourself, you're not alone. Whether you're untangling old patterns, questioning long-held beliefs, or making sense of experiences that have changed you, therapy can offer a space for curiosity, healing, and deeper connection to yourself and the life you want to build. My practice may resonate with reflective and self-curious people, those drawn to mindfulness and intentional living, community-minded individuals, LGBTQ+ identified, and people seeking deeper connection and healing.
Therapy for people becoming more of themselves. If trauma, chronic stress, or overwhelm have left you feeling disconnected from yourself, you're not alone. Whether you're untangling old patterns, questioning long-held beliefs, or making sense of experiences that have changed you, therapy can offer a space for curiosity, healing, and deeper connection to yourself and the life you want to build. My practice may resonate with reflective and self-curious people, those drawn to mindfulness and intentional living, community-minded individuals, LGBTQ+ identified, and people seeking deeper connection and healing.
My priority is to be curious with you. My approach is built upon genuine interest in understanding my clients. I'm somatic in practice and love helping folks reconnect to their body and integrity. I teach self-leadership, embodiment, and release. I want to help you explore what's true for you, listen without feeling protective/becoming defensive, and learn to feel safer in relationships (with others but also with yourself.) I have 15 years of experience in mental health treatment settings and I specialize in eating disorder recovery, healing relational trauma, and gender affirming care.
My priority is to be curious with you. My approach is built upon genuine interest in understanding my clients. I'm somatic in practice and love helping folks reconnect to their body and integrity. I teach self-leadership, embodiment, and release. I want to help you explore what's true for you, listen without feeling protective/becoming defensive, and learn to feel safer in relationships (with others but also with yourself.) I have 15 years of experience in mental health treatment settings and I specialize in eating disorder recovery, healing relational trauma, and gender affirming care.
I use a compassionate and collaborative strength-based model in my therapy practice that taps into the innate wisdom within each client as a valuable resource for transformation. In my experience, many of the wounds we carry as individuals are relational, and healing often occurs through connection with others. I view therapy as a space where we can address these wounds and learn to have honest conversations that foster healthy relational skills. Together, we can develop practical tools to create lasting changes, improve communication, and deepen personal insight.
I use a compassionate and collaborative strength-based model in my therapy practice that taps into the innate wisdom within each client as a valuable resource for transformation. In my experience, many of the wounds we carry as individuals are relational, and healing often occurs through connection with others. I view therapy as a space where we can address these wounds and learn to have honest conversations that foster healthy relational skills. Together, we can develop practical tools to create lasting changes, improve communication, and deepen personal insight.
Therapy is a deeply personal experience and there are as many reasons to seek therapy as there are people who seek it. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or shame. You may have suffered traumas or losses and are wondering how these shape your thoughts, feelings and relationships. Maybe you simply have a sense that aspects of your life are not coming together in the ways you desire. Therapy is a space to explore these curiosities, to develop insight into your self, and, ultimately, to find greater fulfillment in your work, relationships, and play.
Therapy is a deeply personal experience and there are as many reasons to seek therapy as there are people who seek it. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or shame. You may have suffered traumas or losses and are wondering how these shape your thoughts, feelings and relationships. Maybe you simply have a sense that aspects of your life are not coming together in the ways you desire. Therapy is a space to explore these curiosities, to develop insight into your self, and, ultimately, to find greater fulfillment in your work, relationships, and play.
My philosophy in working with adults & teen is to share cognitive and mindfulness techniques, in a supportive setting, to help my clients make positive changes in their thoughts and actions. Utilizing personal accountability, combined with humor and lightness, I aim to help clients cultivate compassion for themselves, so they may be willing to experiment with new tools. I strive to help clients come back into their bodies, more effectively process their feelings, and move decisively toward wellness. My theory is to be flexible and sensitive in my approach while moving clients toward a more confident, realized version of themselves.
My philosophy in working with adults & teen is to share cognitive and mindfulness techniques, in a supportive setting, to help my clients make positive changes in their thoughts and actions. Utilizing personal accountability, combined with humor and lightness, I aim to help clients cultivate compassion for themselves, so they may be willing to experiment with new tools. I strive to help clients come back into their bodies, more effectively process their feelings, and move decisively toward wellness. My theory is to be flexible and sensitive in my approach while moving clients toward a more confident, realized version of themselves.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience providing psychotherapy and clinical social work across medical, academic, and private practice settings. My clinical work is grounded in trauma-informed care, psychoeducation, and a commitment to evidence-based, integrative treatment that supports each client’s individual goals and strengths.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience providing psychotherapy and clinical social work across medical, academic, and private practice settings. My clinical work is grounded in trauma-informed care, psychoeducation, and a commitment to evidence-based, integrative treatment that supports each client’s individual goals and strengths.
You're thoughtful, motivated, probably pretty self-aware. And yet something keeps nagging — a pattern you can't quite break, a feeling that despite everything you've built, something essential is missing. If you are here, something isn’t working.
Or maybe you feel hopeless and want help finding a way forward. You may be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship difficulties.
Maybe you're dealing with creative blocks or questions of identity. Or maybe you've done all the "right" things and still feel empty. Whatever brought you here, there is hope.
You don't have to figure it out alone.
You're thoughtful, motivated, probably pretty self-aware. And yet something keeps nagging — a pattern you can't quite break, a feeling that despite everything you've built, something essential is missing. If you are here, something isn’t working.
Or maybe you feel hopeless and want help finding a way forward. You may be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship difficulties.
Maybe you're dealing with creative blocks or questions of identity. Or maybe you've done all the "right" things and still feel empty. Whatever brought you here, there is hope.
You don't have to figure it out alone.
Many people come to therapy and find a space where they finally feel understood, a place that's truly their own. That matters. But feeling heard isn't enough. What we want is to make meaningful progress on the issues that brought you to therapy in the first place.
My work holds both. I create a space where you feel deeply seen, while also bringing a systematic, direct approach to the issues you're facing. That combination means therapy doesn't just feel good, it actually gets you somewhere. Clients tend to reach their goals faster, and leave not just understood, but genuinely changed, ready for a more satisfying and fulfilling life
Many people come to therapy and find a space where they finally feel understood, a place that's truly their own. That matters. But feeling heard isn't enough. What we want is to make meaningful progress on the issues that brought you to therapy in the first place.
My work holds both. I create a space where you feel deeply seen, while also bringing a systematic, direct approach to the issues you're facing. That combination means therapy doesn't just feel good, it actually gets you somewhere. Clients tend to reach their goals faster, and leave not just understood, but genuinely changed, ready for a more satisfying and fulfilling life
Maybe you've done a lot of work to understand yourself and still feel like something isn't shifting. Sometimes the piece we're missing is complexity: the way trauma, neurodivergence, relationships, culture, identity, or our relationship with food and our bodies can shape one another. I work with adults and couples+ at these intersections, helping you move beyond a single explanation toward a fuller understanding of yourself and new possibilities for change. My practice is LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent affirming, culturally attuned, and trauma-responsive, with specialized training in trauma, eating disorders, and relationship challenges.
Maybe you've done a lot of work to understand yourself and still feel like something isn't shifting. Sometimes the piece we're missing is complexity: the way trauma, neurodivergence, relationships, culture, identity, or our relationship with food and our bodies can shape one another. I work with adults and couples+ at these intersections, helping you move beyond a single explanation toward a fuller understanding of yourself and new possibilities for change. My practice is LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent affirming, culturally attuned, and trauma-responsive, with specialized training in trauma, eating disorders, and relationship challenges.
Do you have relationships in your life that are not working, and no matter what you do, it doesn't seem to get better? Are you looking for a partner, but find that it never seems to work out? Do you feel disconnected from others and are longing for relationships that are solid and fulfilling? Relationships take work and psychotherapy is an opportunity to understand who you are in relationship and how to create and healthy and supportive connections. I work with both individuals and couples to explore, cultivate and sustain intimacy.
Do you have relationships in your life that are not working, and no matter what you do, it doesn't seem to get better? Are you looking for a partner, but find that it never seems to work out? Do you feel disconnected from others and are longing for relationships that are solid and fulfilling? Relationships take work and psychotherapy is an opportunity to understand who you are in relationship and how to create and healthy and supportive connections. I work with both individuals and couples to explore, cultivate and sustain intimacy.
Hello, and congratulations on taking this important step towards your healing journey! Welcome to a safe and supportive space. I specialize in helping children, individuals, particularly women, and families navigate life’s challenges and strengthen their relationships. My approach is tailored to your unique needs, incorporating a variety of therapeutic techniques to support your personal growth and well-being.
Hello, and congratulations on taking this important step towards your healing journey! Welcome to a safe and supportive space. I specialize in helping children, individuals, particularly women, and families navigate life’s challenges and strengthen their relationships. My approach is tailored to your unique needs, incorporating a variety of therapeutic techniques to support your personal growth and well-being.
See more therapy options for Oakland
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Oakland, CA
3,000+
Average cost per session
$195
Therapists in Oakland, CA who prioritize treating:
| 92% | Anxiety |
| 92% | Social Anxiety |
| 92% | Health Anxiety |
| 92% | Driving Anxiety |
| 86% | Depression |
| 81% | Relationship Issues |
| 76% | Relationship Anxiety |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 77% | Aetna |
| 57% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 50% | Anthem |
How Therapists in Oakland, CA see their clients
| 58% | In Person and Online | |
| 42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 75% | Female | |
| 20% | Male | |
| 5% | 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.