Adoption Therapists in Oakland, CA
I work with adolescents, adults, and families navigating life transitions, trauma recovery, and significant life events. Many of my clients are coping with anxiety, depression, relational challenges, or the impact of acute or complex trauma. I offer a space to deepen self-awareness, stay action-oriented toward meaningful change, and reconnect with your values, goals, and sense of self.
My approach is relational, strengths-based, and psychodynamic, with an emphasis on the body’s role in healing. I integrate Somatic Experiencing and mindfulness-based practices to support nervous system regulation and embodied insight.
I work with adolescents, adults, and families navigating life transitions, trauma recovery, and significant life events. Many of my clients are coping with anxiety, depression, relational challenges, or the impact of acute or complex trauma. I offer a space to deepen self-awareness, stay action-oriented toward meaningful change, and reconnect with your values, goals, and sense of self.
My approach is relational, strengths-based, and psychodynamic, with an emphasis on the body’s role in healing. I integrate Somatic Experiencing and mindfulness-based practices to support nervous system regulation and embodied insight.
My clients struggle with issues related to depression, anxiety, loss, adoption, psychological trauma, childhood development, parenting, and everyday stressors.
Informed by psychodynamic, systems, and cognitive behavioral theories, I strive to understand each client as a unique individual in their own context. I believe in the power of the human spirit to strive toward growth and connection and take great joy in supporting my clients on their path.
My clients struggle with issues related to depression, anxiety, loss, adoption, psychological trauma, childhood development, parenting, and everyday stressors.
Informed by psychodynamic, systems, and cognitive behavioral theories, I strive to understand each client as a unique individual in their own context. I believe in the power of the human spirit to strive toward growth and connection and take great joy in supporting my clients on their path.
When grief hasn't been fully addressed, it can look like depression, anxiety, isolation, addictive behaviors to escape the pain, workaholism, relationships that are fragile, a lack of motivation, or feeling overwhelming resentment and bitterness. And grief can occur after a variety of losses that many people don't realize: divorce, moving, graduation, empty nest, retirement, an impactful change in financial position or physical abilities, a pandemic. My clients acutely feel how unresolved grief has become an impediment to living their lives in full, having healthy relationships, and having the energy to go after their goals.
When grief hasn't been fully addressed, it can look like depression, anxiety, isolation, addictive behaviors to escape the pain, workaholism, relationships that are fragile, a lack of motivation, or feeling overwhelming resentment and bitterness. And grief can occur after a variety of losses that many people don't realize: divorce, moving, graduation, empty nest, retirement, an impactful change in financial position or physical abilities, a pandemic. My clients acutely feel how unresolved grief has become an impediment to living their lives in full, having healthy relationships, and having the energy to go after their goals.
Whether your adoption was open or closed, whether you have searched for your biological/first parents or not, whether you are in reunion or not, whether you felt loved and supported by your adoptive parents or not, adoption is complex and has lifelong impacts that are not thoroughly understood or acknowledged.
If you would like a safe place to explore your own experience with being adopted, please contact me.
Whether your adoption was open or closed, whether you have searched for your biological/first parents or not, whether you are in reunion or not, whether you felt loved and supported by your adoptive parents or not, adoption is complex and has lifelong impacts that are not thoroughly understood or acknowledged.
If you would like a safe place to explore your own experience with being adopted, please contact me.
With over 20 years as a CA-licensed psychologist & 40-plus in the field, I enjoy working with individuals with a variety of concerns. I have seen children as young as 3 and seniors in their 80s. Some issues I have experience with: parenting, friendship and partner relationships, difficulties with self-regulation, general and social anxiety, depression, search for meaning, transitions re: culture, career, stage of life. The goals: improved family functioning, more fluidity, greater engagement and curiosity re: self and others, better boundaries, improved coping, increased energy. Let's see if we are a good fit to work together.
With over 20 years as a CA-licensed psychologist & 40-plus in the field, I enjoy working with individuals with a variety of concerns. I have seen children as young as 3 and seniors in their 80s. Some issues I have experience with: parenting, friendship and partner relationships, difficulties with self-regulation, general and social anxiety, depression, search for meaning, transitions re: culture, career, stage of life. The goals: improved family functioning, more fluidity, greater engagement and curiosity re: self and others, better boundaries, improved coping, increased energy. Let's see if we are a good fit to work together.
She also works with individuals navigating experiences related to transracial adoption.
Dr. Pixley completed her post-doctoral internship at California College of the Arts Counseling center. She completed her pre-doctoral internship at West Coast Children’s Clinic. Prior to her doctorate, Dr. Pixley completed a Masters at University College London in Psychoanalytic Developmental Psychology. She holds a Bachelors degree from Columbia University.
She also works with individuals navigating experiences related to transracial adoption.
Dr. Pixley completed her post-doctoral internship at California College of the Arts Counseling center. She completed her pre-doctoral internship at West Coast Children’s Clinic. Prior to her doctorate, Dr. Pixley completed a Masters at University College London in Psychoanalytic Developmental Psychology. She holds a Bachelors degree from Columbia University.
When individuals, couples, families or children make the difficult decision to come to therapy they are usually feeling stuck and often scared. Each of us has our own strength and wisdom which we don't see when we are troubled. My goal is for us to work together to rediscover those qualities.
I use a cattail plant as a symbol of how I see therapy. Why? Cattails are found stuck in a marsh and often regarded as weeds. But when looked at carefully they are graceful and strong. Let me help you find your strength and grace.
When individuals, couples, families or children make the difficult decision to come to therapy they are usually feeling stuck and often scared. Each of us has our own strength and wisdom which we don't see when we are troubled. My goal is for us to work together to rediscover those qualities.
I use a cattail plant as a symbol of how I see therapy. Why? Cattails are found stuck in a marsh and often regarded as weeds. But when looked at carefully they are graceful and strong. Let me help you find your strength and grace.
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.
Is one or more of your kids on the Spectrum or have the ASD/ADD/OCD triad? In your relationship, is one of you on the spectrum and one not and is that causing misunderstandings and problems? Are you on the spectrum and having trouble understanding the non-spectrum people and world around you? I can help you bridge differences and deal with conflicts and meltdowns in an empathetic and constructive way. Also, I work for with LGBTQ people and couples with a variety of mental health concerns like anxiety and depression. It's hard growing up different from your peers. It can cause low self esteem, crippling self doubt and anger.
Is one or more of your kids on the Spectrum or have the ASD/ADD/OCD triad? In your relationship, is one of you on the spectrum and one not and is that causing misunderstandings and problems? Are you on the spectrum and having trouble understanding the non-spectrum people and world around you? I can help you bridge differences and deal with conflicts and meltdowns in an empathetic and constructive way. Also, I work for with LGBTQ people and couples with a variety of mental health concerns like anxiety and depression. It's hard growing up different from your peers. It can cause low self esteem, crippling self doubt and anger.
Feeling frozen? At a stand-still? Or in a malaise? Are you stuck in your head? Playing out old patterns at work + in relationship? Finding your way out of the maze IS possible. Untangling fear, debunking internal chatter + clearing out years of compounded pain requires the right support. I am an experienced healer here to help. A few things you should know about what it's like to work with me: My style is warm, witty, compassionate + forthcoming. I value transparency, kindness, justice + joy. I'm directive when called for + I like to challenge my clients to go deep. I draw from my own experience of trauma + healing.
Feeling frozen? At a stand-still? Or in a malaise? Are you stuck in your head? Playing out old patterns at work + in relationship? Finding your way out of the maze IS possible. Untangling fear, debunking internal chatter + clearing out years of compounded pain requires the right support. I am an experienced healer here to help. A few things you should know about what it's like to work with me: My style is warm, witty, compassionate + forthcoming. I value transparency, kindness, justice + joy. I'm directive when called for + I like to challenge my clients to go deep. I draw from my own experience of trauma + healing.
Adoption Collective is committed to providing ethical and competent specialized services for all members of the adoption constellation.
I have designed a practice that recognizes diverse paths to family. Because I believe each journey is unique. I respect what you have experienced and will help you discover and reach your goals. This mindful approach allows me to bring an open mind and heart to each situation.
Adoption Collective is committed to providing ethical and competent specialized services for all members of the adoption constellation.
I have designed a practice that recognizes diverse paths to family. Because I believe each journey is unique. I respect what you have experienced and will help you discover and reach your goals. This mindful approach allows me to bring an open mind and heart to each situation.
I am also specialized in the area of adoption, for adult adoptees as well as children.
Most people seek out a psychologist when they have truly done their best to resolve their difficulties on their own. When you can't see your own emotional blind spots, feeling stuck and distressed can ripple through many areas of your life. Perhaps this is your first time seeking out a therapist, or perhaps you are returning to psychotherapy for a fresh perspective. As a psychologist with over 17 years of experience, I have a seasoned understanding of what leads people to hit roadblocks in their lives, in areas including work, school, marriage, parenting, family, and intimate relationships.
I am also specialized in the area of adoption, for adult adoptees as well as children.
Most people seek out a psychologist when they have truly done their best to resolve their difficulties on their own. When you can't see your own emotional blind spots, feeling stuck and distressed can ripple through many areas of your life. Perhaps this is your first time seeking out a therapist, or perhaps you are returning to psychotherapy for a fresh perspective. As a psychologist with over 17 years of experience, I have a seasoned understanding of what leads people to hit roadblocks in their lives, in areas including work, school, marriage, parenting, family, and intimate relationships.
Whether you're navigating early adulthood or the journey of matrescence, I provide a supportive space and clear direction to help you move forward confidently. With over a decade of experience guiding young adults into adulthood, I help you tackle life’s challenges head-on. My direct, no-nonsense approach cuts through the noise, allowing us to focus on what matters to you. Together, we’ll create effective, solution-driven changes for meaningful progress. As a mother, I understand the identity shift that comes with parenthood, which deepens my empathy and insight.
Whether you're navigating early adulthood or the journey of matrescence, I provide a supportive space and clear direction to help you move forward confidently. With over a decade of experience guiding young adults into adulthood, I help you tackle life’s challenges head-on. My direct, no-nonsense approach cuts through the noise, allowing us to focus on what matters to you. Together, we’ll create effective, solution-driven changes for meaningful progress. As a mother, I understand the identity shift that comes with parenthood, which deepens my empathy and insight.
I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist passionate about supporting others with kindness, compassion, and respect. Using a person-centered approach, I focus on one part of your journey at a time, honoring your unique culture, values, beliefs, and traditions. Together, we’ll create a safe space for self-discovery, gently challenge unhelpful core beliefs, and explore new ways of thinking and living. My goal is to help you align your life with values you’re proud of, so you feel empowered, grounded, and supported.
I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist passionate about supporting others with kindness, compassion, and respect. Using a person-centered approach, I focus on one part of your journey at a time, honoring your unique culture, values, beliefs, and traditions. Together, we’ll create a safe space for self-discovery, gently challenge unhelpful core beliefs, and explore new ways of thinking and living. My goal is to help you align your life with values you’re proud of, so you feel empowered, grounded, and supported.
Hello! My name is Kristen Fragoso, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, and complex trauma. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy to help my clients navigate the hardships of day-to-day life. I want my clients to, first and foremost, feel safe and comfortable talking with me about anything. I understand that building a relationship takes time and is the most important task in having successful sessions.
Hello! My name is Kristen Fragoso, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, and complex trauma. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy to help my clients navigate the hardships of day-to-day life. I want my clients to, first and foremost, feel safe and comfortable talking with me about anything. I understand that building a relationship takes time and is the most important task in having successful sessions.
I have worked in outpatient hospital settings, community mental health, in-home crisis services, and private practice assisting those who struggle with depression, and anxiety, and survivors of childhood abuse and sexual assault. I believe that developing a therapeutic relationship and holding an authentic space for clients is a top priority. Life can be challenging and walking alone through it can be scary. I feel it is an honor to work alongside clients and walk with them through their path of healing.
I have worked in outpatient hospital settings, community mental health, in-home crisis services, and private practice assisting those who struggle with depression, and anxiety, and survivors of childhood abuse and sexual assault. I believe that developing a therapeutic relationship and holding an authentic space for clients is a top priority. Life can be challenging and walking alone through it can be scary. I feel it is an honor to work alongside clients and walk with them through their path of healing.
In almost twenty years I've sat with families of every kind — couples, parents, children — and I specialize in adoption at every stage.
Whatever's happening in your family, it may be that one relationship has stopped working while everything else is fine — or that a kid can't seem to fit, no matter what everyone tries. There's no thriving without each member getting their needs met, and the pain of not being properly understood can damage relationships, seemingly past repair. I work analytically — by increasing understanding. While I deeply care about reducing your pain, your crisis won't distract me: together we come to a sober awareness of who you are and what is actually possible for your life.
In almost twenty years I've sat with families of every kind — couples, parents, children — and I specialize in adoption at every stage.
Whatever's happening in your family, it may be that one relationship has stopped working while everything else is fine — or that a kid can't seem to fit, no matter what everyone tries. There's no thriving without each member getting their needs met, and the pain of not being properly understood can damage relationships, seemingly past repair. I work analytically — by increasing understanding. While I deeply care about reducing your pain, your crisis won't distract me: together we come to a sober awareness of who you are and what is actually possible for your life.
I specialize in life transitions (gender, age, profession, etc.), adoption/foster care issues, LGBTQ+ issues, and issues related to navigating the world as a person of color.
My practice is rooted in the belief that there is power in knowing and telling your own story. Who are you? Where did you come from? What's important to you? Let's work together to untangle your story, identify your strengths, goals, passions, and barriers; and make you the author of what comes next. I work with people who want to make positive changes, but feel paralyzed by stress, fear, indecision, or old habits. I can also help you learn concrete strategies for managing uncomfortable thoughts, emotions, transitions, health conditions or problematic relationships.
I specialize in life transitions (gender, age, profession, etc.), adoption/foster care issues, LGBTQ+ issues, and issues related to navigating the world as a person of color.
My practice is rooted in the belief that there is power in knowing and telling your own story. Who are you? Where did you come from? What's important to you? Let's work together to untangle your story, identify your strengths, goals, passions, and barriers; and make you the author of what comes next. I work with people who want to make positive changes, but feel paralyzed by stress, fear, indecision, or old habits. I can also help you learn concrete strategies for managing uncomfortable thoughts, emotions, transitions, health conditions or problematic relationships.
I look forward to addressing your individual needs. I specialize in treating adolescent issues of all types with a specific focus on depression and mood disorders. I also offer services for people suffering from addiction, in all its forms. I work with adolescence, adults and couples, and of course with the entire family when indicated. I am considered a technical eclectic, which means I use whatever theoretical approach I feel will work best for your situation. We will also draw from film, literature, culture and spirituality in our sessions so that we can make use of your unique personal interests.
I look forward to addressing your individual needs. I specialize in treating adolescent issues of all types with a specific focus on depression and mood disorders. I also offer services for people suffering from addiction, in all its forms. I work with adolescence, adults and couples, and of course with the entire family when indicated. I am considered a technical eclectic, which means I use whatever theoretical approach I feel will work best for your situation. We will also draw from film, literature, culture and spirituality in our sessions so that we can make use of your unique personal interests.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides a supportive, collaborative space where clients feel heard and understood. I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults navigate anxiety, life transitions, and relationship challenges using practical, evidence-based approaches. My goal is to help clients build insight, develop effective coping skills, and feel more confident and in control of their lives.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides a supportive, collaborative space where clients feel heard and understood. I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults navigate anxiety, life transitions, and relationship challenges using practical, evidence-based approaches. My goal is to help clients build insight, develop effective coping skills, and feel more confident and in control of their lives.
See more therapy options for Oakland
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Oakland
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Castro Valley
- El Cerrito
- Emeryville
- Lafayette
- Moraga
- Orinda
- Piedmont
- San Francisco
- San Leandro
Adoption Therapists
Does my adopted child need therapy?
Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioral or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.
When should adoptive parents seek therapy?
Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioral, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.
Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?
Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.
What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?
A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.