Therapists for Children in Oakland, CA

Photo of Zaina Berger, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT, ATR-P
Zaina Berger
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT, ATR-P
Oakland, CA 94610
Is your child or teen experiencing school stress, self-esteems issues or problems with peer relationships?
I help BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, intergenerational trauma and inner child work. I can offer you a warm, mindful, gentle culturally sensitive and trauma-informed approach to therapy. I will assist you in finding more ease, joy, and belonging in your life.
Is your child or teen experiencing school stress, self-esteems issues or problems with peer relationships?
I help BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, intergenerational trauma and inner child work. I can offer you a warm, mindful, gentle culturally sensitive and trauma-informed approach to therapy. I will assist you in finding more ease, joy, and belonging in your life.
(510) 390-7014 View (510) 390-7014
Photo of Halleli Toder, Psychologist, PsyD
Halleli Toder
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Most people who reach out to me feel like there's some sort of a gap between what they want and what they have. This gap is uncomfortable, upsetting, or might be painful. And often it's unclear why this gap exists or what can be done to close it or at least narrow it down a bit. Each one of us has a set of life circumstances that need to be taken into account when attempting to improve on our lived-experience. Psychotherapy is the arena in which those personal circumstances, individual preferences, needs, wants, and struggles can be explored.
Most people who reach out to me feel like there's some sort of a gap between what they want and what they have. This gap is uncomfortable, upsetting, or might be painful. And often it's unclear why this gap exists or what can be done to close it or at least narrow it down a bit. Each one of us has a set of life circumstances that need to be taken into account when attempting to improve on our lived-experience. Psychotherapy is the arena in which those personal circumstances, individual preferences, needs, wants, and struggles can be explored.
(510) 318-3976 View (510) 318-3976
Photo of Marley Bronko, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marley Bronko
Pre-Licensed Professional
Oakland, CA 94609
You might be navigating identity questions, recovering from trauma, feeling disconnected from your body, or moving through a life transition that feels bigger than you expected. Perhaps you’re longing for more groundedness, more clarity, or simply a place to slow down and feel what’s actually happening inside. Many of the people I work with want a deeper understanding of themselves, a more compassionate relationship with their emotions, and a safer connection with their own body. They want relief, yes—but they also want wholeness. Together, we can create more space for ease, self-trust, and possibility.
You might be navigating identity questions, recovering from trauma, feeling disconnected from your body, or moving through a life transition that feels bigger than you expected. Perhaps you’re longing for more groundedness, more clarity, or simply a place to slow down and feel what’s actually happening inside. Many of the people I work with want a deeper understanding of themselves, a more compassionate relationship with their emotions, and a safer connection with their own body. They want relief, yes—but they also want wholeness. Together, we can create more space for ease, self-trust, and possibility.
(341) 237-3150 x18 View (341) 237-3150 x18
Photo of Patricia Banchik Rothschild, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHIMP
Patricia Banchik Rothschild
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHIMP
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
My experience comes from 31 years of helping children, adults, couples and families in both Community Mental Health and Private Practice.
My expertise is working with trauma, grief & sexual abuse of children, teens and adults using trauma focused CBT, EMDR, Brain Spotting &play therapy. I also work with children , teenagers and adults who are suffering from depression and anxiety. Another service I provide is therapy for therapists who are experiencing burnout or vicarious trauma.
My experience comes from 31 years of helping children, adults, couples and families in both Community Mental Health and Private Practice.
My expertise is working with trauma, grief & sexual abuse of children, teens and adults using trauma focused CBT, EMDR, Brain Spotting &play therapy. I also work with children , teenagers and adults who are suffering from depression and anxiety. Another service I provide is therapy for therapists who are experiencing burnout or vicarious trauma.
(510) 403-8151 View (510) 403-8151
Photo of Ali Kimmell - Bay Area Group Therapy Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bay Area Group Therapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Current openings for in person and virtual group therapy. Are you ready to start improving your relationships and seeing yourself more clearly? Do you yearn for a sense of belonging where you don’t have to contort yourself to fit in? Would you like to have the person you are becoming witnessed and supported? Groups function as a microcosm of the real world, and give us an opportunity to understand our patterns in relationship and receive valuable feedback. Over time, group members learn they can be more fully themselves with others and gain confidence and capacity for more satisfying connections.
Current openings for in person and virtual group therapy. Are you ready to start improving your relationships and seeing yourself more clearly? Do you yearn for a sense of belonging where you don’t have to contort yourself to fit in? Would you like to have the person you are becoming witnessed and supported? Groups function as a microcosm of the real world, and give us an opportunity to understand our patterns in relationship and receive valuable feedback. Over time, group members learn they can be more fully themselves with others and gain confidence and capacity for more satisfying connections.
(510) 947-8446 View (510) 947-8446
Photo of John R. Edwards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
John R. Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Have you experienced awful or traumatic experiences in your life? Did these experiences leave 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 to being more functional and stable.
Have you experienced awful or traumatic experiences in your life? Did these experiences leave 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 to being more functional and stable.
(925) 575-9269 View (925) 575-9269
Photo of Anna Weicker, Psychologist, PsyD
Anna Weicker
Psychologist, PsyD
Oakland, CA 94618
You may seek to address difficulties arising from trauma or childhood experiences; feel ready to explore relationship patterns that do not serve you any longer; or hope to make your day to day a bit easier or joyful.
I believe that deep listening is a skill that helps us better understand ourselves and each other. Exploring the stories we were told about ourselves (and often end up telling ourselves) can help change them, to become more inclusive and spacious, and to make room for the parts of our experiences that were previously left out.
You may seek to address difficulties arising from trauma or childhood experiences; feel ready to explore relationship patterns that do not serve you any longer; or hope to make your day to day a bit easier or joyful.
I believe that deep listening is a skill that helps us better understand ourselves and each other. Exploring the stories we were told about ourselves (and often end up telling ourselves) can help change them, to become more inclusive and spacious, and to make room for the parts of our experiences that were previously left out.
(510) 780-3649 View (510) 780-3649
Photo of Patricia Anderson - Bridges Therapy Group of California, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT
Bridges Therapy Group of California
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT
Oakland, CA 94610
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
(510) 756-2927 View (510) 756-2927
Photo of Zachary A Berman, Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Zachary A Berman
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
As an engaged listener, I strive to create an atmosphere of respect and understanding, while also being compassionate, non-judgmental and warm. Within this safe space, we can explore family and relationship patterns and address your specific needs. I tailor sessions to meet each client’s challenges, developing trusting relationships that help him or her move towards a life of playfulness, passion and purpose. Your unique journey is made up of the circumstances, choices, beliefs and values that make up your reality. Together, we will determine new ways to bring tranquility, vitality, and fulfillment to your life. www.drzackberman.com
As an engaged listener, I strive to create an atmosphere of respect and understanding, while also being compassionate, non-judgmental and warm. Within this safe space, we can explore family and relationship patterns and address your specific needs. I tailor sessions to meet each client’s challenges, developing trusting relationships that help him or her move towards a life of playfulness, passion and purpose. Your unique journey is made up of the circumstances, choices, beliefs and values that make up your reality. Together, we will determine new ways to bring tranquility, vitality, and fulfillment to your life. www.drzackberman.com
(415) 878-3703 View (415) 878-3703
Photo of Tai Smith, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Tai Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
We take a holistic approach towards your well-being, which can include aspects of attachment theory, Buddhist philosophy, EMDR, and inner- child healing during our sessions.
Life can be complicated, and there isn’t a handbook for managing issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationships. It’s important to know that you’re not alone, and these challenges are opportunities for growth. You’re probably here because you feel it’s time to “do something different.” Let our team at Meridian Counseling guide you on this journey.
We take a holistic approach towards your well-being, which can include aspects of attachment theory, Buddhist philosophy, EMDR, and inner- child healing during our sessions.
Life can be complicated, and there isn’t a handbook for managing issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationships. It’s important to know that you’re not alone, and these challenges are opportunities for growth. You’re probably here because you feel it’s time to “do something different.” Let our team at Meridian Counseling guide you on this journey.
(510) 945-4412 View (510) 945-4412
Photo of Janelle Bercun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Janelle Bercun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Oakland, CA 94610
I am trained in Child Parent Psychotherapy, attachment focused therapy, and play therapy.
I primarily specialize in early childhood and the surrounding relationships. I work with children ages 0-8 focusing on life's adjustments, both the expected and the unexpected. I can offer support to children coping with adjustments, grief/loss, trauma, and anxiety. I also specialize in supporting parents as they navigate this journey alongside their children. I offer parent consultation as well as supportive parenting therapy, helping to nurture the parent- child relationship and improve communication.
I am trained in Child Parent Psychotherapy, attachment focused therapy, and play therapy.
I primarily specialize in early childhood and the surrounding relationships. I work with children ages 0-8 focusing on life's adjustments, both the expected and the unexpected. I can offer support to children coping with adjustments, grief/loss, trauma, and anxiety. I also specialize in supporting parents as they navigate this journey alongside their children. I offer parent consultation as well as supportive parenting therapy, helping to nurture the parent- child relationship and improve communication.
(510) 630-2271 View (510) 630-2271
Photo of Evan Sola, Psychologist, PsyD
Evan Sola
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I work with individuals, adults and children, who are struggling with relationships, hoping to make peace with overwhelming trauma histories, or seeking support to cope with difficult life transitions.
My clients often come to understand that big questions are best held open for collaborative exploration, and that the most helpful information lies within. I guide clients slowly back to themselves through gentle and curious inquiry, and with playful observation bring attention to unfolding relational patterns.
I work with individuals, adults and children, who are struggling with relationships, hoping to make peace with overwhelming trauma histories, or seeking support to cope with difficult life transitions.
My clients often come to understand that big questions are best held open for collaborative exploration, and that the most helpful information lies within. I guide clients slowly back to themselves through gentle and curious inquiry, and with playful observation bring attention to unfolding relational patterns.
(510) 900-4981 View (510) 900-4981
Photo of Irene Schell Capuchino, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, ATR-BC
Irene Schell Capuchino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, ATR-BC
Oakland, CA 94619
My approach to counseling begins with careful listening to understand your unique situation and personal goals. I will listen without judging you or rushing to a quick fix that might not be applicable for your specific situation. Many of my clients enter counseling feeling alone or overwhelmed by feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, or stress. They may feel stuck in painful relationships that aren't working, or stuck with intense feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, dread, or inner pain. My treatment approach is gentle, educational, and experiential.
My approach to counseling begins with careful listening to understand your unique situation and personal goals. I will listen without judging you or rushing to a quick fix that might not be applicable for your specific situation. Many of my clients enter counseling feeling alone or overwhelmed by feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, or stress. They may feel stuck in painful relationships that aren't working, or stuck with intense feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, dread, or inner pain. My treatment approach is gentle, educational, and experiential.
(510) 343-7798 View (510) 343-7798
Surbhee Mehta
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Have you landed here feeling lost, overwhelmed, and alone? Maybe you are navigating relationships, life transitions, grief/loss, struggling with depression, anxiety, or trauma? I am here to help. It was through my own personal experience of crisis in my 20's, aided by my observant nature and insatiable curiosity about the human condition, the lead me to pursue the path of a psychotherapist.
Have you landed here feeling lost, overwhelmed, and alone? Maybe you are navigating relationships, life transitions, grief/loss, struggling with depression, anxiety, or trauma? I am here to help. It was through my own personal experience of crisis in my 20's, aided by my observant nature and insatiable curiosity about the human condition, the lead me to pursue the path of a psychotherapist.
(510) 318-3997 View (510) 318-3997
Photo of Leighko Toyoshima Yap, Psychologist, PsyD
Leighko Toyoshima Yap
Psychologist, PsyD
Oakland, CA 94618
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples.
I provide a safe place for you to explore the difficulties and start the path to change. My goals are to help you feel relief from pain and feeling stuck so that you can feel better about yourself. Ultimately, I hope to restore you and your family to how you want to be.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples.
I provide a safe place for you to explore the difficulties and start the path to change. My goals are to help you feel relief from pain and feeling stuck so that you can feel better about yourself. Ultimately, I hope to restore you and your family to how you want to be.
(510) 543-0969 View (510) 543-0969
Photo of Soha Ashraf, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, APCC
Soha Ashraf
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, APCC
Oakland, CA 94610
I am particularly well suited to serve BIPOC folks, those in the Asian diaspora, Queer and Trans folks, Muslims, activists, children of any age of immigrants/third culture kids, immigrants, and multicultural individuals, couples, and families.
I’m a therapist supporting BIPOC, LGBTQ+, immigrant, and marginalized communities across California (virtual) and in Oakland (in person). My practice is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and rooted in anti-oppressive, decolonized values. Whether you’re seeking therapy to explore your identity, heal from trauma, manage stress or anxiety, or process life transitions and experiences of injustice, I am here to support you. I work with individuals of all ages, couples, & families—especially those navigating complex cultural, relational, and systemic dynamics.
I am particularly well suited to serve BIPOC folks, those in the Asian diaspora, Queer and Trans folks, Muslims, activists, children of any age of immigrants/third culture kids, immigrants, and multicultural individuals, couples, and families.
I’m a therapist supporting BIPOC, LGBTQ+, immigrant, and marginalized communities across California (virtual) and in Oakland (in person). My practice is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and rooted in anti-oppressive, decolonized values. Whether you’re seeking therapy to explore your identity, heal from trauma, manage stress or anxiety, or process life transitions and experiences of injustice, I am here to support you. I work with individuals of all ages, couples, & families—especially those navigating complex cultural, relational, and systemic dynamics.
(510) 319-0678 View (510) 319-0678
Photo of Nicole Kirsch - Ability Psychological Services, P.C., Psychologist, PsyD
Ability Psychological Services, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Oakland, CA 94612
At Ability Psychological Services, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and professional psychological evaluation services. With expertise in neurodevelopmental and psychological evaluations, our team is committed to helping individuals and families achieve optimal well-being. Our approach is rooted in evidence-based and culturally comprehensive practices, ensuring our clients' highest quality of care.
At Ability Psychological Services, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and professional psychological evaluation services. With expertise in neurodevelopmental and psychological evaluations, our team is committed to helping individuals and families achieve optimal well-being. Our approach is rooted in evidence-based and culturally comprehensive practices, ensuring our clients' highest quality of care.
(510) 896-3427 View (510) 896-3427
Photo of Francisca S Lizana Turner, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Francisca S Lizana Turner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
8 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I offer bilingual therapy services for adults and children experiencing life transitions, emotional concerns, behavioral challenges, or seeking greater balance.
Additionally, my approach acknowledges the therapeutic benefits of animals, featuring Luna, a sweet and personable dog. Beyond the practice, I serve as clinical director of the OLAS Sanctuary Project and lead women's retreats and one-day expressive arts experiences through AlmaLuz.
I offer bilingual therapy services for adults and children experiencing life transitions, emotional concerns, behavioral challenges, or seeking greater balance.
Additionally, my approach acknowledges the therapeutic benefits of animals, featuring Luna, a sweet and personable dog. Beyond the practice, I serve as clinical director of the OLAS Sanctuary Project and lead women's retreats and one-day expressive arts experiences through AlmaLuz.
(925) 255-7936 View (925) 255-7936
Photo of Dr. Meghan Tunson, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Meghan Tunson
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612
In addition to traditional psychotherapy, I offer private pay ADHD and Autism evaluations for both children and adults.
My specialties include: Trauma, CPTSD, ADHD, Autism spectrum disorder, Gender exploration, Sensory Processing Disorder, Learning Disorders, Psychological Assessments
In addition to traditional psychotherapy, I offer private pay ADHD and Autism evaluations for both children and adults.
My specialties include: Trauma, CPTSD, ADHD, Autism spectrum disorder, Gender exploration, Sensory Processing Disorder, Learning Disorders, Psychological Assessments
(510) 269-2639 View (510) 269-2639
Photo of Erica S Wheeler-Dubin, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Erica S Wheeler-Dubin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am seeking clients who are open to discovering what makes them unique through a creative and imaginative process; Clients whose goals may range from deeper self knowledge, to decreasing experiences with anxiety and depression, to understanding how trauma plays itself out in their relationships, to being able to resource themselves, etc; Clients interested in exploring their strengths as well as their more scary parts. I believe that the experience of pain and suffering is normal and healing happens in connection with others; others who can hold and stay with the difficulty and provide curiosity and support.
I am seeking clients who are open to discovering what makes them unique through a creative and imaginative process; Clients whose goals may range from deeper self knowledge, to decreasing experiences with anxiety and depression, to understanding how trauma plays itself out in their relationships, to being able to resource themselves, etc; Clients interested in exploring their strengths as well as their more scary parts. I believe that the experience of pain and suffering is normal and healing happens in connection with others; others who can hold and stay with the difficulty and provide curiosity and support.
(510) 683-5650 View (510) 683-5650

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FAQ - About Child Therapy
When does a child need to see a therapist?
Children naturally experience emotional ups and downs. Sometimes, though, they need support from a professional. A child may benefit from therapy if their emotions or behaviors change significantly within a short period of time. For example, if a child usually spends time with friends after school but begins isolating in their room, further inquiry is warranted. Other areas for concern include altered sleep patterns, lack of appetite, intense anger, irritability, or hopelessness, or developmental regression in young children (bedwetting, thumb-sucking).

What can a child therapist help with?
A therapist can help with any difficult experience a child may encounter growing up, including learning problems or anxiety related to school, relationship challenges with friends or parents, bullying, intense emotions or phobias, divorce and family dynamics, or the death of a pet or loved one. A therapist can help children process their experience and develop coping skills in an age-appropriate way

What therapy types are most suitable for children?
Children can benefit from different forms of therapy, including family therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and exposure therapy, depending on their condition. Play therapy is a great option for younger children who may not be able to fully articulate their feelings. In this approach, kids play with toys and games while a therapist observes and helps the child express their emotions and develop coping skills.

Do I need to attend therapy with my child?
Parents are an integral part of a child’s therapy, but the specifics of their involvement vary. If your child is young, you may attend most or all sessions; if your child is older, you may attend a few sessions or none; sometimes a therapist may ask you to have a session on your own. Whatever the arrangement, you should expect to work collaboratively with the therapist, your child, and your family members to take steps to help support your child.

How can I tell if a therapist is a good fit for my child?
A child needs to feel comfortable opening up about their thoughts and feelings, so if your child feels a sense of comfort, ease, and trust with their therapist, that’s a great sign. In addition, a therapist is a good fit for your child if the two can communicate well together; a clinician should be able to communicate clearly, effectively, and in an age-appropriate manner.