Grief Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Quetzal Francois, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Quetzal Francois
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Oakland, CA 94609
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
(341) 444-2078 View (341) 444-2078
Photo of Tina Kopko, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CGRS
Tina Kopko
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CGRS
11 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
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.
The Grief Recovery Method supports your grief work with a step-by-step process by which we unlearn the myths we've been taught about loss, learn how grief actually works (using your own experiences), and discover what undelivered emotional communications are left over from previous losses. Then I show you how to get complete with the past. Transformative!
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.
The Grief Recovery Method supports your grief work with a step-by-step process by which we unlearn the myths we've been taught about loss, learn how grief actually works (using your own experiences), and discover what undelivered emotional communications are left over from previous losses. Then I show you how to get complete with the past. Transformative!
(510) 606-9784 View (510) 606-9784
Photo of Alia Dolan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Alia Dolan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Oakland, CA 94612
Waitlist for new clients
Are you experiencing a loss, going through a life transition, feeling the impact of everyday stress, or just needing a space for someone to hold your feelings?
I have over twenty years of clinical experiencing in helping clients of all ages cope with loss and other life transitions or stressors, including families who are involved with Hospice, those suffering from suicide loss, traumatic or sudden deaths, and work with adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or heightened responses to stress.
Are you experiencing a loss, going through a life transition, feeling the impact of everyday stress, or just needing a space for someone to hold your feelings?
I have over twenty years of clinical experiencing in helping clients of all ages cope with loss and other life transitions or stressors, including families who are involved with Hospice, those suffering from suicide loss, traumatic or sudden deaths, and work with adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or heightened responses to stress.
(415) 360-3340 View (415) 360-3340
Photo of Eliza McKenna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Eliza McKenna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I treat: Mood, Anxiety, and Psychotic Disorders, PTSD, Trauma Recovery, Substance Use Disorders and Dual-Diagnosis, Alcoholism and Mental Illness in Families, Chronic Pain, Grief, and Stress Management.
Eliza McKenna, LCSW, based in California, from the east coast. I'm a mom and hobby gardener and artist. I approach my practice with Humanism and strive to co-create insight and transformation with clients. I've worked on helplines, in child protection, with the seriously mentally ill, and as a psychotherapist in psychiatric clinics. In addition to private practice, I help run an Employee Assistance Program, and manage a number of employee health programs. My approach to providing therapy moves through the four noble truths. We diagnose the suffering and identify its cause.
I treat: Mood, Anxiety, and Psychotic Disorders, PTSD, Trauma Recovery, Substance Use Disorders and Dual-Diagnosis, Alcoholism and Mental Illness in Families, Chronic Pain, Grief, and Stress Management.
Eliza McKenna, LCSW, based in California, from the east coast. I'm a mom and hobby gardener and artist. I approach my practice with Humanism and strive to co-create insight and transformation with clients. I've worked on helplines, in child protection, with the seriously mentally ill, and as a psychotherapist in psychiatric clinics. In addition to private practice, I help run an Employee Assistance Program, and manage a number of employee health programs. My approach to providing therapy moves through the four noble truths. We diagnose the suffering and identify its cause.
(424) 381-0911 View (424) 381-0911
Photo of Doreen Meister, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Doreen Meister
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601
I am dedicated to helping you live fully, love freely and express yourself authentically. Together we will work to build the skills and understanding to develop lasting change in your life. Any number of situations can cause you to feel lost, stressed, anxious, unable to relate to your friends, lovers, coworkers or even yourself. I understand how overwhelming these feelings can be, and how lonely you might feel. I can help. Therapy is a time for you to share your deepest feelings, thoughts, fears, hopes, and desires with someone who is whole-heartedly there for you, hearing and understanding you with compassion.
I am dedicated to helping you live fully, love freely and express yourself authentically. Together we will work to build the skills and understanding to develop lasting change in your life. Any number of situations can cause you to feel lost, stressed, anxious, unable to relate to your friends, lovers, coworkers or even yourself. I understand how overwhelming these feelings can be, and how lonely you might feel. I can help. Therapy is a time for you to share your deepest feelings, thoughts, fears, hopes, and desires with someone who is whole-heartedly there for you, hearing and understanding you with compassion.
(510) 358-4980 View (510) 358-4980
Photo of Karen Oberdorfer, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Karen Oberdorfer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
You might be wanting a space to have your grief held in a way friends and family haven't been able to.
If you yearn to focus on you and your needs, welcome! In this world of AI we can experience IRL Walk/Talk therapy in the Oakland hills on Ohlone lands. Whether on the land or online, we'll start with the understanding that while you want to change, also there is nothing “wrong” with you; where you are now makes sense. We’ll work on enhancing what is helping you, support what is your true nature, and with self-compassion process past hurts, while developing new insights and skills. I bring training in EMDR, Somatic and IFS informed EMDR, eco-therapy principles, and more, to honor who you’ve been and supporting who you’re becoming.
You might be wanting a space to have your grief held in a way friends and family haven't been able to.
If you yearn to focus on you and your needs, welcome! In this world of AI we can experience IRL Walk/Talk therapy in the Oakland hills on Ohlone lands. Whether on the land or online, we'll start with the understanding that while you want to change, also there is nothing “wrong” with you; where you are now makes sense. We’ll work on enhancing what is helping you, support what is your true nature, and with self-compassion process past hurts, while developing new insights and skills. I bring training in EMDR, Somatic and IFS informed EMDR, eco-therapy principles, and more, to honor who you’ve been and supporting who you’re becoming.
(510) 726-6934 View (510) 726-6934
Photo of Kassandra Mayhew, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Kassandra Mayhew
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Maybe you’re here because of a significant loss, relationship challenges, or difficulties at work or school.
I enjoy working with adults, teens, couples, & families. I have several years of experience with grief, bereavement, crisis, & family integrated counseling practices. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I had a ten year career as a strategist and writer, I understand how overwork, burnout, & identity tied to career can impact day-to-day well-being.
Maybe you’re here because of a significant loss, relationship challenges, or difficulties at work or school.
I enjoy working with adults, teens, couples, & families. I have several years of experience with grief, bereavement, crisis, & family integrated counseling practices. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I had a ten year career as a strategist and writer, I understand how overwork, burnout, & identity tied to career can impact day-to-day well-being.
(510) 369-0334 View (510) 369-0334
Photo of Janine M Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Janine M Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
You suspected it for months. Then, your worst fears were confirmed. Your partner had been having an affair. At first, you couldn’t believe it. You thought your marriage was okay. Why would they do this? HOW did they do this without your seeing it? The unanswered questions left an incalculable void in your gut, as sadness and anger combined with the endless questions and disbelief. One moment you’re numb, the next you’re furious – wondering how the person you trusted most could betray you so profoundly. Your partner may be remorseful, but the wounds run raw, and the triggers seem endless. You don’t know if your marriage can survive.
You suspected it for months. Then, your worst fears were confirmed. Your partner had been having an affair. At first, you couldn’t believe it. You thought your marriage was okay. Why would they do this? HOW did they do this without your seeing it? The unanswered questions left an incalculable void in your gut, as sadness and anger combined with the endless questions and disbelief. One moment you’re numb, the next you’re furious – wondering how the person you trusted most could betray you so profoundly. Your partner may be remorseful, but the wounds run raw, and the triggers seem endless. You don’t know if your marriage can survive.
(510) 630-2837 View (510) 630-2837
Photo of Aden Neumeister, Psychologist, PsyD
Aden Neumeister
Psychologist, PsyD
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94619
Perhaps these are places of complex grief, trauma or gender and sexuality.
I work deeply and psychodynamically with an anti-oppression lens. Through inner exploration and collaboration in therapy, we can make sense of some of life’s complexities and the suffering they may cause. In the process, relationships with self and others can ultimately become more aligned and more loving.
Perhaps these are places of complex grief, trauma or gender and sexuality.
I work deeply and psychodynamically with an anti-oppression lens. Through inner exploration and collaboration in therapy, we can make sense of some of life’s complexities and the suffering they may cause. In the process, relationships with self and others can ultimately become more aligned and more loving.
(510) 240-5968 View (510) 240-5968
Photo of Eleanor Ruckman, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ATR
Eleanor Ruckman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ATR
Oakland, CA 94610
Process, express & release stress, worry, grief & trauma to feeling lighter and more able to achieve your goals.
Life is challenging. We all benefit from receiving support as we navigate transitions, relationships, and the constancy of change. I have 20 years' experience supporting people who span a diverse range of ages and cultural backgrounds. My approach integrates body and sensory awareness with relaxation practices. I offer information about how neurobiological processes impact functioning and experience. The therapeutic relationship is collaborative and dynamic as we observe and shift unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. Some people choose to make art as part of most meetings; others prefer to mostly talk.
Process, express & release stress, worry, grief & trauma to feeling lighter and more able to achieve your goals.
Life is challenging. We all benefit from receiving support as we navigate transitions, relationships, and the constancy of change. I have 20 years' experience supporting people who span a diverse range of ages and cultural backgrounds. My approach integrates body and sensory awareness with relaxation practices. I offer information about how neurobiological processes impact functioning and experience. The therapeutic relationship is collaborative and dynamic as we observe and shift unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. Some people choose to make art as part of most meetings; others prefer to mostly talk.
(510) 257-9746 View (510) 257-9746
Photo of Katherine D Czesak, Psychologist, PhD
Katherine D Czesak
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
My approach is to understand you deeply and individualize our work by finding what is most effective for you. All people are unique and their life circumstances are particular to who they are. Through collaboration, we figure out what is what is most beneficial for your wellbeing and also what is realistic for your lifestyle. I look forward to meeting you and exploring what you wish to change through an initial free half hour phone consultation.
My approach is to understand you deeply and individualize our work by finding what is most effective for you. All people are unique and their life circumstances are particular to who they are. Through collaboration, we figure out what is what is most beneficial for your wellbeing and also what is realistic for your lifestyle. I look forward to meeting you and exploring what you wish to change through an initial free half hour phone consultation.
(415) 237-6065 View (415) 237-6065
Photo of Amy Kelly - Licensed Therapist & Founder Revive Health Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Licensed Therapist & Founder Revive Health Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Oakland, CA 94611
You have built a successful life, but inside you feel exhausted, disconnected, and quietly empty. Your marriage feels strained or distant, parenting feels heavy with guilt and pressure, or you are navigating divorce and questioning everything you thought was stable. You function well on the outside while feeling anxious, lonely, or spiritually disconnected on the inside. You want peace, clarity, and deeper connection. You want to stop white-knuckling through life and begin living with intention, meaning, and emotional honesty.
You have built a successful life, but inside you feel exhausted, disconnected, and quietly empty. Your marriage feels strained or distant, parenting feels heavy with guilt and pressure, or you are navigating divorce and questioning everything you thought was stable. You function well on the outside while feeling anxious, lonely, or spiritually disconnected on the inside. You want peace, clarity, and deeper connection. You want to stop white-knuckling through life and begin living with intention, meaning, and emotional honesty.
(415) 524-0645 View (415) 524-0645
Photo of Jess Wynn-Grant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, M Ed
Jess Wynn-Grant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, M Ed
Oakland, CA 94605
I specialize in whole-bodied therapy to address symptoms related to anxiety, grief, and trauma for adults, youth, and families.
I use an ecological attachment-based model, trauma-healing, body-oriented approaches (EMDR, Havening & Somatics), play therapy, integrative talk therapy, & nature-oriented therapy. I provide individual, family, and group therapy online across CA and outdoors if you are local to the East Bay. In-home therapy is also available for children and families.
I specialize in whole-bodied therapy to address symptoms related to anxiety, grief, and trauma for adults, youth, and families.
I use an ecological attachment-based model, trauma-healing, body-oriented approaches (EMDR, Havening & Somatics), play therapy, integrative talk therapy, & nature-oriented therapy. I provide individual, family, and group therapy online across CA and outdoors if you are local to the East Bay. In-home therapy is also available for children and families.
(510) 479-0165 View (510) 479-0165
Photo of Adrian Q Quintero, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Adrian Q Quintero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Oakland, CA 94609
I offer a warm, affirming, and non-judgmental space for children, teens, and adults exploration of LGBTQI+ identities, struggles with anxiety, and support with grief and loss.
I offer a warm, affirming, and non-judgmental space for children, teens, and adults exploration of LGBTQI+ identities, struggles with anxiety, and support with grief and loss.
(510) 405-7409 View (510) 405-7409
Photo of Shelley M Samuels, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Shelley M Samuels
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Online Only
My specialties: LGBTQQ issues/identity, working through grief/ loss, helping with political wounding, healing survivors of domestic violence/sexual assault, positive aging, body image, building long-term relationships, and life transitions.
My focus: LGBTQQ issues-- the intersection of sexual orientation/gender identity with coming out; gender identity development, expressions of alternative sexuality; strengthening individuals in long-term relationships; queer aging. And, Life Transitions: individuals working through grief and loss, living with chronic pain; helping survivors healing from socio-political trauma; and promoting positive aging.
My specialties: LGBTQQ issues/identity, working through grief/ loss, helping with political wounding, healing survivors of domestic violence/sexual assault, positive aging, body image, building long-term relationships, and life transitions.
My focus: LGBTQQ issues-- the intersection of sexual orientation/gender identity with coming out; gender identity development, expressions of alternative sexuality; strengthening individuals in long-term relationships; queer aging. And, Life Transitions: individuals working through grief and loss, living with chronic pain; helping survivors healing from socio-political trauma; and promoting positive aging.
(510) 974-7425 View (510) 974-7425
Photo of Nico Axel Storrow, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Nico Axel Storrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94620
I believe in each person’s capacity for growth and healing and that we are all shaped by our past experiences and intersectional identities. Many of us have learned tools and patterns to get through difficult experiences, however, those patterns may no longer serve us or create barriers to our current growth and relationships. Through a trusting relationship with a therapist, we can create a safe environment to identify and explore these patterns.
I believe in each person’s capacity for growth and healing and that we are all shaped by our past experiences and intersectional identities. Many of us have learned tools and patterns to get through difficult experiences, however, those patterns may no longer serve us or create barriers to our current growth and relationships. Through a trusting relationship with a therapist, we can create a safe environment to identify and explore these patterns.
(402) 685-8660 View (402) 685-8660
Photo of Kim Wylder - Wylder Roots, MA, MFT
Wylder Roots
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
We seek to cultivate radical healing and liberation through integrative psychotherapy and somatic work that is guided by the wisdom of nature. Our mission is to empower people to claim their sovereignty, embrace their unique path, and cultivate thriving, interconnected communities. Our collective is informed by our lived experiences, which include the ongoing investigations of social identities as Sacred Rebels who seek to explore, disrupt, and reimagine how we shape the stories of who we are and therefore impact our world. Our ecosystem is located in the Bay Area, offering in person and virtual services within California.
We seek to cultivate radical healing and liberation through integrative psychotherapy and somatic work that is guided by the wisdom of nature. Our mission is to empower people to claim their sovereignty, embrace their unique path, and cultivate thriving, interconnected communities. Our collective is informed by our lived experiences, which include the ongoing investigations of social identities as Sacred Rebels who seek to explore, disrupt, and reimagine how we shape the stories of who we are and therefore impact our world. Our ecosystem is located in the Bay Area, offering in person and virtual services within California.
(510) 662-6091 View (510) 662-6091
Photo of Patrick Mulkern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Patrick Mulkern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Online Only
I specialize in providing affirming, evidence-based care for the LGBTQ+ community and those navigating the complexities of grief and systemic injustice.
LET'S CHAT! Contact me to learn more about my approach and how we can collaborate.
I specialize in providing affirming, evidence-based care for the LGBTQ+ community and those navigating the complexities of grief and systemic injustice.
LET'S CHAT! Contact me to learn more about my approach and how we can collaborate.
(510) 944-1798 View (510) 944-1798
Photo of Maria Perpetua Linsao, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Maria Perpetua Linsao
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer support to individuals in different stages of life transition, be it exploring their spiritual values and experiences, and or how grief, in its various manifestations, has impacted them.
Welcome. You have arrived. Now what? Something brought you here. Perhaps the burden of pain that weighs on your body, mind and spirit. What is the nature of this pain? How is it impacting different parts of your life, your sense of identity, your relationships, your sense and purpose as a human being? Psychotherapy is an offering, a kind of healing art, a form of medicine that may help transform various symptoms of pain, manifesting in unhealthy, hurtful or even harmful thoughts and behaviors into something more healthy, wholesome and functional.
I offer support to individuals in different stages of life transition, be it exploring their spiritual values and experiences, and or how grief, in its various manifestations, has impacted them.
Welcome. You have arrived. Now what? Something brought you here. Perhaps the burden of pain that weighs on your body, mind and spirit. What is the nature of this pain? How is it impacting different parts of your life, your sense of identity, your relationships, your sense and purpose as a human being? Psychotherapy is an offering, a kind of healing art, a form of medicine that may help transform various symptoms of pain, manifesting in unhealthy, hurtful or even harmful thoughts and behaviors into something more healthy, wholesome and functional.
(415) 862-1299 View (415) 862-1299
Photo of Stephanie Loera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Stephanie Loera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Oakland, CA 94618
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing psychotherapy in the East Bay and via Telehealth. I've been in practice for 7 years. I have experience working with children, families, and adults. I am passionate about empowering people by helping them reclaim their peace, joy, and power. I tend to use a holistic approach to healing that addresses the whole person's mind, body, heart, and spirit.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing psychotherapy in the East Bay and via Telehealth. I've been in practice for 7 years. I have experience working with children, families, and adults. I am passionate about empowering people by helping them reclaim their peace, joy, and power. I tend to use a holistic approach to healing that addresses the whole person's mind, body, heart, and spirit.
(424) 678-0974 View (424) 678-0974

See more therapy options for Oakland

Grief Therapists
How long does therapy take for grief?
There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?
Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?
Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?
Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.