In Person Therapists in Oakland, CA
I offer individual, couples, family, and adolescent therapy on-line and in-person.
Dear potential Client, Congratulations on choosing to seek therapy. This takes courage and can feel particularly challenging when you are experiencing distress. Finding someone with whom you and/or your loved ones can feel safe and supported is critical and there are many good therapists to choose from. I can help. I can consult with you about what you are needing at this time and whether I can provide it. If it's a fit, great! You have found a therapist. If not, you'll have gained valuable info about what you need as you continue your search.
I offer individual, couples, family, and adolescent therapy on-line and in-person.
Dear potential Client, Congratulations on choosing to seek therapy. This takes courage and can feel particularly challenging when you are experiencing distress. Finding someone with whom you and/or your loved ones can feel safe and supported is critical and there are many good therapists to choose from. I can help. I can consult with you about what you are needing at this time and whether I can provide it. If it's a fit, great! You have found a therapist. If not, you'll have gained valuable info about what you need as you continue your search.
I do not see clients in-person.
Life isn't always easy. Whether you're dealing with an existing challenge, a current stressful situation, or you're turning a page to start a new chapter of your life, I believe we all can benefit from someone helping us to manage these changes and transitions. My therapeutic goal is to help you better manage your life's challenges and to provide you with tools and strategies to achieve your personal goals.
I do not see clients in-person.
Life isn't always easy. Whether you're dealing with an existing challenge, a current stressful situation, or you're turning a page to start a new chapter of your life, I believe we all can benefit from someone helping us to manage these changes and transitions. My therapeutic goal is to help you better manage your life's challenges and to provide you with tools and strategies to achieve your personal goals.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience, I bring the best of evidenced-based clinical interventions along with the creativity of drama and expressive arts therapy. Together we will find ways to bring more joy, ease, and connection into your life. I am proud to be authentic and real with my clients as we form a team to address the challenges you face. I am also happy to just talk, draw, or utilize many other interventions that utilize your strengths, brain research, and studies about how we thrive in relationships.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience, I bring the best of evidenced-based clinical interventions along with the creativity of drama and expressive arts therapy. Together we will find ways to bring more joy, ease, and connection into your life. I am proud to be authentic and real with my clients as we form a team to address the challenges you face. I am also happy to just talk, draw, or utilize many other interventions that utilize your strengths, brain research, and studies about how we thrive in relationships.
In-person and virtual therapy for adults and teens navigating mental health, life transitions, identity, and the search for meaning.
Lately there's a gap between the life you've created and how you feel inside it. Outwardly, you might be functioning fine while quietly struggling. You might be hitting a wall you can't think your way through or in a relationship or career that's not working. Previous therapy felt directionless, too shallow, or like the therapist didn't quite get you. You want someone who understands you and can help you get to the root of the issue, not just focus on symptoms.
In-person and virtual therapy for adults and teens navigating mental health, life transitions, identity, and the search for meaning.
Lately there's a gap between the life you've created and how you feel inside it. Outwardly, you might be functioning fine while quietly struggling. You might be hitting a wall you can't think your way through or in a relationship or career that's not working. Previous therapy felt directionless, too shallow, or like the therapist didn't quite get you. You want someone who understands you and can help you get to the root of the issue, not just focus on symptoms.
In-person and online sessions are available.
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.
In-person and online sessions are available.
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.
I approach the work of healing with understanding that health is not only the absence of illness, but the presence of balance, dignity, and connection.My identity as a LCSW is deeply rooted in an African-Centered worldview, where the well-being of the individual is inseparable from the well-being of the community . Guided by the principals of Ubuntu-" I am because we are"- I see each client as a part of the larger story ,carrying history, culture, and resilience within them. My journey into clinical practice has been shaped by both personal experience and ancestral legacy. My commitment is to create space where clients feel heard.
I approach the work of healing with understanding that health is not only the absence of illness, but the presence of balance, dignity, and connection.My identity as a LCSW is deeply rooted in an African-Centered worldview, where the well-being of the individual is inseparable from the well-being of the community . Guided by the principals of Ubuntu-" I am because we are"- I see each client as a part of the larger story ,carrying history, culture, and resilience within them. My journey into clinical practice has been shaped by both personal experience and ancestral legacy. My commitment is to create space where clients feel heard.
In person in Oakland or online!
Many people want to change in some way: to feel more ease, more pleasure, less anxiety, more freedom, greater connection. I offer a reliably warm space for clients to discover what they want to feel and experience in their lives. With a balance of curiosity and direction, I partner with clients to understand their strengths and challenges, to take action in alignment with their desires. As clarity and agency develop, we stabilize and encourage the emerging self. I think of this process as cultivating the capacity to hold steady in ourselves to connect truly with others, so that we can feel a sense of vitality and ease in our lives.
In person in Oakland or online!
Many people want to change in some way: to feel more ease, more pleasure, less anxiety, more freedom, greater connection. I offer a reliably warm space for clients to discover what they want to feel and experience in their lives. With a balance of curiosity and direction, I partner with clients to understand their strengths and challenges, to take action in alignment with their desires. As clarity and agency develop, we stabilize and encourage the emerging self. I think of this process as cultivating the capacity to hold steady in ourselves to connect truly with others, so that we can feel a sense of vitality and ease in our lives.
Recognizing the need for help is challenging enough; finding the best clinician should be simple and straightforward. Regardless of who we are working with, our primary focus is on improving self-esteem, building self-confidence, and working to enrich the self-worth of each of our clients. The more faith a person has in their own abilities and innate uniqueness, the more they are able to engage with the world they live in, the family they belong to, and the life they deserve to experience. Put simply, we aim to improve the quality of life for every one of our clients.
Recognizing the need for help is challenging enough; finding the best clinician should be simple and straightforward. Regardless of who we are working with, our primary focus is on improving self-esteem, building self-confidence, and working to enrich the self-worth of each of our clients. The more faith a person has in their own abilities and innate uniqueness, the more they are able to engage with the world they live in, the family they belong to, and the life they deserve to experience. Put simply, we aim to improve the quality of life for every one of our clients.
People turn to therapy when they are in too much emotional pain, stuck in intractable situations with intimate partners or at work, or acting in ways that are self-destructive or harmful to others. When other solutions have not worked, therapy offers a chance to address and change outmoded ways of being. The therapeutic relationship is key to this work. It offers the possibility of exploring new ways of relating to ourselves and others that can lead to a richer and more fulfilling life. The therapist must provide a place of safety and be a partner in this process.
People turn to therapy when they are in too much emotional pain, stuck in intractable situations with intimate partners or at work, or acting in ways that are self-destructive or harmful to others. When other solutions have not worked, therapy offers a chance to address and change outmoded ways of being. The therapeutic relationship is key to this work. It offers the possibility of exploring new ways of relating to ourselves and others that can lead to a richer and more fulfilling life. The therapist must provide a place of safety and be a partner in this process.
Anger, anxiety, depression, shame, and challenges with self-identity are often rooted in unresolved trauma. When left unaddressed, trauma can deeply impact our relationships and family dynamics. As your therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you in managing trauma-related symptoms and moving toward a more meaningful, fulfilling life. I use a client-centered approach to create a safe and supportive space where unresolved emotions and reactions can be explored. I believe that the therapeutic relationship itself is just as important as the modality used because healing begins with trust, connection, and the freedom to be vulnerable.
Anger, anxiety, depression, shame, and challenges with self-identity are often rooted in unresolved trauma. When left unaddressed, trauma can deeply impact our relationships and family dynamics. As your therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you in managing trauma-related symptoms and moving toward a more meaningful, fulfilling life. I use a client-centered approach to create a safe and supportive space where unresolved emotions and reactions can be explored. I believe that the therapeutic relationship itself is just as important as the modality used because healing begins with trust, connection, and the freedom to be vulnerable.
I know that coming to therapy can be challenging and I am committed to creating a warm, empathic, and safe space for our time together. I tailor the treatment to meet your individual needs and goals. My priority is to meet you where you are in order to help you on your journey to a more authentic and fulfilling life. I have an integrative style, drawing on psychodynamic, systems, and attachment theories which allows us to look at the root of issues that you may be struggling with. I also draw on cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness and meditation practices to help deal with symptoms by improving coping and self-care.
I know that coming to therapy can be challenging and I am committed to creating a warm, empathic, and safe space for our time together. I tailor the treatment to meet your individual needs and goals. My priority is to meet you where you are in order to help you on your journey to a more authentic and fulfilling life. I have an integrative style, drawing on psychodynamic, systems, and attachment theories which allows us to look at the root of issues that you may be struggling with. I also draw on cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness and meditation practices to help deal with symptoms by improving coping and self-care.
Hello! Welcome to my personal profile. I am Steve Foster, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist The majority of my experience has been in working with couples, married and otherwise, to improve communication in their relationships. "Taking the war out of words",and learning to take one another's perspective increase the likelihood of success in intimate relationships. I've also worked with those coping with substance dependency. I am a strong believer in the value of family, and in the power of living a clean and sober, recovery-centered life. Please feel free to call me to discuss your concerns.
Hello! Welcome to my personal profile. I am Steve Foster, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist The majority of my experience has been in working with couples, married and otherwise, to improve communication in their relationships. "Taking the war out of words",and learning to take one another's perspective increase the likelihood of success in intimate relationships. I've also worked with those coping with substance dependency. I am a strong believer in the value of family, and in the power of living a clean and sober, recovery-centered life. Please feel free to call me to discuss your concerns.
You’re here because something isn’t working. Maybe you're carrying experiences that were too painful, frightening, or confusing to name when they happened. Perhaps you endured something alone, without enough safety or support, and learned to keep going by pushing it aside. Over time, this can show up as anxiety, depression, numbness, shame, or relationship struggles. Many people I work with are capable and reflective, yet feel something unresolved inside and are ready to understand their history and live with more freedom and meaning.
You’re here because something isn’t working. Maybe you're carrying experiences that were too painful, frightening, or confusing to name when they happened. Perhaps you endured something alone, without enough safety or support, and learned to keep going by pushing it aside. Over time, this can show up as anxiety, depression, numbness, shame, or relationship struggles. Many people I work with are capable and reflective, yet feel something unresolved inside and are ready to understand their history and live with more freedom and meaning.
I'm available for in-person sessions on Tuesday evenings and video on Monday evenings.
I spend a great deal of time thinking about how to improve the human experience. Over the course of my practice, I've discovered that I'm best at healing when we look inwards. While external factors may be causes of our pain, I focus on what we can control. We'll be a good fit if you're ready to accept this journey. With time and great care, we'll hopefully draw out the resiliency that's always been present.
I'm available for in-person sessions on Tuesday evenings and video on Monday evenings.
I spend a great deal of time thinking about how to improve the human experience. Over the course of my practice, I've discovered that I'm best at healing when we look inwards. While external factors may be causes of our pain, I focus on what we can control. We'll be a good fit if you're ready to accept this journey. With time and great care, we'll hopefully draw out the resiliency that's always been present.
Hi and welcome. I’m a trauma-informed therapist who prioritizes safety and trust in the therapy room. Folks find me when they struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, and unresolved childhood trauma, They may also face challenges related to narcissistic abuse, particularly within their family dynamics or intimate relationships. I specialize in supporting neurodivergent folks who seek a therapeutic experience that truly aligns with their unique needs and honors their individuality.
Hi and welcome. I’m a trauma-informed therapist who prioritizes safety and trust in the therapy room. Folks find me when they struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, and unresolved childhood trauma, They may also face challenges related to narcissistic abuse, particularly within their family dynamics or intimate relationships. I specialize in supporting neurodivergent folks who seek a therapeutic experience that truly aligns with their unique needs and honors their individuality.
Currently serving Bay Area and CA-based clients in person, by phone and via Zoom.
Are you wondering what needs to change for you to feel better than you do, or having trouble making it happen? I believe that the struggles we face in our lives are invitations for us to grow. Seeking support for life's challenges is a courageous and powerful choice; consider me a partner on your road toward empowerment. I have a special interest in working with clients navigating intersectional identities: creative and intellectual seekers overcoming struggle, working to find their unique path in the world. Many of my clients are artists, activists, or environmentally conscious folks committed to personal and collective healing.
Currently serving Bay Area and CA-based clients in person, by phone and via Zoom.
Are you wondering what needs to change for you to feel better than you do, or having trouble making it happen? I believe that the struggles we face in our lives are invitations for us to grow. Seeking support for life's challenges is a courageous and powerful choice; consider me a partner on your road toward empowerment. I have a special interest in working with clients navigating intersectional identities: creative and intellectual seekers overcoming struggle, working to find their unique path in the world. Many of my clients are artists, activists, or environmentally conscious folks committed to personal and collective healing.
I offer a warm collaborative space where you can slow down, feel understood, and explore what’s getting in the way of connection. My work is grounded in trauma-informed care, meaning we will honor your history with careful consideration and help you to learn new attachment skills. I specialize in relationships, sex, and intimacy, and together we’ll unpack patterns shaped by past experiences, strengthen communication, and build greater safety—within yourself and with others. I believe healing happens in relationship and I’m here to support you with curiosity, compassion, and care as you move toward deeper connection and authenticity.
I offer a warm collaborative space where you can slow down, feel understood, and explore what’s getting in the way of connection. My work is grounded in trauma-informed care, meaning we will honor your history with careful consideration and help you to learn new attachment skills. I specialize in relationships, sex, and intimacy, and together we’ll unpack patterns shaped by past experiences, strengthen communication, and build greater safety—within yourself and with others. I believe healing happens in relationship and I’m here to support you with curiosity, compassion, and care as you move toward deeper connection and authenticity.
I offer in person therapy in Oakland on Mondays and telehealth therapy across CA.
I'm a California-based therapist supporting people with anxiety, grief, neurodivergence, and relationship issues. I see individual adults, dyads/ couples, and teens, and I tend to work best with people who are deeply curious to understand both themselves and the way that they show up in the world better. My style is warm, relational, and non-judgmental, balanced with the willingness to challenge clients to see their patterns more clearly. I heavily incorporate mindfulness, grounding techniques, somatic awareness, and parts work, all with a trauma-informed lens.
I offer in person therapy in Oakland on Mondays and telehealth therapy across CA.
I'm a California-based therapist supporting people with anxiety, grief, neurodivergence, and relationship issues. I see individual adults, dyads/ couples, and teens, and I tend to work best with people who are deeply curious to understand both themselves and the way that they show up in the world better. My style is warm, relational, and non-judgmental, balanced with the willingness to challenge clients to see their patterns more clearly. I heavily incorporate mindfulness, grounding techniques, somatic awareness, and parts work, all with a trauma-informed lens.
I offer telehealth sessions and in person sessions are also a possibility if you live in the Bay Area.
Many clients come to me after months or year of talk therapy, still feeling stuck. They’re self-aware but not moving forward. That’s where the deeper work begins. I help people uncover the root causes of their emotional pain, anxiety, and patterns that keep repeating. Together, we go beyond surface-level insight and start to unravel the core knots—so real, lasting change can finally happen.
Using a blend of integrative approaches tailored to your needs, I create a safe, supportive space for deep exploration and healing. Along the way, you’ll also learn practical tools and skills to support your growth. Clinical supervision avail.
I offer telehealth sessions and in person sessions are also a possibility if you live in the Bay Area.
Many clients come to me after months or year of talk therapy, still feeling stuck. They’re self-aware but not moving forward. That’s where the deeper work begins. I help people uncover the root causes of their emotional pain, anxiety, and patterns that keep repeating. Together, we go beyond surface-level insight and start to unravel the core knots—so real, lasting change can finally happen.
Using a blend of integrative approaches tailored to your needs, I create a safe, supportive space for deep exploration and healing. Along the way, you’ll also learn practical tools and skills to support your growth. Clinical supervision avail.
I offer in-person sessions in Oakland, and online sessions across California.
Living is complex, and we can find ourselves caught in patterns of overwhelm, stuckness, shutdown, or disconnection from ourselves and those we love. We may be navigating stress, trauma (personal or intergenerational), chronic illness, neurodivergence, parenting a neurodivergent child, or layered identities shaped by immigration, sexuality, and systemic oppression.
Whether feeling apprehensive, curious, or ready for support, we may long for a therapeutic space where the mind and body can soften—where we are met with compassion, witnessed without judgment, and supported in exploring change at our own pace.
I offer in-person sessions in Oakland, and online sessions across California.
Living is complex, and we can find ourselves caught in patterns of overwhelm, stuckness, shutdown, or disconnection from ourselves and those we love. We may be navigating stress, trauma (personal or intergenerational), chronic illness, neurodivergence, parenting a neurodivergent child, or layered identities shaped by immigration, sexuality, and systemic oppression.
Whether feeling apprehensive, curious, or ready for support, we may long for a therapeutic space where the mind and body can soften—where we are met with compassion, witnessed without judgment, and supported in exploring change at our own pace.
See more therapy options for Oakland
Nearby In Person Therapists Searches for Oakland
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- El Cerrito
- Emeryville
- Kensington
- Lafayette
- Moraga
- Orinda
- Piedmont
- San Francisco
- San Leandro
FAQ - About In Person Therapy
What are the benefits of in-person therapy?
In-person therapy offers several benefits that some people find highly valuable for their mental health treatment. Being present in the same room as your therapist can create a stronger sense of connection and allow for more nuanced communication through body language. Some people may also find it easier to focus in therapy when they are in a dedicated space and away from potential distractions related to home or work; attending an in-person session provides a clear boundary between therapy time and the rest of your life. For certain therapeutic approaches, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), exposure therapy, or somatic therapy, being in person may be particularly important, as these therapies benefit from the therapist being able to observe and respond to a client’s physical cues effectively. Additionally, some individuals simply feel more comfortable discussing sensitive or painful topics when they are face-to-face with their therapist rather than on a screen.
When should I choose in-person therapy over online therapy?
In-person therapy may be a better choice when you need a structured therapeutic environment separate from your daily life, when you find it difficult to focus or feel comfortable in an online setting, or when privacy at home is a concern. It may also be more appropriate if you are dealing with severe mental health symptoms that require close monitoring or if your therapy involves approaches that rely heavily on observing physical cues. On the other hand, if convenience, scheduling flexibility, or access to specialists outside your immediate area are priorities, online therapy may be a better fit. Many therapists offer both options, so you can also discuss with a provider which format might work best for your specific situation.
How do I find an in-person therapist?
You can use Psychology Today's therapist directory to find an in-person therapist in your area. You can search by location, insurance accepted, specialty areas, therapeutic approaches, and other criteria to narrow down providers who meet your needs. Each therapist profile includes information about their credentials, areas of expertise, and whether they offer in-person sessions. Once you have identified potential therapists, you can contact them directly through the directory to schedule an initial consultation and determine whether they are a good fit before committing to ongoing treatment. When reaching out, it can be helpful to confirm their availability for in-person appointments, their office location, and whether they accept your insurance.