Narcissistic Personality (NPD) Therapists in Oakland, CA
I consider it a privilege to work with you to explore aspects of your life experience which have diminished your satisfaction with life or otherwise left you feeling lost or alone.
Challenges around loss, aging, illness, trauma or relationships can feel too frightening to tackle alone. As a seasoned and compassionate psychotherapist, I can help you bear and work with what may feel unbearable.
Together, we will create a protected space that fosters the trust, aliveness and self-expression that are essential to growth and success in love and work, where you can ultimately reclaim your life and joie-de-vivre.
I consider it a privilege to work with you to explore aspects of your life experience which have diminished your satisfaction with life or otherwise left you feeling lost or alone.
Challenges around loss, aging, illness, trauma or relationships can feel too frightening to tackle alone. As a seasoned and compassionate psychotherapist, I can help you bear and work with what may feel unbearable.
Together, we will create a protected space that fosters the trust, aliveness and self-expression that are essential to growth and success in love and work, where you can ultimately reclaim your life and joie-de-vivre.
Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety, depression, anger issues, or relationship struggles rooted in past experiences? My approach meets you where you are, offering comfort and trust as we work through each session. Healing is like a wave, with natural ups and downs, but we’ll move forward together on a steady, upward path. If you’re feeling stuck or caught in repetitive patterns, I’m here to help you understand these cycles, empowering you to create a more authentic life. Through a supportive, safe environment, we’ll explore your unique needs, helping you build resilience and confidence as you move toward meaningful change.
Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety, depression, anger issues, or relationship struggles rooted in past experiences? My approach meets you where you are, offering comfort and trust as we work through each session. Healing is like a wave, with natural ups and downs, but we’ll move forward together on a steady, upward path. If you’re feeling stuck or caught in repetitive patterns, I’m here to help you understand these cycles, empowering you to create a more authentic life. Through a supportive, safe environment, we’ll explore your unique needs, helping you build resilience and confidence as you move toward meaningful change.
Are you worried about self-defeating tendencies? Why do you get in your own way in relationships, at work, in school, or in expressing your inspiration and creativity? We look together at the barriers to success that interfere with productivity and peace of mind. Because I co-authored the top-rated book, "Procrastination: Why You Do It; What To Do About It NOW," (and because it took me six years to complete my dissertation!) I like to help people overcome procrastination and achieve their goals.
My other specialities include: grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, depression, writing/editing, and supervision.
Are you worried about self-defeating tendencies? Why do you get in your own way in relationships, at work, in school, or in expressing your inspiration and creativity? We look together at the barriers to success that interfere with productivity and peace of mind. Because I co-authored the top-rated book, "Procrastination: Why You Do It; What To Do About It NOW," (and because it took me six years to complete my dissertation!) I like to help people overcome procrastination and achieve their goals.
My other specialities include: grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, depression, writing/editing, and supervision.
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.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
My work ranges from people who have experienced serious trauma, and suffer from depression and anxiety to those who just want to feel better in their lives and their relationships. I love working with couples. I know from my own experience of being married since 1990 that relationships need nurturing and intention. I love helping couples find intimacy that may have been lost. I really see my work as helping individuals and couples live their best life!
My work ranges from people who have experienced serious trauma, and suffer from depression and anxiety to those who just want to feel better in their lives and their relationships. I love working with couples. I know from my own experience of being married since 1990 that relationships need nurturing and intention. I love helping couples find intimacy that may have been lost. I really see my work as helping individuals and couples live their best life!
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
Clients I work with tend to have experienced developmental trauma that interferes with their relationships to themselves, partners and family members; have taken on shame, blame, guilt or distorted thinking/gaslighting from their family systems often throughout generations; and therefore likely experience issues around trust, intimacy, vulnerability and self love. I am committed to helping my clients to gain more peace and safety within their personal bodies, their homes, their relations and their family systems so they can experience more choice, empowerment and joy in their lives.
Clients I work with tend to have experienced developmental trauma that interferes with their relationships to themselves, partners and family members; have taken on shame, blame, guilt or distorted thinking/gaslighting from their family systems often throughout generations; and therefore likely experience issues around trust, intimacy, vulnerability and self love. I am committed to helping my clients to gain more peace and safety within their personal bodies, their homes, their relations and their family systems so they can experience more choice, empowerment and joy in their lives.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image struggles, obsessive thoughts, or the lingering impact of trauma? These experiences can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. In our work together, we’ll gently uncover what’s beneath the surface, giving space to long-held emotions and creating a path toward healing. My goal is to help you process unresolved trauma and reconnect with a more grounded, integrated sense of self so that you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image struggles, obsessive thoughts, or the lingering impact of trauma? These experiences can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. In our work together, we’ll gently uncover what’s beneath the surface, giving space to long-held emotions and creating a path toward healing. My goal is to help you process unresolved trauma and reconnect with a more grounded, integrated sense of self so that you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Hi! If you’re reading this, that means you are taking a step forward in investing in yourself or someone you care about, and that’s wonderful. People are complex and complicated which at times can make it hard to show compassion towards ourselves and others. I believe at my core that regardless of our mistakes, shortcomings, background, or struggles, we all deserve to experience kindness, respect, and what it is like to truly be seen and heard.
Hi! If you’re reading this, that means you are taking a step forward in investing in yourself or someone you care about, and that’s wonderful. People are complex and complicated which at times can make it hard to show compassion towards ourselves and others. I believe at my core that regardless of our mistakes, shortcomings, background, or struggles, we all deserve to experience kindness, respect, and what it is like to truly be seen and heard.
I’m a licensed therapist trained in somatic psychology at the California Institute of Integral Studies. I work with individuals, couples, and men, supporting clients with anxiety (including social anxiety), depression, ADHD, relationship challenges, trauma, and life transitions. I also help people navigating loneliness, work-related stress, and cultural or identity-related experiences, including multiracial relationships. My goal is to help people better understand themselves, their patterns, and how they relate to others. I tend to be warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative, while also being direct when it’s helpful.
I’m a licensed therapist trained in somatic psychology at the California Institute of Integral Studies. I work with individuals, couples, and men, supporting clients with anxiety (including social anxiety), depression, ADHD, relationship challenges, trauma, and life transitions. I also help people navigating loneliness, work-related stress, and cultural or identity-related experiences, including multiracial relationships. My goal is to help people better understand themselves, their patterns, and how they relate to others. I tend to be warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative, while also being direct when it’s helpful.
Melissa Southwood
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Oakland, CA 94612
Waitlist for new clients
Ask about my process group Healing your System from Narcissistic Cycles of Abuse; A Journey Back to Self.
I am a Level 1 & 2 EMDR therapist trained through the Center for Creative Mindfulness, I am Level 1 IFS-I trained, currently completing my Level 2. I integrate transpersonal depth psychology, somatic experience, art therapy, a deep understanding of attachment and narcissistic systems.
Ask about my process group Healing your System from Narcissistic Cycles of Abuse; A Journey Back to Self.
I am a Level 1 & 2 EMDR therapist trained through the Center for Creative Mindfulness, I am Level 1 IFS-I trained, currently completing my Level 2. I integrate transpersonal depth psychology, somatic experience, art therapy, a deep understanding of attachment and narcissistic systems.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
Is anxiety, depression, or trauma holding you back from being your true self? Do you feel stuck in managing difficult life transitions? Now, every little thing becomes super overwhelming. Those negative experiences reopen old wounds and cause new ones. You tried burying your pain hoping it would go away. You feel lonely and tormented. You feel exhausted, stressed, and angry all the time. You wonder how much more you can take. You are unsure of who or where to turn for help. In the midst of this painful journey, you do not have to go through it alone.
Is anxiety, depression, or trauma holding you back from being your true self? Do you feel stuck in managing difficult life transitions? Now, every little thing becomes super overwhelming. Those negative experiences reopen old wounds and cause new ones. You tried burying your pain hoping it would go away. You feel lonely and tormented. You feel exhausted, stressed, and angry all the time. You wonder how much more you can take. You are unsure of who or where to turn for help. In the midst of this painful journey, you do not have to go through it alone.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
Are you going through internal struggle due to trauma? Do you feel anxious and depressed about the future? Do you struggle with family issues and relationship issues? I’m willing to meet you where you are, help you process unwanted thoughts and emotions, and help develop an action plan to effectively cultivate your healing and growth. I’m here to help you explore unresolved feelings (anxiety, depression, anger, helplessness, grief, etc.) and develop skills to effectively cope with them. Thus, you can feel relieved and fulfilled in your relationship with yourself and others.
Are you going through internal struggle due to trauma? Do you feel anxious and depressed about the future? Do you struggle with family issues and relationship issues? I’m willing to meet you where you are, help you process unwanted thoughts and emotions, and help develop an action plan to effectively cultivate your healing and growth. I’m here to help you explore unresolved feelings (anxiety, depression, anger, helplessness, grief, etc.) and develop skills to effectively cope with them. Thus, you can feel relieved and fulfilled in your relationship with yourself and others.
Without meaning and the chance to therapeutically practice new insights and behaviors, we may suffer unnecessarily during times of high stress, trauma, or in daily life. Feelings may become an overwhelming flood of dread, sorrow or numbness; thinking becomes confused, panicky, and self-critical; joy, spontaneity and self-trust may feel lost. Together we can make good use of your strengths, symptoms and external challenges. Through exploring and deepening our understanding and trust in your own inner world, dignity and liveliness may be restored even under the most challenging or enduring of circumstances, illnesses or problems.
Without meaning and the chance to therapeutically practice new insights and behaviors, we may suffer unnecessarily during times of high stress, trauma, or in daily life. Feelings may become an overwhelming flood of dread, sorrow or numbness; thinking becomes confused, panicky, and self-critical; joy, spontaneity and self-trust may feel lost. Together we can make good use of your strengths, symptoms and external challenges. Through exploring and deepening our understanding and trust in your own inner world, dignity and liveliness may be restored even under the most challenging or enduring of circumstances, illnesses or problems.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
Unpleasant, earlier life experiences often cause mental & emotional scars. Overcoming emotional pain or the effects of generational attachment trauma can feel daunting. I focus on the challenges that Black people & other POC face when approaching relationships, as well as challenges experienced in the workplace. Because the quality of our relationships determines the quality of our lives, both at home & at work. In my work with relationships, I use my understanding of any past experiences of each partner that may be negatively impacting the relationship, as well as any repeated interactional patterns that cause pain to one another.
Unpleasant, earlier life experiences often cause mental & emotional scars. Overcoming emotional pain or the effects of generational attachment trauma can feel daunting. I focus on the challenges that Black people & other POC face when approaching relationships, as well as challenges experienced in the workplace. Because the quality of our relationships determines the quality of our lives, both at home & at work. In my work with relationships, I use my understanding of any past experiences of each partner that may be negatively impacting the relationship, as well as any repeated interactional patterns that cause pain to one another.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
See more therapy options for Oakland
Nearby Narcissistic Personality (NPD) Therapists Searches for Oakland
- Alameda
- Alamo
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Castro Valley
- El Cerrito
- Emeryville
- Lafayette
- Orinda
- Piedmont
- San Francisco
- Walnut Creek


