Positive Psychology Therapists in Oakland, CA
I support my clients to cultivate awareness and capacity to unwind from unhealthy thought and behavior patterns. I do this by drawing on their innate strengths and resilience. Collaboratively we learn to navigate challenging emotions and life transitions to rediscover aliveness, power, joy, purpose, care and a sense of connection. I bring dynamic qualities including curiosity, creativity and warmth into sessions for growth towards wholeness. My approach is guided by mindful awareness, honest inquiry and deep compassion. I am grounded in social justice, recognizing how social-historical factors impact well-being. I believe healing is a journey towards liberation.
I support my clients to cultivate awareness and capacity to unwind from unhealthy thought and behavior patterns. I do this by drawing on their innate strengths and resilience. Collaboratively we learn to navigate challenging emotions and life transitions to rediscover aliveness, power, joy, purpose, care and a sense of connection. I bring dynamic qualities including curiosity, creativity and warmth into sessions for growth towards wholeness. My approach is guided by mindful awareness, honest inquiry and deep compassion. I am grounded in social justice, recognizing how social-historical factors impact well-being. I believe healing is a journey towards liberation.
Anyone who is currently struggling with emotional pain and wanting to change, is my ideal client. I am here to guide you through a journey into your mind and heart, to help you face your greatest fears, and discover your unimaginable strength. Out of the ashes, rises the phoenix and out of a personal crisis, comes tremendous growth and healing. Whether you are dealing with mood swings, depression, anxiety, addiction, panic, trauma or relationship issues, I am here to help.
Anyone who is currently struggling with emotional pain and wanting to change, is my ideal client. I am here to guide you through a journey into your mind and heart, to help you face your greatest fears, and discover your unimaginable strength. Out of the ashes, rises the phoenix and out of a personal crisis, comes tremendous growth and healing. Whether you are dealing with mood swings, depression, anxiety, addiction, panic, trauma or relationship issues, I am here to help.
We are in challenging times, yet it's a new year with new beginnings. You are seeking support for your child who is anxious, easily agitated, defiant or seems depressed. They may "hold it together," at school and then fall apart at home. Socially your child may be struggling to find friends or managing their academic environment. Feeling a sense of belonging builds mastery and self esteem. As a parent, your patience is stretched, you can react without pause and at times you feel hopeless when your attempts to comfort to not mitigate or resolve issues. You want your child not just to cope with stressors but to flourish.
We are in challenging times, yet it's a new year with new beginnings. You are seeking support for your child who is anxious, easily agitated, defiant or seems depressed. They may "hold it together," at school and then fall apart at home. Socially your child may be struggling to find friends or managing their academic environment. Feeling a sense of belonging builds mastery and self esteem. As a parent, your patience is stretched, you can react without pause and at times you feel hopeless when your attempts to comfort to not mitigate or resolve issues. You want your child not just to cope with stressors but to flourish.
Axis Mundi would like to present Perla Garcia-Nash. Perla is a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee and is supervised weekly by Elysha Martinez (License no. 93493). The supervisor works with Perla to help develop their clinical skills and ensure that they provide quality care to you as the client. Soy Latinx, hablo español y spanglish. As a highly sensitive person, art has been my lifeline, guiding my practice of self-discovery and creativity. I focus on transforming emotional sensitivity into a therapeutic superpower, fostering sacred deepening of self.
Axis Mundi would like to present Perla Garcia-Nash. Perla is a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee and is supervised weekly by Elysha Martinez (License no. 93493). The supervisor works with Perla to help develop their clinical skills and ensure that they provide quality care to you as the client. Soy Latinx, hablo español y spanglish. As a highly sensitive person, art has been my lifeline, guiding my practice of self-discovery and creativity. I focus on transforming emotional sensitivity into a therapeutic superpower, fostering sacred deepening of self.
I have been privileged to have experienced a very diverse clientele. Currently I am accepting clients who are LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, those who are working on trauma or traumatic pasts, 'outside the box' or deep thinkers, and/or those who have lived diverse/alternative lives. When contacting me, please say what about this profile you were interested in, and why you think we might be a good match.
I have been privileged to have experienced a very diverse clientele. Currently I am accepting clients who are LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, those who are working on trauma or traumatic pasts, 'outside the box' or deep thinkers, and/or those who have lived diverse/alternative lives. When contacting me, please say what about this profile you were interested in, and why you think we might be a good match.
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.
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.
It is a privilege to help others who are seeking support on their journey. As a licensed psychologist who enjoys working with adults, children, families, couples, as well as groups, I appreciate a holistic approach to lifestyle changes. It is important to consider physical, mental and emotional health to increase our quality of life. We don’t have control over some circumstances in life, but we can work to optimally navigate what comes our way. Cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, mindfulness for stress reduction, managing occupational strain and psychoeducation are some of the techniques I find helpful.
It is a privilege to help others who are seeking support on their journey. As a licensed psychologist who enjoys working with adults, children, families, couples, as well as groups, I appreciate a holistic approach to lifestyle changes. It is important to consider physical, mental and emotional health to increase our quality of life. We don’t have control over some circumstances in life, but we can work to optimally navigate what comes our way. Cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, mindfulness for stress reduction, managing occupational strain and psychoeducation are some of the techniques I find helpful.
Working in non profits and government services for 20 plus years both in San Francisco and Alameda County, has taught me the art of appreciating people for who they are, keeping an open mind and helping them see their own strength within. I am very excited to be in private practice. Working with couples , individuals and families. I am very curious and passionate about our natural need for growth and integrity, and to have healthy loving relationships. I am open to all types of relationships, marriages and non traditional coupling. I work intuitively and believe in ones ability to heal from within from trauma and hurts.
Working in non profits and government services for 20 plus years both in San Francisco and Alameda County, has taught me the art of appreciating people for who they are, keeping an open mind and helping them see their own strength within. I am very excited to be in private practice. Working with couples , individuals and families. I am very curious and passionate about our natural need for growth and integrity, and to have healthy loving relationships. I am open to all types of relationships, marriages and non traditional coupling. I work intuitively and believe in ones ability to heal from within from trauma and hurts.
Selecting the right therapist is essential- here is some information about me and my practice to help inform your decision. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience working with children and adolescents. I work collaboratively with parents in creation of goals and throughout the course of treatment. Through play I help children to; express difficult feelings, resolve internal conflicts, learn adaptive ways to cope, and to develop resiliency. I offer free phone consultations in order to help determine if I am the right therapist for your child.
Selecting the right therapist is essential- here is some information about me and my practice to help inform your decision. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience working with children and adolescents. I work collaboratively with parents in creation of goals and throughout the course of treatment. Through play I help children to; express difficult feelings, resolve internal conflicts, learn adaptive ways to cope, and to develop resiliency. I offer free phone consultations in order to help determine if I am the right therapist for your child.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
Clients generally come to me because they are experiencing disruption to their lives due to their use of, or a loved ones use of, drugs and/or alcohol, significant anxiety and stress challenges or have suffered a trauma which is preventing them from living the life that they want to be able to live.
Clients generally come to me because they are experiencing disruption to their lives due to their use of, or a loved ones use of, drugs and/or alcohol, significant anxiety and stress challenges or have suffered a trauma which is preventing them from living the life that they want to be able to live.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English. I know how overwhelming life can feel, and I hope to offer a warm, supportive space where you can feel understood and empowered.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English. I know how overwhelming life can feel, and I hope to offer a warm, supportive space where you can feel understood and empowered.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
You’re fumbling, feeling clunky, ashamed, lost in transition, and searching for answers. You’ve been told you’re too much, too scattered, and too picky, when in reality, you may very well know what you want and it seems others just can’t meet you there. Together we will explore and unfold acceptance and awareness around ALL of your parts, especially the most intense ones. What you’re searching for is out there, let’s take these next steps on your journey.
You’re fumbling, feeling clunky, ashamed, lost in transition, and searching for answers. You’ve been told you’re too much, too scattered, and too picky, when in reality, you may very well know what you want and it seems others just can’t meet you there. Together we will explore and unfold acceptance and awareness around ALL of your parts, especially the most intense ones. What you’re searching for is out there, let’s take these next steps on your journey.
I'm glad you found my profile, and I look forward to working together if you think it would be a good fit! I bring my special sauce to therapeutic work, blending empathy, curiosity, and warmth. Together we will identify patterns and work towards time-bound resolutions and symbiosis for coexistence. You can expect to explore patterns of interactions, and be encouraged to activate self-awareness and growth in various areas. From me, you can expect creativity, compassion, playfulness and presence. People have an inherent goodness and the power to change. I have a 95% retention rate.
I'm glad you found my profile, and I look forward to working together if you think it would be a good fit! I bring my special sauce to therapeutic work, blending empathy, curiosity, and warmth. Together we will identify patterns and work towards time-bound resolutions and symbiosis for coexistence. You can expect to explore patterns of interactions, and be encouraged to activate self-awareness and growth in various areas. From me, you can expect creativity, compassion, playfulness and presence. People have an inherent goodness and the power to change. I have a 95% retention rate.
Often when an individual or couple is seeking out a therapist they're in the midst of a significant transition or challenge that can feel overwhelming. Paradoxically, I believe this is often the time in which the greatest change is possible. By exploring issues through a multi-layered approach, we will identify the deeper truths and lessons these challenges are presenting. By lending tools and feedback, I assist my clients in having a different relationship with their challenges; thus moving away from constriction into conscious growth and empowerment.
Often when an individual or couple is seeking out a therapist they're in the midst of a significant transition or challenge that can feel overwhelming. Paradoxically, I believe this is often the time in which the greatest change is possible. By exploring issues through a multi-layered approach, we will identify the deeper truths and lessons these challenges are presenting. By lending tools and feedback, I assist my clients in having a different relationship with their challenges; thus moving away from constriction into conscious growth and empowerment.
I provide brief, (3 to 6 months) skills-based therapy using techniques from cognitive behavior therapy, positive psychology, and dialectical behavior therapy.
I have found that my approach works best for adults and children in transition or needing help to manage the stresses of daily life. I work best with clients who are motivated to build skills and healthy coping tools for a lifetime. I am here to help you build a balanced life.
I provide brief, (3 to 6 months) skills-based therapy using techniques from cognitive behavior therapy, positive psychology, and dialectical behavior therapy.
I have found that my approach works best for adults and children in transition or needing help to manage the stresses of daily life. I work best with clients who are motivated to build skills and healthy coping tools for a lifetime. I am here to help you build a balanced life.
Are you struggling to feel seen by your friends, community, and family? Do you feel stuck in a spiral that makes you feel further from your sense of self? Have you discovered or questioned something about yourself that you need support in exploring? Should life transitions or demands be this difficult and lonely? Does living in your skin feel foreign or shameful?
You've tried therapy, you've tried your bestie, you've tried goat yoga, and it still feels like no one gets it.
Here, the room is yours. Take up as much space as you need. When's the last time you honored what you needed? Let's explore and honor your story together.
Are you struggling to feel seen by your friends, community, and family? Do you feel stuck in a spiral that makes you feel further from your sense of self? Have you discovered or questioned something about yourself that you need support in exploring? Should life transitions or demands be this difficult and lonely? Does living in your skin feel foreign or shameful?
You've tried therapy, you've tried your bestie, you've tried goat yoga, and it still feels like no one gets it.
Here, the room is yours. Take up as much space as you need. When's the last time you honored what you needed? Let's explore and honor your story together.
Your being on this site reflects your hope that at a time of vulnerability your can find someone who will assist and accompany you through your pain. I believe that everyone, no matter if they are dealing with depression, anxiety, or have been through intense abuse and/or neglect have within them a deeper part of themselves that is untouched and whole. Together we alleviate shame, fear and aloneness so that you can go beyond your defenses, explore your inner life and have new experiences that allow for your ability to tap into your healing and adaptive aspects of yourself.
Your being on this site reflects your hope that at a time of vulnerability your can find someone who will assist and accompany you through your pain. I believe that everyone, no matter if they are dealing with depression, anxiety, or have been through intense abuse and/or neglect have within them a deeper part of themselves that is untouched and whole. Together we alleviate shame, fear and aloneness so that you can go beyond your defenses, explore your inner life and have new experiences that allow for your ability to tap into your healing and adaptive aspects of yourself.
See more therapy options for Oakland
Nearby Positive Psychology Therapists Searches for Oakland
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Castro Valley
- El Cerrito
- Emeryville
- Lafayette
- Moraga
- Orinda
- Piedmont
- San Francisco
- San Leandro
Positive Psychology Therapists
How does positive psychology therapy work?
Positive psychology therapy derives from the work of Martin Seligman of the University of Pennsylvania. He and others developed the field of positive psychology building on humanistic theory. Positive psychology therapy is similar to acceptance and commitment therapy, and it essentially quiets emotional distress through positivity, contentment, and well-being. This therapy does not reduce the individual to symptoms and conditions.
When do I know if I need treatment using positive psychology?
If an individual is overwhelmed by emotional distress and general negativity, they may feel trapped. A positive psychology therapist can help them view their emotions and behaviors differently, and approach life with a better understanding of their positive strengths. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.
What should I expect from positive psychology therapy?
The patient may be asked to explore their signature strengths. The therapist will also ask the individual to talk about their goals, which should be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. Discussing negative experiences and symptoms is important, but so is the exploration of positive experiences. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviors and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more positive and fulfilling way. This therapy is proactive and may use forgiveness, gratitude, hope, and compassion to help reframe negativity.
Is positive psychology effective in therapy?
Positive psychology therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with eating disorders benefit from this type of intervention. This therapy encourages the person to reframe their distressed thoughts and move into healthier patterns of functioning. This therapy also aims to move an individual toward what works well in their life. Positive psychology therapy can elicit lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioral habits.


