Somatic Therapists in Oakland, CA
The tools I use most frequently in therapy are: 1) the Grief Recovery Method; 2) parts work/Internal Family Systems; 3) Object Relations (how our self-image formed based on our experiences during childhood); 4) Attachment Theory; and 5) Somatic Experiencing (how the nervous system responds to the world)
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. And grief can occur after a variety of losses that many people don't realize: divorce, moving, graduation, empty nest, retirement, an impactful change in financial position or physical abilities, a pandemic. My clients acutely feel how unresolved grief has become an impediment to living their lives in full, having healthy relationships, and having the energy to go after their goals.
The tools I use most frequently in therapy are: 1) the Grief Recovery Method; 2) parts work/Internal Family Systems; 3) Object Relations (how our self-image formed based on our experiences during childhood); 4) Attachment Theory; and 5) Somatic Experiencing (how the nervous system responds to the world)
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. And grief can occur after a variety of losses that many people don't realize: divorce, moving, graduation, empty nest, retirement, an impactful change in financial position or physical abilities, a pandemic. My clients acutely feel how unresolved grief has become an impediment to living their lives in full, having healthy relationships, and having the energy to go after their goals.
Using an integrative approach of Internal Family Systems (IFS Therapy), Somatic-Attachment and Relational Psychotherapy, I will collaborate with you to gain confidence and skills to support your growth and healing.
As an IFS, Level 2 trained therapist, I collaborate with clients to connect with various parts of their personalities to learn how their 'protectors' (beliefs) have kept them safe and stuck. Unburdening long-held narratives that were once essential (for survival) but no longer useful will enable you to create more freedom and spaciousness in your system.
Using an integrative approach of Internal Family Systems (IFS Therapy), Somatic-Attachment and Relational Psychotherapy, I will collaborate with you to gain confidence and skills to support your growth and healing.
As an IFS, Level 2 trained therapist, I collaborate with clients to connect with various parts of their personalities to learn how their 'protectors' (beliefs) have kept them safe and stuck. Unburdening long-held narratives that were once essential (for survival) but no longer useful will enable you to create more freedom and spaciousness in your system.
I use a trauma based approach which leans on Somatic psychotherapy skills.
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 use a trauma based approach which leans on Somatic psychotherapy skills.
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 integrate EMDR, somatic-based techniques, and a relational, down-to-earth style to help you process and heal in a way that actually feels helpful.
You’ve done your best to push through, keep things together, and show up for others—but deep down, you know there are parts of your past that still weigh on you. Maybe you feel stuck in patterns that no longer align with who you are, or you’re finally ready to process things you’ve put off for too long. Therapy should be a space where you don’t have to filter yourself—a place where you can just be and feel seen, understood, and supported. I bring a trauma-informed, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming, decolonized approach to therapy, recognizing how personal and collective experiences shape our inner world.
I integrate EMDR, somatic-based techniques, and a relational, down-to-earth style to help you process and heal in a way that actually feels helpful.
You’ve done your best to push through, keep things together, and show up for others—but deep down, you know there are parts of your past that still weigh on you. Maybe you feel stuck in patterns that no longer align with who you are, or you’re finally ready to process things you’ve put off for too long. Therapy should be a space where you don’t have to filter yourself—a place where you can just be and feel seen, understood, and supported. I bring a trauma-informed, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming, decolonized approach to therapy, recognizing how personal and collective experiences shape our inner world.
I focus on incorporating somatic techniques to help regulate the nervous system.
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy for anxiety, depression, relational issues, childhood and lifespan trauma, and more. I understand that sometimes psychotherapy is sought out in a very challenging time of life, and I am here to offer support through that. I have specialized experience working with creatives of all kinds, in being a singer myself. With experience focusing on young adults as well, I offer guidance for the process of individuation that occurs during these formative years. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, ethnicities, abilities, gender identities, sexualities, and other intersectional identities.
I focus on incorporating somatic techniques to help regulate the nervous system.
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy for anxiety, depression, relational issues, childhood and lifespan trauma, and more. I understand that sometimes psychotherapy is sought out in a very challenging time of life, and I am here to offer support through that. I have specialized experience working with creatives of all kinds, in being a singer myself. With experience focusing on young adults as well, I offer guidance for the process of individuation that occurs during these formative years. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, ethnicities, abilities, gender identities, sexualities, and other intersectional identities.
I draw upon CBT, IFS, somatic therapy, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy to support the processing of trauma, fostering a holistic healing experience that encompasses both mind and body.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
I draw upon CBT, IFS, somatic therapy, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy to support the processing of trauma, fostering a holistic healing experience that encompasses both mind and body.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
My practice synergistically combines EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), IFS (Internal Family Systems), Brainspotting, and somatic therapy, with a deep understanding of how systemic oppression affects our well-being.
In a world that often seems overwhelming with so many competing priorities, you might find yourself struggling to understand what's important, what you need or how to feel more free. Perhaps you feel stuck in a life or confused about what to do. You might often get blocked because you don't know where to begin. I'm here to help. I offer a compassionate, safe, and often humor-filled space where your journey of discovery and healing can start.
My practice synergistically combines EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), IFS (Internal Family Systems), Brainspotting, and somatic therapy, with a deep understanding of how systemic oppression affects our well-being.
In a world that often seems overwhelming with so many competing priorities, you might find yourself struggling to understand what's important, what you need or how to feel more free. Perhaps you feel stuck in a life or confused about what to do. You might often get blocked because you don't know where to begin. I'm here to help. I offer a compassionate, safe, and often humor-filled space where your journey of discovery and healing can start.
I bring compassionate witness and a warm, collaborative, relational approach that is informed by psychodynamic, somatic, feminist, narrative, attachment, and trauma theories.
I honor the therapeutic relationship as a transformative site for practicing trust, safety, and vulnerability. Together, we listen for intuition and draw on the unique wisdom, creativity, power, and resilience that lies within. I know how scary it can be to share ourselves with another, and I hold this relationship with respect, tenderness, and empathy.
I bring compassionate witness and a warm, collaborative, relational approach that is informed by psychodynamic, somatic, feminist, narrative, attachment, and trauma theories.
I honor the therapeutic relationship as a transformative site for practicing trust, safety, and vulnerability. Together, we listen for intuition and draw on the unique wisdom, creativity, power, and resilience that lies within. I know how scary it can be to share ourselves with another, and I hold this relationship with respect, tenderness, and empathy.
I am especially interested in clients who would like to incorporate Somatic Experiencing into their therapy.
I am very open to work with LGBTQ+ identified clients and am well versed in issues related to sexual identity, gender variance, transitions, coming out, school bullying, family conflict, non-monagamy/polyamory, BDSM/kink, HIV, and other issues that touch the community.
I am especially interested in clients who would like to incorporate Somatic Experiencing into their therapy.
I am very open to work with LGBTQ+ identified clients and am well versed in issues related to sexual identity, gender variance, transitions, coming out, school bullying, family conflict, non-monagamy/polyamory, BDSM/kink, HIV, and other issues that touch the community.
Utilizing EMDR and a depth oriented somatic approach in my practice has been very effective for clients who feel stuck in unhealthy patterns or are plagued by overwhelming emotions.
I work with individuals and couples who are seeking to transform their inner and relational conflicts into opportunities for growth and life change. I have seen deep transformation take place in clients when they begin to learn compassion for themselves and begin to address the source of their symptoms so that true and lasting change can occur. Clients I work with most are those suffering from relationship issues, mood disorders, complex trauma, PTSD, and midlife transitions. I also offer support to family members of individuals with mood disorders, PTSD and ADD/ADHD. I offer clinical supervision to associates.
Utilizing EMDR and a depth oriented somatic approach in my practice has been very effective for clients who feel stuck in unhealthy patterns or are plagued by overwhelming emotions.
I work with individuals and couples who are seeking to transform their inner and relational conflicts into opportunities for growth and life change. I have seen deep transformation take place in clients when they begin to learn compassion for themselves and begin to address the source of their symptoms so that true and lasting change can occur. Clients I work with most are those suffering from relationship issues, mood disorders, complex trauma, PTSD, and midlife transitions. I also offer support to family members of individuals with mood disorders, PTSD and ADD/ADHD. I offer clinical supervision to associates.
With my expertise in clinical and forensic psychology as well as somatic therapy, I help you attune to your body's signals.
As a first-gen college grad committed to Civil Rights, my work is inspired by those who fight for equality and justice. I specialize in affirming and empowering Black, Latine/a/x, Indigenous, Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI), and other People of Color, as well as LGBTQIA+ communities. I provide a therapeutic space that acknowledges the challenges and strengths of overcoming adversity. I focus on helping individuals understand the intricate relationships between their emotional, cognitive, and behavioral patterns through a strength-based lens.
With my expertise in clinical and forensic psychology as well as somatic therapy, I help you attune to your body's signals.
As a first-gen college grad committed to Civil Rights, my work is inspired by those who fight for equality and justice. I specialize in affirming and empowering Black, Latine/a/x, Indigenous, Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI), and other People of Color, as well as LGBTQIA+ communities. I provide a therapeutic space that acknowledges the challenges and strengths of overcoming adversity. I focus on helping individuals understand the intricate relationships between their emotional, cognitive, and behavioral patterns through a strength-based lens.
John Connors McConville
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MDiv, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I have a number of tools I use in my work: Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Somatic Interventions, Post Induction Therapy, & Interplay to develop creativity.
I work with people who face challenges that often arise in the second half of life such as, the trauma of illness & death, caring for aging parents, loss of satisfaction or sense of meaning in relationships and work, loss of a job, isolation, and loneliness. These challenges can often be baffling and carry symptoms of depression, fear and anxiety. The rational mind may understand what is going on but somehow the emotional and physical body can't always take solace in rational solutions.
I have a number of tools I use in my work: Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Somatic Interventions, Post Induction Therapy, & Interplay to develop creativity.
I work with people who face challenges that often arise in the second half of life such as, the trauma of illness & death, caring for aging parents, loss of satisfaction or sense of meaning in relationships and work, loss of a job, isolation, and loneliness. These challenges can often be baffling and carry symptoms of depression, fear and anxiety. The rational mind may understand what is going on but somehow the emotional and physical body can't always take solace in rational solutions.
I have been practicing client-centered, depth, narrative, and somatic psychotherapy for ten years and have a master's degree in clinical psychology, with a concentration in community mental health, from the California Institute of Integral Studies.
Welcome! I specialize in working with folx who are LGBTQA+ and who are struggling with anxiety, depression and/or a history of trauma. I love supporting those who are either making the transition from monogamy to non-monogamy or need support in their existing CMN relationships. I'm also kink and BDSM competent and enjoy helping others heal shame and foster empowerment in their unique sexuality. I think of psychotherapy as a necessary form of social activism toward a larger goal of equity for people of all races, genders, sexual/relational orientations, levels of ability, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
I have been practicing client-centered, depth, narrative, and somatic psychotherapy for ten years and have a master's degree in clinical psychology, with a concentration in community mental health, from the California Institute of Integral Studies.
Welcome! I specialize in working with folx who are LGBTQA+ and who are struggling with anxiety, depression and/or a history of trauma. I love supporting those who are either making the transition from monogamy to non-monogamy or need support in their existing CMN relationships. I'm also kink and BDSM competent and enjoy helping others heal shame and foster empowerment in their unique sexuality. I think of psychotherapy as a necessary form of social activism toward a larger goal of equity for people of all races, genders, sexual/relational orientations, levels of ability, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
As a Somatic Psychotherapist and Homeopath, I can support you in creating more wellness and integrity in your life.
I've worked successfully with people of widely varying ages, backgrounds, and life experience. People in the following situations have benefited the most from what I have to offer. Life Transitions, Exploring Relationships, Exploring Sexuality, Adult Children of Addicted or Mentally Ill Parents, Trauma Recovery, and Accessing Creativity
As a Somatic Psychotherapist and Homeopath, I can support you in creating more wellness and integrity in your life.
I've worked successfully with people of widely varying ages, backgrounds, and life experience. People in the following situations have benefited the most from what I have to offer. Life Transitions, Exploring Relationships, Exploring Sexuality, Adult Children of Addicted or Mentally Ill Parents, Trauma Recovery, and Accessing Creativity
I am a trans somatic therapist dedicated to the dignity, wholeness and power of trans and queer people as an innate part of work for collective liberation.
The realities of ongoing trauma and oppression may leave you feeling stuck, frozen or disconnected. As survivors of embodied trauma, we often sense that simply talking about our experiences won't fully heal what has happened in body, mind, and spirit. I offer space to ground with what matters to you, tapping into your dignity and wholeness. Together, we can explore how to live more fully into the changes you want for your life and the world.
I am a trans somatic therapist dedicated to the dignity, wholeness and power of trans and queer people as an innate part of work for collective liberation.
The realities of ongoing trauma and oppression may leave you feeling stuck, frozen or disconnected. As survivors of embodied trauma, we often sense that simply talking about our experiences won't fully heal what has happened in body, mind, and spirit. I offer space to ground with what matters to you, tapping into your dignity and wholeness. Together, we can explore how to live more fully into the changes you want for your life and the world.
I use a holistic, body and soul centered trauma informed approach, using various modalities from Somatic Therapy, Expressive Arts, Hakomi, Dream and Transpersonal Therapy, Internal Family System (Parts Therapy), Humanistic Therapy, Eco-Therapy, Therapeutic Yoga, Mindfulness, & Depth Psychology.
I enjoy in working with; self esteem & worth, trauma healing & recovery, body image & body positivity, disordered eating & relationship to body, belonging as our birthright, transforming deep shame into liberation, body & sex shame, relationships and boundaries, anxiety, stress & hyper-vigilance, nervous system imbalances, life transitions & identity, honoring grief, loss & death, life threatening illness, cancer, auto-immune disease, rites of passage, aging, adolescence, menopause, women's empowerment, highly sensitive people & empaths, people pleasers, intergenerational trauma & ancestral healing, mothering & the mother wound.
I use a holistic, body and soul centered trauma informed approach, using various modalities from Somatic Therapy, Expressive Arts, Hakomi, Dream and Transpersonal Therapy, Internal Family System (Parts Therapy), Humanistic Therapy, Eco-Therapy, Therapeutic Yoga, Mindfulness, & Depth Psychology.
I enjoy in working with; self esteem & worth, trauma healing & recovery, body image & body positivity, disordered eating & relationship to body, belonging as our birthright, transforming deep shame into liberation, body & sex shame, relationships and boundaries, anxiety, stress & hyper-vigilance, nervous system imbalances, life transitions & identity, honoring grief, loss & death, life threatening illness, cancer, auto-immune disease, rites of passage, aging, adolescence, menopause, women's empowerment, highly sensitive people & empaths, people pleasers, intergenerational trauma & ancestral healing, mothering & the mother wound.
I use a collaborative, client-centered approach that draws from somatic and mindfulness practices to help regulate your nervous system and create a more peaceful inner world.
I specialize in trauma or PTSD, whether from a single event, family/relationship dynamics, or generational patterns. Using CBT, CPT, ACT, MI, and DBT, we gently explore painful memories, shift stuck patterns, and build resilience. We'll work at your pace, honoring your unique cultural and personal background as you move toward emotional balance.
I use a collaborative, client-centered approach that draws from somatic and mindfulness practices to help regulate your nervous system and create a more peaceful inner world.
I specialize in trauma or PTSD, whether from a single event, family/relationship dynamics, or generational patterns. Using CBT, CPT, ACT, MI, and DBT, we gently explore painful memories, shift stuck patterns, and build resilience. We'll work at your pace, honoring your unique cultural and personal background as you move toward emotional balance.
Somatic therapy offers the opportunity to practically help you to slow down, bring awareness and compassion to your inner space to listen for the messages that your body is always communicating.
I use a variety of somatic modalities and Internal Family Systems to create a bridge between what you "think" and what you "sense." This might look like pausing to notice your body's cues mid-story, to see if what you're saying is still "true." In doing this, self-trust becomes an embodied practice of connecting your thoughts and feelings.
Somatic therapy offers the opportunity to practically help you to slow down, bring awareness and compassion to your inner space to listen for the messages that your body is always communicating.
I use a variety of somatic modalities and Internal Family Systems to create a bridge between what you "think" and what you "sense." This might look like pausing to notice your body's cues mid-story, to see if what you're saying is still "true." In doing this, self-trust becomes an embodied practice of connecting your thoughts and feelings.
I primarily work relationally but also use somatic and mindfulness interventions with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression or other struggles.
When we foster a space of compassion and curiosity we have more room to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves, our boundaries and our desires. By creating this intentional space, we can increase opportunities for choice in our lives. Using a combination of relational, psychodynamic and mindfulness techniques I will help you to understand your own emotional landscape, so you can feel better equipped to manage stressful moments in life and have more capacity for joy and meaning. I specialize in working with the LGBTQI population and also with couples of all constellations.
I primarily work relationally but also use somatic and mindfulness interventions with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression or other struggles.
When we foster a space of compassion and curiosity we have more room to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves, our boundaries and our desires. By creating this intentional space, we can increase opportunities for choice in our lives. Using a combination of relational, psychodynamic and mindfulness techniques I will help you to understand your own emotional landscape, so you can feel better equipped to manage stressful moments in life and have more capacity for joy and meaning. I specialize in working with the LGBTQI population and also with couples of all constellations.
I utilize Somatic, Gestalt, Humanistic, Mindfulness, and EMDR approaches to help you identify, illuminate, and translate the language of your body, increasing your confidence and illuminating your integrity.
I bring forth a comprehensive and compassionate approach to psychotherapy. My practice is rooted in embodiment and practicality, aiming to foster profound insights and sustainable growth. Through a collaborative journey marked by playfulness and genuine curiosity, you will embark on a transformative exploration of your inner world. Together, we will uncover the intricacies of your psyche, guiding you towards a deeper connection with your core self and a heightened sense of resilience.
I utilize Somatic, Gestalt, Humanistic, Mindfulness, and EMDR approaches to help you identify, illuminate, and translate the language of your body, increasing your confidence and illuminating your integrity.
I bring forth a comprehensive and compassionate approach to psychotherapy. My practice is rooted in embodiment and practicality, aiming to foster profound insights and sustainable growth. Through a collaborative journey marked by playfulness and genuine curiosity, you will embark on a transformative exploration of your inner world. Together, we will uncover the intricacies of your psyche, guiding you towards a deeper connection with your core self and a heightened sense of resilience.
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Somatic Therapists
How does somatic therapy work?
Somatic therapy is a form of treatment that focuses on how the body and mind are interconnected. In this approach, physical symptoms are addressed because they may in fact signal emotional distress. Somatic therapists combine mindfulness, talk therapy, breathwork, yoga, dance, and physical manipulations of the body to help patients become more attuned to what their body is telling them.
Is EMDR a somatic therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a form of somatic therapy, as it incorporates mental and physical principles. EMDR involves remembering a traumatic experience while allowing one’s eyes to track a side-to-side visual stimulus from a therapist. This lateral eye movement is believed to diminish the painful power of the memory so that it can be discussed with a therapist.
Is somatic therapy evidence-based?
Somatic therapy has been researched and studied, and some forms of somatic therapy are found to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions. Because somatic therapy encompasses many techniques, some, such as EMDR and meditation, have been studied more than others.
What is somatic trauma therapy?
Somatic trauma therapy is based on the idea that when people experience trauma, they can become stuck in the “freeze” part of a “fight, flight, or freeze” response. In this state, trauma can manifest itself both mentally and physically—through tension in the muscles, anxiety, and stress. Popular forms of somatic trauma therapy include EMDR, sensorimotor therapy, and somatic experiencing.