Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Pleasant Hill, CA
I am EMDR and Brain Spotting certified for trauma.
Have you been thinking about therapy but are unsure or afraid?Have you been deterred by stories of therapy with no results?Therapy can be intimidating, that is why I focus on a welcoming, goal oriented approach that builds a collaborative relationship.I believe in RESULTS and achieving them through an individualized plan, that uses specific GOALS and objectives. To achieve this I use my certifications/education in several approaches, as well as a vast referral network. I am deeply committed to 1 goal:for you to live your best life.In my 25+years I've witnessed the power of therapy to achieve the happiness you deserve.
I am EMDR and Brain Spotting certified for trauma.
Have you been thinking about therapy but are unsure or afraid?Have you been deterred by stories of therapy with no results?Therapy can be intimidating, that is why I focus on a welcoming, goal oriented approach that builds a collaborative relationship.I believe in RESULTS and achieving them through an individualized plan, that uses specific GOALS and objectives. To achieve this I use my certifications/education in several approaches, as well as a vast referral network. I am deeply committed to 1 goal:for you to live your best life.In my 25+years I've witnessed the power of therapy to achieve the happiness you deserve.
My years of experience include supporting clients through a myriad of concerns, including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and/or loss, relational issues, self-esteem and adjustments to changes.
A child’s language is through play and it is for this reason that I utilize play and art therapy to access the child’s internal world. When I work with youth it is of upmost importance to hold a space that meets them exactly where they’re at, while also giving them coping tools to use outside of session. I also value collaboration and check-ins with parents.
My years of experience include supporting clients through a myriad of concerns, including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and/or loss, relational issues, self-esteem and adjustments to changes.
A child’s language is through play and it is for this reason that I utilize play and art therapy to access the child’s internal world. When I work with youth it is of upmost importance to hold a space that meets them exactly where they’re at, while also giving them coping tools to use outside of session. I also value collaboration and check-ins with parents.
Hi. The decision to seek therapy is often very difficult yet in every crisis there is opportunity. What I do know is that your happiness, your well-being, your ability to find joy for yourself and in your relationships is available to you. I have been a licensed therapist for over 25 years and have worked with different issues bringing people to therapy. Whether you have been struggling with anxiety, depression or other challenges for many years or you're facing some current new challenges, I can assist you with finding options and ways to access places inside of yourself to help you heal.
Hi. The decision to seek therapy is often very difficult yet in every crisis there is opportunity. What I do know is that your happiness, your well-being, your ability to find joy for yourself and in your relationships is available to you. I have been a licensed therapist for over 25 years and have worked with different issues bringing people to therapy. Whether you have been struggling with anxiety, depression or other challenges for many years or you're facing some current new challenges, I can assist you with finding options and ways to access places inside of yourself to help you heal.
You may have often heard some people say that therapy is for only those with a mental illness or who are "crazy". I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1996, and I can honestly tell you that those types of statements are a myth. Everyone has a view of how the world works, and we use the tools we have to deal with our issues, but occasionally, there comes a time when a problem arises that we have no answer to. At this point, we become "stuck". You can say that these are the cards life dealt me, or you can do something. You have the strength and you have the power, and somewhere in your mind, you have the answer.
You may have often heard some people say that therapy is for only those with a mental illness or who are "crazy". I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1996, and I can honestly tell you that those types of statements are a myth. Everyone has a view of how the world works, and we use the tools we have to deal with our issues, but occasionally, there comes a time when a problem arises that we have no answer to. At this point, we become "stuck". You can say that these are the cards life dealt me, or you can do something. You have the strength and you have the power, and somewhere in your mind, you have the answer.
I bring the best of both worlds-- over 25 years experience as a psychotherapist, expert in the areas of treating depression, addiction and trauma and a Success and Performance Coach skilled in the latest strategies and techniques for motivation and change.
I am strategic and solution focused but also work in an empathic and caring manner with my clients. How can you "live your best life" and get there as quickly as possible. Though cognitive/behavioral in method I am humanistic in relationship to my clients.
I bring the best of both worlds-- over 25 years experience as a psychotherapist, expert in the areas of treating depression, addiction and trauma and a Success and Performance Coach skilled in the latest strategies and techniques for motivation and change.
I am strategic and solution focused but also work in an empathic and caring manner with my clients. How can you "live your best life" and get there as quickly as possible. Though cognitive/behavioral in method I am humanistic in relationship to my clients.
Those may include profound anxiety, depression, PTSD, as well as Adjustment, and Bipolar Disorder.
Thank you for stopping to read my Introductory Information. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 20 years of experience, who believes in providing Integrative Care for those I treat within a diverse population. I utilize an array of treatment modalities that may be applied to your specific needs. My services are Client Centered, with a focus on developing specific treatment goals and objectives. Care is always personalized and culturally sensitive. Treatment modalities offered include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Communications Therapy, Mindfulness, and DBT.
Those may include profound anxiety, depression, PTSD, as well as Adjustment, and Bipolar Disorder.
Thank you for stopping to read my Introductory Information. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 20 years of experience, who believes in providing Integrative Care for those I treat within a diverse population. I utilize an array of treatment modalities that may be applied to your specific needs. My services are Client Centered, with a focus on developing specific treatment goals and objectives. Care is always personalized and culturally sensitive. Treatment modalities offered include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Communications Therapy, Mindfulness, and DBT.
These are largely manifestations of past trauma, deeper conflicts which have gone unexamined.
Do you feel unheard, undervalued or stuck in life? When things are troubling you and you're feeling depressed and/or stressed, yet talking with friends or families only goes so far. In their desire to help, they shower you with advice, try to cheer you up and distract you. But when distraction is no longer an option, and you want or need to face what it is, that is troubling you. Then I am here for you. I am a bilingual (English/Cantonese) licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I have over 20 years of clinical experience in mental health including my current position at Berkeley Mental Health as a Senior Behavioral Health Clinician.
These are largely manifestations of past trauma, deeper conflicts which have gone unexamined.
Do you feel unheard, undervalued or stuck in life? When things are troubling you and you're feeling depressed and/or stressed, yet talking with friends or families only goes so far. In their desire to help, they shower you with advice, try to cheer you up and distract you. But when distraction is no longer an option, and you want or need to face what it is, that is troubling you. Then I am here for you. I am a bilingual (English/Cantonese) licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I have over 20 years of clinical experience in mental health including my current position at Berkeley Mental Health as a Senior Behavioral Health Clinician.
Life has its twists—strained relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, and PTSD can be overwhelming for anyone, whether you're an adult, a youth, or part of a family.
In this non-judgmental space, we'll center and build on your unique strengths. You'll not only gain new insights, but also learn practical tools for managing stress, improving communication, and fostering healing.
Life has its twists—strained relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, and PTSD can be overwhelming for anyone, whether you're an adult, a youth, or part of a family.
In this non-judgmental space, we'll center and build on your unique strengths. You'll not only gain new insights, but also learn practical tools for managing stress, improving communication, and fostering healing.
Audrey Silverman Foote
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP™
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
I specialize in working with: relationship issues, recovery from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and other childhood traumas; depression; anxiety, low self esteem; codependency issues; parenting concerns; compulsive eating patterns; body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness, and perinatal loss.
In addition I work with graduate students currently in psychology and therapy programs, supporting them through the process of their studies, internships, testing and licensure. I also serve people interested in developing themselves more fully, and I work with people in the LGBTQ community.
I specialize in working with: relationship issues, recovery from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and other childhood traumas; depression; anxiety, low self esteem; codependency issues; parenting concerns; compulsive eating patterns; body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness, and perinatal loss.
In addition I work with graduate students currently in psychology and therapy programs, supporting them through the process of their studies, internships, testing and licensure. I also serve people interested in developing themselves more fully, and I work with people in the LGBTQ community.
My approach is attachment-based and trauma-informed, drawing from EMDR, CBT, and DBT.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like life hasn’t turned out the way you thought it would? Maybe you’re in the middle of a big transition—becoming a parent, navigating a breakup, adjusting to a new role, or simply realizing that what used to work…doesn’t anymore. Change can stir up anxiety, self-doubt, and even grief for the versions of ourselves we’ve outgrown. You might find yourself questioning who you are or what comes next. These moments can feel isolating, but they’re also an invitation to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and begin again—with support along the way.
My approach is attachment-based and trauma-informed, drawing from EMDR, CBT, and DBT.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like life hasn’t turned out the way you thought it would? Maybe you’re in the middle of a big transition—becoming a parent, navigating a breakup, adjusting to a new role, or simply realizing that what used to work…doesn’t anymore. Change can stir up anxiety, self-doubt, and even grief for the versions of ourselves we’ve outgrown. You might find yourself questioning who you are or what comes next. These moments can feel isolating, but they’re also an invitation to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and begin again—with support along the way.
Specializing in WOC, life transitions & complex trauma
Are you a millennial woman who appears to have it all together on the outside, but inside, you feel weighed down by self-doubt and uncertainty? Even with your accomplishments, you're still not where you envisioned you’d be by now. A big life change—maybe, a breakup, marriage, or move— has made you realize you haven’t felt fulfilled for a while now. Deep down, you know it’s time for a change (even if you’re not quite sure what that looks like yet). You're craving a deeper connection with yourself and insight into your past- and you’re ready to put in the work to let go of what no longer serves you and embrace a more authentic life.
Specializing in WOC, life transitions & complex trauma
Are you a millennial woman who appears to have it all together on the outside, but inside, you feel weighed down by self-doubt and uncertainty? Even with your accomplishments, you're still not where you envisioned you’d be by now. A big life change—maybe, a breakup, marriage, or move— has made you realize you haven’t felt fulfilled for a while now. Deep down, you know it’s time for a change (even if you’re not quite sure what that looks like yet). You're craving a deeper connection with yourself and insight into your past- and you’re ready to put in the work to let go of what no longer serves you and embrace a more authentic life.
Decades of training and experience in trauma and couples' skills.
I help strong women who have lost their spark and high-conflict couples. Women, everyone believes you have it together, but inside you know differently. Stress hits at the worst moments. A rude comment shatters you. At home, your romance needs a tune-up. But you don’t have the energy to rock the boat. I help women just like you rediscover their strength and intuition and live bigger, more joyous lives!
Decades of training and experience in trauma and couples' skills.
I help strong women who have lost their spark and high-conflict couples. Women, everyone believes you have it together, but inside you know differently. Stress hits at the worst moments. A rude comment shatters you. At home, your romance needs a tune-up. But you don’t have the energy to rock the boat. I help women just like you rediscover their strength and intuition and live bigger, more joyous lives!
Old habits die hard, especially when they are related to past trauma survival skills and other coping mechanisms that no longer serve you.
I am experienced and comfortable using a variety of modalities to address painful losses, self-defeating behaviors, and challenging life transitions. Together, we will develop a plan of action that reflects your values and goals and allows for mutual feedback and flexibility.
Old habits die hard, especially when they are related to past trauma survival skills and other coping mechanisms that no longer serve you.
I am experienced and comfortable using a variety of modalities to address painful losses, self-defeating behaviors, and challenging life transitions. Together, we will develop a plan of action that reflects your values and goals and allows for mutual feedback and flexibility.
I support folks who are activated or shut down - cycling in grief, trauma, and/or anxiety & depressive loops.
Something has you feeling off... You are a hardworking adult who gives it your all. You want to feel good, connected, & supported. But instead, it never feels good enough! You are exhausted & overwhelmed day & night. You find yourself constantly running on empty or on edge. Simple tasks like scheduling and eating feel like chores. You can’t even enjoy a night out if it happens at all. You get along with others, and so many people and communities rely on you. Yet, you feel like you don’t belong, or those you love don’t really see you. Let’s not even start with our society and world.
I support folks who are activated or shut down - cycling in grief, trauma, and/or anxiety & depressive loops.
Something has you feeling off... You are a hardworking adult who gives it your all. You want to feel good, connected, & supported. But instead, it never feels good enough! You are exhausted & overwhelmed day & night. You find yourself constantly running on empty or on edge. Simple tasks like scheduling and eating feel like chores. You can’t even enjoy a night out if it happens at all. You get along with others, and so many people and communities rely on you. Yet, you feel like you don’t belong, or those you love don’t really see you. Let’s not even start with our society and world.
I am passionate about helping women and men reconnect to their truest, most authentic selves after experiencing trauma, loss, stress, and other life challenges that have left them feeling depleted, empty, anxious, lacking direction, or self-este Often we know who we truly are and what we are truly capable of at our core, but we have lost trust in ourselves and our ability to act in our own best interest.
Clients can expect to leave our sessions feeling a little lighter, more connected, more seen, more validated. Our work together will empower you with greater clarity about the small steps you can take immediately to get on the right path for you.
I am passionate about helping women and men reconnect to their truest, most authentic selves after experiencing trauma, loss, stress, and other life challenges that have left them feeling depleted, empty, anxious, lacking direction, or self-este Often we know who we truly are and what we are truly capable of at our core, but we have lost trust in ourselves and our ability to act in our own best interest.
Clients can expect to leave our sessions feeling a little lighter, more connected, more seen, more validated. Our work together will empower you with greater clarity about the small steps you can take immediately to get on the right path for you.
Looking for clients who are interested in understanding themselves, developing further insight, and willing to challenge themselves. They enjoy my directive style and enjoy the therapeutic process.
Looking for clients who are interested in understanding themselves, developing further insight, and willing to challenge themselves. They enjoy my directive style and enjoy the therapeutic process.
My purpose as a therapist is to help clients feel less alone in their experiences and learn tools to live a life with more ease, insight, and awareness. I support children, teens, adolescents, and young adults in having a space to feel seen, gain deeper self-awareness, implement coping strategies and reach attainable goals to live life more fully. As a client myself, I aim to normalize the process of therapy and reduce the stigma around receiving mental health support. I acknowledge the bravery and courage it takes to start therapy and hold deep respect for those investing in this process.
My purpose as a therapist is to help clients feel less alone in their experiences and learn tools to live a life with more ease, insight, and awareness. I support children, teens, adolescents, and young adults in having a space to feel seen, gain deeper self-awareness, implement coping strategies and reach attainable goals to live life more fully. As a client myself, I aim to normalize the process of therapy and reduce the stigma around receiving mental health support. I acknowledge the bravery and courage it takes to start therapy and hold deep respect for those investing in this process.
I specialize in numerous issues but especially children and teens. I believe in working with my patients. When you come to my office you are trusting me with your life or your child's life. I want to work as a team and for you to ask questions as needed. Most people are coming to therapy for stressful reasons and I am ready to help I treat everyone I work with like a family member. But I am kind and get the job done because that is why you came to me. I look forward to working with you.
I specialize in numerous issues but especially children and teens. I believe in working with my patients. When you come to my office you are trusting me with your life or your child's life. I want to work as a team and for you to ask questions as needed. Most people are coming to therapy for stressful reasons and I am ready to help I treat everyone I work with like a family member. But I am kind and get the job done because that is why you came to me. I look forward to working with you.
Whether you are struggling with trauma reminders, addiction, relationship dysfunction, battered self-esteem, or cycles of depression and anxiety, I'm here to help.
I am a clinical social worker and psychotherapist in private practice, licensed in California since 2018. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I am trained in several trauma modalities to help people recover from trauma, attachment disruptions causing relationship dysfunction, and uncover hidden core beliefs that keep you stuck.
Whether you are struggling with trauma reminders, addiction, relationship dysfunction, battered self-esteem, or cycles of depression and anxiety, I'm here to help.
I am a clinical social worker and psychotherapist in private practice, licensed in California since 2018. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I am trained in several trauma modalities to help people recover from trauma, attachment disruptions causing relationship dysfunction, and uncover hidden core beliefs that keep you stuck.
Jennifer Villena EMDR & Talk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
11 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
I specialize in guiding women through life transitions, trauma, perfectionism, and self-worth challenges.
I specialize in providing EMDR, EMDR intensives, and supportive talk therapy designed to foster healing, clarity, and sustainable change. My approach is tailored to empower women through various workshops and group sessions, offering a safe space for connection, growth, and personal transformation. Together, we can navigate your journey towards wellness.
I specialize in guiding women through life transitions, trauma, perfectionism, and self-worth challenges.
I specialize in providing EMDR, EMDR intensives, and supportive talk therapy designed to foster healing, clarity, and sustainable change. My approach is tailored to empower women through various workshops and group sessions, offering a safe space for connection, growth, and personal transformation. Together, we can navigate your journey towards wellness.
See more therapy options for Pleasant Hill
Trauma and PTSD Therapists
When should I seek treatment for trauma?
Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.
How long does trauma therapy take?
Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.
What happens if trauma is left untreated?
Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.
Can PTSD come back after treatment?
It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.