Brainspotting Therapists in California
Midtown Counselor is a private practice group of Licensed and Associate Marriage and Family Therapists offering EMDR Therapy, and other evidenced-based treatments, which can greatly reduce or eliminate the negative effects of trauma. We help teens, adults, and couples who have lost their footing to regroup and find their strength again. Midtown Counselor is owned and operated by Sharon Skelton, LMFT, who has been providing EMDR therapy to Sacramento for 19 years. Sharon is a Certified EMDR Therapists, and has been approved by the EMDR International Association to provide professional consultation to EMDR Therapists world wide.
Midtown Counselor is a private practice group of Licensed and Associate Marriage and Family Therapists offering EMDR Therapy, and other evidenced-based treatments, which can greatly reduce or eliminate the negative effects of trauma. We help teens, adults, and couples who have lost their footing to regroup and find their strength again. Midtown Counselor is owned and operated by Sharon Skelton, LMFT, who has been providing EMDR therapy to Sacramento for 19 years. Sharon is a Certified EMDR Therapists, and has been approved by the EMDR International Association to provide professional consultation to EMDR Therapists world wide.
My primary modalities are DBT, AEDP, Prolonged Exposure, and brainspotting.
Hello there - my name is Helen, and I offer evidence-based treatment for adults (individual & couples) online and in-person near Piedmont Ave, Oakland. My primary focus is in treating high-acuity clients, especially those who experience borderline personality disorder, PTSD, suicidal ideation, self harm, severe anxiety and depression.
My work is evidence-based, trauma-informed, and grounded in psychodynamic theory training, relational group work, and liberation psychology practice.
I work with all those who seek better mental health, and especially welcome those who identify as immigrant, BIPOC, and/or queer.
My primary modalities are DBT, AEDP, Prolonged Exposure, and brainspotting.
Hello there - my name is Helen, and I offer evidence-based treatment for adults (individual & couples) online and in-person near Piedmont Ave, Oakland. My primary focus is in treating high-acuity clients, especially those who experience borderline personality disorder, PTSD, suicidal ideation, self harm, severe anxiety and depression.
My work is evidence-based, trauma-informed, and grounded in psychodynamic theory training, relational group work, and liberation psychology practice.
I work with all those who seek better mental health, and especially welcome those who identify as immigrant, BIPOC, and/or queer.
Sessions with me are collaborative and integrative - we’ll get into nervous system regulation, inner parts work, and targeted modalities like EMDR or Brainspotting.
You appear like you have it all “together”, but deep down you’re struggling with an inner critic, lack of boundaries, and chronic anxiety or depression. You’re someone who cares deeply about the world, but you still struggle to prioritize yourself and constantly feel burned out. If you’re here, you’re tired of feeling this way. You’re ready to feel more regulated and connected. Most of all, you’re ready to feel like your self again and let go of ways of being that no longer serve you. I know that healing is possible, and it would be my honor to support you on your path.
Sessions with me are collaborative and integrative - we’ll get into nervous system regulation, inner parts work, and targeted modalities like EMDR or Brainspotting.
You appear like you have it all “together”, but deep down you’re struggling with an inner critic, lack of boundaries, and chronic anxiety or depression. You’re someone who cares deeply about the world, but you still struggle to prioritize yourself and constantly feel burned out. If you’re here, you’re tired of feeling this way. You’re ready to feel more regulated and connected. Most of all, you’re ready to feel like your self again and let go of ways of being that no longer serve you. I know that healing is possible, and it would be my honor to support you on your path.
I'm a board-certified neurologist with specialty training in pediatric neurology, and am also trained in Brainspotting and HeartMath.
Many of the common symptoms people experience are actually related to chronic stress or trauma. This is not recognized by most physicians, so patients are often prescribed multiple medications and referred to many subspecialists, without any real relief of their symptoms. I help patients identify if their symptoms are actually related to stress or trauma, and use brain-based and somatic-based therapies to treat headaches, chronic pain, digestive problems, sleep problems, dizziness, fainting, anxiety, panic attacks or unexplained neurological symptoms (visual changes, non-epileptic events or conversion disorder).
I'm a board-certified neurologist with specialty training in pediatric neurology, and am also trained in Brainspotting and HeartMath.
Many of the common symptoms people experience are actually related to chronic stress or trauma. This is not recognized by most physicians, so patients are often prescribed multiple medications and referred to many subspecialists, without any real relief of their symptoms. I help patients identify if their symptoms are actually related to stress or trauma, and use brain-based and somatic-based therapies to treat headaches, chronic pain, digestive problems, sleep problems, dizziness, fainting, anxiety, panic attacks or unexplained neurological symptoms (visual changes, non-epileptic events or conversion disorder).
Hi, my name is Crystal Folk and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Riverside County, CA I work with clients throughout the state via telehealth. I work with individuals, couples, and families. My counseling style is warm and interactive; I believe in treating everyone with respect, being sensitive, and meeting each client in the space that they are in. My counseling approach pulls from several theories, but I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, some Solution Focus Brief Therapy, and Client Centered Therapies to help meet my clients where they are in their healing journey.
Hi, my name is Crystal Folk and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Riverside County, CA I work with clients throughout the state via telehealth. I work with individuals, couples, and families. My counseling style is warm and interactive; I believe in treating everyone with respect, being sensitive, and meeting each client in the space that they are in. My counseling approach pulls from several theories, but I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, some Solution Focus Brief Therapy, and Client Centered Therapies to help meet my clients where they are in their healing journey.
Welcome. I specialize in working with clients and or their family members who are dealing with health-related challenges such as cancer or HIV. After working in the outpatient clinic setting since 2008, I use somatic approaches such as the Internal Family Systems Model to empower you throughout your or your loved one's healthcare journey. Using Internal Family Systems therapy, among other trauma approaches, we will frame health care and other crises as repetitive traumas in order to empower you.
Welcome. I specialize in working with clients and or their family members who are dealing with health-related challenges such as cancer or HIV. After working in the outpatient clinic setting since 2008, I use somatic approaches such as the Internal Family Systems Model to empower you throughout your or your loved one's healthcare journey. Using Internal Family Systems therapy, among other trauma approaches, we will frame health care and other crises as repetitive traumas in order to empower you.
Trained in EMDR and Brainspotting.
Are you in a place in your life where you need support to untangle what life has thrown at you? When we have the right tools and supports, we all have the power to heal and grow. A core belief I carry into my work is the power of connection. I believe in being vulnerable and transparent, as well as the importance of providing a safe space to do collaborative work.
Trained in EMDR and Brainspotting.
Are you in a place in your life where you need support to untangle what life has thrown at you? When we have the right tools and supports, we all have the power to heal and grow. A core belief I carry into my work is the power of connection. I believe in being vulnerable and transparent, as well as the importance of providing a safe space to do collaborative work.
Are you in pain, struggling with recent events or old patterns and you can't seem to get a handle on things? And the things you are trying aren't producing the results you long for. Or you find yourself in a transition and need some support. Maybe you are a Christian and want to explore your hopes and life issues with someone who has biblical training and can support you in your journey. What if instead of turmoil and confusion, you could feel lighter, a calm confidence, and a new sense of peace and freedom? It is possible and I can help.
Are you in pain, struggling with recent events or old patterns and you can't seem to get a handle on things? And the things you are trying aren't producing the results you long for. Or you find yourself in a transition and need some support. Maybe you are a Christian and want to explore your hopes and life issues with someone who has biblical training and can support you in your journey. What if instead of turmoil and confusion, you could feel lighter, a calm confidence, and a new sense of peace and freedom? It is possible and I can help.
Are you willing to try brainspotting therapy?
I have extensive experience working with families, adults and children with adhd and specialize in autism and sensory issues. I provide parenting coaching and work with families and individuals using various attachment approaches. Some of my clients prefer to meet me for walk and talk sessions and often request I include my 5-year-old golden retriever Mila!
Are you willing to try brainspotting therapy?
I have extensive experience working with families, adults and children with adhd and specialize in autism and sensory issues. I provide parenting coaching and work with families and individuals using various attachment approaches. Some of my clients prefer to meet me for walk and talk sessions and often request I include my 5-year-old golden retriever Mila!
“Be yourself! Everyone else is already taken…” – Oscar Wilde. Being yourself is often easier said than done. As a trauma therapist, I see how easy it is for negative experiences to hinder our ability to be the people we want to be and create a life we want to live. Our bodies and minds are amazingly adaptable—we manage to find ways to survive horrible life events—but these survival instincts were meant to be used on a short-term basis. Traumas—big or small—are stored in the body and affects our ability to connect with others, to trust, and to feel safe in the world. The good news is, healing is possible!
“Be yourself! Everyone else is already taken…” – Oscar Wilde. Being yourself is often easier said than done. As a trauma therapist, I see how easy it is for negative experiences to hinder our ability to be the people we want to be and create a life we want to live. Our bodies and minds are amazingly adaptable—we manage to find ways to survive horrible life events—but these survival instincts were meant to be used on a short-term basis. Traumas—big or small—are stored in the body and affects our ability to connect with others, to trust, and to feel safe in the world. The good news is, healing is possible!
The mind-body brain techniques I may use include Brainspotting ( Brainspotting.com) , Neural Emotional Technique (N.E.T.--netmindbody.com), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (E.M.D.R.) .
I integrate the Work of Byron Katie and Eckhart Tolle with my transpersonal approach. Gilbert Reynaud's Recall Healing also gives direction for finding the keys to unlocking long held patterns. Through interactive therapy we can bring the power of Consciousness to your thoughts and find relief from your pain.
The mind-body brain techniques I may use include Brainspotting ( Brainspotting.com) , Neural Emotional Technique (N.E.T.--netmindbody.com), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (E.M.D.R.) .
I integrate the Work of Byron Katie and Eckhart Tolle with my transpersonal approach. Gilbert Reynaud's Recall Healing also gives direction for finding the keys to unlocking long held patterns. Through interactive therapy we can bring the power of Consciousness to your thoughts and find relief from your pain.
We all have the capacity to heal. Whether you have experienced the loss of a relationship, trauma, or any other difficult life event, or have struggled with low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression, therapy is a place to heal and uncover the light within you. Through therapy, I believe that each person has the ability to develop a loving and compassionate relationship with oneself as well as develop more loving and trusting relationships with others.
We all have the capacity to heal. Whether you have experienced the loss of a relationship, trauma, or any other difficult life event, or have struggled with low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression, therapy is a place to heal and uncover the light within you. Through therapy, I believe that each person has the ability to develop a loving and compassionate relationship with oneself as well as develop more loving and trusting relationships with others.
Yukari Makino
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, APCC, SEP, EMDR
2 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I work with individuals living with complex PTSD and trauma—those whose ability to fully inhabit their lives has been constrained by overwhelming experiences. Many seek not only symptom relief, but a deeper reconnection with their bodies, inner experience, and authentic self, often sensing a shift from “doing” toward “being.” I am a clinical psychologist in Japan with nearly three decades of experience since 1996, working both in Japan and internationally. My approach is body-based, culturally attuned, and informed by contemporary neuroscience and trauma research, supporting deep and lasting transformation.
I work with individuals living with complex PTSD and trauma—those whose ability to fully inhabit their lives has been constrained by overwhelming experiences. Many seek not only symptom relief, but a deeper reconnection with their bodies, inner experience, and authentic self, often sensing a shift from “doing” toward “being.” I am a clinical psychologist in Japan with nearly three decades of experience since 1996, working both in Japan and internationally. My approach is body-based, culturally attuned, and informed by contemporary neuroscience and trauma research, supporting deep and lasting transformation.
I’m a trauma-informed therapist trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic therapies.
I specialize in helping clients gently access and integrate the parts of themselves that have been overwhelmed or shut down. Through deep listening, nervous system awareness, and trauma-informed care, I support lasting inner change—so you can feel more present, empowered, and aligned in your life.
I’m a trauma-informed therapist trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic therapies.
I specialize in helping clients gently access and integrate the parts of themselves that have been overwhelmed or shut down. Through deep listening, nervous system awareness, and trauma-informed care, I support lasting inner change—so you can feel more present, empowered, and aligned in your life.
We offer therapy for Pacific Mind Health patients who are also receiving care through our medication management program, providing a connected and supportive treatment experience. Veronica Calkins is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, and relationships. She is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family and couples therapy. She is certified in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and deep-brain theta stimulation.
We offer therapy for Pacific Mind Health patients who are also receiving care through our medication management program, providing a connected and supportive treatment experience. Veronica Calkins is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, and relationships. She is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family and couples therapy. She is certified in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and deep-brain theta stimulation.
Brainspotting, our most effective tool, offers deep, quick, and permanent results.
Our Center helps anyone suffering from unresolved trauma or disturbing experiences. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, hyper-vigilance, restlessness, rage, exhaustion, fatigue, or dissociation. We exist to alleviate the profound suffering of those who have been traumatized in childhood or adulthood. Trauma is often not healed from talk therapy alone. We use cutting edge trauma modalities that access your primitive brain where trauma is stored. Through this, you will release the trauma and all of the physical issues that go along with it, and graduate with a freedom you have never known.
Brainspotting, our most effective tool, offers deep, quick, and permanent results.
Our Center helps anyone suffering from unresolved trauma or disturbing experiences. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, hyper-vigilance, restlessness, rage, exhaustion, fatigue, or dissociation. We exist to alleviate the profound suffering of those who have been traumatized in childhood or adulthood. Trauma is often not healed from talk therapy alone. We use cutting edge trauma modalities that access your primitive brain where trauma is stored. Through this, you will release the trauma and all of the physical issues that go along with it, and graduate with a freedom you have never known.
Kristen Knight, LMFT, brings over a decade of experience to her work as a licensed therapist supporting individuals through some of life’s most challenging emotional experiences. She is passionate about helping clients heal from depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, and major life transitions. Her approach is deeply personalized, allowing each client to receive the type of support that best fits their needs—whether that’s focused, short-term solutions or deeper, longer-term therapeutic work.
Kristen Knight, LMFT, brings over a decade of experience to her work as a licensed therapist supporting individuals through some of life’s most challenging emotional experiences. She is passionate about helping clients heal from depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, and major life transitions. Her approach is deeply personalized, allowing each client to receive the type of support that best fits their needs—whether that’s focused, short-term solutions or deeper, longer-term therapeutic work.
I blend CBT, DBT skills, mindfulness, and Brainspotting through a culturally responsive lens.
I am an LMHC who believes healing isn’t linear—and no one should do it alone. I offer compassionate, culturally responsive therapy to help you navigate anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationships, grief, and life transitions with more clarity and confidence. I support clients seeking a safe place to process big emotions, heal from past experiences, and understand themselves. I work with those facing anxiety, trauma responses, stress, low self-worth, or trouble expressing their needs, helping them build emotional regulation and self-advocacy skills.
I blend CBT, DBT skills, mindfulness, and Brainspotting through a culturally responsive lens.
I am an LMHC who believes healing isn’t linear—and no one should do it alone. I offer compassionate, culturally responsive therapy to help you navigate anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationships, grief, and life transitions with more clarity and confidence. I support clients seeking a safe place to process big emotions, heal from past experiences, and understand themselves. I work with those facing anxiety, trauma responses, stress, low self-worth, or trouble expressing their needs, helping them build emotional regulation and self-advocacy skills.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or angry? Is your relationship or divorce becoming too much to handle? Is your mind trying to figure 'it' out or repeating memories? Do you feel stuck? I bet I have your solution! For many of my clients, they can't move past it because their brains are reacting to a body response. They are stuck in a loop between the two. This is why you try and try, but nothing changes. You might have been praying, attending Bible Study, worshiping, etc., and found that they are not enough. While these elements are important in healing you need to understand how the brain and body talk to each other.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or angry? Is your relationship or divorce becoming too much to handle? Is your mind trying to figure 'it' out or repeating memories? Do you feel stuck? I bet I have your solution! For many of my clients, they can't move past it because their brains are reacting to a body response. They are stuck in a loop between the two. This is why you try and try, but nothing changes. You might have been praying, attending Bible Study, worshiping, etc., and found that they are not enough. While these elements are important in healing you need to understand how the brain and body talk to each other.
I work with adults to address challenges related to finding relief from shame and guilt, relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, and inner criticism through self compassion and self understanding. I believe in the transformative power of understanding, connection and healing.
I work with adults to address challenges related to finding relief from shame and guilt, relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, and inner criticism through self compassion and self understanding. I believe in the transformative power of understanding, connection and healing.
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Brainspotting Therapists
How does brainspotting work?
Brainspotting works by using eye positioning to identify and process traumatic memories so that a client is better able to move forward and live with less fear. The theory behind brainspotting is that by identifying where a person looks when thinking of traumatic memories, a therapist will be able to guide them to focus on that spot and work with the client to get them out of the “fight, flight, freeze” response associated with the traumatic memory.
Is brainspotting an evidence-based therapy?
Brainspotting is a theory-based alternative therapy. It is one of the newest forms of treatment, so very little research has been completed that examines the mechanism by which it works. The theory behind brainspotting is that eye position can be linked to areas of the brain that store and process memory.
How effective is brainspotting?
Because it is such a new treatment, the effectiveness of brainspotting cannot be quantified. Some people have found it to be effective on its own, or in conjunction with other types of therapy. It is considered an alternative therapy, and it is popular with people for whom more traditional therapies have proven ineffective.
How long does brainspotting take to work?
A typical brainspotting session will last between 60 to 90 minutes. There is no required number of sessions needed to complete brainspotting therapy, but in many cases it is delivered over the course of about six sessions. Clients are encouraged to rate their level of distress prior to a session and again following a session, and to track progress.