Compassion Focused Therapists in 94608

Photo of Adam Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94608  (Online Only)
My practice draws from evidence based treatments rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).
Life is hard in our unpredictable, uncertain and rapidly changing world. It makes sense that you may be struggling try to find ground under your feet, a calm amidst the storm of intense emotions and distressing thoughts. Are you looking for practical tools to help steady the mind and effectively respond to life challenges? If you choose to work with me, we will work collaboratively to reduce suffering by meeting difficult experiences with openness and compassion. We will become curious and attentive to the present moment while cultivating a life that is vital and meaningful.
My practice draws from evidence based treatments rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).
Life is hard in our unpredictable, uncertain and rapidly changing world. It makes sense that you may be struggling try to find ground under your feet, a calm amidst the storm of intense emotions and distressing thoughts. Are you looking for practical tools to help steady the mind and effectively respond to life challenges? If you choose to work with me, we will work collaboratively to reduce suffering by meeting difficult experiences with openness and compassion. We will become curious and attentive to the present moment while cultivating a life that is vital and meaningful.
(510) 983-5528 View (510) 983-5528
Photo of Liz Diaz, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Maybe you are experiencing overwhelming thoughts and emotions, enduring a traumatic experience, or looking for ways to cope with life stressors. Maybe you are feeling out of balance with yourself, or simply seeking inner transformation and change, and could use guidance and support. Hola and welcome! As a bilingual, bicultural Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my goal is to create a safe and nurturing space for healing and exploration. Through this process, my hope is to build on your strengths and help you navigate some of life’s challenges, creating the life you deserve.
Maybe you are experiencing overwhelming thoughts and emotions, enduring a traumatic experience, or looking for ways to cope with life stressors. Maybe you are feeling out of balance with yourself, or simply seeking inner transformation and change, and could use guidance and support. Hola and welcome! As a bilingual, bicultural Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my goal is to create a safe and nurturing space for healing and exploration. Through this process, my hope is to build on your strengths and help you navigate some of life’s challenges, creating the life you deserve.
(510) 405-4630 View (510) 405-4630
Photo of Tralee Johnson, MA, PPS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tralee Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PPS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Transitions are stressful because there is a space between the old circumstance and a new circumstance. This "unknown territory" can make us feel anxious, depressed, or confused. Have you noticed that when you talk to someone about what is important in your life you feel relieved? Counseling can help you feel more confident and focused in this unknown territory. Your decisions or situations can be about relationships, college, opportunities, work, values, or life purpose. You want help to get going and keep going! People who want to make helpful changes in their lives week-to-week with counseling & coaching are my specialty.
Transitions are stressful because there is a space between the old circumstance and a new circumstance. This "unknown territory" can make us feel anxious, depressed, or confused. Have you noticed that when you talk to someone about what is important in your life you feel relieved? Counseling can help you feel more confident and focused in this unknown territory. Your decisions or situations can be about relationships, college, opportunities, work, values, or life purpose. You want help to get going and keep going! People who want to make helpful changes in their lives week-to-week with counseling & coaching are my specialty.
(415) 289-5955 View (415) 289-5955
Photo of Tal Molesworth, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Tal Molesworth
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608
I work with queer and trans people, and welcome clients who do not fit those identities. I am particularly interested in working with—but not limited to—relationship dynamics, gender and sexuality exploration, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, sensitivity, neurodivergence, inner child work, fat justice / liberation, and connecting to self-expression. I invite clients who are sitting with the questions of… How can I live fully as myself? What's happening in my relationship to self? To others? To the world? I value supporting you in your authentic expression beyond constructs and rules, and I work very experientially.
I work with queer and trans people, and welcome clients who do not fit those identities. I am particularly interested in working with—but not limited to—relationship dynamics, gender and sexuality exploration, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, sensitivity, neurodivergence, inner child work, fat justice / liberation, and connecting to self-expression. I invite clients who are sitting with the questions of… How can I live fully as myself? What's happening in my relationship to self? To others? To the world? I value supporting you in your authentic expression beyond constructs and rules, and I work very experientially.
(510) 345-1479 View (510) 345-1479
Photo of Erik Vincent Kahn, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erik Vincent Kahn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608
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 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.
(510) 916-2529 View (510) 916-2529
Photo of Danika Grundemann, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danika Grundemann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608  (Online Only)
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.
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.
(415) 650-4946 View (415) 650-4946
Photo of Dee-Dee Stout, MA, MINT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dee-Dee Stout
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MINT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
"I see things differently." I see you fully able to achieve your goals. I see you as one who likely needs a non-judgmental place to talk about things: your future goals, how drug/alcohol use, etc fits w/that future, & how you see yourself getting there: abstinence, sober curious. moderation. I'm a collaborator, one who's committed to listening deeply & providing a space to talk about anything, for individuals/families/all. I am not a therapist; my main focus is on today & tomorrow though we may visit the past. And I follow the science of change & addiction; it shows there's no one way to recover/change & that's great news!
"I see things differently." I see you fully able to achieve your goals. I see you as one who likely needs a non-judgmental place to talk about things: your future goals, how drug/alcohol use, etc fits w/that future, & how you see yourself getting there: abstinence, sober curious. moderation. I'm a collaborator, one who's committed to listening deeply & providing a space to talk about anything, for individuals/families/all. I am not a therapist; my main focus is on today & tomorrow though we may visit the past. And I follow the science of change & addiction; it shows there's no one way to recover/change & that's great news!
(510) 447-1456 View (510) 447-1456
Photo of Oriane Rosenthal, MA, CYT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Oriane Rosenthal
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608  (Online Only)
My therapeutic intention is to cultivate a safe and supportive space for clients to connect with themselves and express their deepest truths in order to foster personal growth, healing, and self awareness. Together, we will sort through difficult emotions, major life changes, past trauma, negative belief patterns, work stress, relationship challenges, grief and loss, and any other issue that is leaving you feeling stuck, distressed, or not like yourself. We will explore the roots of what is going on, implement tools to promote balance and resilience, process unresolved trauma, and learn how to be more loving to yourself and others.
My therapeutic intention is to cultivate a safe and supportive space for clients to connect with themselves and express their deepest truths in order to foster personal growth, healing, and self awareness. Together, we will sort through difficult emotions, major life changes, past trauma, negative belief patterns, work stress, relationship challenges, grief and loss, and any other issue that is leaving you feeling stuck, distressed, or not like yourself. We will explore the roots of what is going on, implement tools to promote balance and resilience, process unresolved trauma, and learn how to be more loving to yourself and others.
(510) 544-6659 View (510) 544-6659
Photo of Kruti Patel - Kruti Patel // South Asian Art Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kruti Patel // South Asian Art Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Caring for others and adapting yourself to "make it easier for them" comes at a price. As a parent, caregiver and a child of immigrants, it is often the case. I work collaboratively with you to uncover and make sense of confusing or conflicting desires, thoughts, and feelings and explore relationship patterns that are not working anymore. To find solutions to calm your nervous system and help you move past critical self-judgments and behaviors can give a sense of freedom and reconnection. I support people who are experiencing life transitions, chronic illness, struggles with communication in personal relationships.
Caring for others and adapting yourself to "make it easier for them" comes at a price. As a parent, caregiver and a child of immigrants, it is often the case. I work collaboratively with you to uncover and make sense of confusing or conflicting desires, thoughts, and feelings and explore relationship patterns that are not working anymore. To find solutions to calm your nervous system and help you move past critical self-judgments and behaviors can give a sense of freedom and reconnection. I support people who are experiencing life transitions, chronic illness, struggles with communication in personal relationships.
(510) 939-7667 View (510) 939-7667
Photo of Andy Le, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andy Le
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Greetings! My name is Andy Le, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California. I take a person-centered and humanistic approach to therapy in a holistic manner to allow the client the opportunity to discover self-determination: voice and choice. While following a person-centered foundation, I will incorporate structured interventions such as cognitive-behavior, strength-based, and mindfulness to decrease daily stressors. The therapeutic modalities that I commonly use are solution-focused, strength-based, humanistic, cognitive behavioral, narrative, and trauma-focused.
Greetings! My name is Andy Le, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California. I take a person-centered and humanistic approach to therapy in a holistic manner to allow the client the opportunity to discover self-determination: voice and choice. While following a person-centered foundation, I will incorporate structured interventions such as cognitive-behavior, strength-based, and mindfulness to decrease daily stressors. The therapeutic modalities that I commonly use are solution-focused, strength-based, humanistic, cognitive behavioral, narrative, and trauma-focused.
(510) 751-0237 View (510) 751-0237
Photo of Kasey Varga, MFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kasey Varga
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
Are you feeling heartbroken or utterly confused by a romantic relationship? Are you a parent who is endlessly stirred up by your child's behavior? I offer an opportunity to utilize heartbreak in service of growth and to begin to untangle the reality of your current relationships from the residue of your history. I challenge parents to advocate for their own needs while also strongly considering the needs of their children. I teach them how to facilitate the full expression of emotion in children. In light of a great deal of training and personal experience I bring a deep respect for the unknown and a willingness to land in mystery.
Are you feeling heartbroken or utterly confused by a romantic relationship? Are you a parent who is endlessly stirred up by your child's behavior? I offer an opportunity to utilize heartbreak in service of growth and to begin to untangle the reality of your current relationships from the residue of your history. I challenge parents to advocate for their own needs while also strongly considering the needs of their children. I teach them how to facilitate the full expression of emotion in children. In light of a great deal of training and personal experience I bring a deep respect for the unknown and a willingness to land in mystery.
(628) 227-5522 View (628) 227-5522
Photo of Eliott Goretsky, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eliott Goretsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2008. Born and raised in the Bay Area, I spent the majority of my adult life in Southern California. I received my Masters's Degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles in 2005. In 2006, I relocated to the Coachella Valley and spent a decade in county mental health services while establishing a small private practice from 2008 to 2016.
I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2008. Born and raised in the Bay Area, I spent the majority of my adult life in Southern California. I received my Masters's Degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles in 2005. In 2006, I relocated to the Coachella Valley and spent a decade in county mental health services while establishing a small private practice from 2008 to 2016.
(707) 946-7629 View (707) 946-7629
Photo of Numbiya Aziz
Numbiya Aziz
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Most men will experience some form of impotence in their lifetime, and the likelihood of developing symptoms increases with age and declining health. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by a number of factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and clogged arteries due to heart problems, or old age. In normal, healthy men, erections are activated by arousal, which activates pleasure centers in the brain. The brain sends messages down the spinal column, ending in the penile arteries. Pressure/shockwave treatments supports athletic sports injuries that can also contribute to inflammation restricting blood flow in the body.
Most men will experience some form of impotence in their lifetime, and the likelihood of developing symptoms increases with age and declining health. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by a number of factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and clogged arteries due to heart problems, or old age. In normal, healthy men, erections are activated by arousal, which activates pleasure centers in the brain. The brain sends messages down the spinal column, ending in the penile arteries. Pressure/shockwave treatments supports athletic sports injuries that can also contribute to inflammation restricting blood flow in the body.
(408) 418-2148 View (408) 418-2148
Photo of Hannah Rosales - Hannah Rosales, Somatic Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hannah Rosales, Somatic Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94608
I offer somatic psychotherapy for couples, individuals and loved ones. During our sessions we'll make room for that which is most challenging and dear to your heart, promoting more relief and connection within your life and your relationships. Along the way, I'll blend clinical expertise with intuitive support, always providing warmth, realness and most importantly, company.
I offer somatic psychotherapy for couples, individuals and loved ones. During our sessions we'll make room for that which is most challenging and dear to your heart, promoting more relief and connection within your life and your relationships. Along the way, I'll blend clinical expertise with intuitive support, always providing warmth, realness and most importantly, company.
(707) 414-6142 View (707) 414-6142
Photo of Nicole Arkin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Arkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
It isn't difficult to feel scared, vulnerable and not good enough in our complex world, let alone if you have a history of being abused or neglected. Therapy can help you slowly make sense of the past so that you can encounter the present moment with more awareness and vigor. I am psychotherapist with an abiding love of the arts and often work with sensitive and creative individuals, many of whom have histories of abuse/neglect and are struggling to make sense of their past and present lives in order to find a greater sense of freedom/comfort within their own skins.
It isn't difficult to feel scared, vulnerable and not good enough in our complex world, let alone if you have a history of being abused or neglected. Therapy can help you slowly make sense of the past so that you can encounter the present moment with more awareness and vigor. I am psychotherapist with an abiding love of the arts and often work with sensitive and creative individuals, many of whom have histories of abuse/neglect and are struggling to make sense of their past and present lives in order to find a greater sense of freedom/comfort within their own skins.
(510) 878-4958 View (510) 878-4958
Photo of Sara Ouimette Grief Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Ouimette Grief Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608
You're here because you want more from life after loss and/or disappointment. Perhaps you've accomplished all you hoped for, and still feel incomplete. Or maybe nothing went as planned, and you're grappling with the loss of the life you so wanted for yourself. I work with high achievers and creatives who are used to making things happen for themselves, yet feel a general lack of joy and satisfaction (especially after achieving their goals or having arrived in mid-life). You might be asking yourself if this is all there is. I'm so glad you're here, because there absolutely is more if you're willing to go within to find it.
You're here because you want more from life after loss and/or disappointment. Perhaps you've accomplished all you hoped for, and still feel incomplete. Or maybe nothing went as planned, and you're grappling with the loss of the life you so wanted for yourself. I work with high achievers and creatives who are used to making things happen for themselves, yet feel a general lack of joy and satisfaction (especially after achieving their goals or having arrived in mid-life). You might be asking yourself if this is all there is. I'm so glad you're here, because there absolutely is more if you're willing to go within to find it.
(510) 447-1443 View (510) 447-1443
Photo of Emily Haydock, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Haydock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
What would it feel like if you allowed yourself to express your authentic truth, your deepest desires and dreams? Notice your gut reaction to this question. Does it excite or scare you? Perhaps it does both, brings up judgment, or simply sounds impossible to answer right now. Whatever your response, this can be a generative entry point for exploring your relationship with yourself and your impulses, feelings, and dreams. If you tend towards perfectionism, people-pleasing, or taking care of others before yourself, this question might be particularly anxiety-provoking or difficult to answer. I get that, and I'd love to help you!
What would it feel like if you allowed yourself to express your authentic truth, your deepest desires and dreams? Notice your gut reaction to this question. Does it excite or scare you? Perhaps it does both, brings up judgment, or simply sounds impossible to answer right now. Whatever your response, this can be a generative entry point for exploring your relationship with yourself and your impulses, feelings, and dreams. If you tend towards perfectionism, people-pleasing, or taking care of others before yourself, this question might be particularly anxiety-provoking or difficult to answer. I get that, and I'd love to help you!
(510) 849-6331 View (510) 849-6331
Photo of Isabel Diamond, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Isabel Diamond
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Are you the outsider of your family of origin? You might be the family scapegoat. If so, you've probably experienced some of the following: treated as less-than, blamed, excluded, gossiped about, disowned, and more. And then, if you'd tried to address things, you might have been met with gaslighting, denial, or being dismissed. Your healthy anger might have been used as further "proof" of your badness or a narrative that you're mentally ill. And around and around it goes. But there is a way out.
Are you the outsider of your family of origin? You might be the family scapegoat. If so, you've probably experienced some of the following: treated as less-than, blamed, excluded, gossiped about, disowned, and more. And then, if you'd tried to address things, you might have been met with gaslighting, denial, or being dismissed. Your healthy anger might have been used as further "proof" of your badness or a narrative that you're mentally ill. And around and around it goes. But there is a way out.
(510) 781-9505 View (510) 781-9505
Photo of Nicki Koethner, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicki Koethner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
Are you anxious, depressed and tired? Are you feeling emotional for no reason? Feeling disoriented and lonely? Questioning everything in your life? I help people to deeply listen inside and let their choices be based on what is true for them. While pain and emotions are part of being human, suffering can be minimized by allowing what is inside of us to be expressed and find acceptance in our experiences. I support you to move through trauma, anxiety, anger and depression to empowerment. Stress-management is part of the work and looking at communication with ourselves and others to have fulfilling relationships.
Are you anxious, depressed and tired? Are you feeling emotional for no reason? Feeling disoriented and lonely? Questioning everything in your life? I help people to deeply listen inside and let their choices be based on what is true for them. While pain and emotions are part of being human, suffering can be minimized by allowing what is inside of us to be expressed and find acceptance in our experiences. I support you to move through trauma, anxiety, anger and depression to empowerment. Stress-management is part of the work and looking at communication with ourselves and others to have fulfilling relationships.
(510) 606-9884 View (510) 606-9884
Photo of Anne C Wilford, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne C Wilford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I feel the theraputic experience is a rich and exciting way for someone to reach their full potential. We all have feelings at times that "something is missing". These are real feelings and will be explored through our relationship. I believe everyone is unique. I don't have a "cookie cutter" approach to treating people. We will get to know each other and deal with the issues together. I work from a psychodynamic viewpoint.I feel everything that you have gone through as a child, young adult, and adult is connected. Our job will be to put the puzzle together.
I feel the theraputic experience is a rich and exciting way for someone to reach their full potential. We all have feelings at times that "something is missing". These are real feelings and will be explored through our relationship. I believe everyone is unique. I don't have a "cookie cutter" approach to treating people. We will get to know each other and deal with the issues together. I work from a psychodynamic viewpoint.I feel everything that you have gone through as a child, young adult, and adult is connected. Our job will be to put the puzzle together.
(510) 771-7950 View (510) 771-7950
1
Compassion Focused Therapists

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.