Photo of Laura Ortiz Guillen, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Laura Ortiz Guillen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
It's an honor to help others live more whole and integrated lives. I guide clients to explore and work through life's challenges from a body-mind-spirit framework. I have 20 years of experience in supporting clients experiencing: depressive and anxious symptoms, grief & loss, trauma, relationship concerns, cultural negotiations, life transitions, and spiritual concerns. I work with BIPOC and LGBTQ working professionals, first-generation and immigrant college students, and clients who are already or interested in Indigenous healing practices including Danza, Sweat Lodge, Temazcal ceremonies.
It's an honor to help others live more whole and integrated lives. I guide clients to explore and work through life's challenges from a body-mind-spirit framework. I have 20 years of experience in supporting clients experiencing: depressive and anxious symptoms, grief & loss, trauma, relationship concerns, cultural negotiations, life transitions, and spiritual concerns. I work with BIPOC and LGBTQ working professionals, first-generation and immigrant college students, and clients who are already or interested in Indigenous healing practices including Danza, Sweat Lodge, Temazcal ceremonies.
(510) 491-9604 View (510) 491-9604
Photo of Stacy Donovan George, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Stacy Donovan George
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety, depression or grief? Are you stuck in unhealthy patterns or self doubt? Is a difficult relationship causing you pain? You are taking a courageous step in caring for yourself and your well-being by seeking support. With curiosity and non-judgment, I can help you to find relief, grow and clarify a more sustainable, joyful path forward. Together we'll explore what underlies your symptoms, the adaptive function they serve, and how you can permanently heal core issues. You will discover strengths, develop new tools, and find serenity and authenticity in yourself and your relationships.
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety, depression or grief? Are you stuck in unhealthy patterns or self doubt? Is a difficult relationship causing you pain? You are taking a courageous step in caring for yourself and your well-being by seeking support. With curiosity and non-judgment, I can help you to find relief, grow and clarify a more sustainable, joyful path forward. Together we'll explore what underlies your symptoms, the adaptive function they serve, and how you can permanently heal core issues. You will discover strengths, develop new tools, and find serenity and authenticity in yourself and your relationships.
(510) 314-8566 View (510) 314-8566
Photo of L Rebecca Connell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
L Rebecca Connell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
COUPLES: I'm the first, and still one of the only, Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapists in Oakland.
INDIVIDUALS (couples below): Energy Psychology is a group of self-calming practices involving breathing and touching one’s own face and body. Scientific studies and clinical experience are confirming that Energy Psychology can help with anxiety, relationships, and trauma. You will learn practices to calm down during a conflict, sleep better, or let go of things that bother you. These practices help you by enhancing nervous system regulation, changing the way your brain stores upsetting memories, and bringing in more happiness and focus. You'll learn practices to use at home, in moments of stress or to start your day on a good note
COUPLES: I'm the first, and still one of the only, Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapists in Oakland.
INDIVIDUALS (couples below): Energy Psychology is a group of self-calming practices involving breathing and touching one’s own face and body. Scientific studies and clinical experience are confirming that Energy Psychology can help with anxiety, relationships, and trauma. You will learn practices to calm down during a conflict, sleep better, or let go of things that bother you. These practices help you by enhancing nervous system regulation, changing the way your brain stores upsetting memories, and bringing in more happiness and focus. You'll learn practices to use at home, in moments of stress or to start your day on a good note
(510) 594-8224 View (510) 594-8224
Photo of Xuel Sun, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Xuel Sun
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
You feel stuck in your relationships. Feeling stuck with too many things you are navigating . You are out of touch with your needs and desires or how to communicate them effectively. You hate the fighting but don't know how to slow down. That's why I'm here to help. I support you build inner resources so that you can be unfazed by judgements and challenges, centered in your self-love and clarity, have ease in giving and receiving, communicating and decision-making. I am especially skilled in helping multicultural, marginalized identities, neurodivergent, poly/CNM couples with communication, trauma and intimacy.
You feel stuck in your relationships. Feeling stuck with too many things you are navigating . You are out of touch with your needs and desires or how to communicate them effectively. You hate the fighting but don't know how to slow down. That's why I'm here to help. I support you build inner resources so that you can be unfazed by judgements and challenges, centered in your self-love and clarity, have ease in giving and receiving, communicating and decision-making. I am especially skilled in helping multicultural, marginalized identities, neurodivergent, poly/CNM couples with communication, trauma and intimacy.
(341) 888-6560 View (341) 888-6560
Photo of Kiri Maura, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Kiri Maura
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I offer individual, family, and couples counseling via telehealth and Ketamine-Assisted Therapy at my True Yang Therapy office in Oakland, CA.
I offer transpersonal alternatives to talk therapy. I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, Inner Child work, Brainspotting Trauma Therapy, and other somatic, mindfulness-based and energy modalities. My expertise spans complex trauma, addiction, relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, professional transitions, empowerment/self-worth, grief/loss, and spiritual/existential challenges. I love to work with people from diverse backgrounds, live alternative lifestyles, are spiritually inclined, and/or face marginalization. I honor and value your authentic true nature.
I offer individual, family, and couples counseling via telehealth and Ketamine-Assisted Therapy at my True Yang Therapy office in Oakland, CA.
I offer transpersonal alternatives to talk therapy. I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, Inner Child work, Brainspotting Trauma Therapy, and other somatic, mindfulness-based and energy modalities. My expertise spans complex trauma, addiction, relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, professional transitions, empowerment/self-worth, grief/loss, and spiritual/existential challenges. I love to work with people from diverse backgrounds, live alternative lifestyles, are spiritually inclined, and/or face marginalization. I honor and value your authentic true nature.
(415) 727-3045 View (415) 727-3045
Photo of Roxanne Fuller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Roxanne Fuller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CMT, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Home visits are available, if you live in Alameda. I provide a safe haven for you, your teen, child or family, to explore stress, relationship issues, and past traumas that are getting in the way of you experiencing a fulfilling life. My unique and gentle techniques enable you to challenge patterns and behaviors that are limiting joy, satisfaction, and the ability to be calm.. We work at your pace, developing strategies, which will empower you to reach your goals. Together we create a safe environment, where you feel free to shift and change on all levels of being: psychological, emotional, spiritual, physical, and energetic.
Home visits are available, if you live in Alameda. I provide a safe haven for you, your teen, child or family, to explore stress, relationship issues, and past traumas that are getting in the way of you experiencing a fulfilling life. My unique and gentle techniques enable you to challenge patterns and behaviors that are limiting joy, satisfaction, and the ability to be calm.. We work at your pace, developing strategies, which will empower you to reach your goals. Together we create a safe environment, where you feel free to shift and change on all levels of being: psychological, emotional, spiritual, physical, and energetic.
(510) 491-9851 View (510) 491-9851
Photo of Gwendolyn Evans, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Gwendolyn Evans
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I help couples renegotiate to get the relationship you each want.
Are you anxious or depressed? Struggling with emotional or physical infidelity? Has the passion died in your relationship? Do you want more sex and intimacy? Feeling overwhelmed and undervalued by your partner? Are you lonely in your marriage? Are you struggling with racial or cross-cultural issues? Tired of the same fights with your spouse, your family, your boss, your kids?
I help couples renegotiate to get the relationship you each want.
Are you anxious or depressed? Struggling with emotional or physical infidelity? Has the passion died in your relationship? Do you want more sex and intimacy? Feeling overwhelmed and undervalued by your partner? Are you lonely in your marriage? Are you struggling with racial or cross-cultural issues? Tired of the same fights with your spouse, your family, your boss, your kids?
(415) 799-7968 View (415) 799-7968
Photo of Lori Fink, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lori Fink
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94602
My areas of interest and specialties are Anxiety, stress, working with the LGBTQ+ community, Grief, Trauma, Relationship issues: conflict, boundary setting, people pleasing.
I am a queer identifying therapist and I like to think of therapy as a big exploration that allows the feelings and emotions you are having to come in fully without judgement. And you gotta feel it to heal it. We get curious together about what is happening for you and explore. Once you become aware of unconscious patterns, you make them conscious. That awareness can help to create change and make a huge difference in your life. I am also a big proponent of self-compassion work and can't stress enough how important it is to give ourselves just as much kindness as we give our loved ones.
My areas of interest and specialties are Anxiety, stress, working with the LGBTQ+ community, Grief, Trauma, Relationship issues: conflict, boundary setting, people pleasing.
I am a queer identifying therapist and I like to think of therapy as a big exploration that allows the feelings and emotions you are having to come in fully without judgement. And you gotta feel it to heal it. We get curious together about what is happening for you and explore. Once you become aware of unconscious patterns, you make them conscious. That awareness can help to create change and make a huge difference in your life. I am also a big proponent of self-compassion work and can't stress enough how important it is to give ourselves just as much kindness as we give our loved ones.
(201) 645-5101 View (201) 645-5101
Photo of Debra Vinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Debra Vinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
I have a broad experience in the field of Psychotherapy and have served children, families and couples. I used a client centered approach with various treatment modalities that allows each individual to reach their personal goals. I look forward to serving you via tele-health or in person. In person sessions are offered in Oakland, CA.
I have a broad experience in the field of Psychotherapy and have served children, families and couples. I used a client centered approach with various treatment modalities that allows each individual to reach their personal goals. I look forward to serving you via tele-health or in person. In person sessions are offered in Oakland, CA.
(925) 386-2422 View (925) 386-2422
Photo of Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
This highlights my connection to relationship, words, land, embodiment, and even Winter Solstice.
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
This highlights my connection to relationship, words, land, embodiment, and even Winter Solstice.
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
View
Photo of Kanika Shelly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Kanika Shelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
Call all people who are seeking to be connected to a healthy family community. You Can have it. Explore the power of connecting or reconnecting to your family, whether it is your family of origin or chosen. I offer psychotherapy and healing heart services to Families and Couples (Blended Families, families experiencing conflict and co-parenting challenges) and groups (Transitional Age Youth 19-24 years). I aim to help people build healthy relationships with themselves and those around them. If you seek a healthy and compassionate sense of self to share with others, especially family and chosen family alike.
Call all people who are seeking to be connected to a healthy family community. You Can have it. Explore the power of connecting or reconnecting to your family, whether it is your family of origin or chosen. I offer psychotherapy and healing heart services to Families and Couples (Blended Families, families experiencing conflict and co-parenting challenges) and groups (Transitional Age Youth 19-24 years). I aim to help people build healthy relationships with themselves and those around them. If you seek a healthy and compassionate sense of self to share with others, especially family and chosen family alike.
(510) 726-8860 View (510) 726-8860
Photo of Alina Turpin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Alina Turpin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94606  (Online Only)
I help intuitive, empathic, & spiritually attuned individuals/couples, LGBTQIA+ and/or BIPOC who often identify as non-monogamous &/or non-heteronormative. I specialize in inner conflict, relational conflict, relational trauma, sexual trauma, spiritual trauma, childhood trauma, anxiety, anger, grief, guilt, shame, & codependency. I hold an emotionally safe space to allow you to feel witnessed, understood, & supported as you process your thoughts & feelings to obtain clarity, increased self-mastery, new skills, & the ability to resolve obstacles to pursuing your heart's desires.
I help intuitive, empathic, & spiritually attuned individuals/couples, LGBTQIA+ and/or BIPOC who often identify as non-monogamous &/or non-heteronormative. I specialize in inner conflict, relational conflict, relational trauma, sexual trauma, spiritual trauma, childhood trauma, anxiety, anger, grief, guilt, shame, & codependency. I hold an emotionally safe space to allow you to feel witnessed, understood, & supported as you process your thoughts & feelings to obtain clarity, increased self-mastery, new skills, & the ability to resolve obstacles to pursuing your heart's desires.
(424) 233-1376 View (424) 233-1376
Photo of Lily Jaser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lily Jaser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Do you feel unsettled in relationships? Or limited by other peoples’ ideas of who you should be or how you should act? Is it hard to turn off that critical voice inside? Do you feel exhausted putting other people’s needs before your own? Do you seek a greater sense of authenticity in yourself and others? Sometimes we don't have the words to describe our experiences and that's ok. Together, we can work to transform old patterns. Whether its clarifying what you need, improving communication, or getting past the unresolved, my goal is to support you and help you learn more about yourself and your most important relationships.
Do you feel unsettled in relationships? Or limited by other peoples’ ideas of who you should be or how you should act? Is it hard to turn off that critical voice inside? Do you feel exhausted putting other people’s needs before your own? Do you seek a greater sense of authenticity in yourself and others? Sometimes we don't have the words to describe our experiences and that's ok. Together, we can work to transform old patterns. Whether its clarifying what you need, improving communication, or getting past the unresolved, my goal is to support you and help you learn more about yourself and your most important relationships.
(510) 272-7233 View (510) 272-7233
Photo of Jetaun G Mills, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jetaun G Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
You have lost so much in your life, but your biggest loss has been your sense of self. Early on, you learned that it wasn’t safe to be who you are, or be in your skin or your body. So you run away from yourself and become an overachiever in work and in relationships. This hustling for worthiness has left you feeling abandoned and exhausted. You want to trust. You want to heal. You want to be able to dive deep into the beauty of life and laughter that you know is around you. Without knowing yourself, what your heart sounds and feels like - how will you build satisfying relationships and create a life that truly fills you up?
You have lost so much in your life, but your biggest loss has been your sense of self. Early on, you learned that it wasn’t safe to be who you are, or be in your skin or your body. So you run away from yourself and become an overachiever in work and in relationships. This hustling for worthiness has left you feeling abandoned and exhausted. You want to trust. You want to heal. You want to be able to dive deep into the beauty of life and laughter that you know is around you. Without knowing yourself, what your heart sounds and feels like - how will you build satisfying relationships and create a life that truly fills you up?
(510) 296-6738 View (510) 296-6738
Photo of Annie Leah Lesny, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Annie Leah Lesny
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
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 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.
(510) 296-3494 View (510) 296-3494
Photo of Erick Santos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences then often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences then often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
(415) 324-4286 View (415) 324-4286
Photo of Rooted in the Soul Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Rooted in the Soul Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
Do you want to be understood and appreciated and are tired of being overlooked? Do your loved one's blow past your boundaries? Do you feel confused or trapped by your relationships? If you answered, yes, let's meet for a 20min. consultation free of charge and see if I'm the right person to support you in your journey through life.
Do you want to be understood and appreciated and are tired of being overlooked? Do your loved one's blow past your boundaries? Do you feel confused or trapped by your relationships? If you answered, yes, let's meet for a 20min. consultation free of charge and see if I'm the right person to support you in your journey through life.
(510) 756-4093 View (510) 756-4093
Photo of Savannah Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Savannah Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or stuck? Feel unseen or undervalued? Going through a big transition or feel like you need something to change? Let's unpack this together. We'll delve into what's holding you back, challenge societal expectations, and rewrite your story authentically. In sessions, I offer autonomy and acceptance, creating a safe space for deep exploration. My aim is to walk beside you as you discover yourself, heal, and flourish. It's time to find balance and joy in your life.
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or stuck? Feel unseen or undervalued? Going through a big transition or feel like you need something to change? Let's unpack this together. We'll delve into what's holding you back, challenge societal expectations, and rewrite your story authentically. In sessions, I offer autonomy and acceptance, creating a safe space for deep exploration. My aim is to walk beside you as you discover yourself, heal, and flourish. It's time to find balance and joy in your life.
(510) 907-4251 View (510) 907-4251
Photo of Nanyonjo Mukungu, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Nanyonjo Mukungu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
My framework as a psychotherapist is inspired by black feminist sci-fi writer, Octavia E. Butler who saw the possibility of many more worlds than just our own. I believe that transformative internal healing is critical to envisioning and building these worlds without the presence of imperialism, white supremacy, capitalism and cishet-patriarchy. The tools I use to support the exploration of individual, interpersonal and intergenerational trauma are shaped by abolition that rejects punitive and scarcity mindsets and disability justice which strives to value every body.
My framework as a psychotherapist is inspired by black feminist sci-fi writer, Octavia E. Butler who saw the possibility of many more worlds than just our own. I believe that transformative internal healing is critical to envisioning and building these worlds without the presence of imperialism, white supremacy, capitalism and cishet-patriarchy. The tools I use to support the exploration of individual, interpersonal and intergenerational trauma are shaped by abolition that rejects punitive and scarcity mindsets and disability justice which strives to value every body.
View
Photo of Alexis Lyon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Alexis Lyon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I love discovering the emerging potential of my clients, and supporting their unique personal development and evolution. I'm experienced working with highly sensitive individuals, and those who self-identify as having a history of trauma. Adults who are self-motivated, and those who have or desire a mind-body-spirit practice, are a good fit for the support I provide. I adapt to the needs of children and adults alike. I believe therapy can be a powerful tool to unlock our greater creativity and feelings of interconnectivity and trust, so that my clients can thrive in the web of life.
I love discovering the emerging potential of my clients, and supporting their unique personal development and evolution. I'm experienced working with highly sensitive individuals, and those who self-identify as having a history of trauma. Adults who are self-motivated, and those who have or desire a mind-body-spirit practice, are a good fit for the support I provide. I adapt to the needs of children and adults alike. I believe therapy can be a powerful tool to unlock our greater creativity and feelings of interconnectivity and trust, so that my clients can thrive in the web of life.
(510) 880-4194 View (510) 880-4194
Couples Counseling Therapists

Does couples counseling work?

Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?

Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?

The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?

The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.