Couples Counseling Therapists in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA

Photo of Gregory W Dy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Gregory W Dy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94611
Are you feeling stuck, unhappy, or frustrated in your relationship? Do you want to improve your communication, intimacy, and trust with your partner? Or are you struggling with personal issues such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone. Many people face challenges in their lives that affect their well-being and happiness. That is why I am here to hold space and unravel these challenges you may face. Whether you are looking for couples therapy, individual therapy, or both, I am ready to work with you and help you create positive changes in your life.
Are you feeling stuck, unhappy, or frustrated in your relationship? Do you want to improve your communication, intimacy, and trust with your partner? Or are you struggling with personal issues such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone. Many people face challenges in their lives that affect their well-being and happiness. That is why I am here to hold space and unravel these challenges you may face. Whether you are looking for couples therapy, individual therapy, or both, I am ready to work with you and help you create positive changes in your life.
(510) 824-8472 View (510) 824-8472
Photo of Natalye Pearson, Psychologist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Natalye Pearson
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
Within the psychotherapeutic relationship I am dedicated to healing emotional wounds of internalized racism, sexism, homophobia and other forms of oppression.
When you've decided to get help, seeking a psychologist you feel comfortable with is as important as their skill and training. If I'm so honored to have you as my client, you'll find I utilize an integrated approach; a mix of gentle yet direct communication, mindfulness, cultural dynamics including family systems, psychoeducation, skill building using cognitive behavioral techniques, and of course explorative questions that help to uncover the emotional obstacles to your healing and progression in life.
Within the psychotherapeutic relationship I am dedicated to healing emotional wounds of internalized racism, sexism, homophobia and other forms of oppression.
When you've decided to get help, seeking a psychologist you feel comfortable with is as important as their skill and training. If I'm so honored to have you as my client, you'll find I utilize an integrated approach; a mix of gentle yet direct communication, mindfulness, cultural dynamics including family systems, psychoeducation, skill building using cognitive behavioral techniques, and of course explorative questions that help to uncover the emotional obstacles to your healing and progression in life.
(510) 953-5678 View (510) 953-5678
Photo of Nicole Poell, Psychologist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Nicole Poell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is an evidence-based treatment based on ancient mindfulness practices and modern approaches to creating a new, healthy relationship with yourself in order to move toward what truly matters to you.
Right now, you are doing something very courageous! You are taking the first step toward a more meaningful and rich life. You might sense that your thoughts and feelings are holding you back from truly living your life. You might have had traumatic life experience(s) that shaped your life in a way that is unfulfilling and terrifying. You might feel plagued by depression and/or anxiety, feel uncomfortable in your own skin or as if you are not performing to your best abilities. I want to commend you for taking this step and I would feel honored to be on this journey with you, helping you live a more satisfying, engaged and full life.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is an evidence-based treatment based on ancient mindfulness practices and modern approaches to creating a new, healthy relationship with yourself in order to move toward what truly matters to you.
Right now, you are doing something very courageous! You are taking the first step toward a more meaningful and rich life. You might sense that your thoughts and feelings are holding you back from truly living your life. You might have had traumatic life experience(s) that shaped your life in a way that is unfulfilling and terrifying. You might feel plagued by depression and/or anxiety, feel uncomfortable in your own skin or as if you are not performing to your best abilities. I want to commend you for taking this step and I would feel honored to be on this journey with you, helping you live a more satisfying, engaged and full life.
(510) 849-6755 View (510) 849-6755
Photo of Crystal Harper, Pastoral Counselor in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Crystal Harper
Pastoral Counselor, DMinCC, LCPC, CTSS, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or other distressing emotions? How about your relationship? Do you desire release from unsuccessful patterns of behavior? Do you want to experience more peace and well-being? I effectively and compassionately help you navigate life-altering crisis and heal from traumatic experiences. With over 30 years of counseling experience, I have worked in: Suicide Prevention, Physical/Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, and PTSD. I have both a strong clinical and faith-based educational background and believe in taking a holistic approach to counseling.
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or other distressing emotions? How about your relationship? Do you desire release from unsuccessful patterns of behavior? Do you want to experience more peace and well-being? I effectively and compassionately help you navigate life-altering crisis and heal from traumatic experiences. With over 30 years of counseling experience, I have worked in: Suicide Prevention, Physical/Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, and PTSD. I have both a strong clinical and faith-based educational background and believe in taking a holistic approach to counseling.
(916) 579-7621 View (916) 579-7621
Photo of Dr. Maria Pilar Bratko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Dr. Maria Pilar Bratko
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94611
Generally, what brings clients to my office are concerns related to work, relationships, and life. I offer both short-, and long-term therapy for individuals and couples. I welcome those from the Latino community. In individual therapy I will work with you to better understand your feelings and thoughts, find new ways for dealing with problems, and be more effective in recognizing and meeting your needs, desires, and aspirations. Couples often want to understand where their communication is not effective. We will work to improve your relationship by strengthening communication skills. I don't work with domestic violence.
Generally, what brings clients to my office are concerns related to work, relationships, and life. I offer both short-, and long-term therapy for individuals and couples. I welcome those from the Latino community. In individual therapy I will work with you to better understand your feelings and thoughts, find new ways for dealing with problems, and be more effective in recognizing and meeting your needs, desires, and aspirations. Couples often want to understand where their communication is not effective. We will work to improve your relationship by strengthening communication skills. I don't work with domestic violence.
(510) 648-5384 View (510) 648-5384
Photo of Gabriele Goodman, Psychologist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Gabriele Goodman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94619
Through individual, couples' and group work, I incorporate mind-body techniques using positive psychology, cognitive behavioral and acceptance and commitment therapies, biofeedback and mindfulness, and other mixed interventions aimed at self-care, increased distress tolerance, and stress and pain management.
I am a psychologist for sport, health, and life. I have spent 15 years studying, writing, teaching, and coaching people on how to perform at their best. I have worked with world-class performers from the arenas of sports, business, healthcare, and the United States Army. I have special expertise in Performance Psychology and train clients on how to strengthen the mental and emotional skills that underlie human performance excellence and sustainable resilience. I am a subject matter expert in the field of self-regulation techniques that promote optimism, resilience, alertness, and composure in high-pressure situations.
Through individual, couples' and group work, I incorporate mind-body techniques using positive psychology, cognitive behavioral and acceptance and commitment therapies, biofeedback and mindfulness, and other mixed interventions aimed at self-care, increased distress tolerance, and stress and pain management.
I am a psychologist for sport, health, and life. I have spent 15 years studying, writing, teaching, and coaching people on how to perform at their best. I have worked with world-class performers from the arenas of sports, business, healthcare, and the United States Army. I have special expertise in Performance Psychology and train clients on how to strengthen the mental and emotional skills that underlie human performance excellence and sustainable resilience. I am a subject matter expert in the field of self-regulation techniques that promote optimism, resilience, alertness, and composure in high-pressure situations.
(510) 662-0036 View (510) 662-0036
Photo of Anne E Gimbel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Anne E Gimbel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
My clientele consists of individuals, couples, adolescents, and seniors seeking help with stress, anxiety, depression, family issues, LGBT issues, trauma and aging.
Life used to be easier! Perhaps you feel stuck in your relationships and you are not getting along with the people you see daily. Issues in life can be overwhelming and full of challenges. I begin by meeting you at your place of growth or healing, and whether trauma, abuse, grieving, recovery or life issues, we work together to overcome them. There is hope. Let me help you reach the goals and connections you deserve. With sensitivity and compassion, we work to determine what might be blocking your full potential and your feelings.
My clientele consists of individuals, couples, adolescents, and seniors seeking help with stress, anxiety, depression, family issues, LGBT issues, trauma and aging.
Life used to be easier! Perhaps you feel stuck in your relationships and you are not getting along with the people you see daily. Issues in life can be overwhelming and full of challenges. I begin by meeting you at your place of growth or healing, and whether trauma, abuse, grieving, recovery or life issues, we work together to overcome them. There is hope. Let me help you reach the goals and connections you deserve. With sensitivity and compassion, we work to determine what might be blocking your full potential and your feelings.
(760) 561-5421 View (760) 561-5421
Photo of José L. Alemán, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
José L. Alemán
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I particularly excel at helping people who are dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, sexual identity development, trauma/loss, and those experiencing disconnectedness, either from themselves or from others.
Congrats on taking time to think about yourself and seek out support. I invite this curiosity into our sessions to explore what your wants/needs are and what is getting in the way of them being achieved and lived. Compassion, space, intrigue, and appreciation are cornerstones of my practice when exploring our selves, and our connection to the world. Let's bring out to the forefront the you that wants change; the one that inherently knows what it needs. With this part of yourself given more space to be heard, we will develop specific strategies to make those changes occur.
I particularly excel at helping people who are dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, sexual identity development, trauma/loss, and those experiencing disconnectedness, either from themselves or from others.
Congrats on taking time to think about yourself and seek out support. I invite this curiosity into our sessions to explore what your wants/needs are and what is getting in the way of them being achieved and lived. Compassion, space, intrigue, and appreciation are cornerstones of my practice when exploring our selves, and our connection to the world. Let's bring out to the forefront the you that wants change; the one that inherently knows what it needs. With this part of yourself given more space to be heard, we will develop specific strategies to make those changes occur.
(415) 967-5245 View (415) 967-5245
Photo of Stacy Donovan George, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Stacy Donovan George
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland Hills, 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 Barry Steven Friedman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Barry Steven Friedman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94611
I specialize in individual Psychotherapy for adults, Couples Counseling, Spiritual Direction, Dream Interpretation and Therapist Consultation.
The essence of effective psychotherapy is found in the therapist's understanding, empathy and caring for you. Trust in our relationship develops from that foundation. My primary commitment to you is to help you grow in self-awareness and self-empowerment, and to help you take the necessary actions that will actualize your growth and development in the world. If you struggle with feelings of fear, shame, helplessness, worthlessness and anger; traumatic emotional, physical and sexual experience; challenges in relationship; dysfunctional behaviors; unfulfilled aspirations; questions about your life's meaning; and physical illness and aging, I can help you.
I specialize in individual Psychotherapy for adults, Couples Counseling, Spiritual Direction, Dream Interpretation and Therapist Consultation.
The essence of effective psychotherapy is found in the therapist's understanding, empathy and caring for you. Trust in our relationship develops from that foundation. My primary commitment to you is to help you grow in self-awareness and self-empowerment, and to help you take the necessary actions that will actualize your growth and development in the world. If you struggle with feelings of fear, shame, helplessness, worthlessness and anger; traumatic emotional, physical and sexual experience; challenges in relationship; dysfunctional behaviors; unfulfilled aspirations; questions about your life's meaning; and physical illness and aging, I can help you.
(510) 499-6900 View (510) 499-6900
Photo of Mirely Vasquez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Mirely Vasquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94619
Bienvenidos/Welcome! I am a bilingual/bicultural Spanish-speaking therapist located in the East Bay area of California. I have been working with children, teens, and adults of color struggling with an array of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship satisfaction, life purpose, trauma, postpartum depression, and spirituality, related to life transitions, family stress, trauma, and grief. Although my work has focused on the unique needs of minorities and underrepresented individuals, being a member of that community is certainly not a requirement for your personal development.
Bienvenidos/Welcome! I am a bilingual/bicultural Spanish-speaking therapist located in the East Bay area of California. I have been working with children, teens, and adults of color struggling with an array of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship satisfaction, life purpose, trauma, postpartum depression, and spirituality, related to life transitions, family stress, trauma, and grief. Although my work has focused on the unique needs of minorities and underrepresented individuals, being a member of that community is certainly not a requirement for your personal development.
(510) 916-3215 View (510) 916-3215
Photo of Tecsia Evans, Psychologist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Tecsia Evans
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94611
Evans, founder of Your Therapy Now, is a licensed psychologist, relationship expert, Christian counselor, leadership and diversity consultant for organizations.
Dr. Evans at Your Therapy Now, provides quality clinical and assessment services for the everyday person. Our focus is to collaborate with you and identify concrete goals for your emotional health, create a plan that helps you achieve these goals and provide a supportive space that empowers you along the way. Our model is simple: therapy is meant to equip you with the tools you need, as you need them, to make the changes you desire to see in your life.
Evans, founder of Your Therapy Now, is a licensed psychologist, relationship expert, Christian counselor, leadership and diversity consultant for organizations.
Dr. Evans at Your Therapy Now, provides quality clinical and assessment services for the everyday person. Our focus is to collaborate with you and identify concrete goals for your emotional health, create a plan that helps you achieve these goals and provide a supportive space that empowers you along the way. Our model is simple: therapy is meant to equip you with the tools you need, as you need them, to make the changes you desire to see in your life.
(510) 369-1495 View (510) 369-1495
Photo of Andrea Mar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Andrea Mar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94620  (Online Only)
Want to feel more connected in your relationship? I focus on creating a safe and non-blaming space for partners to talk about things that feel difficult. Therapy may not be easy, but I’ll offer guidance and support to help you recognize and break patterns that keep couples “stuck” in a negative cycle. Together we'll explore how past experiences, temperament, values, and culture affect relationships. We’ll discuss tools to help calm intense emotions so that couples can communicate with intention and disagreements can be resolved more effectively.
Want to feel more connected in your relationship? I focus on creating a safe and non-blaming space for partners to talk about things that feel difficult. Therapy may not be easy, but I’ll offer guidance and support to help you recognize and break patterns that keep couples “stuck” in a negative cycle. Together we'll explore how past experiences, temperament, values, and culture affect relationships. We’ll discuss tools to help calm intense emotions so that couples can communicate with intention and disagreements can be resolved more effectively.
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Photo of Neal Hailey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Neal Hailey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I am here to witness and support your process of transformation and growth. A large part of the benefit of therapy comes from your experience of the therapeutic relationship, for this reason I always strive to nurture, and explore this relationship with you through honest, open, and straightforward communication.
As a therapist, I am here to witness and support your process of transformation and growth. A large part of the benefit of therapy comes from your experience of the therapeutic relationship, for this reason I always strive to nurture, and explore this relationship with you through honest, open, and straightforward communication.
(510) 216-1886 View (510) 216-1886
Photo of Katie Fenton-Strauss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Katie Fenton-Strauss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I also work with couples, guiding you to uncover the underlying issues within conflicts, fostering a deeper connection and a more fulfilling intimacy.
Are you your own worst critic? When you are hard on yourself, it becomes challenging to find joy in your work and relationships. Finally putting an end to beating yourself up will free up energy for you to fulfill your goals. I use mindfulness and IFS (Internal Family Systems) strategies to help clients do deep and meaningful work in sessions. "I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I can do is be on my own side..." Maya Angelou When my clients are begin to truly be a friend to themselves, they notice positive changes in many aspects of their lives.
I also work with couples, guiding you to uncover the underlying issues within conflicts, fostering a deeper connection and a more fulfilling intimacy.
Are you your own worst critic? When you are hard on yourself, it becomes challenging to find joy in your work and relationships. Finally putting an end to beating yourself up will free up energy for you to fulfill your goals. I use mindfulness and IFS (Internal Family Systems) strategies to help clients do deep and meaningful work in sessions. "I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I can do is be on my own side..." Maya Angelou When my clients are begin to truly be a friend to themselves, they notice positive changes in many aspects of their lives.
(424) 352-7350 View (424) 352-7350
Photo of Breckney G Shaw, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Breckney G Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94619
Empowering individuals and couples and obtaining skills to help them live harmonious, confident, happier lives is satisfying.
Someone once said an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In today's world, many people struggle with managing disappointing interpersonal relationships. Others struggle to cope with anger, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Empowering individuals and couples and obtaining skills to help them live harmonious, confident, happier lives is satisfying.
Someone once said an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In today's world, many people struggle with managing disappointing interpersonal relationships. Others struggle to cope with anger, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(510) 726-6958 View (510) 726-6958
Photo of Keya Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Keya Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94605
Keya enjoys working with individuals, adolescents, couples, families and groups.
Keya believes one of the greatest supports during challenging times is having someone to talk to. Keya provides a safe environment for clients to 'open up' by being empathetic, warm, and interested in the client's experience. Keya is dedicated to helping people grow in the ways they desire to. In addition, to private practice, Keya serves as a Behavioral Clinician building and restoring families in the community one session at a time.
Keya enjoys working with individuals, adolescents, couples, families and groups.
Keya believes one of the greatest supports during challenging times is having someone to talk to. Keya provides a safe environment for clients to 'open up' by being empathetic, warm, and interested in the client's experience. Keya is dedicated to helping people grow in the ways they desire to. In addition, to private practice, Keya serves as a Behavioral Clinician building and restoring families in the community one session at a time.
(510) 804-3800 View (510) 804-3800
Photo of Gene Joseph Grossman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Gene Joseph Grossman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, CA-MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94611
After four decades of providing counseling to individuals and couples, I have a knack for immediately grasping the issues that undermine one's sense of well being.
Effective psychotherapy should provide an immediate benefit and relief from the first meeting forward. It is the therapist's responsibility to help you see your problems clearly. We are all subject to misperceptions and self-deception. My job is to introduce you to the self that is just outside of your awareness. Through the exploration of your attitudes, communication style, and your defenses, I will help you to significantly reduce your anxiety, anger & depression. Together we will address the issues of shame & guilt that derail your self acceptance. I will guide you to genuine change that is not just possible but attainable.
After four decades of providing counseling to individuals and couples, I have a knack for immediately grasping the issues that undermine one's sense of well being.
Effective psychotherapy should provide an immediate benefit and relief from the first meeting forward. It is the therapist's responsibility to help you see your problems clearly. We are all subject to misperceptions and self-deception. My job is to introduce you to the self that is just outside of your awareness. Through the exploration of your attitudes, communication style, and your defenses, I will help you to significantly reduce your anxiety, anger & depression. Together we will address the issues of shame & guilt that derail your self acceptance. I will guide you to genuine change that is not just possible but attainable.
(650) 489-7142 View (650) 489-7142
Photo of Roksana Sarrafan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Roksana Sarrafan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
My mission is to be your partner in overcoming emotional and relationship hurdles, steering you toward resolution and peace.
As a therapist, I bring a wealth of multicultural knowledge and experience to the table, ensuring you receive professional services built on respect and trust. Let’s bust the myth together: therapy isn’t just for those who’ve faced trauma. Whether you’re seeking clarity, a self-esteem boost, or solutions to life’s challenges, talking with a therapist can be life-changing!
My mission is to be your partner in overcoming emotional and relationship hurdles, steering you toward resolution and peace.
As a therapist, I bring a wealth of multicultural knowledge and experience to the table, ensuring you receive professional services built on respect and trust. Let’s bust the myth together: therapy isn’t just for those who’ve faced trauma. Whether you’re seeking clarity, a self-esteem boost, or solutions to life’s challenges, talking with a therapist can be life-changing!
(510) 257-9758 View (510) 257-9758
Photo of Patrick Whalen Phd, Psychologist in Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA
Patrick Whalen Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland Hills, Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
Transformation in marriage is realistic with the right effort. Most spouses want a better marriage or happier spouse, yet something seemingly immoveable is often in the way. I guide couples to use challenges and conflicts to learn more deeply about one another; establish smarter, healthier boundaries; build trust, support, and responsiveness; and cultivate enduring, shared emotional and physical intimacy. My methods are adaptive, kind, direct, and swift. RLT moves fluidly from holding a space of curiosity, compassionate listening, and validation; to directive teaching, modeling, and coaching stances, depending on a couple's need.
Transformation in marriage is realistic with the right effort. Most spouses want a better marriage or happier spouse, yet something seemingly immoveable is often in the way. I guide couples to use challenges and conflicts to learn more deeply about one another; establish smarter, healthier boundaries; build trust, support, and responsiveness; and cultivate enduring, shared emotional and physical intimacy. My methods are adaptive, kind, direct, and swift. RLT moves fluidly from holding a space of curiosity, compassionate listening, and validation; to directive teaching, modeling, and coaching stances, depending on a couple's need.
(510) 470-0758 View (510) 470-0758

See more therapy options for Oakland Hills, Oakland

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.