Photo of Rupa Puri Zimmermann, Psychologist in Lafayette, CA
Rupa Puri Zimmermann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
I am a culturally sensitive therapist and work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
When people enter a time in their life or a situation where they may feel down, worried, overwhelmed, or without many options, I believe therapy can shed light on new paths. Using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I help people gain a sense of control by teaching them effective ways to communicate, regulate their emotions, and improve interpersonal relationships to bring about needed change. I work collaboratively with my clients and their families so they can improve their quality of life and thrive.
I am a culturally sensitive therapist and work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
When people enter a time in their life or a situation where they may feel down, worried, overwhelmed, or without many options, I believe therapy can shed light on new paths. Using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I help people gain a sense of control by teaching them effective ways to communicate, regulate their emotions, and improve interpersonal relationships to bring about needed change. I work collaboratively with my clients and their families so they can improve their quality of life and thrive.
(925) 961-5340 View (925) 961-5340
Photo of Tanya Dughman-Chala Psy.D, Psychologist in Lafayette, CA
Tanya Dughman-Chala Psy.D
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I am a strength-based therapist with a warm, nonjudgmental and direct approach. Championing evidence based practices such as ACT, cognitive behavioral and interpersonal therapy, I utilize these modalities to help you evaluate and work through maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors that are keeping you "stuck" in your present situation. I will work collaboratively with you to create a culturally sensitive and uniquely tailored treatment plan. Holding a strong belief that therapeutic relationship is a privilege, I approach all my clients with curiosity, compassion and empathy.
I am a strength-based therapist with a warm, nonjudgmental and direct approach. Championing evidence based practices such as ACT, cognitive behavioral and interpersonal therapy, I utilize these modalities to help you evaluate and work through maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors that are keeping you "stuck" in your present situation. I will work collaboratively with you to create a culturally sensitive and uniquely tailored treatment plan. Holding a strong belief that therapeutic relationship is a privilege, I approach all my clients with curiosity, compassion and empathy.
(925) 962-5316 View (925) 962-5316
Photo of Nicole Kangas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Nicole Kangas
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT, JD
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
*VIDEO/PHONE SESSIONS AVAILABLE* Do you find yourself facing difficult or unexpected struggles? Responding to life's challenges can be hard and can result in stress and unwanted feelings or symptoms. I am here to help you gain the strength, confidence, and clarity needed to tackle life’s obstacles and to feel well. I work with individuals from adolescence through adulthood who are dealing with a range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transitions, relationship and parenting concerns, grief and loss, trauma recovery, and more. I also help couples work through problems and strengthen their bond.
*VIDEO/PHONE SESSIONS AVAILABLE* Do you find yourself facing difficult or unexpected struggles? Responding to life's challenges can be hard and can result in stress and unwanted feelings or symptoms. I am here to help you gain the strength, confidence, and clarity needed to tackle life’s obstacles and to feel well. I work with individuals from adolescence through adulthood who are dealing with a range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transitions, relationship and parenting concerns, grief and loss, trauma recovery, and more. I also help couples work through problems and strengthen their bond.
(925) 660-7363 View (925) 660-7363
Photo of Johanna Helen Kelly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Johanna Helen Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
New Beginnings! New Awakenings! New Perspectives and Growth! These are just a few of the benefits of therapy you will gain. I pride myself on developing compassionate, non-judgmental therapeutic relationships with the couples and families and individuals I serve. Some unique things about me: I worked internationally as a therapist in both Hong Kong and Switzerland over the course of 6 years. I gained a significant amount of cultural competency through this amazing experience. Further, I have expertise in the field of Addiction and Recovery. Additionally, I value the competency I demonstrate with High Conflict Couples and Divorce.
New Beginnings! New Awakenings! New Perspectives and Growth! These are just a few of the benefits of therapy you will gain. I pride myself on developing compassionate, non-judgmental therapeutic relationships with the couples and families and individuals I serve. Some unique things about me: I worked internationally as a therapist in both Hong Kong and Switzerland over the course of 6 years. I gained a significant amount of cultural competency through this amazing experience. Further, I have expertise in the field of Addiction and Recovery. Additionally, I value the competency I demonstrate with High Conflict Couples and Divorce.
(925) 403-4653 View (925) 403-4653
Photo of Mira Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Mira Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
Counseling can help you through challenging times and be life changing. I have dedicated myself to helping people with serious life challenges by providing therapy and education to empower my clients to make sense of their feelings, re-frame their life narratives, and develop healthy coping skills. I specialize in depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief/loss, health issues, family conflicts, immigration/cultural/racial issues, domestic violence/abuse, and death & dying. Originally from Romania, I grew up in Germany, and have lived in the Bay Area for 30 years.
Counseling can help you through challenging times and be life changing. I have dedicated myself to helping people with serious life challenges by providing therapy and education to empower my clients to make sense of their feelings, re-frame their life narratives, and develop healthy coping skills. I specialize in depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief/loss, health issues, family conflicts, immigration/cultural/racial issues, domestic violence/abuse, and death & dying. Originally from Romania, I grew up in Germany, and have lived in the Bay Area for 30 years.
(925) 962-5207 View (925) 962-5207
Photo of Deb Shell, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Deb Shell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Being a human being is complicated, and complex, and can sometimes be overwhelming. It is therapeutic to have someone to share our true selves with free of judgment. I believe each client holds the answers, and in my work, I support you on your journey. I meet you where you are, and together we identify where you would like to go, and what parts of yourself you would like to call forward. I can help you explore your inner world, and help you connect your internal experiences to your external experiences. I support clients dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relational dynamics.
Being a human being is complicated, and complex, and can sometimes be overwhelming. It is therapeutic to have someone to share our true selves with free of judgment. I believe each client holds the answers, and in my work, I support you on your journey. I meet you where you are, and together we identify where you would like to go, and what parts of yourself you would like to call forward. I can help you explore your inner world, and help you connect your internal experiences to your external experiences. I support clients dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relational dynamics.
(510) 473-5057 View (510) 473-5057
Photo of Gabriela Arroyo-Grynbal, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Gabriela Arroyo-Grynbal
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Hello and welcome! I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) psychotherapist that is dedicated to creating an inclusive, authentic, and safe therapeutic experience. Therapy with me focuses on collaborating with individuals and couples seeking to explore their current and past experiences, personal identity, and gain insight into what may no longer be serving them in order to cultivate growth and healing. In addition to working with individuals, I am passionate about collaborating with couples of all kinds to navigate the challenges of communication, stressors, intimacy, and differing experiences that show up in relationships.
Hello and welcome! I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) psychotherapist that is dedicated to creating an inclusive, authentic, and safe therapeutic experience. Therapy with me focuses on collaborating with individuals and couples seeking to explore their current and past experiences, personal identity, and gain insight into what may no longer be serving them in order to cultivate growth and healing. In addition to working with individuals, I am passionate about collaborating with couples of all kinds to navigate the challenges of communication, stressors, intimacy, and differing experiences that show up in relationships.
(628) 267-3448 View (628) 267-3448
Photo of Celine Williams Thea Integrative Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Celine Williams Thea Integrative Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
You have the power to harness your unique experiences and strengths to truly thrive, and I can show you how. Hi, my name is Celine, and I will support your in-depth self learning to embrace the joy of your individuality. Taking a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach, I will meet you in your stage of healing to empower you to integrate and understand your formative life experiences. If you feel that your lifestyle or mental health is not matching who you would like to become, I can guide you there. Together, we will make a plan to help you imagine and achieve your most Authentic Self and live a fulfilling life.
You have the power to harness your unique experiences and strengths to truly thrive, and I can show you how. Hi, my name is Celine, and I will support your in-depth self learning to embrace the joy of your individuality. Taking a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach, I will meet you in your stage of healing to empower you to integrate and understand your formative life experiences. If you feel that your lifestyle or mental health is not matching who you would like to become, I can guide you there. Together, we will make a plan to help you imagine and achieve your most Authentic Self and live a fulfilling life.
(925) 722-5853 View (925) 722-5853
Photo of Peggie Lee LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Peggie Lee LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
As a clinical social worker, I have an eclectic approach to treatment. I help you examine your life experience holistically. I walk beside you in treatment, support you in your endeavors, and cheer you on towards wellness. My therapeutic approach and compassion are rooted in my past work with the homeless population, foster youth, the severe and persistently mental ill, and survivors of rape, domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. After receiving an M.S.W. from the University of Southern California, I practiced in the Los Angeles and San Francisco area.
As a clinical social worker, I have an eclectic approach to treatment. I help you examine your life experience holistically. I walk beside you in treatment, support you in your endeavors, and cheer you on towards wellness. My therapeutic approach and compassion are rooted in my past work with the homeless population, foster youth, the severe and persistently mental ill, and survivors of rape, domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. After receiving an M.S.W. from the University of Southern California, I practiced in the Los Angeles and San Francisco area.
(415) 968-5418 View (415) 968-5418
Photo of Andria Marie Cremolini, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Andria Marie Cremolini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I specialize in working with preteens, teens and young adults with eating disorders, depression and mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and trauma. I am passionate about working with individuals who want to foster a greater sense of self compassion, to improve self worth and body image, or to work to develop more satisfying relationships with others. I work collaboratively and from a strength-based perspective to aide in the development of skills that allow you to live a full and more meaningful life. My therapeutic style is warm, engaging and respectful.
I specialize in working with preteens, teens and young adults with eating disorders, depression and mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and trauma. I am passionate about working with individuals who want to foster a greater sense of self compassion, to improve self worth and body image, or to work to develop more satisfying relationships with others. I work collaboratively and from a strength-based perspective to aide in the development of skills that allow you to live a full and more meaningful life. My therapeutic style is warm, engaging and respectful.
(925) 297-6627 View (925) 297-6627
Photo of Charlene Bianchi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Charlene Bianchi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
Are you dealing with high stress, grief, loss, trauma? Have you been experiencing anxiety, trouble sleeping, feeling depressed or overwhelmed? Would you like to gain control over the fear, anxiety, stress, or trauma? Would you like to develop strong coping skills to empower yourself & build confidence & self-esteem? Depression and PTSD don't always look the way described in media. If something feels off, you just don't feel like yourself, your mood has changed, energy is low, or you feel hopeless please reach out for a free consultation. We can create a customized treatment plan to address your specific areas of concern.
Are you dealing with high stress, grief, loss, trauma? Have you been experiencing anxiety, trouble sleeping, feeling depressed or overwhelmed? Would you like to gain control over the fear, anxiety, stress, or trauma? Would you like to develop strong coping skills to empower yourself & build confidence & self-esteem? Depression and PTSD don't always look the way described in media. If something feels off, you just don't feel like yourself, your mood has changed, energy is low, or you feel hopeless please reach out for a free consultation. We can create a customized treatment plan to address your specific areas of concern.
(925) 403-4780 View (925) 403-4780
Photo of Emily Bruce, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Emily Bruce
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
I offer psychotherapy to adults, teens (13+), families, and couples. My areas of focus include anxiety, stress, relationships, identity, parenting, and life transitions. Every person, couple, or family is unique - my commitment is to listen deeply as we explore your aspirations for your life and relationships. I am particularly passionate about working with young adults and diverse professionals.
I offer psychotherapy to adults, teens (13+), families, and couples. My areas of focus include anxiety, stress, relationships, identity, parenting, and life transitions. Every person, couple, or family is unique - my commitment is to listen deeply as we explore your aspirations for your life and relationships. I am particularly passionate about working with young adults and diverse professionals.
(925) 477-2724 View (925) 477-2724
Photo of Shohreh Schmuecker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Shohreh Schmuecker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549  (Online Only)
Often when we go through difficult points in our life, we may first try to think our way through it and rationalize. Or we may avoid thinking about it altogether, distracting ourselves. It can be hard to turn towards something that feels emotionally painful and sometimes it can feel overwhelming, especially when we feel we have to manage it on our own. The idea of seeing a therapist could feel intimidating because there could be beliefs around needing to push through internal defenses. I believe that defenses are important and are to be respected, they are what has helped us get here and are important tools to keep us feeling safe.
Often when we go through difficult points in our life, we may first try to think our way through it and rationalize. Or we may avoid thinking about it altogether, distracting ourselves. It can be hard to turn towards something that feels emotionally painful and sometimes it can feel overwhelming, especially when we feel we have to manage it on our own. The idea of seeing a therapist could feel intimidating because there could be beliefs around needing to push through internal defenses. I believe that defenses are important and are to be respected, they are what has helped us get here and are important tools to keep us feeling safe.
(925) 258-2834 View (925) 258-2834
Photo of Jocelyne Gardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Jocelyne Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
​​I specialize in supporting parents. I help clients who are coping with stressful circumstances such as a challenging or neurodivergent child, a serious medical diagnosis, divorce, co-parenting, infidelity, a career crisis or the loss of a loved one.
​​I specialize in supporting parents. I help clients who are coping with stressful circumstances such as a challenging or neurodivergent child, a serious medical diagnosis, divorce, co-parenting, infidelity, a career crisis or the loss of a loved one.
(510) 270-4090 View (510) 270-4090
Photo of Ros Wyatt, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Ros Wyatt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Are you struggling in your life right now?  Are you going through a challenging life transition, experiencing difficulties in your relationships, feeling anxious or depressed? You are very far from being alone.  There are times in our lives when we all need support and guidance, and seeking therapy shows both your courage and your desire to create change in your life.  I work to create a warm and welcoming environment and bring both empathy and humor to our collaboration. My aim is to create a trusting relationship where my clients feel safe and heard.
Are you struggling in your life right now?  Are you going through a challenging life transition, experiencing difficulties in your relationships, feeling anxious or depressed? You are very far from being alone.  There are times in our lives when we all need support and guidance, and seeking therapy shows both your courage and your desire to create change in your life.  I work to create a warm and welcoming environment and bring both empathy and humor to our collaboration. My aim is to create a trusting relationship where my clients feel safe and heard.
(925) 431-6279 View (925) 431-6279
Photo of Maria Viviana (Guerrero) Higbee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Maria Viviana (Guerrero) Higbee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Do you struggle with anxiety? Do intrusive thoughts and worries keep you up at night? Is low self-esteem holding you back from accomplishing your dreams? Do you long for deeper connections with your family and friends but struggle with opening up to them? You are not alone! Many individuals experience these challenges on a day-to-day basis. Have you ever considered counseling? As your therapist, I exist to provide you with a safe and judgement-free zone to ensure you are supported unconditionally. Together, we can take the journey to achieve your personal freedom.
Do you struggle with anxiety? Do intrusive thoughts and worries keep you up at night? Is low self-esteem holding you back from accomplishing your dreams? Do you long for deeper connections with your family and friends but struggle with opening up to them? You are not alone! Many individuals experience these challenges on a day-to-day basis. Have you ever considered counseling? As your therapist, I exist to provide you with a safe and judgement-free zone to ensure you are supported unconditionally. Together, we can take the journey to achieve your personal freedom.
(925) 515-2675 View (925) 515-2675
Photo of Georgie Abel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Georgie Abel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549  (Online Only)
Trauma and other difficult experiences can impact the way we view our relationships, the world, and ourselves. I support clients in processing traumatic experiences, identifying triggers, and reclaiming their sense of safety and joy. I work with teens, adults, couples/relationships, and families of all kinds. I welcome and affirm non-traditional family structures (donor, adoption, foster, blended families), members of LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergent individuals, and people who have had negative experiences with therapy in the past.
Trauma and other difficult experiences can impact the way we view our relationships, the world, and ourselves. I support clients in processing traumatic experiences, identifying triggers, and reclaiming their sense of safety and joy. I work with teens, adults, couples/relationships, and families of all kinds. I welcome and affirm non-traditional family structures (donor, adoption, foster, blended families), members of LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergent individuals, and people who have had negative experiences with therapy in the past.
(925) 386-6317 View (925) 386-6317
Photo of Sharon Flynn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Sharon Flynn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Thanks for choosing to learn more about my practice. It is my hope that together we can work on healing old wounds and achieving peace and fulfillment. Areas of specific interest: empowering young adults in their identities as they move toward independence from their family of origin; helping clients to improve communication, increase connection, and strengthen boundaries where needed in their relationships; and working with parents to better understand and address the feelings/unmet needs behind a child's behaviors and helping parents to prepare for their child's emerging independence and the eventual "empty nest."
Thanks for choosing to learn more about my practice. It is my hope that together we can work on healing old wounds and achieving peace and fulfillment. Areas of specific interest: empowering young adults in their identities as they move toward independence from their family of origin; helping clients to improve communication, increase connection, and strengthen boundaries where needed in their relationships; and working with parents to better understand and address the feelings/unmet needs behind a child's behaviors and helping parents to prepare for their child's emerging independence and the eventual "empty nest."
(925) 298-4583 View (925) 298-4583
Photo of Teri 'sachi' Swanberg, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Teri 'sachi' Swanberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
My belief is everything is interconnected. When we hurt in one area of our lives, often times the other areas hurt with it. As simple as it may sound, sometimes feeling our feelings can be hard work. Truly understanding and being honest with authentic selves can be challenging and sometimes scary. No one should have to do this alone. Together, we can deeply listen and nurture your authentic self to help you heal and grow. We are not just talking together, we are experiencing. To learn more, visit my website at: nakaimatherapy.com
My belief is everything is interconnected. When we hurt in one area of our lives, often times the other areas hurt with it. As simple as it may sound, sometimes feeling our feelings can be hard work. Truly understanding and being honest with authentic selves can be challenging and sometimes scary. No one should have to do this alone. Together, we can deeply listen and nurture your authentic self to help you heal and grow. We are not just talking together, we are experiencing. To learn more, visit my website at: nakaimatherapy.com
(415) 496-0915 View (415) 496-0915
Photo of Katie Malone, TheraThrive Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Katie Malone, TheraThrive Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Do you, or your child, struggle with intense emotions? Do either of you spend time feeling alone and searching for meaning? Maybe you find it difficult to increase your sense of self-worth, and wonder what to do? If any of these questions resonate with you, then you have come to the right place. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (99859) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (4606), and I genuinely enjoy and feel honored to work with each of my clients, and provide them with the support they need to meet their goals.
Do you, or your child, struggle with intense emotions? Do either of you spend time feeling alone and searching for meaning? Maybe you find it difficult to increase your sense of self-worth, and wonder what to do? If any of these questions resonate with you, then you have come to the right place. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (99859) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (4606), and I genuinely enjoy and feel honored to work with each of my clients, and provide them with the support they need to meet their goals.
(925) 966-2577 x2 View (925) 966-2577 x2
Culturally Sensitive Therapists

How does culturally sensitive therapy work?

A culturally sensitive therapist will tailor their approach to therapy based on the individual client’s background. This may include changing their style of interaction (asking open-ended questions vs. being the “expert” voice), their affect (seeming warm or “neutral”), how much personal information they disclose about themselves, and more. It’s also important for a culturally sensitive therapist to acknowledge larger societal forces that may impact their client due to the client’s background.

How effective is culturally sensitive therapy?

Some professionals have expressed concern about highlighting cultural differences in therapy, suggesting that it might promote stereotypes and harm the therapeutic bond; however, many experts agree that cultural sensitivity tends to strengthen the connection between therapist and client and help clients feel heard and understood. A culturally sensitive approach to therapy can be especially helpful for those not in the cultural majority, especially when combined with proven therapies like Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

What are the limitations of a culturally sensitive approach to therapy?

While being culturally sensitive is generally a valuable skill to have, a therapist cannot treat every client from a similar background the same way. Each client is an individual with their own values, personal preferences, and life experiences that will need to be explored during therapy. In addition, it’s rare for a therapist and client to have identical backgrounds, so there may be some cross-cultural differences to navigate during therapy, but a culturally sensitive therapist can do so with empathy and respect.

Can culturally sensitive therapy be done online?

Yes, online therapy using a culturally sensitive approach can be beneficial. Therapy can sometimes be difficult to access for clients from diverse backgrounds and socioeconomic standing. The array of mental health support available through the internet makes it possible for clients to find a good therapist match regardless of where they live.