Photo of Mekdes Yilma, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Mekdes Yilma
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
As Audre Lord said, "Self-care is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation." Hello, I'm Mekdes! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working out of Fresno, CA. Deciding to seek counseling services is a huge step. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, or parenting challenges, participating in therapy can give you the boost that you need to start living your best life again! As a therapist, I consider it a privilege to be allowed to walk alongside you on your journey of healing.
As Audre Lord said, "Self-care is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation." Hello, I'm Mekdes! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working out of Fresno, CA. Deciding to seek counseling services is a huge step. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, or parenting challenges, participating in therapy can give you the boost that you need to start living your best life again! As a therapist, I consider it a privilege to be allowed to walk alongside you on your journey of healing.
(510) 480-3651 View (510) 480-3651
Photo of The Clinic Without Walls, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oakland, CA
The Clinic Without Walls
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
The Clinic Without Walls (TCWOW) offers FREE SERVICES to Bay Area residents. Our clinic provides a wide range of psychological services including individual, couple, family, and group therapy. We work with children, adults, and families. The clinic aims to increase clients' capacity to identify mental health needs and to access services through which they will be respected and effectively treated.The clinic is oriented to serving the needs of diverse populations and particularly those people historically discriminated against on the basis of race, sexual orientation, economic status, and other socio-cultural factors.
The Clinic Without Walls (TCWOW) offers FREE SERVICES to Bay Area residents. Our clinic provides a wide range of psychological services including individual, couple, family, and group therapy. We work with children, adults, and families. The clinic aims to increase clients' capacity to identify mental health needs and to access services through which they will be respected and effectively treated.The clinic is oriented to serving the needs of diverse populations and particularly those people historically discriminated against on the basis of race, sexual orientation, economic status, and other socio-cultural factors.
(415) 325-2763 View (415) 325-2763
Photo of Gioia Schuler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Gioia Schuler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) Marriage and Family Therapist with four years of experience treating cultural diversity issues. I believe every individual is unique and finding the strength to defend that uniqueness is my goal as a clinician. Many times, we find ourselves dwelling in a place of discomfort because we are in transit, in a new position, a new career, a new family or a new country. We are living constantly transitioning from one culture to another one, through life phases, starting new traditions. My goal is helping you to succeed in your own special journey.
I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) Marriage and Family Therapist with four years of experience treating cultural diversity issues. I believe every individual is unique and finding the strength to defend that uniqueness is my goal as a clinician. Many times, we find ourselves dwelling in a place of discomfort because we are in transit, in a new position, a new career, a new family or a new country. We are living constantly transitioning from one culture to another one, through life phases, starting new traditions. My goal is helping you to succeed in your own special journey.
(510) 726-6246 View (510) 726-6246
Photo of Laura (Lo) Wesely, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Laura (Lo) Wesely
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Whether sitting with individuals or partners, I am here to remind you of what you already know but might have forgotten: you are enough. Many clients find their way to me because they want to work through challenges related to their identity, acculturation, sexuality, gender expression, relationship formation, and early traumas. My identities as a queer, non-monogamous, sex- and kink-positive, immigrant woman tend to attract potential clients who share some of these positionalities.
Whether sitting with individuals or partners, I am here to remind you of what you already know but might have forgotten: you are enough. Many clients find their way to me because they want to work through challenges related to their identity, acculturation, sexuality, gender expression, relationship formation, and early traumas. My identities as a queer, non-monogamous, sex- and kink-positive, immigrant woman tend to attract potential clients who share some of these positionalities.
(510) 462-3503 View (510) 462-3503
Photo of Neda Nguyen Baraghani, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Neda Nguyen Baraghani
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with those who struggle with relationships and boundary setting, and clients who struggle with balancing differing sets of expectations due to cultural, physical, or mental factors. I also work with couples from differing backgrounds to deepen mutual understanding and couples struggling through a difficult phase in their relationship looking to increase communication and understanding. I work well with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, immigrant and first and second generation individuals and families, mixed race or multicultural individuals, and those who are struggling with chronic illness.
I am passionate about working with those who struggle with relationships and boundary setting, and clients who struggle with balancing differing sets of expectations due to cultural, physical, or mental factors. I also work with couples from differing backgrounds to deepen mutual understanding and couples struggling through a difficult phase in their relationship looking to increase communication and understanding. I work well with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, immigrant and first and second generation individuals and families, mixed race or multicultural individuals, and those who are struggling with chronic illness.
(510) 800-2874 View (510) 800-2874
Photo of Roksana Sarrafan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Roksana Sarrafan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
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!
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
Gaylesta, Psych Assn for Gender & Sexual Diversity
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, LMFT, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
WELCOME to Gaylesta: The Psychotherapist Association for Gender and Sexual Diversity. Our members provide mental health services including therapist referrals, education, and consultation. We offer a wide range of specializations, allowing us to serve as a unique resource both the LGBTQ communities and to other service providers. Explore our site to find a therapist, learn more about us, or become a valued member.
WELCOME to Gaylesta: The Psychotherapist Association for Gender and Sexual Diversity. Our members provide mental health services including therapist referrals, education, and consultation. We offer a wide range of specializations, allowing us to serve as a unique resource both the LGBTQ communities and to other service providers. Explore our site to find a therapist, learn more about us, or become a valued member.
Photo of Family & Children's Counseling Services, Inc in Oakland, CA
Family & Children's Counseling Services, Inc
LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
Life sometimes throws us unexpected problems, losses, and other hurts. It is essential to have a solid support system to help us through the hard times. Family & Children's Counseling Services (FCCS) wants to be that support system for you and your family as you find healing and a restored sense of hope for the future.
Life sometimes throws us unexpected problems, losses, and other hurts. It is essential to have a solid support system to help us through the hard times. Family & Children's Counseling Services (FCCS) wants to be that support system for you and your family as you find healing and a restored sense of hope for the future.
(858) 247-3839 View (858) 247-3839

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Julia Mendoza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Julia Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Hello I'm Julia Mendoza, a therapist providing therapy throughout the state of California. I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas. I truly enjoy helping others and I have been told that I am funny, genuine, open-minded, and a good listener. Se habla Español!
Hello I'm Julia Mendoza, a therapist providing therapy throughout the state of California. I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas. I truly enjoy helping others and I have been told that I am funny, genuine, open-minded, and a good listener. Se habla Español!
(951) 438-7873 View (951) 438-7873
Photo of Zabreen Shaikh, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Zabreen Shaikh
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
Hello! My clientele typically consists of BIPOC individuals, couples, and families holding multicultural identities (first gen, bilingual, spiritual, etc.). My areas of focus include supporting my diverse clients through life transitions (break ups, marriage, moving cross country, career changes), depression and anxiety, relationship and attachment issues, burnout, grief/loss, and more. Regardless of the circumstances bringing you to therapy, I ensure culturally informed counseling honoring the relationship between your mental health concerns and cultural background.
Hello! My clientele typically consists of BIPOC individuals, couples, and families holding multicultural identities (first gen, bilingual, spiritual, etc.). My areas of focus include supporting my diverse clients through life transitions (break ups, marriage, moving cross country, career changes), depression and anxiety, relationship and attachment issues, burnout, grief/loss, and more. Regardless of the circumstances bringing you to therapy, I ensure culturally informed counseling honoring the relationship between your mental health concerns and cultural background.
(858) 786-0659 View (858) 786-0659
Photo of Sara Cadalig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sara Cadalig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707
Thank you for visiting my site. This is your first step towards your journey to healing. My specialty areas are in trauma, anxiety, and grief/loss. Life can present challenges and create roadblocks to your growth and success. You deserve to thrive and I would be honored to work in collaboration with you on your journey of healing and rediscovering your full potential. I provide a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment. My therapeutic style can be best described as empathetic, interactive, infusing scientific wisdom, curiosity, and clinical intuition.
Thank you for visiting my site. This is your first step towards your journey to healing. My specialty areas are in trauma, anxiety, and grief/loss. Life can present challenges and create roadblocks to your growth and success. You deserve to thrive and I would be honored to work in collaboration with you on your journey of healing and rediscovering your full potential. I provide a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment. My therapeutic style can be best described as empathetic, interactive, infusing scientific wisdom, curiosity, and clinical intuition.
(209) 783-3037 View (209) 783-3037
Photo of Arwin Cotas-Girard, PsyD, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Arwin Cotas-Girard, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in child and adolescent therapy and comprehensive psychological assessment services for all ages. I also specialize in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly for girls and women. I am trained in Therapeutic Assessments and consider my evaluations to be brief therapeutic interventions that may allow healing and change to occur through the process of self-discovery and reworking of narratives. I work collaboratively with my clients, their caregivers, and other important people and systems in their lives to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in child and adolescent therapy and comprehensive psychological assessment services for all ages. I also specialize in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly for girls and women. I am trained in Therapeutic Assessments and consider my evaluations to be brief therapeutic interventions that may allow healing and change to occur through the process of self-discovery and reworking of narratives. I work collaboratively with my clients, their caregivers, and other important people and systems in their lives to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
(925) 212-4757 View (925) 212-4757
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Counselor in Oakland, CA
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(562) 685-9636 View (562) 685-9636

Online Therapists

Photo of Alicia M Foronda, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Alicia M Foronda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Invest in yourself and your loved ones; therapy is not just a mental health treatment sought when we are suffering from mental distress, or unable to conduct life as wanted. Therapy is also a self discovery process to get a greater and deeper knowledge about ourselves, which will allow to make better choices and become the person that we have wished. Having someone to accompany you in this path, with a professional perspective, non-judgmental listening and accurate interventions, will allow you to cope with painful circumstances, significant life changes / transitions, as well with symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD and others.
Invest in yourself and your loved ones; therapy is not just a mental health treatment sought when we are suffering from mental distress, or unable to conduct life as wanted. Therapy is also a self discovery process to get a greater and deeper knowledge about ourselves, which will allow to make better choices and become the person that we have wished. Having someone to accompany you in this path, with a professional perspective, non-judgmental listening and accurate interventions, will allow you to cope with painful circumstances, significant life changes / transitions, as well with symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD and others.
(831) 704-8692 View (831) 704-8692
Photo of Reshma H Lancaster, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Reshma H Lancaster
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gilroy, CA 95020
I am driven to help you lead the life you are yearning for. Many of us can feel stuck and overwhelmed with life’s challenges but you are not alone in your journey to making a healthy change. I have over 7 years of experience working with children, teens, families, couples, and adult individuals in reaching their mental health goals. I help people overcome their fears, manage anxiety, cope with depression, and improve their relationships with others. I am a strengths-based therapist who believes in meeting each client where they are and individualizing treatment to meet everyone’s unique needs.
I am driven to help you lead the life you are yearning for. Many of us can feel stuck and overwhelmed with life’s challenges but you are not alone in your journey to making a healthy change. I have over 7 years of experience working with children, teens, families, couples, and adult individuals in reaching their mental health goals. I help people overcome their fears, manage anxiety, cope with depression, and improve their relationships with others. I am a strengths-based therapist who believes in meeting each client where they are and individualizing treatment to meet everyone’s unique needs.
(408) 665-7796 View (408) 665-7796
Photo of Francesca Harper, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Francesca Harper
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC, PPSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (Online Only)
If you’re seeking support for trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem struggles, or issues with self-worth, please know you don’t have to face them alone. I’m here to walk with you on your path to healing. You’ll have a safe space in counseling to process your experiences openly and to foster healing and growth. Together, we’ll face your challenges by exploring your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to uncover the roots of your concerns. I utilize strength-based treatment approaches like CBT and mindfulness. My role is to support, empower, and guide you each step of the way.
If you’re seeking support for trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem struggles, or issues with self-worth, please know you don’t have to face them alone. I’m here to walk with you on your path to healing. You’ll have a safe space in counseling to process your experiences openly and to foster healing and growth. Together, we’ll face your challenges by exploring your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to uncover the roots of your concerns. I utilize strength-based treatment approaches like CBT and mindfulness. My role is to support, empower, and guide you each step of the way.
(408) 549-8595 View (408) 549-8595
Photo of Jill Page, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jill Page
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yuba City, CA 95993  (Online Only)
If you've found yourself here, congratulations on taking the first step; It can be a hard one! Simply put, life isn't always easy or maybe it was never easy. Depression, anxiety, mood swings, trauma, childhood attachments, learning difficulties, grief, stress- these and more can get in the way of life satisfaction. The good news is you can learn ways to manage and overcome mental health symptoms and improve your wellbeing.
If you've found yourself here, congratulations on taking the first step; It can be a hard one! Simply put, life isn't always easy or maybe it was never easy. Depression, anxiety, mood swings, trauma, childhood attachments, learning difficulties, grief, stress- these and more can get in the way of life satisfaction. The good news is you can learn ways to manage and overcome mental health symptoms and improve your wellbeing.
(530) 212-7189 View (530) 212-7189
Photo of Brenda Fellows in Oakland, CA
Brenda Fellows
PhD
Verified Verified
Foster City, CA 94404
As a veteran mental health provider and life strategist, I offer many holistic counseling modalities in various settings: home, workplace, school, university, community. Behavior modification and other treatment approaches have been highly successful for those suffering from depression, anxiety, anger, emotional regulation, weight management challenges. Together we explore underlying issues fueling your irrational thoughts and dysfunctional behaviors- keeping you stuck. When applicable, I provide Solution-Focused Therapy by negotiating goals for sustainability; both short and long-term. As an EAP provider I offer organizational consultation in numerous areas: individual, group behavior, leadership, conflict, communication, emotional intelligence, time, stress, anger management, etc. Psychological Testing and Evaluation.
As a veteran mental health provider and life strategist, I offer many holistic counseling modalities in various settings: home, workplace, school, university, community. Behavior modification and other treatment approaches have been highly successful for those suffering from depression, anxiety, anger, emotional regulation, weight management challenges. Together we explore underlying issues fueling your irrational thoughts and dysfunctional behaviors- keeping you stuck. When applicable, I provide Solution-Focused Therapy by negotiating goals for sustainability; both short and long-term. As an EAP provider I offer organizational consultation in numerous areas: individual, group behavior, leadership, conflict, communication, emotional intelligence, time, stress, anger management, etc. Psychological Testing and Evaluation.
(650) 489-0417 View (650) 489-0417
Kristen Rouse Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fremont, CA 94538
Practices empowerment and the healing arts of psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and groups. Experienced in supporting parenthood through fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, parenting education, coaching, and support. Treats multiple and co-occurring disorders. Experienced in supporting mood disorders and symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and compulsions. Trauma specialist. Grief and loss. Experienced treating first responders. Provides LGBTQIA safe and affirming space and is experienced and trained in transgender and non-heteronormative support. Works to strengthen families and partners with their goals and values.
Practices empowerment and the healing arts of psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and groups. Experienced in supporting parenthood through fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, parenting education, coaching, and support. Treats multiple and co-occurring disorders. Experienced in supporting mood disorders and symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and compulsions. Trauma specialist. Grief and loss. Experienced treating first responders. Provides LGBTQIA safe and affirming space and is experienced and trained in transgender and non-heteronormative support. Works to strengthen families and partners with their goals and values.
(510) 519-3493 View (510) 519-3493
Photo of Ting-Yi Huang, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Ting-Yi Huang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
*Virtual Sessions Available* Does your kid or teenager often say NO, I DON’T CARE, or YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND. You see them struggling with anxiety and depression, or risky behaviors such as using drugs, and don’t know what to do. You might also have gifted children or teenagers who are struggling with perfectionism-obsession-procrastination (POP). Are you high functioning and having a stable job but yet have symptoms, feelings, and behaviors that are difficult to explain in the context of your life experiences? Are you often in a relational pattern where you do things out of fear, obligation, and guilt (FOG)?
*Virtual Sessions Available* Does your kid or teenager often say NO, I DON’T CARE, or YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND. You see them struggling with anxiety and depression, or risky behaviors such as using drugs, and don’t know what to do. You might also have gifted children or teenagers who are struggling with perfectionism-obsession-procrastination (POP). Are you high functioning and having a stable job but yet have symptoms, feelings, and behaviors that are difficult to explain in the context of your life experiences? Are you often in a relational pattern where you do things out of fear, obligation, and guilt (FOG)?
(650) 581-9104 View (650) 581-9104
Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.