Family Therapy in Oakland, CA

Photo of Cathy A Thompson, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Cathy A Thompson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with folks who need support in managing a wide variety of issues from self-esteem and identity concerns to the stress of dealing with multiple roles, relationships, and life demands (as students, partners, friends, parents, new professionals, family members, community activists, etc.) My clinical interests include multicultural and women's issues, racial/ethnic identity development (especially among biracial/multi-racial/ethnic/cultural individuals), sexual and gender identity development, adjustment and transition issues, and building healthy relationships through assertive communication and positive self-esteem.
I enjoy working with folks who need support in managing a wide variety of issues from self-esteem and identity concerns to the stress of dealing with multiple roles, relationships, and life demands (as students, partners, friends, parents, new professionals, family members, community activists, etc.) My clinical interests include multicultural and women's issues, racial/ethnic identity development (especially among biracial/multi-racial/ethnic/cultural individuals), sexual and gender identity development, adjustment and transition issues, and building healthy relationships through assertive communication and positive self-esteem.
(858) 925-5901 View (858) 925-5901
Photo of Jessica Cerda, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Jessica Cerda
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
In my therapeutic practice, I seek to truly understand and validate my clients’ experiences. No two people or life experiences are the same and by continuously remaining curious about my clients’ experiences, it’s amazing how far back we can uncover unhealed trauma, history and patterns. I often approach therapy through a Family Systems perspective, which allows us to dig beyond the self and analyze how our family of origin, relationships and/or intergenerational patterns influence how we have come to understand the world and our behaviors. I also enjoy utilizing interventions based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Inte
In my therapeutic practice, I seek to truly understand and validate my clients’ experiences. No two people or life experiences are the same and by continuously remaining curious about my clients’ experiences, it’s amazing how far back we can uncover unhealed trauma, history and patterns. I often approach therapy through a Family Systems perspective, which allows us to dig beyond the self and analyze how our family of origin, relationships and/or intergenerational patterns influence how we have come to understand the world and our behaviors. I also enjoy utilizing interventions based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Inte
(415) 855-9722 View (415) 855-9722
Photo of Sanford H Pearlman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sanford H Pearlman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
My work is to help individuals, couples, and families with any issues that may be causing distress. I'm open to working with anyone or any couple or family that is interested in a deeper exploration of who they are and how they are in the world. I work with people with anxiety, depression, trauma, and anything that may be causing difficulties in your relationships and in your life. I will take many different approaches in sessions based on your needs in the moment. My goal is your independence, self-sufficiency and self-acceptance.
My work is to help individuals, couples, and families with any issues that may be causing distress. I'm open to working with anyone or any couple or family that is interested in a deeper exploration of who they are and how they are in the world. I work with people with anxiety, depression, trauma, and anything that may be causing difficulties in your relationships and in your life. I will take many different approaches in sessions based on your needs in the moment. My goal is your independence, self-sufficiency and self-acceptance.
(510) 201-5231 View (510) 201-5231
Photo of Dave Kalloor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Dave Kalloor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Dave :) I want to help you feel more connected with yourself and those around you. I'm an Indian-American therapist skilled in helping people move through trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship/family concerns, and school/career issues.
Hi, I'm Dave :) I want to help you feel more connected with yourself and those around you. I'm an Indian-American therapist skilled in helping people move through trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship/family concerns, and school/career issues.
(510) 726-6748 View (510) 726-6748
Photo of Rachel Boyes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Rachel Boyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Hello, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who supports my clients in discovering and achieving what they most want in life. As we begin to look more deeply at who we are, we can move toward a life that has increased balance and fulfillment. Many of us suffer in our relationships, careers and internal worlds due to a lack of awareness of the ways in which our past wounds impact current choices and ways of interacting with others. By taking a deeper look at these processes, problematic belief systems can begin to change.
Hello, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who supports my clients in discovering and achieving what they most want in life. As we begin to look more deeply at who we are, we can move toward a life that has increased balance and fulfillment. Many of us suffer in our relationships, careers and internal worlds due to a lack of awareness of the ways in which our past wounds impact current choices and ways of interacting with others. By taking a deeper look at these processes, problematic belief systems can begin to change.
(510) 319-0136 View (510) 319-0136
Photo of Sita G Patel, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Sita G Patel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist in California since 2010. Using an authentic and direct approach, I treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, interpersonal and family challenges, and trauma. I work collaboratively with clients to develop collaborative therapy goals, track progress, build ongoing coping skills, and deepen emotional insight. In sessions, my approach is client-centered, warm, and culturally-sensitive.
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist in California since 2010. Using an authentic and direct approach, I treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, interpersonal and family challenges, and trauma. I work collaboratively with clients to develop collaborative therapy goals, track progress, build ongoing coping skills, and deepen emotional insight. In sessions, my approach is client-centered, warm, and culturally-sensitive.
(510) 288-5165 View (510) 288-5165
Photo of David Cushman, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
David Cushman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I see humor, honesty and directness as essential to therapy with any age group/family constellation, bringing these aspects of myself into my work with you or your child.
In a society that expects us to be constantly producing, connecting, and consuming, it is hard to take stock of the inherent complexities in our everyday lives, whether we are children, teens or adults. I see my role as creating a space for pause, reflection and calibration. I pay attention to themes that emerge from discussions we have, tracing the influences of past experiences to present decisions and emotions, helping to connect interactions in the therapy room to problems that emerge outside the therapy room.
I see humor, honesty and directness as essential to therapy with any age group/family constellation, bringing these aspects of myself into my work with you or your child.
In a society that expects us to be constantly producing, connecting, and consuming, it is hard to take stock of the inherent complexities in our everyday lives, whether we are children, teens or adults. I see my role as creating a space for pause, reflection and calibration. I pay attention to themes that emerge from discussions we have, tracing the influences of past experiences to present decisions and emotions, helping to connect interactions in the therapy room to problems that emerge outside the therapy room.
(415) 841-2481 View (415) 841-2481
Photo of Ahmed K Jibril, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Ahmed K Jibril
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
I am trained to listen deeply, assess the cause of symptoms, and assist in developing strategies to reduce suffering. I have experience helping people cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic health issues, acculturation/adaptation issues, and couple/family relationship problems.
I am trained to listen deeply, assess the cause of symptoms, and assist in developing strategies to reduce suffering. I have experience helping people cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic health issues, acculturation/adaptation issues, and couple/family relationship problems.
(510) 269-0424 View (510) 269-0424
Photo of Stacy Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Stacy Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
I also specialize in working with people dealing with infertility and alternative family building as well as women experiencing prenatal and postpartum anxiety and depression.
I strongly believe that all of us are capable of connecting to an experience of profound well being, whatever the circumstances of our lives may be. My goal in therapy is to help you access that state within yourself. I aim to help you recognize and accept the many layers of your experience and to support you in acting skillfully and authentically in the world. My first priority is to create an atmosphere of safety and trust so that you are able to freely explore your challenges, concerns and desires. After we understand your difficulties, we can collaborate to create the desired change and growth.
I also specialize in working with people dealing with infertility and alternative family building as well as women experiencing prenatal and postpartum anxiety and depression.
I strongly believe that all of us are capable of connecting to an experience of profound well being, whatever the circumstances of our lives may be. My goal in therapy is to help you access that state within yourself. I aim to help you recognize and accept the many layers of your experience and to support you in acting skillfully and authentically in the world. My first priority is to create an atmosphere of safety and trust so that you are able to freely explore your challenges, concerns and desires. After we understand your difficulties, we can collaborate to create the desired change and growth.
(510) 500-9857 View (510) 500-9857
Photo of Suzette Yap Brillantes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Suzette Yap Brillantes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Are you grappling with heightened feelings of anxiety and depression as a parent or caregiver? Recognize that unresolved issues such, as generational trauma; and relational challenges may be impacting your ability to be fully present for your family.
Are you grappling with heightened feelings of anxiety and depression as a parent or caregiver? Recognize that unresolved issues such, as generational trauma; and relational challenges may be impacting your ability to be fully present for your family.
(510) 949-5510 View (510) 949-5510
Photo of Zonya Johnson, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Zonya Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I have worked as a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist for over 25 years. I work with individuals and couples with a broad range of psychological and relationship problems. I very much enjoy the sociocultural diversity of the Bay Area and my psychotherapy practice reflects this diversity. Helping people maximize their individual potential is a never-ending source of satisfaction. I have special interests in relationship issues, women's issues, cultural concerns, and health-related problems. I also enjoy helping people find a balance between the demands of work, self, spirit and family.
I have worked as a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist for over 25 years. I work with individuals and couples with a broad range of psychological and relationship problems. I very much enjoy the sociocultural diversity of the Bay Area and my psychotherapy practice reflects this diversity. Helping people maximize their individual potential is a never-ending source of satisfaction. I have special interests in relationship issues, women's issues, cultural concerns, and health-related problems. I also enjoy helping people find a balance between the demands of work, self, spirit and family.
(925) 238-8809 View (925) 238-8809
Photo of Tecsia Evans, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Tecsia Evans
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Seeking individual, couples or family therapy, Christian counseling, leadership or business coaching? Your Therapy Now is here to help you reach your goals.
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.
Seeking individual, couples or family therapy, Christian counseling, leadership or business coaching? Your Therapy Now is here to help you reach your goals.
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 Catherine Morelix, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Catherine Morelix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94607  (Online Only)
My experience of growing up in the military, being a mother, and living in a multicultural family informs my work on connecting with others during times of turbulent change.
Do you struggle to feel safe and secure in relationships? Do shame, guilt, and anxiety cause you to avoid talking about your own needs? Trauma from our past can affect how we relate to others. My approach is to build a warm, peaceful, shame free space for people to share their story and discover in creative ways to heal the hurt that they carry. I support people as they open doors of their hearts with compassion and care. Whether you are coming to therapy as an individual or a couple, I work to build up your inner resources and hope for your future.
My experience of growing up in the military, being a mother, and living in a multicultural family informs my work on connecting with others during times of turbulent change.
Do you struggle to feel safe and secure in relationships? Do shame, guilt, and anxiety cause you to avoid talking about your own needs? Trauma from our past can affect how we relate to others. My approach is to build a warm, peaceful, shame free space for people to share their story and discover in creative ways to heal the hurt that they carry. I support people as they open doors of their hearts with compassion and care. Whether you are coming to therapy as an individual or a couple, I work to build up your inner resources and hope for your future.
(415) 329-7865 View (415) 329-7865
Photo of Melody Maldonado, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Melody Maldonado
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
I am passionate about providing trauma-informed and dynamic treatment to folx who may feel unwelcome in their communities due to both internal and external perceptions of their identity. My passion is working with queer folx of color to foster a healing and reparative experience to discover and be empowered in your authentic self. Whether you're looking for a space of your own, for you and your partner(s) or chosen family, our work together can allow for deeper understanding, openness and communication.
I am passionate about providing trauma-informed and dynamic treatment to folx who may feel unwelcome in their communities due to both internal and external perceptions of their identity. My passion is working with queer folx of color to foster a healing and reparative experience to discover and be empowered in your authentic self. Whether you're looking for a space of your own, for you and your partner(s) or chosen family, our work together can allow for deeper understanding, openness and communication.
(510) 930-3544 View (510) 930-3544
Photo of Dr. Vernita Marsh & Associates, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Dr. Vernita Marsh & Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
We provide couples therapy (including pre-marital counseling), family therapy (both adult families and adult & child families), individual therapy, adolescent, child therapy and massage therapy.
Dr. Vernita Marsh & Associates is a holistic and psychotherapy practice. You will find our practice to be a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our staff is well trained and effective proven strategies. We incorporate a multi ethnic as well as mind, body, and spiritual perspectives in addressing your concerns. We are committed to supporting you to recognize your dreams and living your life to the fullest. If you're feeling stuck or trapped in any way, we have expertise in assessing and helping you to identify what's contributing to you being stuck and offering coping strategies to help you becoming free.
We provide couples therapy (including pre-marital counseling), family therapy (both adult families and adult & child families), individual therapy, adolescent, child therapy and massage therapy.
Dr. Vernita Marsh & Associates is a holistic and psychotherapy practice. You will find our practice to be a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our staff is well trained and effective proven strategies. We incorporate a multi ethnic as well as mind, body, and spiritual perspectives in addressing your concerns. We are committed to supporting you to recognize your dreams and living your life to the fullest. If you're feeling stuck or trapped in any way, we have expertise in assessing and helping you to identify what's contributing to you being stuck and offering coping strategies to help you becoming free.
(510) 808-6296 View (510) 808-6296
Photo of Holistic Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Holistic Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
​ Holistic Family Therapy serves families who seek stronger connections, effective communication and reduced chaos. I am primarily a DBT therapist and workwith families, and older adolescents.
​ Holistic Family Therapy serves families who seek stronger connections, effective communication and reduced chaos. I am primarily a DBT therapist and workwith families, and older adolescents.
(510) 851-9595 View (510) 851-9595
Photo of Sara Bisikirski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sara Bisikirski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
With 20 years of experience, I work with individual adults, adolescents and couples from a trauma-informed model that integrates DBT, psychodynamic, family systems and Mindful Self-Compassion perspectives. Through therapy I can help you to achieve your goals, develop an increased understanding of yourself and build new ways of coping with life’s challenges. As a Certified Mediator with a background in divorce mediation I can lend informed support to those struggling with divorce-related challenges. Furthermore as a transracially adoptive mom of two I hold a strong interest in helping others navigate the world of parenting.
With 20 years of experience, I work with individual adults, adolescents and couples from a trauma-informed model that integrates DBT, psychodynamic, family systems and Mindful Self-Compassion perspectives. Through therapy I can help you to achieve your goals, develop an increased understanding of yourself and build new ways of coping with life’s challenges. As a Certified Mediator with a background in divorce mediation I can lend informed support to those struggling with divorce-related challenges. Furthermore as a transracially adoptive mom of two I hold a strong interest in helping others navigate the world of parenting.
(510) 880-1983 View (510) 880-1983
Photo of Jonathan Willett, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jonathan Willett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I have worked with a wide diversity of clients including people experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, thought disorders, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress, marriage and family issues, and difficult life changes.
I work to build a warm, empathic relationship with my clients to create an environment where we can think together about the issues that bring you to therapy and how best to resolve them. I am informed by psychodynamic theory and utilize this rich tradition to explore unconscious defenses, maladaptive patterns and underlying schemas that can cause a person to repeat problematic behaviors despite their best efforts to change. I also draw from Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfullness practices to support clients with acquiring the tools they need to make those changes.
I have worked with a wide diversity of clients including people experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, thought disorders, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress, marriage and family issues, and difficult life changes.
I work to build a warm, empathic relationship with my clients to create an environment where we can think together about the issues that bring you to therapy and how best to resolve them. I am informed by psychodynamic theory and utilize this rich tradition to explore unconscious defenses, maladaptive patterns and underlying schemas that can cause a person to repeat problematic behaviors despite their best efforts to change. I also draw from Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfullness practices to support clients with acquiring the tools they need to make those changes.
(510) 661-3584 View (510) 661-3584
Photo of Leah Oliver, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Leah Oliver
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
I work with a diverse clientele and specialize in providing culturally responsive and identity-affirming psychotherapy. The clients I work with often identify as first-gen students, artists, performers, educators, and professionals, as well as those who have experienced trauma in relationships or who have a history of family cycles of addiction and drug use. I use a relational-psychodynamic and liberatory approach to therapy; incorporating mindfulness techniques that support you to build awareness of what is happening between your mind and body.
I work with a diverse clientele and specialize in providing culturally responsive and identity-affirming psychotherapy. The clients I work with often identify as first-gen students, artists, performers, educators, and professionals, as well as those who have experienced trauma in relationships or who have a history of family cycles of addiction and drug use. I use a relational-psychodynamic and liberatory approach to therapy; incorporating mindfulness techniques that support you to build awareness of what is happening between your mind and body.
(415) 967-6516 View (415) 967-6516
Photo of Toni Li, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Toni Li
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I am here to offer you help in processing any painful feelings and experiences such as guilt, shame, obligation, and/or sense of distance from your family that many feel growing up in two (or more) cultures.
Do you describe yourself as a “people pleaser”? Perhaps frozen from imposter syndrome or perfectionism? Feeling dissatisfied with your life or work? Or are you a parent who is worried about your child? I've worked with adults, children, teens and families experiencing anxiety, depression, and stress. Additionally, I have experience in working with people diagnosed with ADHD, as they often need support for feelings of inadequacy, regret, anxiety, and depression.
I am here to offer you help in processing any painful feelings and experiences such as guilt, shame, obligation, and/or sense of distance from your family that many feel growing up in two (or more) cultures.
Do you describe yourself as a “people pleaser”? Perhaps frozen from imposter syndrome or perfectionism? Feeling dissatisfied with your life or work? Or are you a parent who is worried about your child? I've worked with adults, children, teens and families experiencing anxiety, depression, and stress. Additionally, I have experience in working with people diagnosed with ADHD, as they often need support for feelings of inadequacy, regret, anxiety, and depression.
(510) 214-4026 View (510) 214-4026

Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.