Photo of Rachel Milner, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Rachel Milner
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I specialize in working with young people and the LGBTQIA community. My professional background in education, clowning, and physical theater deeply informs my work. Using embodied play alongside talk therapy, I find that my clients are able to access expression, relief, and growth. This type of work is useful for kids experiencing anxiety, school and family challenges, and struggling with self esteem. It is also useful for LGBTQIA people to become more deeply in touch with their identities, using a creative lens. I am committed to meeting clients where they are at to develop a space for creative healing.
I specialize in working with young people and the LGBTQIA community. My professional background in education, clowning, and physical theater deeply informs my work. Using embodied play alongside talk therapy, I find that my clients are able to access expression, relief, and growth. This type of work is useful for kids experiencing anxiety, school and family challenges, and struggling with self esteem. It is also useful for LGBTQIA people to become more deeply in touch with their identities, using a creative lens. I am committed to meeting clients where they are at to develop a space for creative healing.
(510) 757-1764 View (510) 757-1764
Photo of Jennifer Howard, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Jennifer Howard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
The clients with whom I work are often struggling with issues of depression, anxiety, family conflict, grief, loss, trauma and other significant life problems and clinical diagnoses.
My approach is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioral and Attachment Theories. I also incorporate the practices of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). I aspire to meet clients where they are, and help each individual to work on his or her expressed goals. I enjoy taking this journey with clients to navigate some of their most difficult and challenging moments in life, to help prevent troubled kids or young adults from more serious trouble, and to help all clients who seek my support turn their life's biggest challenges into opportunities for growth and lasting change.
The clients with whom I work are often struggling with issues of depression, anxiety, family conflict, grief, loss, trauma and other significant life problems and clinical diagnoses.
My approach is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioral and Attachment Theories. I also incorporate the practices of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). I aspire to meet clients where they are, and help each individual to work on his or her expressed goals. I enjoy taking this journey with clients to navigate some of their most difficult and challenging moments in life, to help prevent troubled kids or young adults from more serious trouble, and to help all clients who seek my support turn their life's biggest challenges into opportunities for growth and lasting change.
(510) 878-6002 View (510) 878-6002
Photo of The Marsh Clinics®, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
The Marsh Clinics®
Psychologist, LMFT, CADC-II, NCAC 1
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
We are a team of clinicians who specialize in addictions, dual diagnosis, trauma, sexual assault, oppression, family members of those who are addicted, those who have had history of incarceration, anger management, depression, and life transitions.
The Marsh Clinics® (TMC) offer psychotherapy for everyone, but especially for those who are underserved and have been marginalized. Our aim is to reduce the level of stigma around mental health and offer telehealth therapy for an entry point, but also face to face therapy. We are dedicated to transforming individuals, transforming communities.
We are a team of clinicians who specialize in addictions, dual diagnosis, trauma, sexual assault, oppression, family members of those who are addicted, those who have had history of incarceration, anger management, depression, and life transitions.
The Marsh Clinics® (TMC) offer psychotherapy for everyone, but especially for those who are underserved and have been marginalized. Our aim is to reduce the level of stigma around mental health and offer telehealth therapy for an entry point, but also face to face therapy. We are dedicated to transforming individuals, transforming communities.
(510) 281-3102 View (510) 281-3102
Photo of Nekolas Milton, Psychological Associate in Oakland, CA
Nekolas Milton
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Dr. Nekolas “Neko” Milton, I am a Registered Psychological Associate. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I operate from a client-centered, humanistic approach, focusing on aspects of existentialism, mindfulness, family-systems, multiculturalism, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while keeping careful consideration of cultural concerns and practices. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma-related diagnoses, and incorporate evidenced-based practices to address maladaptive patterns and behaviors.
Hello my name is Dr. Nekolas “Neko” Milton, I am a Registered Psychological Associate. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I operate from a client-centered, humanistic approach, focusing on aspects of existentialism, mindfulness, family-systems, multiculturalism, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while keeping careful consideration of cultural concerns and practices. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma-related diagnoses, and incorporate evidenced-based practices to address maladaptive patterns and behaviors.
(415) 851-8356 View (415) 851-8356
Photo of Loren Richards Farese, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Loren Richards Farese
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I work with individuals and couples interested in gaining insight into relational patters with the goal of empowerment. I work with those interested in exploring the intersection of how we are shaped by society and culture, how we are shaped by our ancestors, family systems, and our own beliefs about who we are impact what we imagine we are and may become. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-confidence, and relational conflict who desire ease and balance. I am interested in sexual empowerment and sexuality, and I inhabit and work with alternative relationship styles including non-monogamy.
I work with individuals and couples interested in gaining insight into relational patters with the goal of empowerment. I work with those interested in exploring the intersection of how we are shaped by society and culture, how we are shaped by our ancestors, family systems, and our own beliefs about who we are impact what we imagine we are and may become. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-confidence, and relational conflict who desire ease and balance. I am interested in sexual empowerment and sexuality, and I inhabit and work with alternative relationship styles including non-monogamy.
(415) 466-8569 View (415) 466-8569
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 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 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
Photo of Sarah West Carson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sarah West Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
In addition to my private practice, I work with Foster Family Agencies providing support and supervision to youth aging out of foster care.
I work with adults and teens looking to make changes in their lives. I believe in the resiliency of people, and it continues to be my pleasure to support individuals, couples, families and communities in enhancing their sense of personal power. I have extensive experience providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples and families. My practice is open to people of all nationalities, genders, and orientations (sexual, religious, political) and I enjoy working with anyone who desires to change and grow.
In addition to my private practice, I work with Foster Family Agencies providing support and supervision to youth aging out of foster care.
I work with adults and teens looking to make changes in their lives. I believe in the resiliency of people, and it continues to be my pleasure to support individuals, couples, families and communities in enhancing their sense of personal power. I have extensive experience providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples and families. My practice is open to people of all nationalities, genders, and orientations (sexual, religious, political) and I enjoy working with anyone who desires to change and grow.
(415) 324-6247 View (415) 324-6247
Photo of Sarah Koch-Schiller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sarah Koch-Schiller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Thank you so much for visiting my page. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, families, and children. I am a relational therapist, meaning that I deeply value the healing aspects of the therapeutic relationship, and work collaboratively with my clients to ensure therapy is meaningful and aligned with treatment goals.
Thank you so much for visiting my page. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, families, and children. I am a relational therapist, meaning that I deeply value the healing aspects of the therapeutic relationship, and work collaboratively with my clients to ensure therapy is meaningful and aligned with treatment goals.
(628) 216-2060 View (628) 216-2060
Photo of Leighko Toyoshima Yap, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Leighko Toyoshima Yap
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Ultimately, I hope to restore you and your family to how you want to be.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I specialize in issues related to divorce, grief and loss, life transitions, relationship/attachment difficulties, issues surrounding pregnancy, parenting, and cultural adjustment challenges. I provide psychological assessments for children and adults who are struggling at home and/or at school or work due to social and emotional issues, relationship issues, environmental stressors, behavioral challenges, attention and concentration difficulties, and learning differences. I also conduct child custody evaluations and forensic psychological evaluations.
Ultimately, I hope to restore you and your family to how you want to be.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I specialize in issues related to divorce, grief and loss, life transitions, relationship/attachment difficulties, issues surrounding pregnancy, parenting, and cultural adjustment challenges. I provide psychological assessments for children and adults who are struggling at home and/or at school or work due to social and emotional issues, relationship issues, environmental stressors, behavioral challenges, attention and concentration difficulties, and learning differences. I also conduct child custody evaluations and forensic psychological evaluations.
(510) 543-0969 View (510) 543-0969
Photo of Sami Qreini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sami Qreini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
Are you looking for help, guidance or support as a parent, adolescent, adult, or couple? Do you feel out of tune with your friends or family? Overwhelmed with demands? Or stuck in relational or behavioral patterns? Therapy can open you to new perspectives. As your therapist, I can help you widen your view, find your competence and reconnect with yourself, so you feel up to life’s challenges. I will be a curious and empathic listener and provide a secure, contained space to explore.
Are you looking for help, guidance or support as a parent, adolescent, adult, or couple? Do you feel out of tune with your friends or family? Overwhelmed with demands? Or stuck in relational or behavioral patterns? Therapy can open you to new perspectives. As your therapist, I can help you widen your view, find your competence and reconnect with yourself, so you feel up to life’s challenges. I will be a curious and empathic listener and provide a secure, contained space to explore.
(510) 996-5994 View (510) 996-5994
Photo of Amy Kelly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Amy Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I am a licensed psychotherapist specializing in child and teen counseling. Families come to my practice feeling lost, worried and some at the recommendation of a school counselor, lawyer, friend or pediatrician. Many parents have read multiple books and tried various interventions at home or at school without success. This can feel frustrating and upsetting, although it is a motivating starting place. What these families all have in common is concern for a child who is struggling in some way and in need of a child counselor. I offer child counseling, family counseling, family mediation, reunification, and parent support.
I am a licensed psychotherapist specializing in child and teen counseling. Families come to my practice feeling lost, worried and some at the recommendation of a school counselor, lawyer, friend or pediatrician. Many parents have read multiple books and tried various interventions at home or at school without success. This can feel frustrating and upsetting, although it is a motivating starting place. What these families all have in common is concern for a child who is struggling in some way and in need of a child counselor. I offer child counseling, family counseling, family mediation, reunification, and parent support.
(415) 524-0645 View (415) 524-0645
Photo of Joanna Jaroszewska, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Joanna Jaroszewska
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
My passion is helping anyone toward getting ‘unstuck’ and reconnecting with their lives and loved ones. I provide therapy for children, teens and adults navigating anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, and peer issues, as well as ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnoses. I especially love working with teens and their families as they adapt to change; whether it’s better understanding and celebrating a teen’s gender identity, knowing how to discuss family separation, or finding healthy ways to cope with an unexpected loss.
My passion is helping anyone toward getting ‘unstuck’ and reconnecting with their lives and loved ones. I provide therapy for children, teens and adults navigating anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, and peer issues, as well as ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnoses. I especially love working with teens and their families as they adapt to change; whether it’s better understanding and celebrating a teen’s gender identity, knowing how to discuss family separation, or finding healthy ways to cope with an unexpected loss.
(510) 779-9754 View (510) 779-9754
Photo of Adriana Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Adriana Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
Hi, I'm Adriana! My name is Adriana Gonzalez and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Riverside, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am dedicated to serving adolescents and their families and specialize in treating anxiety, stress, and behavioral health disorders using solution-focused and family-centered treatment to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build the necessary skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life.
Hi, I'm Adriana! My name is Adriana Gonzalez and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Riverside, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am dedicated to serving adolescents and their families and specialize in treating anxiety, stress, and behavioral health disorders using solution-focused and family-centered treatment to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build the necessary skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life.
(510) 680-2302 View (510) 680-2302
Photo of Christina Ting-Ting Shiue, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Christina Ting-Ting Shiue
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with specialized training and experience in child, adolescent and family therapy. I work with people of all ages and life stages dealing with the high-pressures of life that can affect relationships or leave you feeling stuck or unhappy. I love the collaborative work of therapy and will work hard to help you identify changes that can be made to positively impact your relationships, career and self. Together, we can puzzle things out together, break down your goals into manageable steps and build a more fulfilling life. Sometimes, you need someone to help you get started and guide you to stay on course.
I am a licensed psychologist with specialized training and experience in child, adolescent and family therapy. I work with people of all ages and life stages dealing with the high-pressures of life that can affect relationships or leave you feeling stuck or unhappy. I love the collaborative work of therapy and will work hard to help you identify changes that can be made to positively impact your relationships, career and self. Together, we can puzzle things out together, break down your goals into manageable steps and build a more fulfilling life. Sometimes, you need someone to help you get started and guide you to stay on course.
(510) 726-6133 View (510) 726-6133
Photo of Kat Tan, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Oakland, CA
Kat Tan
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
Axis Mundi Center for Mental Health presents Kat Tan, a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee supervised by Natalie Webster, LMFT 126065. The supervisor works with Kat to help develop her clinical skills and ensure that she provides quality care to you as the client. ••• Life is a rollercoaster, a constant up and down. In my work, I help clients build the strength to hold life's hard parts with grace and tap into the joys with a spirit of celebration. I work with couples and individuals. I offer a compassionate, supportive environment for discovery, connection, healing, and growth to occur.
Axis Mundi Center for Mental Health presents Kat Tan, a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee supervised by Natalie Webster, LMFT 126065. The supervisor works with Kat to help develop her clinical skills and ensure that she provides quality care to you as the client. ••• Life is a rollercoaster, a constant up and down. In my work, I help clients build the strength to hold life's hard parts with grace and tap into the joys with a spirit of celebration. I work with couples and individuals. I offer a compassionate, supportive environment for discovery, connection, healing, and growth to occur.
(341) 999-3649 View (341) 999-3649
Photo of Valorie Herd, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Valorie Herd
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I take pleasure in my work at Family and Child Counseling Center.
It is a privilege to help others who are seeking support on their journey. As a licensed psychologist who enjoys working with adults, children, families, couples, as well as groups, I appreciate a holistic approach to lifestyle changes. It is important to consider physical, mental and emotional health to increase our quality of life. We don’t have control over some circumstances in life, but we can work to optimally navigate what comes our way. Cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, mindfulness for stress reduction, managing occupational strain and psychoeducation are some of the techniques I find helpful.
I take pleasure in my work at Family and Child Counseling Center.
It is a privilege to help others who are seeking support on their journey. As a licensed psychologist who enjoys working with adults, children, families, couples, as well as groups, I appreciate a holistic approach to lifestyle changes. It is important to consider physical, mental and emotional health to increase our quality of life. We don’t have control over some circumstances in life, but we can work to optimally navigate what comes our way. Cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, mindfulness for stress reduction, managing occupational strain and psychoeducation are some of the techniques I find helpful.
(510) 640-8631 View (510) 640-8631
Photo of John Connors McConville, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
John Connors McConville
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
So much of who we are is established early on within our family systems.
I work with people who face challenges that often arise but are not exclusive to the second half of life such as: the trauma of illness & death, caring for aging parents, loss of satisfaction or sense of meaning in relationships and work, loss of a job, and/or loneliness. I also work with folks suffering from love addiction or love avoidance. These challenges can often be baffling and carry symptoms such as depression, fear and anxiety. The rational mind may understand what is going on but somehow the emotional and physical body can't always take solace in rational solutions.
So much of who we are is established early on within our family systems.
I work with people who face challenges that often arise but are not exclusive to the second half of life such as: the trauma of illness & death, caring for aging parents, loss of satisfaction or sense of meaning in relationships and work, loss of a job, and/or loneliness. I also work with folks suffering from love addiction or love avoidance. These challenges can often be baffling and carry symptoms such as depression, fear and anxiety. The rational mind may understand what is going on but somehow the emotional and physical body can't always take solace in rational solutions.
(415) 801-3943 View (415) 801-3943
Photo of Hannah Rudsten, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Hannah Rudsten
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Hello! My name is Hannah, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults ages 18+, primarily female identified, navigate pivotal life transitions. Whether you're a young adult fostering independence, a parent stepping into the realm of empty nesting, or someone embracing a new career, I'm here to offer you guidance and support. My hope is to walk alongside you during these times of change, uncertainty, and growth, providing a safe space for exploration, healing, and empowerment. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of transition, uncovering hidden opportunities for personal evolution and resilience.
Hello! My name is Hannah, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults ages 18+, primarily female identified, navigate pivotal life transitions. Whether you're a young adult fostering independence, a parent stepping into the realm of empty nesting, or someone embracing a new career, I'm here to offer you guidance and support. My hope is to walk alongside you during these times of change, uncertainty, and growth, providing a safe space for exploration, healing, and empowerment. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of transition, uncovering hidden opportunities for personal evolution and resilience.
(510) 216-1979 View (510) 216-1979

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.