Photo of Ariel Escobedo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Ariel Escobedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
These include Internal Family Systems Therapy, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, the Gottman Method, Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care.
As a dedicated bilingual (English/Spanish) speaking mental health practitioner, I am deeply committed to facilitating the emotional healing journey for adults. My approach is inherently collaborative, emphasizing a partnership with individuals, families, and couples who entrust their care to me. By combining these diverse psychotherapy techniques, I aim to foster a nurturing and empathetic space that supports clients in navigating their emotional landscapes.
These include Internal Family Systems Therapy, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, the Gottman Method, Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care.
As a dedicated bilingual (English/Spanish) speaking mental health practitioner, I am deeply committed to facilitating the emotional healing journey for adults. My approach is inherently collaborative, emphasizing a partnership with individuals, families, and couples who entrust their care to me. By combining these diverse psychotherapy techniques, I aim to foster a nurturing and empathetic space that supports clients in navigating their emotional landscapes.
(510) 880-1338 View (510) 880-1338
Photo of Gabriele Goodman, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Gabriele Goodman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619
These are my core competencies: * Sports Psychology *Coaching for Peak Performance *Acceptance and Commitment Therapy *Cognitive Behavioral Therapy *Internal Family Systems * Mindfulness, Biofeedback, and Stress/Pain Management *EMDR, EFT, and Hypnosis * Mindfulness-based Self-Compassion* Intensive Short-term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISDP) .
I am a psychologist for sport, health, and life. I have spent 15 years studying, writing, teaching, and coaching people on how to perform at their best. I have worked with world-class performers from the arenas of sports, business, healthcare, and the United States Army. I have special expertise in Performance Psychology and train clients on how to strengthen the mental and emotional skills that underlie human performance excellence and sustainable resilience. I am a subject matter expert in the field of self-regulation techniques that promote optimism, resilience, alertness, and composure in high-pressure situations.
These are my core competencies: * Sports Psychology *Coaching for Peak Performance *Acceptance and Commitment Therapy *Cognitive Behavioral Therapy *Internal Family Systems * Mindfulness, Biofeedback, and Stress/Pain Management *EMDR, EFT, and Hypnosis * Mindfulness-based Self-Compassion* Intensive Short-term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISDP) .
I am a psychologist for sport, health, and life. I have spent 15 years studying, writing, teaching, and coaching people on how to perform at their best. I have worked with world-class performers from the arenas of sports, business, healthcare, and the United States Army. I have special expertise in Performance Psychology and train clients on how to strengthen the mental and emotional skills that underlie human performance excellence and sustainable resilience. I am a subject matter expert in the field of self-regulation techniques that promote optimism, resilience, alertness, and composure in high-pressure situations.
(510) 662-0036 View (510) 662-0036
Photo of Octave - Oakland Clinic, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Octave - Oakland Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
(415) 687-2932 View (415) 687-2932
Photo of CK Olivieri Blackmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
CK Olivieri Blackmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
(518) 269-5458 View (518) 269-5458
Photo of Samana Budhathoki, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Samana Budhathoki
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94607
We all try to cope with our wounds & stresses in the best way we can. Complex life experiences teach us complex ways to cope by perhaps— suppressing our feelings, staying hidden to avoid unwanted attention or punishment, acting out to explain the inexplicable, performing exceptionally & anxiously well to stand out or gain approval, or taking care of others at the expense of ourselves to compensate for our family legacies & cultural dynamics. Whatever the nature and range of your experiences, you may be struggling with your past and how it impacts your present, your work, your relationship with yourself, loved ones, & the world.
We all try to cope with our wounds & stresses in the best way we can. Complex life experiences teach us complex ways to cope by perhaps— suppressing our feelings, staying hidden to avoid unwanted attention or punishment, acting out to explain the inexplicable, performing exceptionally & anxiously well to stand out or gain approval, or taking care of others at the expense of ourselves to compensate for our family legacies & cultural dynamics. Whatever the nature and range of your experiences, you may be struggling with your past and how it impacts your present, your work, your relationship with yourself, loved ones, & the world.
(562) 257-3659 View (562) 257-3659
Photo of Dr. Loren Steinberg, Psychological Associate in Oakland, CA
Dr. Loren Steinberg
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
This time provides you a space to share more about yourself (or child and family) and the struggles you would like support with.
Many of my clients are disabled, queer, and trans. I love to support individuals and families in finding and shifting cycles that keep them stuck. This can look like a cycle of anxiety that keeps swirling and growing no matter how much you try to avoid or reassure it. Or like families that are caught in challenging cycles of communication, who are working to shift things but feel caught in old patterns. My clients are often impacted by multiple layers of social and internalized stigma. Specific issues my clients seek care for include OCD, ADHD, depression, trauma, bereavement, and identity development around disability and gender.
This time provides you a space to share more about yourself (or child and family) and the struggles you would like support with.
Many of my clients are disabled, queer, and trans. I love to support individuals and families in finding and shifting cycles that keep them stuck. This can look like a cycle of anxiety that keeps swirling and growing no matter how much you try to avoid or reassure it. Or like families that are caught in challenging cycles of communication, who are working to shift things but feel caught in old patterns. My clients are often impacted by multiple layers of social and internalized stigma. Specific issues my clients seek care for include OCD, ADHD, depression, trauma, bereavement, and identity development around disability and gender.
(341) 999-2343 View (341) 999-2343
Photo of Dr. Chyna Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Dr. Chyna Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MA/MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608  (Online Only)
We will explore your family dynamics, patterns of behavior, and your interactions with the people most important to you.
Before we go any further, I want you to know that you are deserving of the person you’re trying to become. Got it? Cool. So here we go. I’m Dr. Hill and I’m here to heal (see what I did there?). I’m audacious, authentic, and unapologetic. I believe in boundaries, transparency, and owning your shit. If you broke the egg? You broke the egg and that's okay because healing isn't always bubble baths and yoga. Sometimes it's messy. If you’re looking to process the childhood you never recovered from, your mother’s inability to nurture you, or a toxic workplace environment? You've met your match! I service clients in California & Georgia.
We will explore your family dynamics, patterns of behavior, and your interactions with the people most important to you.
Before we go any further, I want you to know that you are deserving of the person you’re trying to become. Got it? Cool. So here we go. I’m Dr. Hill and I’m here to heal (see what I did there?). I’m audacious, authentic, and unapologetic. I believe in boundaries, transparency, and owning your shit. If you broke the egg? You broke the egg and that's okay because healing isn't always bubble baths and yoga. Sometimes it's messy. If you’re looking to process the childhood you never recovered from, your mother’s inability to nurture you, or a toxic workplace environment? You've met your match! I service clients in California & Georgia.
(949) 649-6334 View (949) 649-6334
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 Anika Thielbar, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Anika Thielbar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I have been privileged to have experienced a very diverse clientele. Currently I am accepting clients who are LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, those who are working on trauma or traumatic pasts, 'outside the box' or deep thinkers, and/or those who have lived diverse/alternative lives. When contacting me, please say what about this profile you were interested in, and why you think we might be a good match.
I have been privileged to have experienced a very diverse clientele. Currently I am accepting clients who are LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, those who are working on trauma or traumatic pasts, 'outside the box' or deep thinkers, and/or those who have lived diverse/alternative lives. When contacting me, please say what about this profile you were interested in, and why you think we might be a good match.
(510) 296-3637 View (510) 296-3637
Ruben Garibaldo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Waitlist for new clients
I am a culturally conscious therapist with particular sensibility towards those who seek to address and recognize their strengths and fundamental worth. I enjoy working with people and families of diverse backgrounds and across all life stages, from school age children to elder adults.I am bilingual in English and Spanish and practice psychotherapy in both languages. ​ My work emphasizes the importance of maintaining a reflective space where individuals, families and caregivers can receive emotional support and insight while remaining strengths focused. Empathy and compassion are essential to any transformative work. I employ
I am a culturally conscious therapist with particular sensibility towards those who seek to address and recognize their strengths and fundamental worth. I enjoy working with people and families of diverse backgrounds and across all life stages, from school age children to elder adults.I am bilingual in English and Spanish and practice psychotherapy in both languages. ​ My work emphasizes the importance of maintaining a reflective space where individuals, families and caregivers can receive emotional support and insight while remaining strengths focused. Empathy and compassion are essential to any transformative work. I employ
(510) 390-9566 View (510) 390-9566
Photo of Alyson Erika Marlow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Alyson Erika Marlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Therapy is a process of inner healing and deep commitment to cultivating growth within yourself. In what ways do you need to be supported in order to grow into something more authentically you? I hold the following words as intentions and as anchors for grounding each therapy session for all my clients. Healing. Freedom. Love. Life can be beautiful again when you are brave enough to do the work within. I work with all ages including children, youth and adults.
Therapy is a process of inner healing and deep commitment to cultivating growth within yourself. In what ways do you need to be supported in order to grow into something more authentically you? I hold the following words as intentions and as anchors for grounding each therapy session for all my clients. Healing. Freedom. Love. Life can be beautiful again when you are brave enough to do the work within. I work with all ages including children, youth and adults.
(415) 949-1589 View (415) 949-1589
Photo of Charles Marco Aquilina, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Charles Marco Aquilina
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BA, AA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Hi there, I primarily work in substance use recovery (abstinence and harm reduction) and trauma recovery. I also have specialized training in treating anxiety, depression, and sleep issues/insomnia. My treatment orientation is based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy concepts, however the foundation of my early training was Psychodynamic.
Hi there, I primarily work in substance use recovery (abstinence and harm reduction) and trauma recovery. I also have specialized training in treating anxiety, depression, and sleep issues/insomnia. My treatment orientation is based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy concepts, however the foundation of my early training was Psychodynamic.
(510) 878-3486 View (510) 878-3486
Photo of Caitlin Burnham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Caitlin Burnham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with my clients to help them live more in alignment with how they want to be living. We identity sources of "stuckness", which may include histories of trauma/traumatic invalidation, distress around identities related to race, sexuality, gender, and/or neurodivergence, coping with mood disorders and related behavioral and relationship difficulties, among other significant and impactful life experiences and challenges with past coping strategies. While taking a social justice-oriented and compassionate stance, we work on understanding and processing pain in order to increase one's experience of empowerment and ease.
I enjoy working with my clients to help them live more in alignment with how they want to be living. We identity sources of "stuckness", which may include histories of trauma/traumatic invalidation, distress around identities related to race, sexuality, gender, and/or neurodivergence, coping with mood disorders and related behavioral and relationship difficulties, among other significant and impactful life experiences and challenges with past coping strategies. While taking a social justice-oriented and compassionate stance, we work on understanding and processing pain in order to increase one's experience of empowerment and ease.
(650) 547-1208 View (650) 547-1208
Photo of Larry E Burrell, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Larry E Burrell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I have a doctorate (Ph.D.) in Clinical and Health Psychology. I work with an array of individuals and specialize in concerns related to LGBTQ, POC and allies on a variety of concerns. I pay special attention to cultural factors related to wellness. If you have a specific concern like difficulties in relationships or a more general interest in improving your well-being by learning how to better deal with strong emotions, I will provide a warm and supportive space to foster your personal growth.
I have a doctorate (Ph.D.) in Clinical and Health Psychology. I work with an array of individuals and specialize in concerns related to LGBTQ, POC and allies on a variety of concerns. I pay special attention to cultural factors related to wellness. If you have a specific concern like difficulties in relationships or a more general interest in improving your well-being by learning how to better deal with strong emotions, I will provide a warm and supportive space to foster your personal growth.
(510) 519-3944 View (510) 519-3944
Photo of Georgina M. Nunez-Larraz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Georgina M. Nunez-Larraz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCHT, MSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Gina Nuñez. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist and a Complex PTSD therapist. Complex PTSD stems from trauma over a long period, i.e., child abuse/neglect. Trauma is a mental and physical imprint caused by extreme stress. Your fight, flight or freeze response is often activated if you live with trauma. Your body, mind, and emotions remain on high alert. When trauma goes untreated, it can lead to low self-esteem and a negative outlook on life, yourself, and others. I can help you overcome your negative past to build a positive future. My email page on the website stopped working, so email me.
Hello, my name is Gina Nuñez. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist and a Complex PTSD therapist. Complex PTSD stems from trauma over a long period, i.e., child abuse/neglect. Trauma is a mental and physical imprint caused by extreme stress. Your fight, flight or freeze response is often activated if you live with trauma. Your body, mind, and emotions remain on high alert. When trauma goes untreated, it can lead to low self-esteem and a negative outlook on life, yourself, and others. I can help you overcome your negative past to build a positive future. My email page on the website stopped working, so email me.
(909) 340-3735 View (909) 340-3735
Photo of Jennifer Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jennifer Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
The goal of our work together is for you to live freely and fully and to reconnect to your inherent power. With a holistic approach and a deep understanding of the process of healing and growth, I offer skilled support and insight. I work relationally because change is hard–care, connection and accompaniment are essential in the process. While I work with you to untangle the feelings that are causing you struggle and pain, we will simultaneously harness the power of healing and transformation.
The goal of our work together is for you to live freely and fully and to reconnect to your inherent power. With a holistic approach and a deep understanding of the process of healing and growth, I offer skilled support and insight. I work relationally because change is hard–care, connection and accompaniment are essential in the process. While I work with you to untangle the feelings that are causing you struggle and pain, we will simultaneously harness the power of healing and transformation.
(510) 880-1278 View (510) 880-1278
Photo of Wallace Earl Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Wallace Earl Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
As a psychotherapist with over 10 years of counseling experience in the Bay Area I have come to appreciate the importance of humor and honesty in developing a therapeutic relationship that encourages positive life changes. I work hard to develop a comfortable and safe space for my clients to identify and address barriers to progress in their personal and professional lives. When we are honest with ourselves, I think we so often find that our most ardent critic and obstacle to living a fulfilling and happy life is ourselves.
As a psychotherapist with over 10 years of counseling experience in the Bay Area I have come to appreciate the importance of humor and honesty in developing a therapeutic relationship that encourages positive life changes. I work hard to develop a comfortable and safe space for my clients to identify and address barriers to progress in their personal and professional lives. When we are honest with ourselves, I think we so often find that our most ardent critic and obstacle to living a fulfilling and happy life is ourselves.
(650) 727-1875 View (650) 727-1875
Photo of Ashley Mezzasalma, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Ashley Mezzasalma
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
It is a brave thing to ask for help. When we ask for help, we acknowledge two things: first, that our circumstances are not what we would like them to be; and second, that we don't know how to change them. As a psychologist, it is my job to help those who are suffering navigate to a place of healing. I have many years of experience with evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-focused therapy. I tailor my approach to my client and draw from different therapeutic frameworks depending on the person and their needs.
It is a brave thing to ask for help. When we ask for help, we acknowledge two things: first, that our circumstances are not what we would like them to be; and second, that we don't know how to change them. As a psychologist, it is my job to help those who are suffering navigate to a place of healing. I have many years of experience with evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-focused therapy. I tailor my approach to my client and draw from different therapeutic frameworks depending on the person and their needs.
(510) 737-7004 View (510) 737-7004
Photo of Dr. Christina M. Charlotin, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Dr. Christina M. Charlotin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94619
In our work together, my intention is to help you break away from the maladaptive thought patterns, emotions, actions, and external circumstances that keep you stuck in an unwanted experience. My goal is to help you create progress towards the life you do want for yourself. I’ll want to understand the changes you’d like to see in yourself. With this in mind, I’ll want to identify the behaviors you’d like to demonstrate, the lasting emotions you’d like to feel, and the outcomes you’d like to see present themselves in your life. With that information, we'll set the overall goals for therapy. Now providing Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
In our work together, my intention is to help you break away from the maladaptive thought patterns, emotions, actions, and external circumstances that keep you stuck in an unwanted experience. My goal is to help you create progress towards the life you do want for yourself. I’ll want to understand the changes you’d like to see in yourself. With this in mind, I’ll want to identify the behaviors you’d like to demonstrate, the lasting emotions you’d like to feel, and the outcomes you’d like to see present themselves in your life. With that information, we'll set the overall goals for therapy. Now providing Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
(628) 201-6946 View (628) 201-6946
Photo of Lisa Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lisa Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
My professional career started in 2004 and I continue to love helping people progress to their goals. I have a holistic approach to health and wellness. Therapeutically speaking, my primary modalities include Cognitive Behavioral, Solutions Focused, and Strengths-based therapies; however, I believe every person and circumstance should be individualized based on the client's wants and needs. I like to meet people where they are and draw off of their strengths to guide them in improving their circumstances and overall quality of life.
My professional career started in 2004 and I continue to love helping people progress to their goals. I have a holistic approach to health and wellness. Therapeutically speaking, my primary modalities include Cognitive Behavioral, Solutions Focused, and Strengths-based therapies; however, I believe every person and circumstance should be individualized based on the client's wants and needs. I like to meet people where they are and draw off of their strengths to guide them in improving their circumstances and overall quality of life.
(415) 969-5753 View (415) 969-5753
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.