Photo of Steven Foster, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Steven Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Hello! Welcome to my personal profile. I am Steve Foster, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist The majority of my experience has been in working with couples, married and otherwise, to improve communication in their relationships. "Taking the war out of words",and learning to take one another's perspective increase the likelihood of success in intimate relationships. I've also worked with those coping with substance dependency. I am a strong believer in the value of family, and in the power of living a clean and sober, recovery-centered life. Please feel free to call me to discuss your concerns.
Hello! Welcome to my personal profile. I am Steve Foster, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist The majority of my experience has been in working with couples, married and otherwise, to improve communication in their relationships. "Taking the war out of words",and learning to take one another's perspective increase the likelihood of success in intimate relationships. I've also worked with those coping with substance dependency. I am a strong believer in the value of family, and in the power of living a clean and sober, recovery-centered life. Please feel free to call me to discuss your concerns.
(415) 967-7940 View (415) 967-7940
Photo of Elizabeth Preston, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Elizabeth Preston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 25 years of experience treating children, adolescents, families and adults. I provide highly indiviudalized therapy to each and every client. I integrate techniques from several theoretical orientations, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, family systems theory, and psychodynamic theory, to formulate an indiviudalized treatment plan for each client. Within the session, I create a safe, compassionate and confidential setting for clients to address their core issues and to work out past and present difficulties.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 25 years of experience treating children, adolescents, families and adults. I provide highly indiviudalized therapy to each and every client. I integrate techniques from several theoretical orientations, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, family systems theory, and psychodynamic theory, to formulate an indiviudalized treatment plan for each client. Within the session, I create a safe, compassionate and confidential setting for clients to address their core issues and to work out past and present difficulties.
(510) 962-7931 View (510) 962-7931
Photo of Athenia Teng, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Athenia Teng
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Whether your issues are individual (related to mood, identity, self-growth, etc.) or relational (romantic, family, friendships, work, etc.), I believe that change is possible and strive to offer a supportive, caring, and affirming space for you to explore, heal, thrive, and grow. Together, we'll work in ways that are in-depth and practical, move through challenges, and tap into the strengths that are already within you. It’s important to me that I offer an environment that is free of judgment and oppression, and in which you are fully seen.
Whether your issues are individual (related to mood, identity, self-growth, etc.) or relational (romantic, family, friendships, work, etc.), I believe that change is possible and strive to offer a supportive, caring, and affirming space for you to explore, heal, thrive, and grow. Together, we'll work in ways that are in-depth and practical, move through challenges, and tap into the strengths that are already within you. It’s important to me that I offer an environment that is free of judgment and oppression, and in which you are fully seen.
(510) 544-8108 View (510) 544-8108
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, Counselor in Oakland, CA
Veronica Ghabour
Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
(415) 942-6295 View (415) 942-6295
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 Katie Fenton-Strauss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Katie Fenton-Strauss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Are you your own worst critic? When you are hard on yourself, it becomes challenging to find joy in your work and relationships. Finally putting an end to beating yourself up will free up energy for you to fulfill your goals. I use mindfulness and IFS (Internal Family Systems) strategies to help clients do deep and meaningful work in sessions. "I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I can do is be on my own side..." Maya Angelou When my clients are begin to truly be a friend to themselves, they notice positive changes in many aspects of their lives.
Are you your own worst critic? When you are hard on yourself, it becomes challenging to find joy in your work and relationships. Finally putting an end to beating yourself up will free up energy for you to fulfill your goals. I use mindfulness and IFS (Internal Family Systems) strategies to help clients do deep and meaningful work in sessions. "I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I can do is be on my own side..." Maya Angelou When my clients are begin to truly be a friend to themselves, they notice positive changes in many aspects of their lives.
(424) 352-7350 View (424) 352-7350
Photo of Elisa Chaves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Elisa Chaves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a family therapist, I offer opportunities to you & your family to mobilize your family's internal strengths & resources to address any concerns you might have.
I am passionate about supporting children, adults and families to improve their communication, emotional connections and self-esteem. My approach is warm, interactive and strength-based. I have experience working with children and adults going through divorce, traumatic experiences, conflicts, challenges with self-regulation, as well as parenting difficulties and behavioral problems. I support my clients through life transitions, the process of acculturation and belonging, anxiety, depression or seeking any type of emotional healing from current or past experiences.
As a family therapist, I offer opportunities to you & your family to mobilize your family's internal strengths & resources to address any concerns you might have.
I am passionate about supporting children, adults and families to improve their communication, emotional connections and self-esteem. My approach is warm, interactive and strength-based. I have experience working with children and adults going through divorce, traumatic experiences, conflicts, challenges with self-regulation, as well as parenting difficulties and behavioral problems. I support my clients through life transitions, the process of acculturation and belonging, anxiety, depression or seeking any type of emotional healing from current or past experiences.
(510) 757-9413 View (510) 757-9413
Photo of Michelle Sicula, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Michelle Sicula
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, JD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
If you are coping with anxiety, sadness, relationship conflict, stress, or parenting challenges I help you manage difficult feelings and reduce your suffering. If you and your partner can't talk without arguing, have lost trust, or lost the spark and want to connect we'll identify what's keeping you from being close and develop the secure connection you want. If you are having trouble getting pregnant or needing help from outside parties to create your family we'll work through any difficult feelings and explore your options for family building so you can make decisions that build your family and fit your values.
If you are coping with anxiety, sadness, relationship conflict, stress, or parenting challenges I help you manage difficult feelings and reduce your suffering. If you and your partner can't talk without arguing, have lost trust, or lost the spark and want to connect we'll identify what's keeping you from being close and develop the secure connection you want. If you are having trouble getting pregnant or needing help from outside parties to create your family we'll work through any difficult feelings and explore your options for family building so you can make decisions that build your family and fit your values.
(510) 491-0766 View (510) 491-0766
Photo of Rachel Nielsen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Rachel Nielsen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
My expertise lies in grief and issues related to aging and end-of-life, exploring the multifaceted nature of grief that extends beyond the traditional understanding. Life's ebbs and flows, be it in work, family, friendships, aging, illness, or loss, are all aspects we can navigate together. Whether you seek probing questions, assistance in achieving specific goals, or simply a listening ear to help you hear your voice, each session is crafted to meet your unique needs and style. I specialize in a relational and client-led approach, tailoring each session to follow your lead and delve into the patterns and areas you wish to explore.
My expertise lies in grief and issues related to aging and end-of-life, exploring the multifaceted nature of grief that extends beyond the traditional understanding. Life's ebbs and flows, be it in work, family, friendships, aging, illness, or loss, are all aspects we can navigate together. Whether you seek probing questions, assistance in achieving specific goals, or simply a listening ear to help you hear your voice, each session is crafted to meet your unique needs and style. I specialize in a relational and client-led approach, tailoring each session to follow your lead and delve into the patterns and areas you wish to explore.
(510) 288-3411 View (510) 288-3411
Photo of Abby Weintraub, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Abby Weintraub
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Welcome! I work with people across many areas, but those who seek me out tend to be queer/LGBTQIAA2+, neurodivergent in some way, trans/non-binary/gender non-conforming, chronically or acutely ill, disabled, fat-identified and/or working on an empowered relationship with their body, polyamorous, kinky, sex workers, and non-traditional family structures. I'll be with you every step of the way as you move from shame to self-compassion, and work through the expression of anger, sadness, and grief around what you've lost, or what you never got to have.
Welcome! I work with people across many areas, but those who seek me out tend to be queer/LGBTQIAA2+, neurodivergent in some way, trans/non-binary/gender non-conforming, chronically or acutely ill, disabled, fat-identified and/or working on an empowered relationship with their body, polyamorous, kinky, sex workers, and non-traditional family structures. I'll be with you every step of the way as you move from shame to self-compassion, and work through the expression of anger, sadness, and grief around what you've lost, or what you never got to have.
(510) 890-3436 View (510) 890-3436
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 Ana Batan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Ana Batan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
My focus is creating a warm, trusting, and safe environment to explore your current barriers or struggles so you can achieve self-empowerment and the ability to function within the family unit.
Hello, my name is Ana Batan, LMFT. I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field.
My focus is creating a warm, trusting, and safe environment to explore your current barriers or struggles so you can achieve self-empowerment and the ability to function within the family unit.
Hello, my name is Ana Batan, LMFT. I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field.
(510) 726-0593 View (510) 726-0593
Photo of Miranda Hoffman Jung, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Miranda Hoffman Jung
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I believe my job is to create a sense of safety in which we can think about the things you might have trouble thinking about. There may be parts of your history that are difficult and frightening to contemplate on your own. Together, we can help you begin to understand yourself, trust yourself, soften toward yourself, validate what is true for you, and eventually accept all the parts of you. I’ll want to understand your current difficulties in the context of your personal and family history, and will listen with curiosity and warmth to understand the way in which your history may be affecting your current situation.
I believe my job is to create a sense of safety in which we can think about the things you might have trouble thinking about. There may be parts of your history that are difficult and frightening to contemplate on your own. Together, we can help you begin to understand yourself, trust yourself, soften toward yourself, validate what is true for you, and eventually accept all the parts of you. I’ll want to understand your current difficulties in the context of your personal and family history, and will listen with curiosity and warmth to understand the way in which your history may be affecting your current situation.
(510) 491-0981 View (510) 491-0981
Photo of Wisdom of Mind and Body, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Wisdom of Mind and Body
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
We all want the same things. To be understood, recognized, treated with kindness and respect. To feel like we belong. We share the same path to growth through self-effort in overcoming challenges in our life’s journey. Are you mastering the game of life? You are more powerful than your past or stories. Truth be told, “life is simply what you create it to mean.” Imagine yourself as the eagle that soars up into the sky with Wisdom as a compass. I can help you with self-esteem, family, career, trauma, grief, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, womens’ empowerment, life transitions, relationships, death/dying, and pet loss.
We all want the same things. To be understood, recognized, treated with kindness and respect. To feel like we belong. We share the same path to growth through self-effort in overcoming challenges in our life’s journey. Are you mastering the game of life? You are more powerful than your past or stories. Truth be told, “life is simply what you create it to mean.” Imagine yourself as the eagle that soars up into the sky with Wisdom as a compass. I can help you with self-esteem, family, career, trauma, grief, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, womens’ empowerment, life transitions, relationships, death/dying, and pet loss.
(925) 255-7552 View (925) 255-7552
Photo of Tayina Fenelus, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Oakland, CA
Tayina Fenelus
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Axis Mundi would like to present Tayina Fenelus: Tayina is a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee and is supervised weekly by Natalie Webster, LMFT 126065. You might be dealing with life's challenges, just like we all are, and are on the lookout for a space where you can truly be yourself and see a face that looks like yours. What you need is connection, healing, and a place where you won't feel judged. Your goal isn't just to tackle immediate issues, it's to create a cozy spot for self-discovery and growth. You're not after your typical therapy—you want something deeper, a mix of everyday life and something more profound.
Axis Mundi would like to present Tayina Fenelus: Tayina is a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee and is supervised weekly by Natalie Webster, LMFT 126065. You might be dealing with life's challenges, just like we all are, and are on the lookout for a space where you can truly be yourself and see a face that looks like yours. What you need is connection, healing, and a place where you won't feel judged. Your goal isn't just to tackle immediate issues, it's to create a cozy spot for self-discovery and growth. You're not after your typical therapy—you want something deeper, a mix of everyday life and something more profound.
(510) 319-1427 View (510) 319-1427
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 Amy Taylor Griffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Amy Taylor Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
As a clinician, I integrate my life experiences as a preschool teacher, an elementary school teacher, a social worker, and as a mother in a blended family.
Adulting is hard! So is being a kid! My therapy offers a safe space to strengthen you and/or your child’s resiliency and find the ease you’ve been seeking. Together, let’s deepen your self-understanding with therapy in a collaborative journey of compassion, healing, and skill building. We all need support at times to develop our strengths, gain guidance towards healing, and create space for positive change.
As a clinician, I integrate my life experiences as a preschool teacher, an elementary school teacher, a social worker, and as a mother in a blended family.
Adulting is hard! So is being a kid! My therapy offers a safe space to strengthen you and/or your child’s resiliency and find the ease you’ve been seeking. Together, let’s deepen your self-understanding with therapy in a collaborative journey of compassion, healing, and skill building. We all need support at times to develop our strengths, gain guidance towards healing, and create space for positive change.
(510) 350-3934 View (510) 350-3934
Photo of Alex Momtchiloff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Alex Momtchiloff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I offer effective and compassionate support to adult individuals and couples, as well as cofounders, coworkers, and adult family members. You might be struggling with anxiety or depression, a personal challenge, or a major life transition. As a couple, you may be facing a challenge such as infidelity, loss of intimacy, communication breakdown; you may be anticipating a major change - a move, marriage, starting a family; or you may be looking for a way to end your relationship as gracefully as possible. I also have extensive experience working with cofounders and co-leaders, especially those whose relationship extends outside work.
I offer effective and compassionate support to adult individuals and couples, as well as cofounders, coworkers, and adult family members. You might be struggling with anxiety or depression, a personal challenge, or a major life transition. As a couple, you may be facing a challenge such as infidelity, loss of intimacy, communication breakdown; you may be anticipating a major change - a move, marriage, starting a family; or you may be looking for a way to end your relationship as gracefully as possible. I also have extensive experience working with cofounders and co-leaders, especially those whose relationship extends outside work.
(510) 640-8569 View (510) 640-8569
Photo of Elke Ullmer-Strempke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Elke Ullmer-Strempke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA, BFA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I primarily use the Internal Family Systems model, which includes guided, experiential exercises to support you in healing wounded parts of yourself.
Do you find yourself stuck in stifling patterns? I offer facilitated inward journeys to increase personal agency, liveliness, and fulfillment. I offer sensitive, open-hearted, humorous, and real contact as you navigate all the inner and outer hardships of being human. I enjoy working with folks from all backgrounds, races, sexual orientations, gender identities, and abilities. Together, we will help you find a way forward that feels in alignment with your highest well-being.
I primarily use the Internal Family Systems model, which includes guided, experiential exercises to support you in healing wounded parts of yourself.
Do you find yourself stuck in stifling patterns? I offer facilitated inward journeys to increase personal agency, liveliness, and fulfillment. I offer sensitive, open-hearted, humorous, and real contact as you navigate all the inner and outer hardships of being human. I enjoy working with folks from all backgrounds, races, sexual orientations, gender identities, and abilities. Together, we will help you find a way forward that feels in alignment with your highest well-being.
(415) 802-0804 View (415) 802-0804
Photo of Jenna Robinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jenna Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Are you looking to heal from trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, experiences with abuse and family violence? Or years of navigating systemic oppression? Are you motivated to develop into your most joyful and resilient self? Let me help you metabolize pain into triumph. I’ve been helping individuals, families and groups transcend trauma, abuse and grief for over 10 years in California and Hawai’i. I have a liberatory and integrative approach that is authentic, collaborative, warm, creative and joyful.
Are you looking to heal from trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, experiences with abuse and family violence? Or years of navigating systemic oppression? Are you motivated to develop into your most joyful and resilient self? Let me help you metabolize pain into triumph. I’ve been helping individuals, families and groups transcend trauma, abuse and grief for over 10 years in California and Hawai’i. I have a liberatory and integrative approach that is authentic, collaborative, warm, creative and joyful.
(510) 901-5693 View (510) 901-5693

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.