Feminist Therapists in Contra Costa County, CA
Lauren Funiestas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, CA 94520 (Online Only)
My therapeutic work serves those who are healing intergenerational cycles of childhood emotional neglect, sexual violence and are in search of healing from a decolonial, feminist perspective.
Do you identify as an Asian, Pacific Islander or Filipino woman? Have you experienced sexual or relational trauma and need a place to speak your truth? Do you find yourself stuck in challenging relationship patterns in friendships and romantic relationships? Are you searching for a therapist who can witness your healing with humor, realness & love? You’ve come to the right place. This protective space is intended to support the Filipino, Asian American & Pacific Islander community in connecting with their authentic emotional and spiritual selves as they navigate through trauma recovery.
My therapeutic work serves those who are healing intergenerational cycles of childhood emotional neglect, sexual violence and are in search of healing from a decolonial, feminist perspective.
Do you identify as an Asian, Pacific Islander or Filipino woman? Have you experienced sexual or relational trauma and need a place to speak your truth? Do you find yourself stuck in challenging relationship patterns in friendships and romantic relationships? Are you searching for a therapist who can witness your healing with humor, realness & love? You’ve come to the right place. This protective space is intended to support the Filipino, Asian American & Pacific Islander community in connecting with their authentic emotional and spiritual selves as they navigate through trauma recovery.
Brooke Van Oosbree
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I integrate evidence-based practices, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, with principles from compassion-focused, narrative, and feminist therapies to develop treatment plans that are both client-centered and based in sound research.
We all have strategies for dealing with challenges day-to-day. But over time, many strategies can fall short or even backfire. We may find ourselves withdrawing and avoiding certain aspects of our lives, or overextending and pushing ourselves to the point of exhaustion. This can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, and irritable and can also take a toll on our relationships and physical health. One of my goals as a therapist is to help you identify changes you can make, both big and small, and tap into your motivation to follow-through on those changes.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I integrate evidence-based practices, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, with principles from compassion-focused, narrative, and feminist therapies to develop treatment plans that are both client-centered and based in sound research.
We all have strategies for dealing with challenges day-to-day. But over time, many strategies can fall short or even backfire. We may find ourselves withdrawing and avoiding certain aspects of our lives, or overextending and pushing ourselves to the point of exhaustion. This can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, and irritable and can also take a toll on our relationships and physical health. One of my goals as a therapist is to help you identify changes you can make, both big and small, and tap into your motivation to follow-through on those changes.
Jordan Werner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I am foundationally trained in DBT, trained in ERP for OCD, and utilize an underlying feminist and integrative approach to therapy.
Making the decision to embark on a therapeutic journey is a difficult and courageous, yet rewarding decision. It's my goal to meet you where you’re at and create an empathetic, safe, and nonjudgmental space for you to discover more about yourself and make sense of the world around you. I use a compassionate, sincere, and culturally competent approach with my clients. By engaging in meaningful discussions and self-examination, I will assist you in identifying recurring behaviors and thought patterns, gain a deeper awareness of yourself, and enhance your ability to handle difficult situations that arise in life.
I am foundationally trained in DBT, trained in ERP for OCD, and utilize an underlying feminist and integrative approach to therapy.
Making the decision to embark on a therapeutic journey is a difficult and courageous, yet rewarding decision. It's my goal to meet you where you’re at and create an empathetic, safe, and nonjudgmental space for you to discover more about yourself and make sense of the world around you. I use a compassionate, sincere, and culturally competent approach with my clients. By engaging in meaningful discussions and self-examination, I will assist you in identifying recurring behaviors and thought patterns, gain a deeper awareness of yourself, and enhance your ability to handle difficult situations that arise in life.
Liz Abrams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94804
I personally identify as queer, feminist, white anti-racist, cisgender woman (and trans-affirmative), Arab-American, and social justice activist.
Stress and trauma can take many forms. Sometimes we survive an event such as a car accident, wildfire, assault, or military-related event. Or we may notice chronic struggles with trusting others and ourselves, and feeling stressed and unsatisfied in our relationships. The experience of trauma can significantly impact how we change or grow in each present moment, how we connect and separate from others, and how we experiment, take risks, and resource our creativity. Let's co-create a therapy relationship that works to support the development of loving relationships with self and others.
I personally identify as queer, feminist, white anti-racist, cisgender woman (and trans-affirmative), Arab-American, and social justice activist.
Stress and trauma can take many forms. Sometimes we survive an event such as a car accident, wildfire, assault, or military-related event. Or we may notice chronic struggles with trusting others and ourselves, and feeling stressed and unsatisfied in our relationships. The experience of trauma can significantly impact how we change or grow in each present moment, how we connect and separate from others, and how we experiment, take risks, and resource our creativity. Let's co-create a therapy relationship that works to support the development of loving relationships with self and others.
Nicole Abeleda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Ramon, CA 94582 (Online Only)
My activism journey has shaped my perspective, fostering an intersectional lens grounded in Feminist and Social Justice Theory, Transformative Justice, Restorative Justice, Ethnic Studies, Decolonial Practices, and Trauma Informed Care.
Hello there! I'm Nicole "Nikki" Abeleda, and I'm thrilled to connect with you. I proudly identify as a First-Generation Queer Filipinx, embracing she/they/siya pronouns. If you’re navigating the intricate intersection of mental health and identity as an LGBTQIA+, BIPOC individual, remember you’re not alone. My ideal client is someone prepared to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. I collaborate with those recognizing the significance of their unique narrative, eager to (re)imagine their space in the world.
My activism journey has shaped my perspective, fostering an intersectional lens grounded in Feminist and Social Justice Theory, Transformative Justice, Restorative Justice, Ethnic Studies, Decolonial Practices, and Trauma Informed Care.
Hello there! I'm Nicole "Nikki" Abeleda, and I'm thrilled to connect with you. I proudly identify as a First-Generation Queer Filipinx, embracing she/they/siya pronouns. If you’re navigating the intricate intersection of mental health and identity as an LGBTQIA+, BIPOC individual, remember you’re not alone. My ideal client is someone prepared to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. I collaborate with those recognizing the significance of their unique narrative, eager to (re)imagine their space in the world.
Jaimi Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Martinez, CA 94553
Hello, I'm Jaimi Martin LCWS, PH-C. I specialize in childhood trauma using EMDR, and postpartum depression and anxiety, using a feminist viewpoint. I work with individuals ages 12 and up, with a focus on life transitions. I support people in becoming their true selves. I've always worked in collaboration with others and found working as a therapist allowed that work to be more meaningful and deeper.
Hello, I'm Jaimi Martin LCWS, PH-C. I specialize in childhood trauma using EMDR, and postpartum depression and anxiety, using a feminist viewpoint. I work with individuals ages 12 and up, with a focus on life transitions. I support people in becoming their true selves. I've always worked in collaboration with others and found working as a therapist allowed that work to be more meaningful and deeper.
Savannah L Hamilton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Reaching out for help is a courageous milestone. Who you choose to invite into your journey is a very important decision. That’s why I believe the strength of the therapeutic relationship is essential for transformation, empowerment, and healing to take place. I utilize my empathetic and relational oriented style to form authentic alliances during this life changing work. I use approaches from evidence-based theories including Psychodynamic, CBT and Feminist Theory. Our environments influence us heavily which is why I observe each human experience uniquely through the lenses of societal and cultural realities.
Reaching out for help is a courageous milestone. Who you choose to invite into your journey is a very important decision. That’s why I believe the strength of the therapeutic relationship is essential for transformation, empowerment, and healing to take place. I utilize my empathetic and relational oriented style to form authentic alliances during this life changing work. I use approaches from evidence-based theories including Psychodynamic, CBT and Feminist Theory. Our environments influence us heavily which is why I observe each human experience uniquely through the lenses of societal and cultural realities.
Rhonda Barovsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
People come to therapy because they want to feel better. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD, or relationship problems, if you have experienced rape, childhood abuse, domestic violence, please call me. I also work with people who have experienced the death of a loved one, including their child. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TEAM-CBT model developed by David Burns, MD, including powerful and effective techniques designed to move you from despair to joy. I also use EMDR, Hypnosis and Ketamine Assisted Therapy. "She was helpful, and understanding. I couldn't have gotten to where I am right now without her." KT
People come to therapy because they want to feel better. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD, or relationship problems, if you have experienced rape, childhood abuse, domestic violence, please call me. I also work with people who have experienced the death of a loved one, including their child. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TEAM-CBT model developed by David Burns, MD, including powerful and effective techniques designed to move you from despair to joy. I also use EMDR, Hypnosis and Ketamine Assisted Therapy. "She was helpful, and understanding. I couldn't have gotten to where I am right now without her." KT
Christopher Patrick White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Cerrito, CA 94530
My clients are often sensitive, intelligent, and creative people who face life transitions, self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and the challenges of liberating passion and creating meaning in life. Many struggle with the legacy of significant trauma.
Through acceptance, loving encouragement, and providing a container for self-exploration, I help clients to find a more encompassing love for self and other, develop strength and firmness of character, and tap into the well of their vitality, creativity, and joy.
My clients are often sensitive, intelligent, and creative people who face life transitions, self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and the challenges of liberating passion and creating meaning in life. Many struggle with the legacy of significant trauma.
Through acceptance, loving encouragement, and providing a container for self-exploration, I help clients to find a more encompassing love for self and other, develop strength and firmness of character, and tap into the well of their vitality, creativity, and joy.
Shaleda Newson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
In my role as a therapist, my purpose is to empower and guide individuals on their quest for internal alignment and healing. My dedication revolves around cultivating emotional intelligence, with a primary focus on assisting clients in uncovering their strengths and identifying triggers. I am committed to providing the necessary tools for navigating life's challenges, fostering personal growth, and developing a resilient mindset. Collaboratively, we explore solutions to problems, encouraging a journey of self-discovery that promotes genuine internal peace and enduring contentment.
In my role as a therapist, my purpose is to empower and guide individuals on their quest for internal alignment and healing. My dedication revolves around cultivating emotional intelligence, with a primary focus on assisting clients in uncovering their strengths and identifying triggers. I am committed to providing the necessary tools for navigating life's challenges, fostering personal growth, and developing a resilient mindset. Collaboratively, we explore solutions to problems, encouraging a journey of self-discovery that promotes genuine internal peace and enduring contentment.
Mary Cabarles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94520 (Online Only)
#1 You are courageous. It is not easy to ask for help or be willing to look at coping strategies or attachment styles that are no longer serving you. I strive to provide an open unbiased environment to develop a comfortable therapist/client dynamic in order to begin processing past or current issues with a focus on goal setting and starting where you're at. Change happens when you believe it can happen and the only failure is in not trying. I strongly believe that there is no destination, only the journey and in focusing on the process and being mindful, you can achieve anything.
#1 You are courageous. It is not easy to ask for help or be willing to look at coping strategies or attachment styles that are no longer serving you. I strive to provide an open unbiased environment to develop a comfortable therapist/client dynamic in order to begin processing past or current issues with a focus on goal setting and starting where you're at. Change happens when you believe it can happen and the only failure is in not trying. I strongly believe that there is no destination, only the journey and in focusing on the process and being mindful, you can achieve anything.
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Nicolle Danielle Tissot
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Struggling with anxiety, depression, low self esteem or negative self talk? Looking for a supportive, caring and empathetic therapist? Life can be challenging and even unfair at times, as life continues to move forward we may be activated or stuck as things from the past, future and present resurface in a way that feels unmanageable on your own. I work with clients to walk along that path with them as we explore what has brought them to therapy and together create meaning, process challenging events from the past, create insight, create new ways of coping, overall self growth, and positive change for the present and future.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, low self esteem or negative self talk? Looking for a supportive, caring and empathetic therapist? Life can be challenging and even unfair at times, as life continues to move forward we may be activated or stuck as things from the past, future and present resurface in a way that feels unmanageable on your own. I work with clients to walk along that path with them as we explore what has brought them to therapy and together create meaning, process challenging events from the past, create insight, create new ways of coping, overall self growth, and positive change for the present and future.
Gwynne Gilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, SEP, OICC, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596 (Online Only)
It's been too long since you felt peaceful, present, and comfortable-if ever. Your brain is always going–worried about the future, criticizing yourself about the past, & hyper-sensitive about what people think of you. The thoughts in your head affect your body, too, with tension in your muscles, uneasiness in your gut, and a heartbeat that amps up at the drop of a hat. You can barely remember what it's like to be relaxed; just getting through the day takes work, and sleep is a nightly struggle. Now it's impacting your health, work, parenting, and relationships. It's hard not to feel hopeless. You're looking for somewhere to turn.
It's been too long since you felt peaceful, present, and comfortable-if ever. Your brain is always going–worried about the future, criticizing yourself about the past, & hyper-sensitive about what people think of you. The thoughts in your head affect your body, too, with tension in your muscles, uneasiness in your gut, and a heartbeat that amps up at the drop of a hat. You can barely remember what it's like to be relaxed; just getting through the day takes work, and sleep is a nightly struggle. Now it's impacting your health, work, parenting, and relationships. It's hard not to feel hopeless. You're looking for somewhere to turn.
Macy Schoenthaler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
When we have an experience that is traumatic or incredibly stressful, our brains have a hard time processing that memory. This can create symptoms such as, anxiety, depression, overwhelming emotions, difficult feelings, self-blame, or relationship problems, to name a few. If given the opportunity, our minds, like our bodies, have the innate ability to heal. The trouble with difficult experiences, however, is that these memories get tangled, leaving us feeling stuck or showing up in other destructive ways in our lives.
When we have an experience that is traumatic or incredibly stressful, our brains have a hard time processing that memory. This can create symptoms such as, anxiety, depression, overwhelming emotions, difficult feelings, self-blame, or relationship problems, to name a few. If given the opportunity, our minds, like our bodies, have the innate ability to heal. The trouble with difficult experiences, however, is that these memories get tangled, leaving us feeling stuck or showing up in other destructive ways in our lives.
Johanna Marie McShane
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
I specialize in helping people through life transitions of all kinds- from work/career to family and personal. Change is a part of life, and it can be disruptive, unsettling, and challenging. It can also be an opportunity for creativity and evaluation of our lives. I help people assess where they are now, where they want to go, and how to get there. Trained as a high level violinist, I have a particular passion for helping musicians and athletes through transitions related to their sport or instrument- things like dealing with injuries, or making decisions about whether to pursue athletics or music at the next higher level.
I specialize in helping people through life transitions of all kinds- from work/career to family and personal. Change is a part of life, and it can be disruptive, unsettling, and challenging. It can also be an opportunity for creativity and evaluation of our lives. I help people assess where they are now, where they want to go, and how to get there. Trained as a high level violinist, I have a particular passion for helping musicians and athletes through transitions related to their sport or instrument- things like dealing with injuries, or making decisions about whether to pursue athletics or music at the next higher level.
Jessica Pfisterer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Are you feeling weighed down by the stresses of life or grappling with past experiences that continue to affect your present? Are you yearning for a therapeutic space characterized by empathy, understanding, and a focus on your individual needs? Whether you're seeking support as an individual, a couple, or a family, I am committed to working collaboratively with you to foster healing, resilience, and deeper connections. I specialize in supporting those who have experienced trauma, suffer from anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, and my fellow members of the LQBTQ+ community.
Are you feeling weighed down by the stresses of life or grappling with past experiences that continue to affect your present? Are you yearning for a therapeutic space characterized by empathy, understanding, and a focus on your individual needs? Whether you're seeking support as an individual, a couple, or a family, I am committed to working collaboratively with you to foster healing, resilience, and deeper connections. I specialize in supporting those who have experienced trauma, suffer from anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, and my fellow members of the LQBTQ+ community.
Dr. Keiko Y. Miller
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Dr. Keiko Miller is a neuropsychologist located in Walnut Creek and is the founder of Aspire Neuropsychological Services. She has worked in the field of Autism since 2003 and has worked in the field of neuropsychology since 2009. She conducts a variety of evaluations of adults and children ages 12 months+. She earned her Psy.D. degree in 2011 and Masters of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP) in 2019 from California School of Professional Psychology. She holds an active license in California. Aspire has clinicians from a variety of specialities in an effort to meet our patient's needs.
Dr. Keiko Miller is a neuropsychologist located in Walnut Creek and is the founder of Aspire Neuropsychological Services. She has worked in the field of Autism since 2003 and has worked in the field of neuropsychology since 2009. She conducts a variety of evaluations of adults and children ages 12 months+. She earned her Psy.D. degree in 2011 and Masters of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP) in 2019 from California School of Professional Psychology. She holds an active license in California. Aspire has clinicians from a variety of specialities in an effort to meet our patient's needs.
Kathryn Jane Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with adolescents, young adults (COLLEGE students), adults and families. I believe you are capable of accessing and making use of dynamic, healing, empowering capacities in order to shift habits of negative thinking, self-doubt and problematic behaviors. The relationship between therapist and client is vital in facilitating healing, self-compassion and growth. My hope is to assist you in finding and expressing your greatest strengths and potential; as well as working through barriers to express your vibrant self, experience happiness, peace and self-acceptance.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with adolescents, young adults (COLLEGE students), adults and families. I believe you are capable of accessing and making use of dynamic, healing, empowering capacities in order to shift habits of negative thinking, self-doubt and problematic behaviors. The relationship between therapist and client is vital in facilitating healing, self-compassion and growth. My hope is to assist you in finding and expressing your greatest strengths and potential; as well as working through barriers to express your vibrant self, experience happiness, peace and self-acceptance.
Daniella K Bermudez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California, with an office in Walnut Creek, CA. I am a trained psychotherapist certified in Perinatal Mental Health and offer professional therapeutic services covering a variety of issues and concerns. I have clinical experience in the areas of grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, crisis management, suicide prevention, life transitions, parenting stress, and reproductive and maternal mental health. I experience working in various settings, including community health, prenatal clinic, non-profit organizations, schools and in-home counseling.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California, with an office in Walnut Creek, CA. I am a trained psychotherapist certified in Perinatal Mental Health and offer professional therapeutic services covering a variety of issues and concerns. I have clinical experience in the areas of grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, crisis management, suicide prevention, life transitions, parenting stress, and reproductive and maternal mental health. I experience working in various settings, including community health, prenatal clinic, non-profit organizations, schools and in-home counseling.
Elizabeth L Black
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danville, CA 94526
From time to time, life stressors negatively impact our physical and mental well-being. You may find yourself dealing with complex challenges such as feeling stuck in unproductive patterns, grappling with inner conflicts, or facing barriers that hinder your personal and emotional development in life. Seeking help from a psychotherapist can profoundly contribute to better mental health and achieving a sense of balance, increased self-confidence, and a deeper connection with yourself and others.
From time to time, life stressors negatively impact our physical and mental well-being. You may find yourself dealing with complex challenges such as feeling stuck in unproductive patterns, grappling with inner conflicts, or facing barriers that hinder your personal and emotional development in life. Seeking help from a psychotherapist can profoundly contribute to better mental health and achieving a sense of balance, increased self-confidence, and a deeper connection with yourself and others.
See more therapy options for Contra Costa County
Feminist Therapists
How does feminist therapy work?
Feminist therapy sessions are not only personal but often cultural or political in nature, as the approach is based on the belief that people are affected by, and often struggle with, cultural and societal norms and biases, and need to move beyond those external pressures or stressors to tap their own confidence and engage more fully in their own identity. Sessions may therefore include discussions of sexism, diversity, and gender issues and talk of steps toward greater empowerment for patients who believe they have been silenced and seek to raise their voices.
What are examples of feminist therapy techniques?
Along with traditional talk therapy and analysis, a feminist therapist may employ techniques such as role-playing and assertiveness training to help clients build their self-esteem so that they feel they can act freely, and not based on cultural expectations or gender roles dictated by others. A feminist therapist may also engage in bibliotherapy, offering suggested readings on gender identity or social power inequities as they work toward viewing mental-health concerns through a broad cultural lens before focusing on how they affect the individual. Somatic therapy techniques, with an emphasis on body awareness, self-compassion, and mindfulness practices are also often part of feminist therapist practice.
How long does feminist therapy last?
As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for feminist therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. It may take some time to become comfortable discussing personal issues, but once a client feels they can do so, they could expect therapy to last for a number of months, typically including at least 12 sessions.
Does feminist therapy work?
As a relatively recent therapeutic technique, there is not yet a body of evidence proving the efficacy of feminist therapy. However, the approach is based on proven core principles of talk therapy, with a particular emphasis on developing a therapeutic relationship based on equality and authentic connection between therapist and client and discovering and building on clients’ personal strengths to help them gain a greater sense of personal power and agency.