Photo of Ari Oklan, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Ari Oklan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I use a warm, down-to-earth approach in my work with children, teens, adults and couples. I collaborate with clients to develop a whole view of challenges and strengths, which is informed by my wide breadth of clinical experience across the lifespan. I have expertise in working with infants and parents, developmental disabilities, trauma, and both anticipated and unexpected crises across all ages. I integrate these perspectives so that I can attune to your needs and provide responsive support. My hope is to help you water the seeds of your inner strengths, push through stuck situations, and live with more connectedness and vitality.
I use a warm, down-to-earth approach in my work with children, teens, adults and couples. I collaborate with clients to develop a whole view of challenges and strengths, which is informed by my wide breadth of clinical experience across the lifespan. I have expertise in working with infants and parents, developmental disabilities, trauma, and both anticipated and unexpected crises across all ages. I integrate these perspectives so that I can attune to your needs and provide responsive support. My hope is to help you water the seeds of your inner strengths, push through stuck situations, and live with more connectedness and vitality.
(510) 298-3299 View (510) 298-3299
Photo of Leighko Toyoshima Yap, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Leighko Toyoshima Yap
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
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.
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 Austin Heafey, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Austin Heafey
Psychologist, MFT, Psy D
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Everyone deserves support– life can be overwhelming. Our sessions provide a safe, encouraging space for you to slow down and focus on what’s important. As an advocate for you, your family, or your child, we create solutions that help you find healing.
Everyone deserves support– life can be overwhelming. Our sessions provide a safe, encouraging space for you to slow down and focus on what’s important. As an advocate for you, your family, or your child, we create solutions that help you find healing.
(415) 594-4159 View (415) 594-4159
Photo of Lori Ann Spampinato, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Lori Ann Spampinato
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
You're welcome to learn about my Consultation and Evaluation practice. In brief, I have a developmental life span relationship-based biopsychosocial approach to viewing most difficulties in life. I use a thorough assessment, observation, and testing approach because you or your child is unique and needs specific issues addressed precisely. Let's work together to find solutions that allow you or your child to develop and change in healthy ways.
You're welcome to learn about my Consultation and Evaluation practice. In brief, I have a developmental life span relationship-based biopsychosocial approach to viewing most difficulties in life. I use a thorough assessment, observation, and testing approach because you or your child is unique and needs specific issues addressed precisely. Let's work together to find solutions that allow you or your child to develop and change in healthy ways.
(415) 935-3921 View (415) 935-3921
Gaylesta, Psych Assn for Gender & Sexual Diversity
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, LMFT, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
WELCOME to Gaylesta: The Psychotherapist Association for Gender and Sexual Diversity. Our members provide mental health services including therapist referrals, education, and consultation. We offer a wide range of specializations, allowing us to serve as a unique resource both the LGBTQ communities and to other service providers. Explore our site to find a therapist, learn more about us, or become a valued member.
WELCOME to Gaylesta: The Psychotherapist Association for Gender and Sexual Diversity. Our members provide mental health services including therapist referrals, education, and consultation. We offer a wide range of specializations, allowing us to serve as a unique resource both the LGBTQ communities and to other service providers. Explore our site to find a therapist, learn more about us, or become a valued member.
Photo of Jennifer Coloma, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Jennifer Coloma
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin. Creativity, liberation, and transformation — getting your power back — these are core tenants in my practice. My approach merges reflective space to spark insight with concrete tools and strategies to drive change. I draw from existential philosophy, the arts, and culture, as well as research and theory to match unique needs with individualized treatments that resonate.
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin. Creativity, liberation, and transformation — getting your power back — these are core tenants in my practice. My approach merges reflective space to spark insight with concrete tools and strategies to drive change. I draw from existential philosophy, the arts, and culture, as well as research and theory to match unique needs with individualized treatments that resonate.
(831) 221-9479 View (831) 221-9479

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of James Murakami, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
James Murakami
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707
Hello, I have a passion for working collaboratively with adults, adolescents and children who may be experiencing distress or who simply seek greater fulfillment in life. I believe deeply in the importance of connection among individuals, families, communities, nature, and spirituality towards promoting resiliency and healing. I have worked extensively with young adults, children and adolescents who have suffered anxiety, depression, educational difficulty, trauma and loss.
Hello, I have a passion for working collaboratively with adults, adolescents and children who may be experiencing distress or who simply seek greater fulfillment in life. I believe deeply in the importance of connection among individuals, families, communities, nature, and spirituality towards promoting resiliency and healing. I have worked extensively with young adults, children and adolescents who have suffered anxiety, depression, educational difficulty, trauma and loss.
(510) 379-9069 View (510) 379-9069
Photo of Dr. Fukiko Shibahara 柴原, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Dr. Fukiko Shibahara 柴原
Psychologist, PsyD, CEIM
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
Hello and welcome. My name is Dr. Fukiko Shibahara and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. I offer relational and compassionate attachment-based psychotherapy and insights for individuals of all ages both in person and online, including infants, children and families. Have you experienced trauma, difficult life events, loss, or conflicts and wanted to process them safely with someone professional? Are you concerned about your own or family's mental and behavioral health or relationships with others? Are you feeling like you might need some comfort and support right now as you navigate new roles or transitions in your life?
Hello and welcome. My name is Dr. Fukiko Shibahara and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. I offer relational and compassionate attachment-based psychotherapy and insights for individuals of all ages both in person and online, including infants, children and families. Have you experienced trauma, difficult life events, loss, or conflicts and wanted to process them safely with someone professional? Are you concerned about your own or family's mental and behavioral health or relationships with others? Are you feeling like you might need some comfort and support right now as you navigate new roles or transitions in your life?
(341) 766-0782 View (341) 766-0782
Photo of TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment , Counselor in Oakland, CA
TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
(925) 350-8130 View (925) 350-8130
Photo of Arwin Cotas-Girard, PsyD, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Arwin Cotas-Girard, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in child and adolescent therapy and comprehensive psychological assessment services for all ages. I also specialize in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly for girls and women. I am trained in Therapeutic Assessments and consider my evaluations to be brief therapeutic interventions that may allow healing and change to occur through the process of self-discovery and reworking of narratives. I work collaboratively with my clients, their caregivers, and other important people and systems in their lives to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in child and adolescent therapy and comprehensive psychological assessment services for all ages. I also specialize in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly for girls and women. I am trained in Therapeutic Assessments and consider my evaluations to be brief therapeutic interventions that may allow healing and change to occur through the process of self-discovery and reworking of narratives. I work collaboratively with my clients, their caregivers, and other important people and systems in their lives to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
(925) 212-4757 View (925) 212-4757
Photo of Rubino Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Rubino Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
We understand many people feel ashamed having to seek therapy for their child, family or themselves. However, no one is perfect and we all need help from time to time. We have created a relaxing atmosphere where you will not feel judged. We are here to assist you through a difficult time and to make the changes you need to make. Teens need help to. It is very common for teens to need therapy to deal with an issue in their life.
We understand many people feel ashamed having to seek therapy for their child, family or themselves. However, no one is perfect and we all need help from time to time. We have created a relaxing atmosphere where you will not feel judged. We are here to assist you through a difficult time and to make the changes you need to make. Teens need help to. It is very common for teens to need therapy to deal with an issue in their life.
(925) 705-4833 View (925) 705-4833

Online Therapists

Photo of Cheryl Julie Chin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Cheryl Julie Chin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LPCC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94568
My humanistic nature/therapeutic rapport is backed up by experience/training for all ages.
I am eager to treat diverse children, adolescents, and/or adults, as individuals, couples, families, or groups. My Specialization is in health psychology/behavioral medicine, i.e. eating disorders, stress management, chronic illness, chronic pain management, sport psychology, grief and loss - including of a pet, and I bring forth significant experience with developmental delays/learning disabilities, testing/assessment, adoption/foster care, mood/anxiety disorders, trauma, divorce, substance abuse, and other life transitions. Additionally, I am open to providing consultation for interns taking the licensing exam or tabulating hours. Seeing my clients start life with renewed vigor is incredibly rewarding.
My humanistic nature/therapeutic rapport is backed up by experience/training for all ages.
I am eager to treat diverse children, adolescents, and/or adults, as individuals, couples, families, or groups. My Specialization is in health psychology/behavioral medicine, i.e. eating disorders, stress management, chronic illness, chronic pain management, sport psychology, grief and loss - including of a pet, and I bring forth significant experience with developmental delays/learning disabilities, testing/assessment, adoption/foster care, mood/anxiety disorders, trauma, divorce, substance abuse, and other life transitions. Additionally, I am open to providing consultation for interns taking the licensing exam or tabulating hours. Seeing my clients start life with renewed vigor is incredibly rewarding.
(408) 596-9948 View (408) 596-9948
Photo of Holly Oswald, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Holly Oswald
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Waitlist for new clients
I offer individual and family therapy for adults, adolescents, and children, and couples therapy for adult partners. Using a mixture of cognitive, expressive, and reflective approaches, I help clients address a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, managing life transitions, behavioral problems, and relationship conflicts. I have specialized experience helping clients with histories of trauma, neglect, and abuse, as well as those who have been diagnosed with chronic illnesses and pain disorders.
I offer individual and family therapy for adults, adolescents, and children, and couples therapy for adult partners. Using a mixture of cognitive, expressive, and reflective approaches, I help clients address a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, managing life transitions, behavioral problems, and relationship conflicts. I have specialized experience helping clients with histories of trauma, neglect, and abuse, as well as those who have been diagnosed with chronic illnesses and pain disorders.
(415) 969-2073 View (415) 969-2073
Photo of Gina Sunie Lopez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Gina Sunie Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94124  (Online Only)
I believe that therapists and clients are partners in the therapeutic process, and that a client centered approach is best for promoting growth and wellbeing. Your personal goals guide us through the process, and we work together to help you reach them in a compassionate and honest way.
I believe that therapists and clients are partners in the therapeutic process, and that a client centered approach is best for promoting growth and wellbeing. Your personal goals guide us through the process, and we work together to help you reach them in a compassionate and honest way.
(510) 947-8569 View (510) 947-8569
Photo of James Lacroce, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
James Lacroce
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
My role as a psychologist is to help you navigate through a complex and stressful world. I'm most skilled at addressing issues related to depression and anxiety, relationship challenges, and self-esteem. Additionally, I enjoy helping people manage social and behavioral problems prevent healthy interactions with family, friends, and co-workers. I am experienced in addressing the challenges of both adults and children by drawing upon a few different theoretical perspectives to aid in helping individuals understand themselves, the origin of their problems, and how they can make changes in current life to feel happier.
My role as a psychologist is to help you navigate through a complex and stressful world. I'm most skilled at addressing issues related to depression and anxiety, relationship challenges, and self-esteem. Additionally, I enjoy helping people manage social and behavioral problems prevent healthy interactions with family, friends, and co-workers. I am experienced in addressing the challenges of both adults and children by drawing upon a few different theoretical perspectives to aid in helping individuals understand themselves, the origin of their problems, and how they can make changes in current life to feel happier.
(415) 938-5245 View (415) 938-5245
Photo of Fritz Bixler, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Fritz Bixler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044
My priority is helping you build a life beyond your wildest dreams. I am dedicated to meeting you where you’re at, and supporting you in carving out your own unique path towards healing and self-actualization. I believe everyone has the capacity to flourish, and I aim to create space for my clients to explore what wellness looks like for them. I really get intensity and emotional sensitivity, and understand the blessings and burdens that come with diverse ways of seeing the world. I am primarily a drama therapist specializing in creative play, but also provide straightforward talk therapy.
My priority is helping you build a life beyond your wildest dreams. I am dedicated to meeting you where you’re at, and supporting you in carving out your own unique path towards healing and self-actualization. I believe everyone has the capacity to flourish, and I aim to create space for my clients to explore what wellness looks like for them. I really get intensity and emotional sensitivity, and understand the blessings and burdens that come with diverse ways of seeing the world. I am primarily a drama therapist specializing in creative play, but also provide straightforward talk therapy.
(925) 966-3435 View (925) 966-3435
Photo of Ruth Cohn, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Ruth Cohn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
I don't have a specific client that is "ideal" as every client has their own unique history and backstory. I definitely look forward to meeting with people who are interested in self-growth but I also enjoy helping people get to the point to where the may be ready to work on their self-growth. If you are reading this, you would probably be the ideal client since you have taken the first step in just having that thought in your head about maybe it is time to give yourself the love you give to others and focusing on yourself.
I don't have a specific client that is "ideal" as every client has their own unique history and backstory. I definitely look forward to meeting with people who are interested in self-growth but I also enjoy helping people get to the point to where the may be ready to work on their self-growth. If you are reading this, you would probably be the ideal client since you have taken the first step in just having that thought in your head about maybe it is time to give yourself the love you give to others and focusing on yourself.
(916) 269-4853 View (916) 269-4853
Photo of Michael Ray Henry, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Michael Ray Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95688
Every individual is aware of their personal needs in life and is on a quest to get them met. Internal and external roadblocks can hinder this process and produce negative emotional and mental states of being. My job is to get to the root cause of this distress by identifying the unmet needs, the roadblocks, and the process of meeting those needs that is currently not working. We then work on removing the roadblocks and replacing the method of getting those needs met with one that works and produces harmony with all of those involved.
Every individual is aware of their personal needs in life and is on a quest to get them met. Internal and external roadblocks can hinder this process and produce negative emotional and mental states of being. My job is to get to the root cause of this distress by identifying the unmet needs, the roadblocks, and the process of meeting those needs that is currently not working. We then work on removing the roadblocks and replacing the method of getting those needs met with one that works and produces harmony with all of those involved.
(858) 309-4244 View (858) 309-4244
Photo of Samatra Downing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Samatra Downing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC, MEd
Verified Verified
El Sobrante, CA 94803  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have a Master's degree in Social Work from San Jose State University, as well as two Pupil Personnel Service Credentials, from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. I specialize in work with underserved youth in urban settings. Currently, I am a full time School Social Worker for San Francisco Unified School District.I have experience in working with issues of grief and trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem,ADHD, parenting issues, and the supervision of ASW, and MFT Trainee's towards clinical licensure.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have a Master's degree in Social Work from San Jose State University, as well as two Pupil Personnel Service Credentials, from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. I specialize in work with underserved youth in urban settings. Currently, I am a full time School Social Worker for San Francisco Unified School District.I have experience in working with issues of grief and trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem,ADHD, parenting issues, and the supervision of ASW, and MFT Trainee's towards clinical licensure.
(510) 892-3829 View (510) 892-3829
Photo of Sally Payson Hays, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Sally Payson Hays
Psychologist, PhD, MSEd
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94952
I provide individual and family therapy to children and adults looking to improve their relationships as well as freeing themselves from what has been holding them back. I work with people of all ages with emotional and behavioral dysregulation, trauma, ADHD, Autism, and Learning Differences. I provide individual therapy and family support to children, teens, and young adults and their families.
I provide individual and family therapy to children and adults looking to improve their relationships as well as freeing themselves from what has been holding them back. I work with people of all ages with emotional and behavioral dysregulation, trauma, ADHD, Autism, and Learning Differences. I provide individual therapy and family support to children, teens, and young adults and their families.
(707) 629-5682 View (707) 629-5682
Humanistic Therapists

How does humanistic therapy work?

One tenet of humanistic therapy is that people are good. The humanistic approach is concerned with a person’s ability to accept oneself. It likewise encourages a person to overcome self-criticism and self-defeating tendencies, as well as disapproval from others. This approach also emphasizes self-actualization and treating an individual as a whole person. A foundation of this therapy type: The patient is the expert in their life, and treatment often takes the individual’s lead.

Is humanistic therapy evidence-based?

Humanistic therapy is an evidence-based practice. Research has found that humanistic therapy can lead to significant improvement, and for some people it can be just as effective as other therapies, such as Cognitive behavioral therapy. The benefits of humanistic therapy are enduring.

How long does humanistic therapy last?

The goal of humanistic therapy is to understand a person’s day-to-day experiences. While sessions can be short-term and last over a few months, therapy can sometimes continue beyond that and last up to a year or more. And because patients learn the theory behind humanistic therapy during treatment, they can also practice its tenets throughout life after therapy sessions have been completed.

Is humanistic therapy effective?

According to research, many patients find success with humanistic therapy. Researchers note that the therapy is particularly useful in addressing poor self-esteem and self-sabotage, as well as improving conditions including anxiety and depression. Improvements in problem areas can be long standing, as individuals can continue working on themselves by using the tools they’ve learned during treatment.