Photo of Chelsie Crilly, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Chelsie Crilly
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I specialize in working with ADHD, HSP, and ASD. Being in our bodies- and being in our world- can be very difficult. This is especially true when when you're a highly sensitive person. My typical client often hears "you're being too much" while also dreading the feeling of not "being enough". I'm here to take a deep dive into what's making you feel like "too much" and highlight the ways you are "just enough for the right people". Typically, my client's goals are to live more comfortably in their sensitive skin, find liberation from shame, and better manage depression and anxiety.
I specialize in working with ADHD, HSP, and ASD. Being in our bodies- and being in our world- can be very difficult. This is especially true when when you're a highly sensitive person. My typical client often hears "you're being too much" while also dreading the feeling of not "being enough". I'm here to take a deep dive into what's making you feel like "too much" and highlight the ways you are "just enough for the right people". Typically, my client's goals are to live more comfortably in their sensitive skin, find liberation from shame, and better manage depression and anxiety.
(925) 744-6783 x8 View (925) 744-6783 x8

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of S. L. McIntyre, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
S. L. McIntyre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
” I fuse Somatic Psychology, IFS, and Psychodynamic Humanistic principles to help my clients restore their MindBody connection so they Thrive instead of survive.
Are you an emerging professional experiencing anxiety, relationship distress, or dissociation? Are you often hypervigilant, insecure or disconnected from your body? Do you feel you can't trust yourself? Are you aware of self-defeating behaviors, but can't seem to change them? You may have had a "late-in-life" diagnosis, realized your gender or even childhood weren’t what you thought they were. You may have had a recent breakup, job change, newborn or Saturn Return. Wherever you’re at, you want long-lasting change and a Right-Fit Therapist. Someone who is not only Neurodivergent-affirming, but who is Neurodivergent themself.
” I fuse Somatic Psychology, IFS, and Psychodynamic Humanistic principles to help my clients restore their MindBody connection so they Thrive instead of survive.
Are you an emerging professional experiencing anxiety, relationship distress, or dissociation? Are you often hypervigilant, insecure or disconnected from your body? Do you feel you can't trust yourself? Are you aware of self-defeating behaviors, but can't seem to change them? You may have had a "late-in-life" diagnosis, realized your gender or even childhood weren’t what you thought they were. You may have had a recent breakup, job change, newborn or Saturn Return. Wherever you’re at, you want long-lasting change and a Right-Fit Therapist. Someone who is not only Neurodivergent-affirming, but who is Neurodivergent themself.
(628) 345-8907 View (628) 345-8907
Photo of Lizzie Pfeiffer, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Lizzie Pfeiffer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I work from a trauma-informed, relational, and client-centered lens. I integrate psychodynamic and attachment based theoretical approaches. I believe the relationship we build as client and therapist, as well as exploring your relationships outside of therapy, are important avenues for growth. You are the expert on your own life; I am here to listen to you and work collaboratively to empower your inherent strength and resilience. I use warmth, compassion, and humor to cultivate an affirming, non-judgemental, and trusting connection with my clients.
I work from a trauma-informed, relational, and client-centered lens. I integrate psychodynamic and attachment based theoretical approaches. I believe the relationship we build as client and therapist, as well as exploring your relationships outside of therapy, are important avenues for growth. You are the expert on your own life; I am here to listen to you and work collaboratively to empower your inherent strength and resilience. I use warmth, compassion, and humor to cultivate an affirming, non-judgemental, and trusting connection with my clients.
(415) 873-9447 View (415) 873-9447
Photo of Niku (Nick) Ashok Shah, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Niku (Nick) Ashok Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
As a queer, South Asian American therapist, I specialize in providing body-centered psychodynamic therapy to Queer, Trans, Non-Binary, people of color and immigrants of the diasporas. With a relational and somatic approach in treatment, I can help you manage depression, anxiety, overwhelm, worry, stress and dis-ease. My hope is to help you heal trauma, manage dissociation, build insight around how your mind works and compassionately transform unhelpful internalized messages. I specialize in working with adults and teens.
As a queer, South Asian American therapist, I specialize in providing body-centered psychodynamic therapy to Queer, Trans, Non-Binary, people of color and immigrants of the diasporas. With a relational and somatic approach in treatment, I can help you manage depression, anxiety, overwhelm, worry, stress and dis-ease. My hope is to help you heal trauma, manage dissociation, build insight around how your mind works and compassionately transform unhelpful internalized messages. I specialize in working with adults and teens.
(510) 473-2440 View (510) 473-2440
Photo of Mischa Freeman, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Lafayette, CA
Mischa Freeman
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Hi there, I’m glad you’re here. I know that looking for a therapist can be hard, especially when you’re hurting or feeling low. I may be able to help. You might feel lonely, anxious, or full of guilt…or you might not know what you feel. You may be confused about the choices you make in life, or you may feel frustrated with the unjust world you live in. Many critical thought patterns, painful feelings, and unwanted behaviors started out as survival strategies to protect us during difficult life experiences. These strategies helped us cope in the past, but can lead to conflict and suffering in the present.
Hi there, I’m glad you’re here. I know that looking for a therapist can be hard, especially when you’re hurting or feeling low. I may be able to help. You might feel lonely, anxious, or full of guilt…or you might not know what you feel. You may be confused about the choices you make in life, or you may feel frustrated with the unjust world you live in. Many critical thought patterns, painful feelings, and unwanted behaviors started out as survival strategies to protect us during difficult life experiences. These strategies helped us cope in the past, but can lead to conflict and suffering in the present.
(510) 949-3808 View (510) 949-3808
Photo of Nick Krieger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Nick Krieger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I love working within my communities, supporting other queer and trans folks, whether you are coming in to explore your identity, or you simply want a therapist you don’t need to educate. I help clients with relationship challenges, familial difficulties, anxiety, depression, grief, and the impacts of trauma. I welcome people of all identities and work particularly well with people who feel different from others.
I love working within my communities, supporting other queer and trans folks, whether you are coming in to explore your identity, or you simply want a therapist you don’t need to educate. I help clients with relationship challenges, familial difficulties, anxiety, depression, grief, and the impacts of trauma. I welcome people of all identities and work particularly well with people who feel different from others.
(415) 903-4465 View (415) 903-4465
Photo of Melody Maldonado, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Melody Maldonado
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
I am passionate about providing trauma-informed and dynamic treatment to folx who may feel unwelcome in their communities due to both internal and external perceptions of their identity. My passion is working with queer folx of color to foster a healing and reparative experience to discover and be empowered in your authentic self. Whether you're looking for a space of your own, for you and your partner(s) or chosen family, our work together can allow for deeper understanding, openness and communication.
I am passionate about providing trauma-informed and dynamic treatment to folx who may feel unwelcome in their communities due to both internal and external perceptions of their identity. My passion is working with queer folx of color to foster a healing and reparative experience to discover and be empowered in your authentic self. Whether you're looking for a space of your own, for you and your partner(s) or chosen family, our work together can allow for deeper understanding, openness and communication.
(510) 930-3544 View (510) 930-3544
Photo of Irene Van, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Irene Van
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
At times, the weight of the world can be overwhelming. We may grow up believing that we are not enough and that we have to be perfect. We may have inherited messages from our family or from society that puts us down, especially if we come from a marginalized identity. This can make us feel hopeless or ungrounded and we may act out in ways that we aren't proud of.
At times, the weight of the world can be overwhelming. We may grow up believing that we are not enough and that we have to be perfect. We may have inherited messages from our family or from society that puts us down, especially if we come from a marginalized identity. This can make us feel hopeless or ungrounded and we may act out in ways that we aren't proud of.
(408) 886-9939 View (408) 886-9939
Photo of Ida Ahmadi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Ida Ahmadi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Waitlist for new clients
If you've ever felt lost or stuck in a painful pattern or conflict, or struggle with overwhelming emotions, or have trouble connecting with them, therapy with me is a profound way to discover yourself again and have new experiences. To restore balance and flexibility, and to reawaken your inherent capacity for joy and resilience. I listen with attention, empathy, & curiosity as we encounter and explore your conflicts, pains, and desires. We accomplish your goals by concentrating on what is important to you in a space where you will be listened to and heard, and where we will share an honest & accurate reflection of your experience.
If you've ever felt lost or stuck in a painful pattern or conflict, or struggle with overwhelming emotions, or have trouble connecting with them, therapy with me is a profound way to discover yourself again and have new experiences. To restore balance and flexibility, and to reawaken your inherent capacity for joy and resilience. I listen with attention, empathy, & curiosity as we encounter and explore your conflicts, pains, and desires. We accomplish your goals by concentrating on what is important to you in a space where you will be listened to and heard, and where we will share an honest & accurate reflection of your experience.
(510) 256-7495 View (510) 256-7495
Photo of Jonathan Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Jonathan Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
You’ve needed change, but for too long, your efforts get complicated by self-sabotage and triggered reactions. When triggered, you prefer to isolate and withdraw so you don’t need to worry more about straining your relationships. There’s been little room for connection, play, and joy, because your attention is mostly preoccupied with anticipating harm or preventing social rejection. You’ve had to be self-reliant for so long that you can’t imagine asking for what you need without feeling selfish or worrying about burdening others. You know you're self-aware, yet you don’t know how to implement the steps for deep, lasting change.
You’ve needed change, but for too long, your efforts get complicated by self-sabotage and triggered reactions. When triggered, you prefer to isolate and withdraw so you don’t need to worry more about straining your relationships. There’s been little room for connection, play, and joy, because your attention is mostly preoccupied with anticipating harm or preventing social rejection. You’ve had to be self-reliant for so long that you can’t imagine asking for what you need without feeling selfish or worrying about burdening others. You know you're self-aware, yet you don’t know how to implement the steps for deep, lasting change.
(510) 930-3465 View (510) 930-3465
Photo of Tig Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Lafayette, CA
Tig Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, AFMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I'm a non-binary therapist offering gender affirming care to other trans, non-binary and queer individuals. My approach is warm, curious, trauma informed, and relationship-centered. So much of our trauma as a species has occurred in relational contexts. Therapy can be an opportunity to re-define and discover what it means to be in healthy relationship with ourself and others. Through building our therapeutic relationship together, I think we can uncover a lot about how you move through the world, where you get stuck, and how you relate to others.
I'm a non-binary therapist offering gender affirming care to other trans, non-binary and queer individuals. My approach is warm, curious, trauma informed, and relationship-centered. So much of our trauma as a species has occurred in relational contexts. Therapy can be an opportunity to re-define and discover what it means to be in healthy relationship with ourself and others. Through building our therapeutic relationship together, I think we can uncover a lot about how you move through the world, where you get stuck, and how you relate to others.
(650) 405-0031 View (650) 405-0031
Photo of Justin Leonti, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Justin Leonti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
You’re fumbling, feeling clunky, ashamed, lost in transition, and searching for answers. You’ve been told you’re too much, too scattered, and too picky, when in reality, you may very well know what you want and it seems others just can’t meet you there. Together we will explore and unfold acceptance and awareness around ALL of your parts, especially the most intense ones. What you’re searching for is out there, let’s take these next steps on your journey
You’re fumbling, feeling clunky, ashamed, lost in transition, and searching for answers. You’ve been told you’re too much, too scattered, and too picky, when in reality, you may very well know what you want and it seems others just can’t meet you there. Together we will explore and unfold acceptance and awareness around ALL of your parts, especially the most intense ones. What you’re searching for is out there, let’s take these next steps on your journey
(510) 689-1814 View (510) 689-1814
Photo of Rachel Milner, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Rachel Milner
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I specialize in working with young people and the LGBTQIA community. My professional background in education, clowning, and physical theater deeply informs my work. Using embodied play alongside talk therapy, I find that my clients are able to access expression, relief, and growth. This type of work is useful for kids experiencing anxiety, school and family challenges, and struggling with self esteem. It is also useful for LGBTQIA people to become more deeply in touch with their identities, using a creative lens. I am committed to meeting clients where they are at to develop a space for creative healing.
I specialize in working with young people and the LGBTQIA community. My professional background in education, clowning, and physical theater deeply informs my work. Using embodied play alongside talk therapy, I find that my clients are able to access expression, relief, and growth. This type of work is useful for kids experiencing anxiety, school and family challenges, and struggling with self esteem. It is also useful for LGBTQIA people to become more deeply in touch with their identities, using a creative lens. I am committed to meeting clients where they are at to develop a space for creative healing.
(510) 757-1764 View (510) 757-1764
Photo of Sam Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Sam Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I am a trans Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with trans, queer, genderqueer, and gender-nonconforming teens and adults. I have a non-pathologizing approach and deeply value identities outside the "norm." I have fifteen years of experience as a mental health provider, including support groups with teens and adults, individual therapy, and crisis work. I am a Bay Area activist who has fought for transgender rights by organizing provider trainings and public demonstrations. I am a visual artist and storyteller who believes that underrepresented individuals expressing themselves creatively and authentically is powerful and important.
I am a trans Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with trans, queer, genderqueer, and gender-nonconforming teens and adults. I have a non-pathologizing approach and deeply value identities outside the "norm." I have fifteen years of experience as a mental health provider, including support groups with teens and adults, individual therapy, and crisis work. I am a Bay Area activist who has fought for transgender rights by organizing provider trainings and public demonstrations. I am a visual artist and storyteller who believes that underrepresented individuals expressing themselves creatively and authentically is powerful and important.
(781) 417-5129 View (781) 417-5129
Photo of Sye Gratz in Lafayette, CA
Sye Gratz
RDT, MA, 200 RYT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I am a nonbinary, queer, neuroqueer, white, ashkenazi jewish healer. I support queer creatives and nonconformists honor authenticity beyond harmful binaries. My practice offers a somatic, creative, relational, and liberatory justice approach to caregiver recovery/codependencey, developmental trauma, post traumatic stress, and anxiety. I hold an anti-opressive stance, encouraging a sense of agency, QT joy, and alignment in healing. I have a passion for supporting LGBTQQIP2SAA+ community with life transitions, resisting systems, attachment/relationship challenges, & all who had to "grow up too quickly" in childhood.
I am a nonbinary, queer, neuroqueer, white, ashkenazi jewish healer. I support queer creatives and nonconformists honor authenticity beyond harmful binaries. My practice offers a somatic, creative, relational, and liberatory justice approach to caregiver recovery/codependencey, developmental trauma, post traumatic stress, and anxiety. I hold an anti-opressive stance, encouraging a sense of agency, QT joy, and alignment in healing. I have a passion for supporting LGBTQQIP2SAA+ community with life transitions, resisting systems, attachment/relationship challenges, & all who had to "grow up too quickly" in childhood.
(510) 901-4904 View (510) 901-4904
Photo of Alli Yates, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Alli Yates
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94703
As a therapist with a focus on developmental trauma and working with queer and trans adults and teens, I believe that early life experiences and ongoing structural contexts immensely inform our relationship to ourselves and each other. I hold this framework with my background in somatic psychotherapy, which considers the ways our bodies and nervous systems relate to our emotions and experiences. There is no one way to relate to the past, embody our feelings, or find healing. In therapy, we find a way for you together. My role is to hold consistent curiosity, rigor, and care throughout the process of your own self-discovery.
As a therapist with a focus on developmental trauma and working with queer and trans adults and teens, I believe that early life experiences and ongoing structural contexts immensely inform our relationship to ourselves and each other. I hold this framework with my background in somatic psychotherapy, which considers the ways our bodies and nervous systems relate to our emotions and experiences. There is no one way to relate to the past, embody our feelings, or find healing. In therapy, we find a way for you together. My role is to hold consistent curiosity, rigor, and care throughout the process of your own self-discovery.
(510) 288-3582 View (510) 288-3582
Photo of Rascal Roubos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Rascal Roubos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94703
You are not your problems, the problem is the problem! Together we can begin to discern the difference and take action toward change. I am a white, genderqueer therapist dedicated to facilitating personal, interpersonal and collective healing through relationships and organizing. I specialize in supporting people experiencing issues related to boundaries, self-respect, burnout, anger, social/racial justice, healing trauma, identity development, existential questions, sexuality, gender identity, and life transitions. LGBTQ, poly, and kink identities welcome. More at: www.tidepooltherapy.com and www.traumaconsciouspraxis.com
You are not your problems, the problem is the problem! Together we can begin to discern the difference and take action toward change. I am a white, genderqueer therapist dedicated to facilitating personal, interpersonal and collective healing through relationships and organizing. I specialize in supporting people experiencing issues related to boundaries, self-respect, burnout, anger, social/racial justice, healing trauma, identity development, existential questions, sexuality, gender identity, and life transitions. LGBTQ, poly, and kink identities welcome. More at: www.tidepooltherapy.com and www.traumaconsciouspraxis.com
(510) 880-1858 View (510) 880-1858
Photo of Becker Grumet, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Becker Grumet
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94701  (Online Only)
We all need to be seen & witnessed. Whatever it is that feels too hard—be it exploring identity, navigating attachment wounds, combating intrusive thoughts, or processing the collective grief in the world—one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself is dedicated time just for you & your needs. I would be honored to walk with you on your path. For me, therapy is relational. The human on the other side of the room (or screen) should feel like precisely that: a human! Together, we will create a container in which you can authentically examine your relationships with others as well as the pivotal relationship to self.
We all need to be seen & witnessed. Whatever it is that feels too hard—be it exploring identity, navigating attachment wounds, combating intrusive thoughts, or processing the collective grief in the world—one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself is dedicated time just for you & your needs. I would be honored to walk with you on your path. For me, therapy is relational. The human on the other side of the room (or screen) should feel like precisely that: a human! Together, we will create a container in which you can authentically examine your relationships with others as well as the pivotal relationship to self.
(323) 395-0172 View (323) 395-0172
Photo of Grace Catherine Mickle, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Grace Catherine Mickle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
I am a plant-based psychotherapist highlighting the importance of nutrition, movement, spirituality and environmentalism in connecting the mind, body and soul. I am also a practicing yogi, nature lover and avid self-healer. I am tender, integrative, grounded and nurturing. I center my work around connecting the mind, body and soul to find peace and energetic balance with various holistic and somatic practices. In using these approaches, clients learn their abilities to address any anxiety, depression, traumas, loss of self, difficult relationships and other maladaptive behaviors to become their most desired and divine selves.
I am a plant-based psychotherapist highlighting the importance of nutrition, movement, spirituality and environmentalism in connecting the mind, body and soul. I am also a practicing yogi, nature lover and avid self-healer. I am tender, integrative, grounded and nurturing. I center my work around connecting the mind, body and soul to find peace and energetic balance with various holistic and somatic practices. In using these approaches, clients learn their abilities to address any anxiety, depression, traumas, loss of self, difficult relationships and other maladaptive behaviors to become their most desired and divine selves.
(619) 374-4417 View (619) 374-4417
Photo of Josephine Kelly in Lafayette, CA
Josephine Kelly
MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705  (Online Only)
Is acceptance even worth it if it means showing up inauthentically? How would your life change if you didn’t abandon parts of yourself to find belonging? As a queer & trans affirming, kink aware, and trauma-informed therapist I'll invite you to explore the depths of your inner world. I’ll sit with you and be a witness to your story, no matter how beautiful or horrifying. I want to hear what’s taboo, subversive and usually unspoken. I believe once you confront the fear that's holding you back you can finally figure out how to make the most of this wild and precious life.
Is acceptance even worth it if it means showing up inauthentically? How would your life change if you didn’t abandon parts of yourself to find belonging? As a queer & trans affirming, kink aware, and trauma-informed therapist I'll invite you to explore the depths of your inner world. I’ll sit with you and be a witness to your story, no matter how beautiful or horrifying. I want to hear what’s taboo, subversive and usually unspoken. I believe once you confront the fear that's holding you back you can finally figure out how to make the most of this wild and precious life.
(510) 983-7359 View (510) 983-7359
Psychodynamic Therapists

Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?

Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?

Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?

Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?

Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.