Psychodynamic Therapists in Soquel, CA
I am a strength-based psychotherapist committed to the unique process of each client and each therapeutic moment. I work with a balanced approach between a solution-focused, positive psychology and the deeper work of existential, psychodynamic or mindfulness-based interventions. I specialize in life and developmental transitions where symptoms such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, or triggered trauma increase in intensity and frequency and threaten that which we cherish. But I view the nagging presence and awareness of our problems as proof that we are ready and capable of dealing with them.
I am a strength-based psychotherapist committed to the unique process of each client and each therapeutic moment. I work with a balanced approach between a solution-focused, positive psychology and the deeper work of existential, psychodynamic or mindfulness-based interventions. I specialize in life and developmental transitions where symptoms such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, or triggered trauma increase in intensity and frequency and threaten that which we cherish. But I view the nagging presence and awareness of our problems as proof that we are ready and capable of dealing with them.
Are you experiencing a personal difficulty, feeling stuck or overwhelmed? The seeds of change are often born in the midst of heartache and loss...
Navigating through the challenges of life can be disheartening. It takes courage to reach out when we are feeling vulnerable or when life as we know it seems to fall apart. Sometimes just having someone listen can make all the difference. In a safe and confidential atmosphere, clients tend to discover ways to move beyond past events -- making their life less cumbersome, with more moments of joy and satisfaction.
Are you experiencing a personal difficulty, feeling stuck or overwhelmed? The seeds of change are often born in the midst of heartache and loss...
Navigating through the challenges of life can be disheartening. It takes courage to reach out when we are feeling vulnerable or when life as we know it seems to fall apart. Sometimes just having someone listen can make all the difference. In a safe and confidential atmosphere, clients tend to discover ways to move beyond past events -- making their life less cumbersome, with more moments of joy and satisfaction.
I work with couples with challenging relationship issues (including infidelity). I work with teenagers and their families (including various "addictions" drug/alc, computer/video games, social media, pornography). I work with people who have been sexually and physically abused. I work with people experiencing grief and loss. I work with couples and individuals who are conflict avoidant and provide skills to work through conflict. I also work with family of origin unresolved hurt and trauma. I help identify the origin of auto-pilot buttons and defenses. Lastly, self-esteem and personal growth challenges. Change is hard not impossible.
I work with couples with challenging relationship issues (including infidelity). I work with teenagers and their families (including various "addictions" drug/alc, computer/video games, social media, pornography). I work with people who have been sexually and physically abused. I work with people experiencing grief and loss. I work with couples and individuals who are conflict avoidant and provide skills to work through conflict. I also work with family of origin unresolved hurt and trauma. I help identify the origin of auto-pilot buttons and defenses. Lastly, self-esteem and personal growth challenges. Change is hard not impossible.
“Why?”, you ask, “does my life seem so hard?” Anxiety and depression, constant companions, you wonder why you aren’t feeling better after all the hard work you have done on yourself. The voices in your head - “You’re not good enough” or “No one cares” are getting louder - again. You are certain others will see through you and your “imposter syndrome”, get annoyed, and eventually leave. Most of the time you're taking care of others' needs. Often a welcome distraction, you're tired of feeling invisible to those closest to you.
“Why?”, you ask, “does my life seem so hard?” Anxiety and depression, constant companions, you wonder why you aren’t feeling better after all the hard work you have done on yourself. The voices in your head - “You’re not good enough” or “No one cares” are getting louder - again. You are certain others will see through you and your “imposter syndrome”, get annoyed, and eventually leave. Most of the time you're taking care of others' needs. Often a welcome distraction, you're tired of feeling invisible to those closest to you.
Catherine Cervantes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
Waitlist for new clients
I trust your capacity for moving toward healing, change and growth. My holistic training in applying mindfulness to trauma and anxiety can allow you to experience a new relationship with all the parts of yourself and with others, which helps you feel more at ease. As a somatic psychotherapist, I use a mind-body approach to help you compassionately discover unconscious patterns in your nervous system, body, and mind that keep you from living your life as you wish. Somatic-based therapy has you deeply listen to all parts of yourself, which allows access and support to places in you that talk therapy does not reach.
I trust your capacity for moving toward healing, change and growth. My holistic training in applying mindfulness to trauma and anxiety can allow you to experience a new relationship with all the parts of yourself and with others, which helps you feel more at ease. As a somatic psychotherapist, I use a mind-body approach to help you compassionately discover unconscious patterns in your nervous system, body, and mind that keep you from living your life as you wish. Somatic-based therapy has you deeply listen to all parts of yourself, which allows access and support to places in you that talk therapy does not reach.
Do you feel like you're bearing the weight of your past - your experience of life is riddled with worry, gloom, or the lasting effects of trauma? Do you feel overwhelmed by daily challenges stemming from these issues and that maybe you have ADHD or your brain just feels broken? You seek healing from trauma that has impacted your perspective, functioning, and emotional and cognitive abilities. You want to regain a sense of control and calm in your life, aiming to transform your coping mechanisms from merely surviving to actively thriving. You crave practical solutions for significant life disruptions and daily hurdles alike. Welcome!
Do you feel like you're bearing the weight of your past - your experience of life is riddled with worry, gloom, or the lasting effects of trauma? Do you feel overwhelmed by daily challenges stemming from these issues and that maybe you have ADHD or your brain just feels broken? You seek healing from trauma that has impacted your perspective, functioning, and emotional and cognitive abilities. You want to regain a sense of control and calm in your life, aiming to transform your coping mechanisms from merely surviving to actively thriving. You crave practical solutions for significant life disruptions and daily hurdles alike. Welcome!
We all deserve to feel seen, accepted, cared for, and empowered to live our best lives. It can be profoundly helpful to have an ally in the journey of being human. My work as a holistic therapist is to support clients in their growth as individuals and in relationships. Together we uncover what is most present and in need of care and attention. Anxiety and depression may be seen as invitations for deep change and healing. Struggles in relationships can be doorways to greater intimacy.
We all deserve to feel seen, accepted, cared for, and empowered to live our best lives. It can be profoundly helpful to have an ally in the journey of being human. My work as a holistic therapist is to support clients in their growth as individuals and in relationships. Together we uncover what is most present and in need of care and attention. Anxiety and depression may be seen as invitations for deep change and healing. Struggles in relationships can be doorways to greater intimacy.
After 25 years of hearing from clients that I help them to grow, change and solve the problems that bring them into therapy, I take pride in being a caring, compassionate and skilled therapist. Research has demonstrated that successful therapy depends upon the relationship between the therapist and the client. You can trust me to respect you, understand you and guide you in a collaborative therapeutic process. You can safely bring your frustrations, sadness, anxiety, shame or other feelings into therapy as we work through them in ways that improve your happiness and sense of well being.
After 25 years of hearing from clients that I help them to grow, change and solve the problems that bring them into therapy, I take pride in being a caring, compassionate and skilled therapist. Research has demonstrated that successful therapy depends upon the relationship between the therapist and the client. You can trust me to respect you, understand you and guide you in a collaborative therapeutic process. You can safely bring your frustrations, sadness, anxiety, shame or other feelings into therapy as we work through them in ways that improve your happiness and sense of well being.
Sometimes life presents seemingly overwhelming challenges. Answers to these questions lie within us. I can help you find solutions drawn from your own innate wholeness, wisdom and intelligence. Working together we can make significant steps along this journey to greater well being and more satisfying relationships. Allow me to accompany, guide and support you along your way. I bring over 30 years of professional experience and training in addictions, couples work, LBGT issues and trauma recovery to our sessions. I offer humor, empathy, a highly engaged style and a deep respect for the courage, resources and depth of each person.
Sometimes life presents seemingly overwhelming challenges. Answers to these questions lie within us. I can help you find solutions drawn from your own innate wholeness, wisdom and intelligence. Working together we can make significant steps along this journey to greater well being and more satisfying relationships. Allow me to accompany, guide and support you along your way. I bring over 30 years of professional experience and training in addictions, couples work, LBGT issues and trauma recovery to our sessions. I offer humor, empathy, a highly engaged style and a deep respect for the courage, resources and depth of each person.
I provide counseling for people of all ages who are struggling to find peace within themselves. We often find ourselves stuck within the grip of anxiety and depression due to the impact of unresolved trauma. These traumatic events can be either "big" or "small," yet they can interfere with the ability to live and love fully. It is possible to learn to love the unlovable and accept the unacceptable through a growth in awareness and compassion towards all that we are. I specialize in the treatment of trauma using EMDR therapy, the Hakomi Method and a compassionate presence.
I provide counseling for people of all ages who are struggling to find peace within themselves. We often find ourselves stuck within the grip of anxiety and depression due to the impact of unresolved trauma. These traumatic events can be either "big" or "small," yet they can interfere with the ability to live and love fully. It is possible to learn to love the unlovable and accept the unacceptable through a growth in awareness and compassion towards all that we are. I specialize in the treatment of trauma using EMDR therapy, the Hakomi Method and a compassionate presence.
Marianne Gabriel Mejia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I support adults, baby boomers, & elders in their move toward HAPPINESS. FREE 15 minute consultation. I invite you to my peaceful, hilltop office to explore & work through feelings of loss/grief, non-acceptance, feeling less-than, life transitions, dissatisfaction, helplessness, & pain. I can help you with empowerment, insight, & moving beyond impeding obstacles. With empathy & sometimes humor, I will guide you through life's crises & challenges. You can learn to stay mindfully in the present, an antidote to fear & helplessness. Life can always be better & we can remember to be thankful for the beauty & the good. I work with individuals & couples.
I support adults, baby boomers, & elders in their move toward HAPPINESS. FREE 15 minute consultation. I invite you to my peaceful, hilltop office to explore & work through feelings of loss/grief, non-acceptance, feeling less-than, life transitions, dissatisfaction, helplessness, & pain. I can help you with empowerment, insight, & moving beyond impeding obstacles. With empathy & sometimes humor, I will guide you through life's crises & challenges. You can learn to stay mindfully in the present, an antidote to fear & helplessness. Life can always be better & we can remember to be thankful for the beauty & the good. I work with individuals & couples.
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If you are reading this, you having been wanting things to be different. You ARE on the path to change! You ARE ready to feel better, do better and stop settling for mediocre. Whether it's learning, healing, feeling, speaking or listening, you can grow through this. Learn how to increase the connection with yourself, intimate partner, family and friends and find the support that you need. If you are or have been afraid, learn how fear can be overcome by practicing strategic action and utilizing growth mindset strategies.
If you are reading this, you having been wanting things to be different. You ARE on the path to change! You ARE ready to feel better, do better and stop settling for mediocre. Whether it's learning, healing, feeling, speaking or listening, you can grow through this. Learn how to increase the connection with yourself, intimate partner, family and friends and find the support that you need. If you are or have been afraid, learn how fear can be overcome by practicing strategic action and utilizing growth mindset strategies.
Claire Wilkinson Girczyc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
Do you feel stuck, unhappy, and dissatisfied? Having problems in relationships? Does each day feel like too much to handle? Take the first step toward making positive change in your life by scheduling an appointment. Working together, we can identify your goals and desires, recognize and capitalize on your strengths, find strategies to relieve your stress and anxiety, improve your mood, reinvigorate your relationships, and increase your life satisfaction. I provide caring, supportive, non-judgmental, confidential therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples online, and in my welcoming, comfortable office.
Do you feel stuck, unhappy, and dissatisfied? Having problems in relationships? Does each day feel like too much to handle? Take the first step toward making positive change in your life by scheduling an appointment. Working together, we can identify your goals and desires, recognize and capitalize on your strengths, find strategies to relieve your stress and anxiety, improve your mood, reinvigorate your relationships, and increase your life satisfaction. I provide caring, supportive, non-judgmental, confidential therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples online, and in my welcoming, comfortable office.
Twenty-two years ago I cured my own chronic back, neck, shoulder and hip pain using Dr. John Sarno's mindbody approach. Since then I've helped many of my clients avoid unnecessary surgeries and treatments and overcome a broach range of chronic pain conditions. Emotionally induced pain disorders are so epidemic, it is very possible that your pain is not due to a physical cause. But I want to be clear: I'm not saying that it's all in your head! As I know personally, this is real pain. The issue is understanding what causes it and giving you the power to end it.
Twenty-two years ago I cured my own chronic back, neck, shoulder and hip pain using Dr. John Sarno's mindbody approach. Since then I've helped many of my clients avoid unnecessary surgeries and treatments and overcome a broach range of chronic pain conditions. Emotionally induced pain disorders are so epidemic, it is very possible that your pain is not due to a physical cause. But I want to be clear: I'm not saying that it's all in your head! As I know personally, this is real pain. The issue is understanding what causes it and giving you the power to end it.
Laying awake at night, not knowing how much longer you can hang on. The job, the kids, the family, etc. is just too much sometimes. There's an urge to escape. Then...the solution becomes the problem. Alcohol and drugs help relieve the stress. The stress is still there, but it seems manageable. There is just one problem...keeping the stress manageable means continuing to drink or use. Not knowing where to turn. How to ask for help? Who to ask for help? What does help even look like? Feeling alone. Looking in the mirror is not a good option because the person looking back is a stranger.
Laying awake at night, not knowing how much longer you can hang on. The job, the kids, the family, etc. is just too much sometimes. There's an urge to escape. Then...the solution becomes the problem. Alcohol and drugs help relieve the stress. The stress is still there, but it seems manageable. There is just one problem...keeping the stress manageable means continuing to drink or use. Not knowing where to turn. How to ask for help? Who to ask for help? What does help even look like? Feeling alone. Looking in the mirror is not a good option because the person looking back is a stranger.
Tania Manczarek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073 (Online Only)
As a licensed therapist with 20 years experience, my approach is focused on the mind/body connection and uncovering the strength and wisdom we hold within. I am passionate about empowering women and working with issues such as anxiety, codependency, low self-esteem, narcissistic abuse, life transitions, relationship struggles, learning to set boundaries, and understanding what you truly want and need in your life. I provide a nurturing yet honest atmosphere for you to uncover your authentic voice, dreams and desires while gaining practical solutions that you can use today to meet life’s challenges.
As a licensed therapist with 20 years experience, my approach is focused on the mind/body connection and uncovering the strength and wisdom we hold within. I am passionate about empowering women and working with issues such as anxiety, codependency, low self-esteem, narcissistic abuse, life transitions, relationship struggles, learning to set boundaries, and understanding what you truly want and need in your life. I provide a nurturing yet honest atmosphere for you to uncover your authentic voice, dreams and desires while gaining practical solutions that you can use today to meet life’s challenges.
I support you in remembering yourself and allowing your inner healing intelligence to return you to connection with your wholeness.
I support you in remembering yourself and allowing your inner healing intelligence to return you to connection with your wholeness.
I offer a welcoming, empathetic, person-centered approach to working with people. I believe we all have inherent strengths that have helped us survive in this life. I aim to create a collaborative and safe place to heal and process. I believe that with unconditional support you will learn more about yourself, develop awareness of your different parts, and learn how to use your strengths to grow deeper with compassion and love for yourself.
I offer a welcoming, empathetic, person-centered approach to working with people. I believe we all have inherent strengths that have helped us survive in this life. I aim to create a collaborative and safe place to heal and process. I believe that with unconditional support you will learn more about yourself, develop awareness of your different parts, and learn how to use your strengths to grow deeper with compassion and love for yourself.
My work as a therapist is to create a safe, supportive space for clients to open up, experience life as it is right now, and explore whatever is calling out for attention from within or from outer challenges.
This work is empowering to my clients as they connect with a flow of healing and transformation from within themselves and learn new tools for living more fully-tools that they can carry into their lives long after our time together has passed.
My work as a therapist is to create a safe, supportive space for clients to open up, experience life as it is right now, and explore whatever is calling out for attention from within or from outer challenges.
This work is empowering to my clients as they connect with a flow of healing and transformation from within themselves and learn new tools for living more fully-tools that they can carry into their lives long after our time together has passed.
Do you want to understand more about how and why you are the way you are? Are you contending with difficult and painful symptoms in your emotional and mental life? Do you need a safe, neutral, and compassionate third party to hear you, reflect your story, offer feedback, and try to make sense of your life together with you? Everyone contends with painful experiences and emotions in their lives. Often times we are confused by our pain because despite our best efforts, we can’t seem to make sense of why we are hurting so much or what to do about it. So often the pain in life is a result of unconscious energies within us.
Do you want to understand more about how and why you are the way you are? Are you contending with difficult and painful symptoms in your emotional and mental life? Do you need a safe, neutral, and compassionate third party to hear you, reflect your story, offer feedback, and try to make sense of your life together with you? Everyone contends with painful experiences and emotions in their lives. Often times we are confused by our pain because despite our best efforts, we can’t seem to make sense of why we are hurting so much or what to do about it. So often the pain in life is a result of unconscious energies within us.
See more therapy options for Soquel
Nearby Psychodynamic Therapists Searches for Soquel
- Aptos
- Campbell
- Capitola
- Felton
- Gilroy
- Los Gatos
- Morgan Hill
- San Jose
- Santa Cruz
- Saratoga
- Scotts Valley
- Watsonville
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.