Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(925) 320-0698 View (925) 320-0698
Photo of Dr. Katy Cook, PhD, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dr. Katy Cook
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, AMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Families and loved ones can be some of most of our challenging relationships. Whether you’re struggling with a parent, partner, friend, sibling, or child, navigating relationships can be tricky at the best of times, and emotionally neglectful and traumatic in the worst. This can be incredibly painful, cause anxiety, lead to resentment, struggles with assertiveness or boundaries, conflict avoidance, or to knock on effects in other relationships – including how you feel about yourself.
Families and loved ones can be some of most of our challenging relationships. Whether you’re struggling with a parent, partner, friend, sibling, or child, navigating relationships can be tricky at the best of times, and emotionally neglectful and traumatic in the worst. This can be incredibly painful, cause anxiety, lead to resentment, struggles with assertiveness or boundaries, conflict avoidance, or to knock on effects in other relationships – including how you feel about yourself.
(510) 617-1953 View (510) 617-1953
Photo of Alicia Mae Persaud, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alicia Mae Persaud
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Life presents various challenges for all of us, I aim to assist you in overcoming these challenges in a nonjudgmental and supportive manner. By working together, we can access your intuition to cultivate resilience, self-compassion, and authenticity. Through a holistic, person-centered approach, my goal is to treat you as a complete individual, rather than just addressing your symptoms or struggles.
Life presents various challenges for all of us, I aim to assist you in overcoming these challenges in a nonjudgmental and supportive manner. By working together, we can access your intuition to cultivate resilience, self-compassion, and authenticity. Through a holistic, person-centered approach, my goal is to treat you as a complete individual, rather than just addressing your symptoms or struggles.
(925) 393-0443 View (925) 393-0443
Photo of Eva Gonzales - Gonzales Family Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gonzales Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Waitlist for new clients
At Gonzales Family Counseling, it is our honor to develop a client centered relationship in order to promote hope, healing, and accessing one's best self. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, parents, and families.
At Gonzales Family Counseling, it is our honor to develop a client centered relationship in order to promote hope, healing, and accessing one's best self. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, parents, and families.
(707) 267-2477 View (707) 267-2477
Photo of Jonathan Newsum, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonathan Newsum
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Are you feeling stuck, continually repeating the same patterns over and over that lead to frustration, disconnection from others, guilt, and hopelessness? Therapy is so much more than symptom management. I focus on helping you to challenge and change old patterns that leave you feeling defeated and stuck so you can begin to heal and thrive. I will help you build the skills necessary to empower you on the path to growth and healing. Whether you need support through a current challenge or are needing to address deeper problems I will be there to help.
Are you feeling stuck, continually repeating the same patterns over and over that lead to frustration, disconnection from others, guilt, and hopelessness? Therapy is so much more than symptom management. I focus on helping you to challenge and change old patterns that leave you feeling defeated and stuck so you can begin to heal and thrive. I will help you build the skills necessary to empower you on the path to growth and healing. Whether you need support through a current challenge or are needing to address deeper problems I will be there to help.
(925) 905-8490 View (925) 905-8490
Photo of Monica Gizelle Martinez, AFMT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Monica Gizelle Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AFMT, APCC
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Trauma impacts every aspect of day-to-day life, but it does not have to rule you. Suppose you are looking to explore your trauma, develop coping skills, and work through the various symptoms that are associated with trauma (for example, depression and anxiety). You may also want a nonjudgmental, safe environment to engage in play, art, music, or other expressive means to work through your unique needs. In that case, we may be a great match for one another!
Trauma impacts every aspect of day-to-day life, but it does not have to rule you. Suppose you are looking to explore your trauma, develop coping skills, and work through the various symptoms that are associated with trauma (for example, depression and anxiety). You may also want a nonjudgmental, safe environment to engage in play, art, music, or other expressive means to work through your unique needs. In that case, we may be a great match for one another!
(925) 304-3735 View (925) 304-3735
Photo of Margaret Barry - Northern Ca. Family Center/Sliding Scale Providers, LCSW
Northern California Family Center serves adults & children seeking affordable psychotherapy based on their ability to pay (Sliding scale, based on income). Our staff works with people of all ages struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma histories, relationship issues, couples and family therapy. We are able to provide sliding scale treatment by utilizing our ACSW clinicians who are working on finishing their hours to be fully licensed therapists. All staff are supervised weekly by a licensed therapist with over 25 years experience. We provide in- person therapy in our Walnut Creek office and also provide telehealth.
Northern California Family Center serves adults & children seeking affordable psychotherapy based on their ability to pay (Sliding scale, based on income). Our staff works with people of all ages struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma histories, relationship issues, couples and family therapy. We are able to provide sliding scale treatment by utilizing our ACSW clinicians who are working on finishing their hours to be fully licensed therapists. All staff are supervised weekly by a licensed therapist with over 25 years experience. We provide in- person therapy in our Walnut Creek office and also provide telehealth.
(925) 722-4980 View (925) 722-4980
Photo of Rebecca L Soffer - Preschool Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
Preschool Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
If your child is experiencing tantrums or aggression, feels anxious, angry, or sad, has a low tolerance for frustration, or has poor relationships with other children or adults, I can help. I am a therapist specialized in working with young children and their families. I work with parents to help them understand their child's behavior and know how to respond during difficult parenting moments. I work with children to help them build social skills, understand and regulate their emotions, and overcome traumatic experiences (ex.death, illness) or difficult life transitions (ex. birth of a new sibling, divorce, school expulsion).
If your child is experiencing tantrums or aggression, feels anxious, angry, or sad, has a low tolerance for frustration, or has poor relationships with other children or adults, I can help. I am a therapist specialized in working with young children and their families. I work with parents to help them understand their child's behavior and know how to respond during difficult parenting moments. I work with children to help them build social skills, understand and regulate their emotions, and overcome traumatic experiences (ex.death, illness) or difficult life transitions (ex. birth of a new sibling, divorce, school expulsion).
(510) 282-5710 View (510) 282-5710
Photo of Renee Fesperman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renee Fesperman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
As a therapist my focus is your (and your family's) emotional health and happiness. Therapy can offer strategies and coping skills as well as guidance to access your own wisdom for solving the challenges you are currently facing. My approach has been to unitlize a compassionate, creative and flexible approach to the complexities of life's struggles that is tailored to your needs. My experience lies in my work with individuals, children, families and couples with a wide range of issues and life transitions.
As a therapist my focus is your (and your family's) emotional health and happiness. Therapy can offer strategies and coping skills as well as guidance to access your own wisdom for solving the challenges you are currently facing. My approach has been to unitlize a compassionate, creative and flexible approach to the complexities of life's struggles that is tailored to your needs. My experience lies in my work with individuals, children, families and couples with a wide range of issues and life transitions.
(925) 478-4062 View (925) 478-4062
Photo of Benjamin Jones, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Benjamin Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I provide compassionate therapy tailored to your particular needs. Together we would set goals and work to bring the needed changes into your life. I am not dedicated to a single particular theory or technique, but will use whatever works best for you. Often traditional talk therapy is most effective, but I have also successfully used cognitive/behavioral therapy, dream analysis, writing, art therapy, meditation, sand trays, group therapy, experiential therapy, and guided imagery. I also work to help you explore and strengthen your higher values and whatever you find most meaningful in your life.
I provide compassionate therapy tailored to your particular needs. Together we would set goals and work to bring the needed changes into your life. I am not dedicated to a single particular theory or technique, but will use whatever works best for you. Often traditional talk therapy is most effective, but I have also successfully used cognitive/behavioral therapy, dream analysis, writing, art therapy, meditation, sand trays, group therapy, experiential therapy, and guided imagery. I also work to help you explore and strengthen your higher values and whatever you find most meaningful in your life.
(925) 238-3961 View (925) 238-3961
Photo of Pamela Lister, MA, LMFT, EAS-C, CATC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pamela Lister
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EAS-C, CATC
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
My enthusiasm for recovery motivates me to create new opportunities for growth & healing for clients through Interventions. I have extensive experience with all aspects of Addiction and Codependency. I'm competent in individual, couples, family or group therapy. My background in mental health creates a good fit for identifying issues and safety concerns. I'm honored to share in my clients' journey toward the fulfilling lives they deserve.
My enthusiasm for recovery motivates me to create new opportunities for growth & healing for clients through Interventions. I have extensive experience with all aspects of Addiction and Codependency. I'm competent in individual, couples, family or group therapy. My background in mental health creates a good fit for identifying issues and safety concerns. I'm honored to share in my clients' journey toward the fulfilling lives they deserve.
(925) 401-3025 View (925) 401-3025
Photo of Jeannette Harroun, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeannette Harroun
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Kids don't always use words but behavior always has a message and may also be a form of SOS. I help children and teens feel better about themselves and improve their behavior at home or at school. I also help parents and families understand and deal with the mistaken goals of misbehavior. I believe there is always a reason, feeling or unmet need. Understanding and addressing the underlying message helps build bridges with kids and teens. I provide individual, parenting or family sessions that range from educational coaching and enrichment or addressing specific concerns.
Kids don't always use words but behavior always has a message and may also be a form of SOS. I help children and teens feel better about themselves and improve their behavior at home or at school. I also help parents and families understand and deal with the mistaken goals of misbehavior. I believe there is always a reason, feeling or unmet need. Understanding and addressing the underlying message helps build bridges with kids and teens. I provide individual, parenting or family sessions that range from educational coaching and enrichment or addressing specific concerns.
(925) 890-7478 View (925) 890-7478
Photo of Judy Brennan, AMFT, MA, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Judy Brennan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I specialize in working with children, families, adults, and couples, through a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship problems, transitions, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, childhood, and other life challenges. I have found that people benefit from different therapeutic modalities and methods to achieve their goals. Some of the modalities I find helpful in addition to Somatic Psychotherapy include EMDR, IFS, Mindfulness, Play, and Art Therapy.
I specialize in working with children, families, adults, and couples, through a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship problems, transitions, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, childhood, and other life challenges. I have found that people benefit from different therapeutic modalities and methods to achieve their goals. Some of the modalities I find helpful in addition to Somatic Psychotherapy include EMDR, IFS, Mindfulness, Play, and Art Therapy.
(925) 275-5178 View (925) 275-5178
Photo of Doug Ronning - Doug Ronning, Psychotherapy and Social Game Groups, LMFT, RDT-BCT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Doug Ronning, Psychotherapy and Social Game Groups
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RDT-BCT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Therapy via online secure video or in-person at my comfortable office. Neurodiversity-Affirmative, Trauma-Informed, Creative & Compassionate, Experiential Therapy. Do you or a family member struggle with managing everyday stressors? Repeating unhealthy patterns despite negative consequences? Feeling misunderstood? Relationship(s) overrun by conflict? I offer highly interactive sessions that support greater self-awareness, increased self-regulation, effective communication, and responsible choice making. We will begin by identifying your strengths and passions as well as exploring the challenges, then tailor a plan that fits you.
Therapy via online secure video or in-person at my comfortable office. Neurodiversity-Affirmative, Trauma-Informed, Creative & Compassionate, Experiential Therapy. Do you or a family member struggle with managing everyday stressors? Repeating unhealthy patterns despite negative consequences? Feeling misunderstood? Relationship(s) overrun by conflict? I offer highly interactive sessions that support greater self-awareness, increased self-regulation, effective communication, and responsible choice making. We will begin by identifying your strengths and passions as well as exploring the challenges, then tailor a plan that fits you.
(925) 900-5660 View (925) 900-5660
Photo of Sara M Cabezas-Prendergast, MS, PPS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara M Cabezas-Prendergast
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, PPS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Not accepting new clients
Looking for support for your child or adolescent? Teenagers and adults struggling with various life or mental health issues? I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space that allows my clients to comfortably explore issues impacting them. I take a client centered approach to therapy, utilizing various modalities to support each client’s individual needs and, aid them in achieving their goals.
Looking for support for your child or adolescent? Teenagers and adults struggling with various life or mental health issues? I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space that allows my clients to comfortably explore issues impacting them. I take a client centered approach to therapy, utilizing various modalities to support each client’s individual needs and, aid them in achieving their goals.
(925) 515-4012 View (925) 515-4012
Sandplay Therapists

What problems are best treated with sandplay therapy?

Research has examined this therapy’s utility in young people and found positive results. It has been shown to be useful for those who suffer from autism, attention deficit disorder, anxiety, and or aggressive behavior. Children who have suffered abuse, neglect, or trauma have also seen improvement through this therapy. Abused children are often fearful and anxious about their safety, making verbal communication more difficult.

Is sandplay therapy suitable for children and teenagers?

Children and adolescents are good candidates for sandplay therapy. Many kids and teens are often unable to form and communicate their thoughts, let alone the emotions they are experiencing. Through this play therapy, they will hopefully make connections between what they feel inside and how the world works outside.

Is sandplay suitable for adults?

This type of therapy can be useful for adults who have difficulties expressing themselves. People who have suffered neurological changes after a brain injury or because of a traumatic event might be good candidates for this therapy. In fact, anything that has had an effect on the brain, such as substance abuse, can make non-verbal sandplay a valuable option.

Does sandplay therapy work?

There have been studies on the effectiveness of sandplay therapy, and it appears to improve difficult behaviors in children. It may also enhance self-esteem and lessen feelings of physical anxiety as well as hypersensitivity. This type of therapy is based on non-verbal communication and may feel less threatening to the individual.