Photo of Grace Anna Walcott, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Grace Anna Walcott
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I believe that therapy is a sacred space in which the client-therapist relationship can be reparative. I offer tools around self-regulation, body scan meditations, and other techniques to soothe the nervous system. If you are dealing with PTSD or past traumas I provide a safe place for you to unpack your feelings and memories, while learning to soothe and empower yourself. Two important factors in healing trauma are learning self-soothing while uncovering a narrative (of what happened) that makes sense to you.
I believe that therapy is a sacred space in which the client-therapist relationship can be reparative. I offer tools around self-regulation, body scan meditations, and other techniques to soothe the nervous system. If you are dealing with PTSD or past traumas I provide a safe place for you to unpack your feelings and memories, while learning to soothe and empower yourself. Two important factors in healing trauma are learning self-soothing while uncovering a narrative (of what happened) that makes sense to you.
(510) 757-1722 View (510) 757-1722
Photo of Brittnay Nichele Stevens, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Brittnay Nichele Stevens
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
You are here! The first step is often the hardest step. In Black and Brown communities seeking mental health treatment is taboo. Stigmas attached to therapy are REAL! Let's work on building a better understanding of what it truly means to be healthy. Feeling lost, stuck or confused? Having trouble communicating your needs? Finding it hard to set healthy boundaries? Need help setting goals? Suffering from anxiety and depression? In constant state of turmoil? These are all normal feelings. Internal struggles rooted in our childhoods show up as chaos in adulthood. It is okay to work on YOU! I can help.
You are here! The first step is often the hardest step. In Black and Brown communities seeking mental health treatment is taboo. Stigmas attached to therapy are REAL! Let's work on building a better understanding of what it truly means to be healthy. Feeling lost, stuck or confused? Having trouble communicating your needs? Finding it hard to set healthy boundaries? Need help setting goals? Suffering from anxiety and depression? In constant state of turmoil? These are all normal feelings. Internal struggles rooted in our childhoods show up as chaos in adulthood. It is okay to work on YOU! I can help.
(510) 900-7584 View (510) 900-7584
Photo of Caitlin Rose Marvaso, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Caitlin Rose Marvaso
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94606
Your body is always communicating information to you, and your emotions are the messenger. Maybe it's the consistent feeling of overwhelm, or the throws of depression. Maybe you are experiencing physical pain as a result of emotional pain. Whatever it is, I believe in the wisdom of your body and I want to help you become an expert at your own body language so that you can have more autonomy over your life.
Your body is always communicating information to you, and your emotions are the messenger. Maybe it's the consistent feeling of overwhelm, or the throws of depression. Maybe you are experiencing physical pain as a result of emotional pain. Whatever it is, I believe in the wisdom of your body and I want to help you become an expert at your own body language so that you can have more autonomy over your life.
(415) 366-1307 View (415) 366-1307
Photo of Merideth Bowen Shamszad, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Merideth Bowen Shamszad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94602
If you find yourself seeking new ways to be in relationship to your life, yourself and others, the sensitive and attuned psychotherapy I provide can help. Using inquiry, dialogue, guided imagery, Enneagram explorations and the arts, we can work together to explore and untangle your distress and illuminate the creative solutions that lie within you.
If you find yourself seeking new ways to be in relationship to your life, yourself and others, the sensitive and attuned psychotherapy I provide can help. Using inquiry, dialogue, guided imagery, Enneagram explorations and the arts, we can work together to explore and untangle your distress and illuminate the creative solutions that lie within you.
(510) 878-3048 View (510) 878-3048
Photo of Patrick D. Chrisman, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Patrick D. Chrisman
Psychologist, BA, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I believe that understanding and compassion are vital for building trust, mutual respect, and openness, all of which are essential in forming a therapeutic relationship that can encourage change. My style in therapy is a mix of person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic theories. With children I utilize a variety of expressive therapies including play, art, narrative, sand tray and bibliotherapy. In working with children, adolescents and adults, I use a cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach.
I believe that understanding and compassion are vital for building trust, mutual respect, and openness, all of which are essential in forming a therapeutic relationship that can encourage change. My style in therapy is a mix of person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic theories. With children I utilize a variety of expressive therapies including play, art, narrative, sand tray and bibliotherapy. In working with children, adolescents and adults, I use a cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach.
(415) 570-8936 View (415) 570-8936
Photo of Roksana Sarrafan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Roksana Sarrafan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I bring a wealth of multicultural knowledge and experience to the table, ensuring you receive professional services built on respect and trust. Let’s bust the myth together: therapy isn’t just for those who’ve faced trauma. Whether you’re seeking clarity, a self-esteem boost, or solutions to life’s challenges, talking with a therapist can be life-changing!
As a therapist, I bring a wealth of multicultural knowledge and experience to the table, ensuring you receive professional services built on respect and trust. Let’s bust the myth together: therapy isn’t just for those who’ve faced trauma. Whether you’re seeking clarity, a self-esteem boost, or solutions to life’s challenges, talking with a therapist can be life-changing!
(510) 257-9758 View (510) 257-9758
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 Angie N Branham, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Angie N Branham
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I have extensive experience working with adults and children as young as 3. I specialize in helping children other therapists describe as "difficult to treat," including children who are traumatized, emotionally unregulated, physically aggressive, or have difficulty connecting with adults and caregivers. I will work with your child whose needs have not been met in schools or by other therapists. I help children through play, physical movement, games, art, and words. I help overwhelmed parents with sound psychological guidance. I have fourteen years' experience and I teach and train other therapists.
I have extensive experience working with adults and children as young as 3. I specialize in helping children other therapists describe as "difficult to treat," including children who are traumatized, emotionally unregulated, physically aggressive, or have difficulty connecting with adults and caregivers. I will work with your child whose needs have not been met in schools or by other therapists. I help children through play, physical movement, games, art, and words. I help overwhelmed parents with sound psychological guidance. I have fourteen years' experience and I teach and train other therapists.
(510) 756-2426 View (510) 756-2426
Photo of Shelley M Samuels, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Shelley M Samuels
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
Therapy is neither magic nor science, but I believe that therapy has the potential to be magical and transformative. I offer a warm, supportive environment to help individuals explore deep trauma as well as ordinary issues that impact daily life and long-term goals. I strive to inspire creativity through nature, and incorporate creative arts into my practice. My specialties: LGBTQQ issues/identity, working through grief/loss, helping with political wounding, healing survivors of domestic violence/sexual assault, positive aging, body image, building long-term relationships, and life transitions. A veteran career counselor, I've over 7 years of experience providing career counseling and coaching.
Therapy is neither magic nor science, but I believe that therapy has the potential to be magical and transformative. I offer a warm, supportive environment to help individuals explore deep trauma as well as ordinary issues that impact daily life and long-term goals. I strive to inspire creativity through nature, and incorporate creative arts into my practice. My specialties: LGBTQQ issues/identity, working through grief/loss, helping with political wounding, healing survivors of domestic violence/sexual assault, positive aging, body image, building long-term relationships, and life transitions. A veteran career counselor, I've over 7 years of experience providing career counseling and coaching.
(510) 974-7425 View (510) 974-7425
Photo of Jessica Chesbro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jessica Chesbro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I believe every person and family is unique and there are many ways to raise a healthy child. I want to honor the strengths within you and your family and offer the tools and support to help your child and family thrive. Through a trauma-informed lens, I work extensively with youth, parents, and families on life transitions, healthy communication, and processing/ healing from grief or abuse.
I believe every person and family is unique and there are many ways to raise a healthy child. I want to honor the strengths within you and your family and offer the tools and support to help your child and family thrive. Through a trauma-informed lens, I work extensively with youth, parents, and families on life transitions, healthy communication, and processing/ healing from grief or abuse.
(510) 405-3206 View (510) 405-3206
Photo of Karen Pernet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Karen Pernet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94602
When individuals, couples, families or children make the difficult decision to come to therapy they are usually feeling stuck and often scared. Each of us has our own strength and wisdom which we don't see when we are troubled. My goal is for us to work together to rediscover those qualities. I use a cattail plant as a symbol of how I see therapy. Why? Cattails are found stuck in a marsh and often regarded as weeds. But when looked at carefully they are graceful and strong. Let me help you find your strength and grace.
When individuals, couples, families or children make the difficult decision to come to therapy they are usually feeling stuck and often scared. Each of us has our own strength and wisdom which we don't see when we are troubled. My goal is for us to work together to rediscover those qualities. I use a cattail plant as a symbol of how I see therapy. Why? Cattails are found stuck in a marsh and often regarded as weeds. But when looked at carefully they are graceful and strong. Let me help you find your strength and grace.
(925) 695-7986 View (925) 695-7986
Photo of Freddie Barahona, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Freddie Barahona
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Hello. Bienvenidos. If you find yourself in a difficult place in life and need extra support then you have come to the right place. I specialize in helping individuals seeking to heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have training in numerous modalities of therapy and I am committed to finding the one that works for you. Yo me especializo en tratar ansiedad, depresion, trauma, y problemas de relaciones. Incorporo muchas tecnicas distintas muy efectivas para que ud. pueda volver a retomar las riendas en su vida.
Hello. Bienvenidos. If you find yourself in a difficult place in life and need extra support then you have come to the right place. I specialize in helping individuals seeking to heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have training in numerous modalities of therapy and I am committed to finding the one that works for you. Yo me especializo en tratar ansiedad, depresion, trauma, y problemas de relaciones. Incorporo muchas tecnicas distintas muy efectivas para que ud. pueda volver a retomar las riendas en su vida.
(510) 945-3412 View (510) 945-3412
Photo of Caitlin Finnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Caitlin Finnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94606  (Online Only)
While I work with a diversity of people, I specialize in working with LGBTQ individuals, couples and youth. As a Marriage and Family psychotherapist, I seek to help my clients find their way through the hardships that life can bring. I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship as well as each individual having the power to heal themselves. I believe in a strength based, solution focused approach to therapy and work with my clients to not only overcome their current circumstances but to also develop tools and strategies that they can use moving forward in their lives.
While I work with a diversity of people, I specialize in working with LGBTQ individuals, couples and youth. As a Marriage and Family psychotherapist, I seek to help my clients find their way through the hardships that life can bring. I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship as well as each individual having the power to heal themselves. I believe in a strength based, solution focused approach to therapy and work with my clients to not only overcome their current circumstances but to also develop tools and strategies that they can use moving forward in their lives.
(415) 630-6595 View (415) 630-6595
Photo of Zara Drapkin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Zara Drapkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Finding the right therapist can be daunting, and for some, it can be the most difficult step. I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation so that you can assess if we are the right fit. I work with teens and adults presenting with concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/ loss, chronic health concerns, relationship issues, and life transitions. In our work together we will explore your strengths and root you in them. We will define your values and explore how to live your life in harmony with them. We will also create space for the areas in your life where you want change and navigate the path to get you there.
Finding the right therapist can be daunting, and for some, it can be the most difficult step. I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation so that you can assess if we are the right fit. I work with teens and adults presenting with concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/ loss, chronic health concerns, relationship issues, and life transitions. In our work together we will explore your strengths and root you in them. We will define your values and explore how to live your life in harmony with them. We will also create space for the areas in your life where you want change and navigate the path to get you there.
(510) 422-0057 View (510) 422-0057
Photo of Shari Unitan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Shari Unitan, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Are you experiencing marital conflict? Do you worry about how conflict with your mate affects your children? I have over 20 years experience working with clients dealing with a wide variety of issues, including family conflict, divorce, child custody, parenting issues, depression, addiction, and anxiety. Research has proven that the parental relationship directly impacts a child's self esteem and social skills. I am a warm, dynamic and solution oriented therapist. I work along side you, to help you identify and overcome the problems which are causing pain in your life.
Are you experiencing marital conflict? Do you worry about how conflict with your mate affects your children? I have over 20 years experience working with clients dealing with a wide variety of issues, including family conflict, divorce, child custody, parenting issues, depression, addiction, and anxiety. Research has proven that the parental relationship directly impacts a child's self esteem and social skills. I am a warm, dynamic and solution oriented therapist. I work along side you, to help you identify and overcome the problems which are causing pain in your life.
(510) 296-4520 View (510) 296-4520
Photo of Susan Wilde, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Susan Wilde
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601
I am bilingual in Spanish, and offer therapy for individual adults, couples, families, teens, and children 6 and older. My specialties include trauma, interpersonal violence (IPV), and loss, especially for human beings who have experienced displacement and/migration. I offer services for expecting and new mothers to aid in the transitions and attachment issues that arise. Also I am interested in bridging periods in human development. I embrace a culturally humble stance, and am LBGT welcoming.
I am bilingual in Spanish, and offer therapy for individual adults, couples, families, teens, and children 6 and older. My specialties include trauma, interpersonal violence (IPV), and loss, especially for human beings who have experienced displacement and/migration. I offer services for expecting and new mothers to aid in the transitions and attachment issues that arise. Also I am interested in bridging periods in human development. I embrace a culturally humble stance, and am LBGT welcoming.
(510) 401-3958 View (510) 401-3958
Photo of Sandra Ellen Norris, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sandra Ellen Norris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94620
My approach balances compassion with being direct. My clients experience care, acceptance and belonging, while also feeling challenged the right amount to grow, change and decrease suffering. I offer empathy while actively engaging my clients by setting weekly treatment goals, building coping tools/resources, and providing skills/knowledge to build self-awareness and integration. We are deeply influenced by our cultural identity and heritage. I am committed to the values of respecting and celebrating diversity, and supporting social/political policies of equal rights and opportunities.
My approach balances compassion with being direct. My clients experience care, acceptance and belonging, while also feeling challenged the right amount to grow, change and decrease suffering. I offer empathy while actively engaging my clients by setting weekly treatment goals, building coping tools/resources, and providing skills/knowledge to build self-awareness and integration. We are deeply influenced by our cultural identity and heritage. I am committed to the values of respecting and celebrating diversity, and supporting social/political policies of equal rights and opportunities.
(415) 805-9972 View (415) 805-9972
Photo of Kayo Sumisaki, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Kayo Sumisaki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Is your child exhibiting emotional and/or behavioral problems? Are you having problems with your relationships or at work? Are you feeling overwhelmed with anxiety or struggling with depression? I can help. In the safety of a caring and collaborative relationship, we will work on understanding how difficult life patterns are no longer serving you. My role is to meet my clients where they are and help guide them toward making lasting positive changes. I provide both short-term and long-term therapy. Call for a free consultation today!
Is your child exhibiting emotional and/or behavioral problems? Are you having problems with your relationships or at work? Are you feeling overwhelmed with anxiety or struggling with depression? I can help. In the safety of a caring and collaborative relationship, we will work on understanding how difficult life patterns are no longer serving you. My role is to meet my clients where they are and help guide them toward making lasting positive changes. I provide both short-term and long-term therapy. Call for a free consultation today!
(510) 858-2611 View (510) 858-2611
Photo of Christine Corrigan, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Christine Corrigan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
As a clinical psychologist I specialize in treating anxiety and depression in the context of trauma, work stress, relationship problems and family conflict. I help people deal with issues including grief and loss, substance abuse, domestic violence, and childhood trauma. My approach is to seek immediate reduction in symptoms while carefully addressing long-term, underlying problems.
As a clinical psychologist I specialize in treating anxiety and depression in the context of trauma, work stress, relationship problems and family conflict. I help people deal with issues including grief and loss, substance abuse, domestic violence, and childhood trauma. My approach is to seek immediate reduction in symptoms while carefully addressing long-term, underlying problems.
(415) 494-7027 View (415) 494-7027
Photo of Dawn Shifreen-Pomerantz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Dawn Shifreen-Pomerantz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, Psychoa
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
I believe patients come to us because they feel grief, anxiety, depression and traumatized or alienated from themselves and others. The suffering you experience comes in many forms and you do not always have the words to say what you feel. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents whom have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, creative blocks, ADHD, chronic somatic pains and/or are experiencing grief and loss. I also work with couples and families. I have a specialization in expressive arts therapy and sandtray for those who may have difficulty expressing their feelings, memories and experiences through verbal means.
I believe patients come to us because they feel grief, anxiety, depression and traumatized or alienated from themselves and others. The suffering you experience comes in many forms and you do not always have the words to say what you feel. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents whom have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, creative blocks, ADHD, chronic somatic pains and/or are experiencing grief and loss. I also work with couples and families. I have a specialization in expressive arts therapy and sandtray for those who may have difficulty expressing their feelings, memories and experiences through verbal means.
(925) 263-6612 View (925) 263-6612

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.