Experiential Therapy in Castro Valley, CA

Photo of Madison Gomez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Madison Gomez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Castro Valley, CA 94546
My client's work becomes possible by disabling self-sabotaging situations, defensiveness, childhood wounds & trauma. My wish is for you to create a positive self-image. In doing so, the work allows you to establish healthy boundaries & create internal control of your world. I have worked with children, teenagers, adults & couples going through life transitions. Ultimately, my clients develop autonomy & positive internal dialogue to grow. I work with couples to find the narrative they are telling themselves around the fulfillment of their most intimate need.
My client's work becomes possible by disabling self-sabotaging situations, defensiveness, childhood wounds & trauma. My wish is for you to create a positive self-image. In doing so, the work allows you to establish healthy boundaries & create internal control of your world. I have worked with children, teenagers, adults & couples going through life transitions. Ultimately, my clients develop autonomy & positive internal dialogue to grow. I work with couples to find the narrative they are telling themselves around the fulfillment of their most intimate need.
(510) 681-2406 View (510) 681-2406
Photo of Alexandra V Barcelo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Alexandra V Barcelo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castro Valley, CA 94546
Hello, my name is Alexandra and I am a bilingual Spanish, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that in order for change and growth to occur, people have to feel safe, connected, and heard. I assist individuals and families with building on their current skills and help them navigate through life's challenges. I enjoy working with a variety of clients, but specialize in youth and transitional-age youth (ages 18-25), and women's issues. I work with a variety of mental health challenges such as: anxiety, stress, life transitions, depression, anger/frustration, school issues, family issues, and other life challenges.
Hello, my name is Alexandra and I am a bilingual Spanish, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that in order for change and growth to occur, people have to feel safe, connected, and heard. I assist individuals and families with building on their current skills and help them navigate through life's challenges. I enjoy working with a variety of clients, but specialize in youth and transitional-age youth (ages 18-25), and women's issues. I work with a variety of mental health challenges such as: anxiety, stress, life transitions, depression, anger/frustration, school issues, family issues, and other life challenges.
(510) 662-0187 View (510) 662-0187
Photo of Michael S Gelbart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Michael S Gelbart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Castro Valley, CA 94546
We’re living in a highly stressful society striving to balance our personal lives, relationships, family needs and work livelihoods to care for who and what is most important to us. Past trauma can interfere with our daily functioning and create isolation and mental unwellness. We all need support and guidance: good psychotherapy and relationship counseling can be a great benefit! I assess comprehensively, work pragmatically and use a well-developed tool kit! Together we work to help you balance emotions, shift unhelpful beliefs, resolve trauma, deepen forgiveness and forge new pathways to wellness and relationship health!
We’re living in a highly stressful society striving to balance our personal lives, relationships, family needs and work livelihoods to care for who and what is most important to us. Past trauma can interfere with our daily functioning and create isolation and mental unwellness. We all need support and guidance: good psychotherapy and relationship counseling can be a great benefit! I assess comprehensively, work pragmatically and use a well-developed tool kit! Together we work to help you balance emotions, shift unhelpful beliefs, resolve trauma, deepen forgiveness and forge new pathways to wellness and relationship health!
View
Photo of Health and Wellness Psychology, Psychologist in Castro Valley, CA
Health and Wellness Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, ACSW
Verified Verified
Castro Valley, CA 94546
No longer alone. We are here with you. In life, we experience different events, such as the recent pandemic, financial stress, overwhelming anxiety and pressure, the loss of a loved one, the unexpected divorce, a difficult birth, etc. and adjust the best we can, using our strengths and supports. We mostly do well. However, sometimes our coping strategies are insufficient to achieve our long term goals and heal our emotional and/or relationship wounds. You turn to others for support and guidance, such as family, friends, religious and ethnic community, and sometimes, you want to go deeper within yourself to seek out the answers.
No longer alone. We are here with you. In life, we experience different events, such as the recent pandemic, financial stress, overwhelming anxiety and pressure, the loss of a loved one, the unexpected divorce, a difficult birth, etc. and adjust the best we can, using our strengths and supports. We mostly do well. However, sometimes our coping strategies are insufficient to achieve our long term goals and heal our emotional and/or relationship wounds. You turn to others for support and guidance, such as family, friends, religious and ethnic community, and sometimes, you want to go deeper within yourself to seek out the answers.
(341) 222-3866 View (341) 222-3866
Photo of Antonio Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Castro Valley, CA
Antonio Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castro Valley, CA 94546
Not accepting new clients
I help people with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma/complex trauma, indecision/stuckness/failure to launch, find the roots of their condition, process them and transition to resilience, personal growth and fulfilment. I help couples connect with themselves, their values and intentions, communicate authentically & safely and either experience the peace, happiness, and satisfaction they once knew and more, or recognize the truth that it is not meant to be, part on the best terms possible and begin new lives. I have lived in three countries and have deep empathy for immigrants but use mainly English for sessions.
I help people with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma/complex trauma, indecision/stuckness/failure to launch, find the roots of their condition, process them and transition to resilience, personal growth and fulfilment. I help couples connect with themselves, their values and intentions, communicate authentically & safely and either experience the peace, happiness, and satisfaction they once knew and more, or recognize the truth that it is not meant to be, part on the best terms possible and begin new lives. I have lived in three countries and have deep empathy for immigrants but use mainly English for sessions.
(408) 418-2446 View (408) 418-2446

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shequita S Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Shequita S Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541
We all have challenges in life, and it takes courage and support to make the changes you strive for. As a Black woman, who lives with limited vision, I have the experience of being vulnerable and making life changes with the support of others. As a result, I know that by working with support, you can have the full life that you so readily deserve. As a therapist, I am someone who will work with you to build healthier ways to manage your emotions, incorporate coping skills during times of challenge, and to learn acceptance and self-compassion. Resulting in the person you want to be.
We all have challenges in life, and it takes courage and support to make the changes you strive for. As a Black woman, who lives with limited vision, I have the experience of being vulnerable and making life changes with the support of others. As a result, I know that by working with support, you can have the full life that you so readily deserve. As a therapist, I am someone who will work with you to build healthier ways to manage your emotions, incorporate coping skills during times of challenge, and to learn acceptance and self-compassion. Resulting in the person you want to be.
(341) 222-3833 View (341) 222-3833
Photo of Lori L. Crowley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Lori L. Crowley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94605
Waitlist for new clients
My clients are NeuroDivergent individuals or their families and supports whose experience of the world is overwhelming. They are in need of hope, encouragement and direction in order to feel whole and valued. Their overwhelm has led to frustration and uncertainty over possibilities, and what to do next. They arrive, feeling unsafe in their environments, unable to communicate so they are understood, and unappreciated for who they truly are. By establishing a safe relationship and working environment we create the tools necessary to be heard, seen and appreciated. These are the missing cornerstones of their growth and expansion.
My clients are NeuroDivergent individuals or their families and supports whose experience of the world is overwhelming. They are in need of hope, encouragement and direction in order to feel whole and valued. Their overwhelm has led to frustration and uncertainty over possibilities, and what to do next. They arrive, feeling unsafe in their environments, unable to communicate so they are understood, and unappreciated for who they truly are. By establishing a safe relationship and working environment we create the tools necessary to be heard, seen and appreciated. These are the missing cornerstones of their growth and expansion.
(925) 258-2959 View (925) 258-2959
Photo of Adolfo Hernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Adolfo Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94546
My name is Adolfo M. Hernandez and license number is 126948 LMFT. MY approach to therapy is primary to focus on client's personal strengths, cognitive restructuring, increase insight and awareness, increase overall functioning, and problem-solving skills. I had helped children, teens, and adults who suffer from depression, anxiety, alcohol, panic attacks, substance abuse, bipolar, anger, stress, family problems, and many others. I do not rely in a single approach, instead, focusing on client's goals. Moreover, I used Cognitive behavioral, existential, Prolonged exposure for individuals who experienced traumatic experiences.
My name is Adolfo M. Hernandez and license number is 126948 LMFT. MY approach to therapy is primary to focus on client's personal strengths, cognitive restructuring, increase insight and awareness, increase overall functioning, and problem-solving skills. I had helped children, teens, and adults who suffer from depression, anxiety, alcohol, panic attacks, substance abuse, bipolar, anger, stress, family problems, and many others. I do not rely in a single approach, instead, focusing on client's goals. Moreover, I used Cognitive behavioral, existential, Prolonged exposure for individuals who experienced traumatic experiences.
(619) 728-2672 View (619) 728-2672
Photo of Tina Kopko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Tina Kopko
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CGRS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Moraga, CA 94556
When grief hasn't been fully addressed, it can look like depression, anxiety, isolation, addictive behaviors to escape the pain, workaholism, relationships that are fragile, a lack of motivation, or feeling overwhelming resentment and bitterness. And grief can occur after a variety of losses that many people don't realize: divorce, moving, graduation, empty nest, retirement, an impactful change in financial position or physical abilities, a pandemic. My clients acutely feel how unresolved grief has become an impediment to living their lives in full, having healthy relationships, and having the energy to go after their goals.
When grief hasn't been fully addressed, it can look like depression, anxiety, isolation, addictive behaviors to escape the pain, workaholism, relationships that are fragile, a lack of motivation, or feeling overwhelming resentment and bitterness. And grief can occur after a variety of losses that many people don't realize: divorce, moving, graduation, empty nest, retirement, an impactful change in financial position or physical abilities, a pandemic. My clients acutely feel how unresolved grief has become an impediment to living their lives in full, having healthy relationships, and having the energy to go after their goals.
(510) 606-9784 View (510) 606-9784
Photo of Michelle Young, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Michelle Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94543  (Online Only)
Have you felt as though your emotions are spiraling out of control, or that you are walking on eggshells trying to avoid negative interactions with those around you? You may be struggling to cope with the effects of trauma or feelings of worry, hopelessness, or detachment. Perhaps you have a loved one who is experiencing chronic physical or mental health conditions which influence your emotional well being. It is not uncommon to feel stuck or overwhelmed. You may even feel as if your very identity is defined by the problems you are facing. You just want to get control of your life back, and build a new, healthy you.
Have you felt as though your emotions are spiraling out of control, or that you are walking on eggshells trying to avoid negative interactions with those around you? You may be struggling to cope with the effects of trauma or feelings of worry, hopelessness, or detachment. Perhaps you have a loved one who is experiencing chronic physical or mental health conditions which influence your emotional well being. It is not uncommon to feel stuck or overwhelmed. You may even feel as if your very identity is defined by the problems you are facing. You just want to get control of your life back, and build a new, healthy you.
(707) 985-0970 View (707) 985-0970
Photo of Linda Huey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Linda Huey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94545
Hi, I’m Linda Huey. I’m a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I work as an interpersonal and client-centered therapist. I treat my clients like you are the most important person and the room and help you create a space to better understand yourself and improve your life.
Hi, I’m Linda Huey. I’m a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I work as an interpersonal and client-centered therapist. I treat my clients like you are the most important person and the room and help you create a space to better understand yourself and improve your life.
(951) 420-6164 View (951) 420-6164
Photo of Lorena Rincon Arredondo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Lorena Rincon Arredondo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Union City, CA 94587
My goal is to walk alongside my clients just until they feel confident in being able to continue their progress and meet life’s challenges on their own, with purpose and hope, and of course, with the support of their loved ones and their community.
My goal is to walk alongside my clients just until they feel confident in being able to continue their progress and meet life’s challenges on their own, with purpose and hope, and of course, with the support of their loved ones and their community.
(510) 681-2588 View (510) 681-2588
Photo of Lisa Falls, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Castro Valley, CA
Lisa Falls
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541
Hi, my name is Lisa Falls. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a Board-Certified Art Therapist. I have Advanced Certification in EFT, also known as Emotional Freedom Techniques. I have training in ThetaHeling and am a Neurofeedback Practitioner. I am passionate about working with my clients to heal and live happy, productive, and successful lives. I work with Adults, Families, Couples, and Teenagers. I am comfortable treating grief, loss, and trauma issues. Also, Anxiety and depression, Alcohol abuse, and OCD. I also treat clients with a Dual Diagnosis.
Hi, my name is Lisa Falls. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a Board-Certified Art Therapist. I have Advanced Certification in EFT, also known as Emotional Freedom Techniques. I have training in ThetaHeling and am a Neurofeedback Practitioner. I am passionate about working with my clients to heal and live happy, productive, and successful lives. I work with Adults, Families, Couples, and Teenagers. I am comfortable treating grief, loss, and trauma issues. Also, Anxiety and depression, Alcohol abuse, and OCD. I also treat clients with a Dual Diagnosis.
(650) 955-6189 View (650) 955-6189
Photo of Artemis Rose, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Artemis Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
Hello. My name is Artemis J Rose, and I am an imperfect human being first and a therapist second. I value authenticity, creativity, communication, and connection. This is what I believe we are all seeking and deeply needing, and it is my utmost care, devotion, and intention to support you toward a deeper sense of yourself both within and with the relationships around you.
Hello. My name is Artemis J Rose, and I am an imperfect human being first and a therapist second. I value authenticity, creativity, communication, and connection. This is what I believe we are all seeking and deeply needing, and it is my utmost care, devotion, and intention to support you toward a deeper sense of yourself both within and with the relationships around you.
(818) 798-9801 View (818) 798-9801
Photo of Danielle Gersh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Danielle Gersh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Union City, CA 94587
My name is Danielle Gersh, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I am a people person. I believe relationships help build trust and I would like to get to know you, so I can better understand what approach fits your needs. I believe different approaches are effective for different folks, since "one size" does not fit all. We can explore your feelings that are holding you back, patterns of behaviors that are not working well for you, and/or focus on how to move past an unexpected event. We will work together to better understand your needs.
My name is Danielle Gersh, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I am a people person. I believe relationships help build trust and I would like to get to know you, so I can better understand what approach fits your needs. I believe different approaches are effective for different folks, since "one size" does not fit all. We can explore your feelings that are holding you back, patterns of behaviors that are not working well for you, and/or focus on how to move past an unexpected event. We will work together to better understand your needs.
(510) 454-8417 View (510) 454-8417
Photo of Shannon Brueckner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Shannon Brueckner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are experiencing challenges in their lives - including school or work performance, relationships with family and friends, or self-esteem. As a parent you might notice your child withdrawing, not interacting as usual with friends and family, getting into more fights or trouble, or struggling with self-confidence. Sleeping and eating habits and other daily routines may be affected as well. When you feel as though you don't know what else to do, reaching out and getting help through counseling can be the best alternative.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are experiencing challenges in their lives - including school or work performance, relationships with family and friends, or self-esteem. As a parent you might notice your child withdrawing, not interacting as usual with friends and family, getting into more fights or trouble, or struggling with self-confidence. Sleeping and eating habits and other daily routines may be affected as well. When you feel as though you don't know what else to do, reaching out and getting help through counseling can be the best alternative.
(415) 237-2076 View (415) 237-2076
Photo of Alicia A Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Alicia A Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94605
Waitlist for new clients
It may seem like we are alone in our journey. We are all waging a personal invisible fight that we share with few people. Individual therapy is a way to help you make sense of your experience, and gain emotional support to push through difficult times. Beginning therapy is an opportunity to start offering yourself more compassion and grace. I’ve spent over 10 years supporting adults and families in crisis. I work with adults and adolescents struggling with grief, anxiety, addiction, depression, panic, and phobias.
It may seem like we are alone in our journey. We are all waging a personal invisible fight that we share with few people. Individual therapy is a way to help you make sense of your experience, and gain emotional support to push through difficult times. Beginning therapy is an opportunity to start offering yourself more compassion and grace. I’ve spent over 10 years supporting adults and families in crisis. I work with adults and adolescents struggling with grief, anxiety, addiction, depression, panic, and phobias.
(925) 350-6001 View (925) 350-6001
Photo of Yoshiko Hedges Powell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Yoshiko Hedges Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619
You are seeking to gain insight into your current situation by making meaningful connections. You want to make changes in your life, but are struggling to find motivation and inner guidance. You want to move past difficult emotions and need help navigating and uncovering them in safe ways. You need healthy ways to manage stress so you can feel your feelings and not get overwhelmed by them. You long for more satisfaction in relationships, and need tools for communication and boundary setting. You desire to feel more connected to yourself and are in search of someone to help.
You are seeking to gain insight into your current situation by making meaningful connections. You want to make changes in your life, but are struggling to find motivation and inner guidance. You want to move past difficult emotions and need help navigating and uncovering them in safe ways. You need healthy ways to manage stress so you can feel your feelings and not get overwhelmed by them. You long for more satisfaction in relationships, and need tools for communication and boundary setting. You desire to feel more connected to yourself and are in search of someone to help.
(510) 856-5512 View (510) 856-5512
Photo of Tracy Chocholousek, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Tracy Chocholousek
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
I believe that the human spirit is oriented toward growth and expansion. My intention when working together is to serve as a collaborator, ally and accountability partner toward your highest good. To hold space for your whole self, to focus on resilience, and encourage you on your path toward living your best life. My work focuses on custom-crafting simple, evidence-based practices that can make a difference in your daily life - creative practices that will help decrease stress and anxiety, address trauma big and small, and foster better communication and relationships. These practices could range from guided visualization to CBT.
I believe that the human spirit is oriented toward growth and expansion. My intention when working together is to serve as a collaborator, ally and accountability partner toward your highest good. To hold space for your whole self, to focus on resilience, and encourage you on your path toward living your best life. My work focuses on custom-crafting simple, evidence-based practices that can make a difference in your daily life - creative practices that will help decrease stress and anxiety, address trauma big and small, and foster better communication and relationships. These practices could range from guided visualization to CBT.
(510) 561-2085 View (510) 561-2085
Photo of Kendra Andersson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Kendra Andersson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dublin, CA 94568
My name is Kendra, and I have a very informal approach to therapy. I enjoy laughing and commiserating with my clients and believe that they are best supported by a nonjudgmental therapist who truly cares about their well-being. I work from a strengths-based approach, and as a university professor, I love to connect science and research to help understand everyday issues. I hope to cultivate a space in which people can be their authentic selves and feel safe and supported as they do so.
My name is Kendra, and I have a very informal approach to therapy. I enjoy laughing and commiserating with my clients and believe that they are best supported by a nonjudgmental therapist who truly cares about their well-being. I work from a strengths-based approach, and as a university professor, I love to connect science and research to help understand everyday issues. I hope to cultivate a space in which people can be their authentic selves and feel safe and supported as they do so.
(213) 460-1029 View (213) 460-1029

See more therapy options for Castro Valley

Experiential Therapy

How does experiential therapy work?

Experiential therapy works by allowing an individual to use their creativity to re-imagine themselves and their lives in an effort to process their emotions. Experiential therapy may take many forms, including engaging clients through art, re-enactments, role-playing, music, or forms of physical recreation. By focusing on these activities, experiential therapists help individuals identify the emotions they associate with previous experiences and work together to cope with negative reactions, like fear, anger, or shame.

Is experiential therapy evidence-based?

Experiential therapy incorporates many therapy modalities, some of which have been more closely researched than others. Music therapy, for example, has been shown to help with sleep problems. Some studies find that art therapy can be beneficial for those with eating disorders or personality disorders, while other research suggests that such approaches have little impact.

How long does experiential therapy last?

The duration of experiential therapy will depend on the type of therapy used as well as the severity of the challenges an individual faces. Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Art therapy may comprise 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Music therapy sessions generally last between 30 and 50 minutes and can be scheduled weekly or on an as-needed basis. For each therapy type, clients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

Does experiential therapy help with trauma?

Trauma is one area where experiential therapy may be useful. Traumatic experiences such as combat or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating visual art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. Listening to music can be relaxing, while making music as part of a group provides plenty of opportunities to connect with other people. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, or who have been physically or emotionally abused.