Photo of Jeffrey Allen Suiter, Pre-Licensed Professional in 94609, CA
Jeffrey Allen Suiter
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
My ideal client is anyone—individuals, couples, or families—yearning for a compassionate and culturally attuned therapeutic journey. They face life's challenges with resilience, eager to embrace the vibrancy of feeling "alive." Seeking a therapist who comprehends the impact of social inequities on wellness and life quality, they aligns with my values. Together, we navigate towards the restoration of a beloved community, unlocking the fullness of their lives beyond the burdens. My commitment lies in fostering a therapeutic space where they feel profoundly "seen" and empowered to pursue the desires of their hearts.
My ideal client is anyone—individuals, couples, or families—yearning for a compassionate and culturally attuned therapeutic journey. They face life's challenges with resilience, eager to embrace the vibrancy of feeling "alive." Seeking a therapist who comprehends the impact of social inequities on wellness and life quality, they aligns with my values. Together, we navigate towards the restoration of a beloved community, unlocking the fullness of their lives beyond the burdens. My commitment lies in fostering a therapeutic space where they feel profoundly "seen" and empowered to pursue the desires of their hearts.
(510) 726-1520 View (510) 726-1520
Photo of Elisa Chaves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94609, CA
Elisa Chaves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about supporting children, adults and families to improve their communication, emotional connections and self-esteem. My approach is warm, interactive and strength-based. I have experience working with children and adults going through divorce, traumatic experiences, conflicts, challenges with self-regulation, as well as parenting difficulties and behavioral problems. I support my clients through life transitions, the process of acculturation and belonging, anxiety, depression or seeking any type of emotional healing from current or past experiences.
I am passionate about supporting children, adults and families to improve their communication, emotional connections and self-esteem. My approach is warm, interactive and strength-based. I have experience working with children and adults going through divorce, traumatic experiences, conflicts, challenges with self-regulation, as well as parenting difficulties and behavioral problems. I support my clients through life transitions, the process of acculturation and belonging, anxiety, depression or seeking any type of emotional healing from current or past experiences.
(510) 757-9413 View (510) 757-9413
Photo of Ryan Cole, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94609, CA
Ryan Cole
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
You feel like something is off but you're not exactly sure why. Your mind races and you feel stressed most of the time. You have a hard time slowing down and feeling connected with yourself as well as other people in your life. These statements describe the experience of many clients that I work with. I specialize in helping people who feel anxious, disconnected, or just "off." If you experience general anxiety, panic attacks, agitation, or disconnection from yourself or others, then I may be able to help you feel less alone and more settled in your life.
You feel like something is off but you're not exactly sure why. Your mind races and you feel stressed most of the time. You have a hard time slowing down and feeling connected with yourself as well as other people in your life. These statements describe the experience of many clients that I work with. I specialize in helping people who feel anxious, disconnected, or just "off." If you experience general anxiety, panic attacks, agitation, or disconnection from yourself or others, then I may be able to help you feel less alone and more settled in your life.
(510) 681-0284 View (510) 681-0284
Photo of Jennifer Howard, Psychologist in 94609, CA
Jennifer Howard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
My practice includes the treatment of individuals, couples and families, and I have a specialty in working with young adults and family therapy.
My approach is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioral and Attachment Theories. I also incorporate the practices of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). I aspire to meet clients where they are, and help each individual to work on his or her expressed goals. I enjoy taking this journey with clients to navigate some of their most difficult and challenging moments in life, to help prevent troubled kids or young adults from more serious trouble, and to help all clients who seek my support turn their life's biggest challenges into opportunities for growth and lasting change.
My practice includes the treatment of individuals, couples and families, and I have a specialty in working with young adults and family therapy.
My approach is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioral and Attachment Theories. I also incorporate the practices of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). I aspire to meet clients where they are, and help each individual to work on his or her expressed goals. I enjoy taking this journey with clients to navigate some of their most difficult and challenging moments in life, to help prevent troubled kids or young adults from more serious trouble, and to help all clients who seek my support turn their life's biggest challenges into opportunities for growth and lasting change.
(510) 878-6002 View (510) 878-6002
Photo of Sarah Aldamigh, Pre-Licensed Professional in 94609, CA
Sarah Aldamigh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
(341) 888-6220 x20 View (341) 888-6220 x20
Photo of Bay Area Group Therapy Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94609, CA
Bay Area Group Therapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Are you ready to start improving your relationships and seeing yourself more clearly? Do you yearn for a sense of belonging where you don’t have to contort yourself to fit in? Would you like to have the person you are becoming witnessed and supported? Groups function as a microcosm of the real world, and give us an opportunity to understand our patterns in relationship and receive valuable feedback. Over time, group members learn they can be more fully themselves with others and gain confidence and capacity for more satisfying connections.
Are you ready to start improving your relationships and seeing yourself more clearly? Do you yearn for a sense of belonging where you don’t have to contort yourself to fit in? Would you like to have the person you are becoming witnessed and supported? Groups function as a microcosm of the real world, and give us an opportunity to understand our patterns in relationship and receive valuable feedback. Over time, group members learn they can be more fully themselves with others and gain confidence and capacity for more satisfying connections.
(510) 947-8446 View (510) 947-8446
Photo of Valorie Herd, Psychologist in 94609, CA
Valorie Herd
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
It is a privilege to help others who are seeking support on their journey. As a licensed psychologist who enjoys working with adults, children, families, couples, as well as groups, I appreciate a holistic approach to lifestyle changes. It is important to consider physical, mental and emotional health to increase our quality of life. We don’t have control over some circumstances in life, but we can work to optimally navigate what comes our way. Cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, mindfulness for stress reduction, managing occupational strain and psychoeducation are some of the techniques I find helpful.
It is a privilege to help others who are seeking support on their journey. As a licensed psychologist who enjoys working with adults, children, families, couples, as well as groups, I appreciate a holistic approach to lifestyle changes. It is important to consider physical, mental and emotional health to increase our quality of life. We don’t have control over some circumstances in life, but we can work to optimally navigate what comes our way. Cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, mindfulness for stress reduction, managing occupational strain and psychoeducation are some of the techniques I find helpful.
(510) 640-8631 View (510) 640-8631
Photo of Kendra Feliz Paulsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94609, CA
Kendra Feliz Paulsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
I use a combination of humanistic/person-centered practices, EMDR, depth psychology, subjective and Gestalt dream work, family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, family constellations, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), and Imago Therapy, among other things.
We all have work to do. We don't have to do it alone. In a safe, non-judgmental environment, I explore with my clients their dreams, artwork, relationships, and daily life experiences, to bring light and insight to blockages and barriers to their full experience and enjoyment of life. Such blockages can be past trauma, incorrect embedded beliefs, injured parts, and/or ingrained thought patterns and habits. Once these things are processed and/or healed, new ways forward can be nurtured.
I use a combination of humanistic/person-centered practices, EMDR, depth psychology, subjective and Gestalt dream work, family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, family constellations, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), and Imago Therapy, among other things.
We all have work to do. We don't have to do it alone. In a safe, non-judgmental environment, I explore with my clients their dreams, artwork, relationships, and daily life experiences, to bring light and insight to blockages and barriers to their full experience and enjoyment of life. Such blockages can be past trauma, incorrect embedded beliefs, injured parts, and/or ingrained thought patterns and habits. Once these things are processed and/or healed, new ways forward can be nurtured.
(510) 922-0049 View (510) 922-0049
Photo of Anna Loscutoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94609, CA
Anna Loscutoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I meet people where they are at in their story. My goal is to walk along side people to discover their own resources for healing. I listen deeply. I bring a non judgmental presence that creates a safe place to talk about who they are, where they have been, and where they want to be. I am able to balance empathy with constructive challenge. I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages that struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss and family dynamics.
I meet people where they are at in their story. My goal is to walk along side people to discover their own resources for healing. I listen deeply. I bring a non judgmental presence that creates a safe place to talk about who they are, where they have been, and where they want to be. I am able to balance empathy with constructive challenge. I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages that struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss and family dynamics.
(510) 548-5858 x545 View (510) 548-5858 x545
Photo of Victoria Julita Spiers, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94609, CA
Victoria Julita Spiers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Waitlist for new clients
As a non-pathologizing humanistic-existential Gestalt therapist, I will meet you exactly where you are. I recognize that you are the expert of your own experience and that you already possess the skills that will aid you in healing your pain. As your empathic witness, advocate, and guide, I will help you increase your self-awareness, self-acceptance, and sense of agency. Essentially, I will help you re-examine your life and re-experience yourself and others, in different as well as new meaningful and healing ways. My approach is mindful, intuitive, and tenderhearted.
As a non-pathologizing humanistic-existential Gestalt therapist, I will meet you exactly where you are. I recognize that you are the expert of your own experience and that you already possess the skills that will aid you in healing your pain. As your empathic witness, advocate, and guide, I will help you increase your self-awareness, self-acceptance, and sense of agency. Essentially, I will help you re-examine your life and re-experience yourself and others, in different as well as new meaningful and healing ways. My approach is mindful, intuitive, and tenderhearted.
(628) 888-6233 View (628) 888-6233
Photo of Cecilia Froberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94609, CA
Cecilia Froberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
My main goal with providing therapy is for you to become free from the fears and secrets that might have brought you in. Many of us feel tormented by our anxieties and catastrophic thinking, which inevitably interferes with our relationships and ability to be the person we wish. Using an insight-oriented approach, I work with children and adults who often feel impending doom or have had a major trauma, such as early abandonment or sexual abuse in their life. I also see couples who struggle with common goals and intimacy.
My main goal with providing therapy is for you to become free from the fears and secrets that might have brought you in. Many of us feel tormented by our anxieties and catastrophic thinking, which inevitably interferes with our relationships and ability to be the person we wish. Using an insight-oriented approach, I work with children and adults who often feel impending doom or have had a major trauma, such as early abandonment or sexual abuse in their life. I also see couples who struggle with common goals and intimacy.
(510) 405-9799 View (510) 405-9799
Photo of Kelly Bassin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94609, CA
Kelly Bassin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Do you find yourself at a crossroads or yearning for more? You may be at a breaking point or you may want to make some changes and you don't know where to start. I will ensure a safe and warm environment for exploration. We will move at a pace comfortable for you. Taking the leap of faith into therapy takes courage. We will engage in a process of empowerment to help you feel more centered & grounded in yourself. I work with individuals, couples, children, & families. I am here to listen, empathize & deepen your self-understanding . We will take a look at your inner longings and the parts of your life which may not be serving you.
Do you find yourself at a crossroads or yearning for more? You may be at a breaking point or you may want to make some changes and you don't know where to start. I will ensure a safe and warm environment for exploration. We will move at a pace comfortable for you. Taking the leap of faith into therapy takes courage. We will engage in a process of empowerment to help you feel more centered & grounded in yourself. I work with individuals, couples, children, & families. I am here to listen, empathize & deepen your self-understanding . We will take a look at your inner longings and the parts of your life which may not be serving you.
(209) 408-1547 View (209) 408-1547
Photo of Estepha Francisque, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94609, CA
Estepha Francisque
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I do free consultations with clients and instant online scheduling because getting help shouldn't wait for a call back. I am here for you, to walk along side you or your family through the toughest moments. We will laugh together, cry together, and heal together. Most importantly, we will grow together.
I do free consultations with clients and instant online scheduling because getting help shouldn't wait for a call back. I am here for you, to walk along side you or your family through the toughest moments. We will laugh together, cry together, and heal together. Most importantly, we will grow together.
(415) 326-7312 View (415) 326-7312
Photo of Mia Turner, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94609, CA
Mia Turner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
My work with every client and family is personalized, trauma-informed, rooted in strengths, collaborative, neurodiversity-affirming, and culturally tailored to your needs and experiences. I believe that each client possesses the intergenerational heirlooms of innate resilience, spirituality, and introspection that serve as tools to assist in your healing journey. You are the expert of your experience and I am here to offer hope and support you as you share your narrative and author a new chapter of healing, continuing to grow into your best self, discovering balance, serenity, joy, and connecting with yourself and surroundings.
My work with every client and family is personalized, trauma-informed, rooted in strengths, collaborative, neurodiversity-affirming, and culturally tailored to your needs and experiences. I believe that each client possesses the intergenerational heirlooms of innate resilience, spirituality, and introspection that serve as tools to assist in your healing journey. You are the expert of your experience and I am here to offer hope and support you as you share your narrative and author a new chapter of healing, continuing to grow into your best self, discovering balance, serenity, joy, and connecting with yourself and surroundings.
(510) 737-7485 View (510) 737-7485
Photo of Acacia Hasina Chidi #lmft111125, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94609, CA
Acacia Hasina Chidi #lmft111125
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEO
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I am experienced in couples, and individual therapy.
Welcome! I’m Acacia Hasina Chidi, I am known to help inspire change in individual’s lives and relationships. Experience has demonstrated to me that change is possible and necessary. If you are ready to initiate change, I’d like to work with you through the process of therapy which can allow you to grow, and realize aspects of yourself you may not be aware of, or that you are aware of, but have been unable to manage. Years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, and specialized groups have enabled me tools and techniques that help people achieve a deeper understanding of relational patterns needing repair.
I am experienced in couples, and individual therapy.
Welcome! I’m Acacia Hasina Chidi, I am known to help inspire change in individual’s lives and relationships. Experience has demonstrated to me that change is possible and necessary. If you are ready to initiate change, I’d like to work with you through the process of therapy which can allow you to grow, and realize aspects of yourself you may not be aware of, or that you are aware of, but have been unable to manage. Years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, and specialized groups have enabled me tools and techniques that help people achieve a deeper understanding of relational patterns needing repair.
(415) 729-2118 View (415) 729-2118
Photo of Dr. Jadu Malcolm Jagel, Psychologist in 94609, CA
Dr. Jadu Malcolm Jagel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Therapy offers the chance to become more present with ourselves. Together we contemplate the human journey. We can get familiar with our innate mindfulness and compassion. On my journey I've realized that well being can be learned; achieved with a level of skillfulness, a window of tolerance. Getting triggered helps us learn. I help individuals and couples study their nervous systems and their "parts" -- a complex legacy of neurobiological attachment wiring. With a manner that is warm, relatable, and active yet non-invasive, I help my clients find meaning, hope, and the freedom to become who they were meant to be.
Therapy offers the chance to become more present with ourselves. Together we contemplate the human journey. We can get familiar with our innate mindfulness and compassion. On my journey I've realized that well being can be learned; achieved with a level of skillfulness, a window of tolerance. Getting triggered helps us learn. I help individuals and couples study their nervous systems and their "parts" -- a complex legacy of neurobiological attachment wiring. With a manner that is warm, relatable, and active yet non-invasive, I help my clients find meaning, hope, and the freedom to become who they were meant to be.
(415) 707-8552 View (415) 707-8552
Photo of Loren Richards Farese, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94609, CA
Loren Richards Farese
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I work with individuals and couples interested in gaining insight into relational patters with the goal of empowerment. I work with those interested in exploring the intersection of how we are shaped by society and culture, how we are shaped by our ancestors, family systems, and our own beliefs about who we are impact what we imagine we are and may become. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-confidence, and relational conflict who desire ease and balance. I am interested in sexual empowerment and sexuality, and I inhabit and work with alternative relationship styles including non-monogamy.
I work with individuals and couples interested in gaining insight into relational patters with the goal of empowerment. I work with those interested in exploring the intersection of how we are shaped by society and culture, how we are shaped by our ancestors, family systems, and our own beliefs about who we are impact what we imagine we are and may become. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-confidence, and relational conflict who desire ease and balance. I am interested in sexual empowerment and sexuality, and I inhabit and work with alternative relationship styles including non-monogamy.
(415) 466-8569 View (415) 466-8569
Photo of Cathy Trenary, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in 94609, CA
Cathy Trenary
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families in various capacities.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families in various capacities.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
(415) 992-6925 View (415) 992-6925
Photo of John R. Edwards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94609, CA
John R. Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I work with individuals and couples.
Have you experienced awful or traumatic experiences in your life? Have these experiences left you feeling dazed and confused about who you are and how to navigate life? Does your brain and body feel overly tired? Do you worry about just about everything? Have difficulty with decisions and follow through? Perhaps you’re engaging with alcohol, drugs, food, and other things in unhelpful ways to try to numb emotional pain. Negative life experiences leave negative imprints on your brain and body. Heal your brain and body to change your life.
I work with individuals and couples.
Have you experienced awful or traumatic experiences in your life? Have these experiences left you feeling dazed and confused about who you are and how to navigate life? Does your brain and body feel overly tired? Do you worry about just about everything? Have difficulty with decisions and follow through? Perhaps you’re engaging with alcohol, drugs, food, and other things in unhelpful ways to try to numb emotional pain. Negative life experiences leave negative imprints on your brain and body. Heal your brain and body to change your life.
(925) 575-9269 View (925) 575-9269
Photo of Alexis Lyon, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94609, CA
Alexis Lyon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I love discovering the emerging potential of my clients, and supporting their unique personal development and evolution. I'm experienced working with highly sensitive individuals, and those who self-identify as having a history of trauma. Adults who are self-motivated, and those who have or desire a mind-body-spirit practice, are a good fit for the support I provide. I adapt to the needs of children and adults alike. I believe therapy can be a powerful tool to unlock our greater creativity and feelings of interconnectivity and trust, so that my clients can thrive in the web of life.
I love discovering the emerging potential of my clients, and supporting their unique personal development and evolution. I'm experienced working with highly sensitive individuals, and those who self-identify as having a history of trauma. Adults who are self-motivated, and those who have or desire a mind-body-spirit practice, are a good fit for the support I provide. I adapt to the needs of children and adults alike. I believe therapy can be a powerful tool to unlock our greater creativity and feelings of interconnectivity and trust, so that my clients can thrive in the web of life.
(510) 880-4194 View (510) 880-4194
Couples Counseling Therapists

Does couples counseling work?

Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?

Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?

The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?

The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.