Couples Counseling Therapists in Alameda, CA

Photo of Megan Spence, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Megan Spence
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501  (Online Only)
I am Dr. Spence, a licensed clinical psychologist who is certified in perinatal mental health through Postpartum Support International. I have experience working with men, women, and non-binary individuals around a wide range of health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, work stress, grief, women's health conditions (menopause, pregnancy, PMDD) and chronic illness. I also work with couples, to help strengthen communication and increase trust and relationship satisfaction.
I am Dr. Spence, a licensed clinical psychologist who is certified in perinatal mental health through Postpartum Support International. I have experience working with men, women, and non-binary individuals around a wide range of health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, work stress, grief, women's health conditions (menopause, pregnancy, PMDD) and chronic illness. I also work with couples, to help strengthen communication and increase trust and relationship satisfaction.
(415) 367-0076 View (415) 367-0076
Photo of Samantha Jeandebien, APPC
Samantha Jeandebien
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APPC
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
I have experience working with a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship problems. I am also skilled in helping clients with life transitions, such as starting college, getting married, or having a child. I love working with couples and supporting them through life challenges. I am passionate about helping people achieve their mental health goals and live happier, more fulfilling lives.
I have experience working with a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship problems. I am also skilled in helping clients with life transitions, such as starting college, getting married, or having a child. I love working with couples and supporting them through life challenges. I am passionate about helping people achieve their mental health goals and live happier, more fulfilling lives.
(510) 571-2783 View (510) 571-2783
Photo of Rachel Rosenfeld - The Codependency Clinic, PsyD, Psychologist
The Codependency Clinic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501  (Online Only)
The Codependency Clinic is specifically designed for codependency recovery. We treat Adults Facing Codependency, C-PTSD, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Adult Children of Dysfunctional Families, Adult Children of Narcissists and couples. All of our therapists are trained in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and The Pia Mellody Model. Our couples' therapists are level 2 Gottman trained practitioners. Our treatment plan is structured and individually specific. We offer individual, group and intensive recovery retreats. Check out our website www.thecodependencyclinic.com.
The Codependency Clinic is specifically designed for codependency recovery. We treat Adults Facing Codependency, C-PTSD, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Adult Children of Dysfunctional Families, Adult Children of Narcissists and couples. All of our therapists are trained in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and The Pia Mellody Model. Our couples' therapists are level 2 Gottman trained practitioners. Our treatment plan is structured and individually specific. We offer individual, group and intensive recovery retreats. Check out our website www.thecodependencyclinic.com.
(510) 640-8387 View (510) 640-8387
Photo of Jacob Engelskirger - Dr. Jacob Engelskirger, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jacob Engelskirger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
You may be struggling with depression or anxiety, grief or loss, or a difficult relationship. Maybe your stress level has increased recently and you find yourself struggling to cope. These types of situations sometimes leave people feeling “stuck” and unsure of how to move forward and regain their quality of life. Psychotherapy is a powerful, evidence-based mental health treatment that helps many people move past the stuckness and find new ways of managing life’s challenges.
You may be struggling with depression or anxiety, grief or loss, or a difficult relationship. Maybe your stress level has increased recently and you find yourself struggling to cope. These types of situations sometimes leave people feeling “stuck” and unsure of how to move forward and regain their quality of life. Psychotherapy is a powerful, evidence-based mental health treatment that helps many people move past the stuckness and find new ways of managing life’s challenges.
(510) 726-8700 View (510) 726-8700
Photo of Matt Van Pelt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matt Van Pelt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501
You may be coming to therapy already knowing what you want less of—be it self doubt and criticism, tension in a particular relationship, a creeping uneasiness, or any of a hundred other challenges that enter our lives and create a sense of overwhelm or fatigue.
Confidence and connection are the key ingredients for a meaningful life, but they can be compromised in times of stress or transition. The foundations of the past, once familiar and secure, are shaken. Anxieties encroach. Connections are lost. Yet, I believe that despite the pain and difficulty of these phases, there is immense potential for positive change and personal growth. Helping you discover that potential is what I love most about my work, so I encourage you to reach out to me to get started today. You can email me at vanpeltcounseling@gmail.com or text me at 510-859-4448 to set up a free consultation. I will respond ASAP.
You may be coming to therapy already knowing what you want less of—be it self doubt and criticism, tension in a particular relationship, a creeping uneasiness, or any of a hundred other challenges that enter our lives and create a sense of overwhelm or fatigue.
Confidence and connection are the key ingredients for a meaningful life, but they can be compromised in times of stress or transition. The foundations of the past, once familiar and secure, are shaken. Anxieties encroach. Connections are lost. Yet, I believe that despite the pain and difficulty of these phases, there is immense potential for positive change and personal growth. Helping you discover that potential is what I love most about my work, so I encourage you to reach out to me to get started today. You can email me at vanpeltcounseling@gmail.com or text me at 510-859-4448 to set up a free consultation. I will respond ASAP.
(510) 201-5946 View (510) 201-5946
Photo of Rachel Rosenfeld, PsyD, Psychologist
Rachel Rosenfeld
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501  (Online Only)
As the daughter of a narcissist I am uniquely qualified to guide you through your own process of recovery. I specialize in Adult Children of Narcissists, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Codependency, Adult Children of Dysfunctional Families with an emphasis on early childhood survival and its effect on adult relationships, and couples. My style is interactive, engaged and non-judgmental. I offer individual sessions, weekly support groups and small group intensives (see website). Clinical training includes: Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, EFT &Pia Mellody's trauma treatment model, PACT & Gottman (for couples). Phone and Zoom available.
As the daughter of a narcissist I am uniquely qualified to guide you through your own process of recovery. I specialize in Adult Children of Narcissists, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Codependency, Adult Children of Dysfunctional Families with an emphasis on early childhood survival and its effect on adult relationships, and couples. My style is interactive, engaged and non-judgmental. I offer individual sessions, weekly support groups and small group intensives (see website). Clinical training includes: Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, EFT &Pia Mellody's trauma treatment model, PACT & Gottman (for couples). Phone and Zoom available.
(858) 240-8647 View (858) 240-8647
Photo of Alina Steinberg Baugh, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alina Steinberg Baugh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
My main goal in the therapeutic relationship is to provide a safe, non-judgmental, trusting environment where individuals can explore their feelings in their search for a more fulfilling life. I provide therapy personalized to your unique situation and needs, treating each person’s problems within the context of each circumstance. I will work towards developing a relationship with you where you can feel safe to express your thoughts and feelings and what is holding you back from living life more fully. I am not just a passive listener, I will give you feedback in a direct and honest way.
My main goal in the therapeutic relationship is to provide a safe, non-judgmental, trusting environment where individuals can explore their feelings in their search for a more fulfilling life. I provide therapy personalized to your unique situation and needs, treating each person’s problems within the context of each circumstance. I will work towards developing a relationship with you where you can feel safe to express your thoughts and feelings and what is holding you back from living life more fully. I am not just a passive listener, I will give you feedback in a direct and honest way.
(650) 419-4299 View (650) 419-4299
Photo of Corina Seligman - Corina Seligman - East Bay Center for Anxiety, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Corina Seligman - East Bay Center for Anxiety
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501
At East Bay Center for Anxiety Relief, we work with adults, children, teens, couples, and families. We also facilitate periodic groups focused on communication skills, social skills, anxiety, depression, and working women. We strive for mindful, efficient, and effective therapy. Our clinicians are trained in research-based models such as TEAM-CBT and Gottman couples/family models. We work a bit differently than more traditional practices. We don’t cram an hour of therapy into 50 minutes. Instead, we provide full 60-, 75-, or 90-minute sessions.
At East Bay Center for Anxiety Relief, we work with adults, children, teens, couples, and families. We also facilitate periodic groups focused on communication skills, social skills, anxiety, depression, and working women. We strive for mindful, efficient, and effective therapy. Our clinicians are trained in research-based models such as TEAM-CBT and Gottman couples/family models. We work a bit differently than more traditional practices. We don’t cram an hour of therapy into 50 minutes. Instead, we provide full 60-, 75-, or 90-minute sessions.
(510) 998-3441 View (510) 998-3441
Photo of Mar Ortmann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mar Ortmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501
As a psychotherapist, I help clients redefine how they live their lives. I am a licensed clinical social worker who sees children, adolescents and families as well as individual adults. By engaging in a series of conversations, I will help you to challenge the problematic assumptions and ways of being that prevent you from realizing the full potential of your life. I work from a colloborative stance that assumes you are the expert on your life. But my own expertise in helping people overcome emotional problems, troublesome habits and relationship roadblocks can help you create new solutions to old problems.
As a psychotherapist, I help clients redefine how they live their lives. I am a licensed clinical social worker who sees children, adolescents and families as well as individual adults. By engaging in a series of conversations, I will help you to challenge the problematic assumptions and ways of being that prevent you from realizing the full potential of your life. I work from a colloborative stance that assumes you are the expert on your life. But my own expertise in helping people overcome emotional problems, troublesome habits and relationship roadblocks can help you create new solutions to old problems.
(510) 878-6537 View (510) 878-6537
Photo of Marilyn G Marco, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marilyn G Marco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
Some of my specialties include depression and anxiety, abuse issues, parenting issues, relationship issues, elder care decisions, and life direction.
With over 35 years of experience as an individual and family therapist in many types of settings, I view therapy as a co-created, compassionate and courageous journey into the discovery of the self. I work with individuals and couples, and particularly enjoy helping people find their true passion, gifts and sense of self. I also work with individuals who are in life transition, struggling with depression, anxiety, work stress, spiritual crisis, relationship issues, parenting issues, or any issue that is interfering with living life fully.
Some of my specialties include depression and anxiety, abuse issues, parenting issues, relationship issues, elder care decisions, and life direction.
With over 35 years of experience as an individual and family therapist in many types of settings, I view therapy as a co-created, compassionate and courageous journey into the discovery of the self. I work with individuals and couples, and particularly enjoy helping people find their true passion, gifts and sense of self. I also work with individuals who are in life transition, struggling with depression, anxiety, work stress, spiritual crisis, relationship issues, parenting issues, or any issue that is interfering with living life fully.
(510) 864-2565 View (510) 864-2565
Photo of Kelly Scott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
Through individual, couples, and family therapy, I have helped clients to understand and overcome the challenges of anxiety, depression, trauma, developmental and learning disabilities, parenting, and relationship issues.
Life can be overwhelming and stressful at times. Therapy can provide the support one needs to overcome the challenges we may face. I believe each of us possesses the strength and courage needed to face life’s difficulties and make positive changes for ourselves. With respect and compassion, I would work with you to develop the most effective and empathic approach to achieving your therapeutic goals.
Through individual, couples, and family therapy, I have helped clients to understand and overcome the challenges of anxiety, depression, trauma, developmental and learning disabilities, parenting, and relationship issues.
Life can be overwhelming and stressful at times. Therapy can provide the support one needs to overcome the challenges we may face. I believe each of us possesses the strength and courage needed to face life’s difficulties and make positive changes for ourselves. With respect and compassion, I would work with you to develop the most effective and empathic approach to achieving your therapeutic goals.
(510) 306-7598 View (510) 306-7598
Photo of Sinead Smyth, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sinead Smyth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501
Research shows that couples wait on average 6 years after problems arise to seek professional help. Whether your relationship is full of conflict or has drifted into the friend zone, this is our area of expertise. We focus on practical strategies that we know from research to be effective. Our goal is to minimize the time you spend with us and give you the tools you need to improve your relationship outside of therapy. Our team of therapists is highly skilled, compassionate and will offer you practical feedback and research-based guidance.
Research shows that couples wait on average 6 years after problems arise to seek professional help. Whether your relationship is full of conflict or has drifted into the friend zone, this is our area of expertise. We focus on practical strategies that we know from research to be effective. Our goal is to minimize the time you spend with us and give you the tools you need to improve your relationship outside of therapy. Our team of therapists is highly skilled, compassionate and will offer you practical feedback and research-based guidance.
(925) 695-7975 View (925) 695-7975
Photo of Barbara Way, MA, LPCC, LPC
Barbara Way
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 12 years experience practicing psychotherapy with adults, mature teens and couples and I feel so honored to have partnered on these journeys.
So many people today feel that they are just going through the motions, unsure of what truly matters to them. Culture and upbringing can shape our behaviors and beliefs, but sometimes they don't align with what we truly value and this conflict can cause deep suffering. Knowing what’s important to you and having easy access to your “true north” can completely change the way you approach and experience life.
I have over 12 years experience practicing psychotherapy with adults, mature teens and couples and I feel so honored to have partnered on these journeys.
So many people today feel that they are just going through the motions, unsure of what truly matters to them. Culture and upbringing can shape our behaviors and beliefs, but sometimes they don't align with what we truly value and this conflict can cause deep suffering. Knowing what’s important to you and having easy access to your “true north” can completely change the way you approach and experience life.
(510) 617-5814 View (510) 617-5814
Photo of Vicki Matthews, LCPC, Counselor
Vicki Matthews
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
I also treat adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and self-confidence issues along with providing couples and family therapy using Gottmans and family systems approaches.
Hello, my name is Vicki Matthews and, I am an M.A. LPCC dual licensed in CA and NM. I focus on guiding my child, teen, and adult clients to be their own agents of change, catering to their needs, and meeting my clients where they are at in life. I focus on realistic and attainable goals working together with my clients to achieve therapeutic wellness, towards improving their daily functioning. My goal is to be a part of the curative process for all my clients.
I also treat adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and self-confidence issues along with providing couples and family therapy using Gottmans and family systems approaches.
Hello, my name is Vicki Matthews and, I am an M.A. LPCC dual licensed in CA and NM. I focus on guiding my child, teen, and adult clients to be their own agents of change, catering to their needs, and meeting my clients where they are at in life. I focus on realistic and attainable goals working together with my clients to achieve therapeutic wellness, towards improving their daily functioning. My goal is to be a part of the curative process for all my clients.
(510) 621-6299 View (510) 621-6299
Photo of David Samlan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Samlan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
I work with children, adolescents, and adults as well as providing couples and family therapy.
When it comes to getting help for yourself or your family, finding a therapist you feel comfortable with is an important first step. I create a supportive and authentic environment where we can focus on your individual goals so you can move forward with your life. I take a practical and eclectic approach to therapy, incorporating family systems theory, evidenced based practices, and mindfulness practices into sessions, and work to help you feel better as quickly as possible.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults as well as providing couples and family therapy.
When it comes to getting help for yourself or your family, finding a therapist you feel comfortable with is an important first step. I create a supportive and authentic environment where we can focus on your individual goals so you can move forward with your life. I take a practical and eclectic approach to therapy, incorporating family systems theory, evidenced based practices, and mindfulness practices into sessions, and work to help you feel better as quickly as possible.
(510) 405-3059 View (510) 405-3059
Photo of Valerie DiLuggo, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valerie DiLuggo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501  (Online Only)
We work together (just you or with your partner) to create a safe place where you begin to slow down, noticing your thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and desires.
What's Love Got to Do With It??. . . . Alot!. . You're having trouble in relationships, friendships or at work. You're finding it hard to know how to fix things, and you wonder if the problem is you, your past, or the people around you. You're seeking out support because life has gotten overwhelming or you've shut down. Anxiety or depression maybe peek in here or there and you want real tools to use. You want to feel more confident & fulfilled in relationships, but no one ever taught you that part. You want self-love but don't have a clear vision of who you are.
We work together (just you or with your partner) to create a safe place where you begin to slow down, noticing your thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and desires.
What's Love Got to Do With It??. . . . Alot!. . You're having trouble in relationships, friendships or at work. You're finding it hard to know how to fix things, and you wonder if the problem is you, your past, or the people around you. You're seeking out support because life has gotten overwhelming or you've shut down. Anxiety or depression maybe peek in here or there and you want real tools to use. You want to feel more confident & fulfilled in relationships, but no one ever taught you that part. You want self-love but don't have a clear vision of who you are.
(844) 943-2905 View (844) 943-2905
Photo of Carla Vogel-Stone, PsyD, Psychologist
Carla Vogel-Stone
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501
I'm not the stereotypical therapist who will listen to you and then reply with "Uhmm hmm. And how does that make you feel?" I prefer to be real, interactive and engage in a conversation with you. My hope is that collaboratively we can generate creative solutions to the issues that brought you in to my office. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families. I believe that people are more than the sum of their problems and I approach my relationship with you from this perspective.
I'm not the stereotypical therapist who will listen to you and then reply with "Uhmm hmm. And how does that make you feel?" I prefer to be real, interactive and engage in a conversation with you. My hope is that collaboratively we can generate creative solutions to the issues that brought you in to my office. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families. I believe that people are more than the sum of their problems and I approach my relationship with you from this perspective.
(510) 470-5760 View (510) 470-5760
Photo of Lee M Schuster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lee M Schuster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501
I am very interested in working with couples around their communication and relationship dynamics.
Are you at a turning point in your life? Struggling with life's daily complexities? I focus on: Trauma and PTSD, Substance Abuse and Dual Diagnosis, Grief and Loss and much more. I use an eclectic model of healing from a person-centered, strengths-based perspective that is Anti-Racist and Anti- Systems of Oppression in its foundation. To allow oneself to show up as our best selves in and out of the therapy room. Each person brings a multi-faceted expression of their true selves to therapy that can be unlocked with strength, courage, and the acknowledgment of one's right to self-determination and self-efficacy.
I am very interested in working with couples around their communication and relationship dynamics.
Are you at a turning point in your life? Struggling with life's daily complexities? I focus on: Trauma and PTSD, Substance Abuse and Dual Diagnosis, Grief and Loss and much more. I use an eclectic model of healing from a person-centered, strengths-based perspective that is Anti-Racist and Anti- Systems of Oppression in its foundation. To allow oneself to show up as our best selves in and out of the therapy room. Each person brings a multi-faceted expression of their true selves to therapy that can be unlocked with strength, courage, and the acknowledgment of one's right to self-determination and self-efficacy.
(510) 640-8456 View (510) 640-8456
Photo of Patricia Torres, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
Hello, my name is Patricia, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Success in therapy starts with a good therapeutic relationship and building this foundation is what I focus on establishing with my clients. This relationship is what helps you feel safe to reveal your true self and work on the things that led you to seek therapy in the first place. Every person is unique in their own way, and so is their response to challenges, which is why I personalize my therapeutic approach to ensure I am meeting my clients where they are, allowing them to guide their therapeutic journey.
Hello, my name is Patricia, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Success in therapy starts with a good therapeutic relationship and building this foundation is what I focus on establishing with my clients. This relationship is what helps you feel safe to reveal your true self and work on the things that led you to seek therapy in the first place. Every person is unique in their own way, and so is their response to challenges, which is why I personalize my therapeutic approach to ensure I am meeting my clients where they are, allowing them to guide their therapeutic journey.
(510) 822-7425 View (510) 822-7425
Photo of Natalie O'Mara, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie O'Mara
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
My specialties include PTSD, cPTSD, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, peripartum, parenting, relationship issues and couples therapy.
The decision to begin therapy is a courageous step–one that can be life-changing. Whether you are feeling anxious, sad, stressed, angry, confused or stuck, therapy can offer a safe space for you to explore your inner world and gain new insights and skills. I have helped clients across the lifespan manage difficult emotions, heal traumas, gain self-confidence, learn new skills for navigating romantic and social relationships, find relief from long-term mental health issues, uncover creativity and life purpose, and reconnect with their partners in new ways. Therapy is a collaboration and I am here to help you on your journey.
My specialties include PTSD, cPTSD, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, peripartum, parenting, relationship issues and couples therapy.
The decision to begin therapy is a courageous step–one that can be life-changing. Whether you are feeling anxious, sad, stressed, angry, confused or stuck, therapy can offer a safe space for you to explore your inner world and gain new insights and skills. I have helped clients across the lifespan manage difficult emotions, heal traumas, gain self-confidence, learn new skills for navigating romantic and social relationships, find relief from long-term mental health issues, uncover creativity and life purpose, and reconnect with their partners in new ways. Therapy is a collaboration and I am here to help you on your journey.
(510) 999-8598 View (510) 999-8598
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.