Emotionally Focused Therapists in Albany, CA
I've trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples and Child-Centered Play Therapy for young children.
I'm committed to helping adults explore the roots of their persistent dissatisfaction, enhance their self-awareness, and find more freedom in their work and relationships. With children & teens, I specialize in helping them navigate anxiety, low self-esteem, the impacts of traumatic experiences, and big or overwhelming emotions. I create a nurturing relationship where young clients can build their confidence through conversation, play, and creativity. -As of Oct 2024: I have openings for children/parents in Albany, CA and individual adults and couples in Oakland, CA.-
I've trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples and Child-Centered Play Therapy for young children.
I'm committed to helping adults explore the roots of their persistent dissatisfaction, enhance their self-awareness, and find more freedom in their work and relationships. With children & teens, I specialize in helping them navigate anxiety, low self-esteem, the impacts of traumatic experiences, and big or overwhelming emotions. I create a nurturing relationship where young clients can build their confidence through conversation, play, and creativity. -As of Oct 2024: I have openings for children/parents in Albany, CA and individual adults and couples in Oakland, CA.-
I work with adult individuals and couples from the Attachment Theory and evidence-based modalities of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT) and the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model. Couples can develop patterns of interacting that lead to frustrating arguments, immovable conflict and painful disconnection from each other. I help couples calm the fighting, move from stuck places, and shift those negative patterns into secure and loving connection. With couples, I work primarily from the evidence-based model of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT)
I work with adult individuals and couples from the Attachment Theory and evidence-based modalities of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT) and the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model. Couples can develop patterns of interacting that lead to frustrating arguments, immovable conflict and painful disconnection from each other. I help couples calm the fighting, move from stuck places, and shift those negative patterns into secure and loving connection. With couples, I work primarily from the evidence-based model of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT)
Conflicts in our relationships, parenting hurdles, stress, loneliness, grief, and old emotional wounds can block us from fully enjoying our lives and our loves. With warmth and humor, I actively guide and support clients to reach their therapeutic goals. As a certified Emotionally Focused Therapist I am highly skilled at assisting couples to identify the patten of communication that keeps them stuck, explore its roots, normalize it, and transform it so that each person can reach for the other in a new, more heartfelt way.
Conflicts in our relationships, parenting hurdles, stress, loneliness, grief, and old emotional wounds can block us from fully enjoying our lives and our loves. With warmth and humor, I actively guide and support clients to reach their therapeutic goals. As a certified Emotionally Focused Therapist I am highly skilled at assisting couples to identify the patten of communication that keeps them stuck, explore its roots, normalize it, and transform it so that each person can reach for the other in a new, more heartfelt way.
I am client centered and pull from attachment theory, psychodynamic theory, EFT, mindfulness, CBT and somatic approaches.
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.
I am client centered and pull from attachment theory, psychodynamic theory, EFT, mindfulness, CBT and somatic approaches.
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.
My approach to therapy emphasizes self knowledge, empowerment and insight helping move towards a more integral, meaningful and gratifying life. It is with passion and kindness that I witness the healing transformation a person goes through in the therapeutic relationship. Originally from Brazil, I speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese working with clients who speak these languages. Three theories permeate my work: the Integral theory of Ken Wilber, Psychodynamic theory, and Hakomi. I integrate into the analysis the physical, mental, emotional, and social parts of the self (Integral) in a mindfulness-based, body inclusive, and experiential perspective (Hakomi).
My approach to therapy emphasizes self knowledge, empowerment and insight helping move towards a more integral, meaningful and gratifying life. It is with passion and kindness that I witness the healing transformation a person goes through in the therapeutic relationship. Originally from Brazil, I speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese working with clients who speak these languages. Three theories permeate my work: the Integral theory of Ken Wilber, Psychodynamic theory, and Hakomi. I integrate into the analysis the physical, mental, emotional, and social parts of the self (Integral) in a mindfulness-based, body inclusive, and experiential perspective (Hakomi).
Have anxious thoughts become overwhelming and led you to doubt yourself and your decisions? Maybe it’s tough to get out of a bed in the morning, or you keep pushing and striving, but have difficulty accessing a sense of fulfillment and peace? Maybe you feel like you’re always giving to and pleasing others, but don’t ever feel nourished and “filled up” yourself? Therapy is a great way to get support in navigating the daily challenges of life, but also the bigger and more long-term struggles.
Have anxious thoughts become overwhelming and led you to doubt yourself and your decisions? Maybe it’s tough to get out of a bed in the morning, or you keep pushing and striving, but have difficulty accessing a sense of fulfillment and peace? Maybe you feel like you’re always giving to and pleasing others, but don’t ever feel nourished and “filled up” yourself? Therapy is a great way to get support in navigating the daily challenges of life, but also the bigger and more long-term struggles.
I strongly believe in people's resiliency and motivation to live a full life despite difficult experiences. I'm dedicated to helping my clients achieve desirable and lasting change. We will look closely at what holds you back and what feels painful in your life. Whether it is a cycle of difficult emotions, unwanted behaviors, or relational difficulties, I believe it is crucial to discover the meaning in these experiences. Through our work together we will develop new tools to transform your life and make it more satisfying.
I strongly believe in people's resiliency and motivation to live a full life despite difficult experiences. I'm dedicated to helping my clients achieve desirable and lasting change. We will look closely at what holds you back and what feels painful in your life. Whether it is a cycle of difficult emotions, unwanted behaviors, or relational difficulties, I believe it is crucial to discover the meaning in these experiences. Through our work together we will develop new tools to transform your life and make it more satisfying.
Juan Carlos Zepeda
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706
I offer a therapeutic space for adult clients working through the lasting impact of adverse childhood experiences, trauma, and losses that presently cause mental health and relationship issues. Clients who value self-understanding, want to break unhelpful patterns, and desire to relate to themselves and others with more compassion, spontaneity, and authenticity, connect with my therapeutic style.
I offer a therapeutic space for adult clients working through the lasting impact of adverse childhood experiences, trauma, and losses that presently cause mental health and relationship issues. Clients who value self-understanding, want to break unhelpful patterns, and desire to relate to themselves and others with more compassion, spontaneity, and authenticity, connect with my therapeutic style.
Jannat Zahoor
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706 (Online Only)
I help trauma survivors live a more meaningful, easeful, and joyful lives. I I I I support with the following: Complex Trauma, Relational Challenges, Depression, and Identity & Spiritual Exploration. I work with BIPOC/ People of the Global Majority, Children of Immigrants, Queer Folk, Neurodivergent folk, and Adult Children of Alcoholics.
I help trauma survivors live a more meaningful, easeful, and joyful lives. I I I I support with the following: Complex Trauma, Relational Challenges, Depression, and Identity & Spiritual Exploration. I work with BIPOC/ People of the Global Majority, Children of Immigrants, Queer Folk, Neurodivergent folk, and Adult Children of Alcoholics.
I believe that we are shaped, known, and grow in relationships. Therapy can help you better understand your thoughts, feelings, and experiences—and find freedom and meaningful connection with yourself and others. With curiosity and openness, I work to create a supportive and collaborative environment. Together, we can explore who you are and the experiences that shape you. We can address your present concerns, and explore how your early experiences impact you.
I believe that we are shaped, known, and grow in relationships. Therapy can help you better understand your thoughts, feelings, and experiences—and find freedom and meaningful connection with yourself and others. With curiosity and openness, I work to create a supportive and collaborative environment. Together, we can explore who you are and the experiences that shape you. We can address your present concerns, and explore how your early experiences impact you.
Simon Kiyoshi Hara
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706 (Online Only)
Our thoughts and emotions are telling us something. At times the message is clear. At others the message feels garbled, or we are not ready to receive it. I would like to help. Often my clients seek support around confusing emotions and thoughts that accompany life transitions, and relationships. We build insight through understanding these thoughts and feelings. Themes might include: overwhelm, burnout, relational trauma, family dynamics, identity, self-esteem, vulnerability, boundaries, and interpersonal communication. All of this will be in service of helping your emotions to inform your journey, rather than stifle it.
Our thoughts and emotions are telling us something. At times the message is clear. At others the message feels garbled, or we are not ready to receive it. I would like to help. Often my clients seek support around confusing emotions and thoughts that accompany life transitions, and relationships. We build insight through understanding these thoughts and feelings. Themes might include: overwhelm, burnout, relational trauma, family dynamics, identity, self-esteem, vulnerability, boundaries, and interpersonal communication. All of this will be in service of helping your emotions to inform your journey, rather than stifle it.
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Life can be hard... and we don’t have to do it alone. I work with couples to strengthen connection, deepen intimacy, rebuild trust after betrayal, and find their voice within the relationship. I work with individuals around issues of anxiety, depression, grief, self esteem, relationships, and parenting. My own challenges, and the work I have done to heal, have afforded me the ability to be present and sit with people in their own pain. I have a natural inclination to seek out deep connection with people which has aided my ability in guiding my clients to deepen connections with others,
Life can be hard... and we don’t have to do it alone. I work with couples to strengthen connection, deepen intimacy, rebuild trust after betrayal, and find their voice within the relationship. I work with individuals around issues of anxiety, depression, grief, self esteem, relationships, and parenting. My own challenges, and the work I have done to heal, have afforded me the ability to be present and sit with people in their own pain. I have a natural inclination to seek out deep connection with people which has aided my ability in guiding my clients to deepen connections with others,
Many of life's problems and traumas are difficult not just in and of themselves, but because they are isolating, leaving you with the feeling that no one understands or that no one sees your struggles. As a therapist, I think the relationship comes first. The work we do together requires warmth, comfort, trust and "goodness of fit" between us. I believe the relationship is both the safe and warm point of departure for your exploration and the soft landing place.
Many of life's problems and traumas are difficult not just in and of themselves, but because they are isolating, leaving you with the feeling that no one understands or that no one sees your struggles. As a therapist, I think the relationship comes first. The work we do together requires warmth, comfort, trust and "goodness of fit" between us. I believe the relationship is both the safe and warm point of departure for your exploration and the soft landing place.
I tend to work with people that feel stuck. Stuck in the same thoughts, behavior, and situations they can’t quite figure out how to move beyond. Stuck in their relationships, unsure how to communicate, or commonly fighting over “the same thing.” Instead of asking “What’s wrong with me?” and “How can I fix myself?” We can focus on questions like, “How can I know myself better?” and “I wonder why I respond that way?” to build self-compassion and curiosity.
I tend to work with people that feel stuck. Stuck in the same thoughts, behavior, and situations they can’t quite figure out how to move beyond. Stuck in their relationships, unsure how to communicate, or commonly fighting over “the same thing.” Instead of asking “What’s wrong with me?” and “How can I fix myself?” We can focus on questions like, “How can I know myself better?” and “I wonder why I respond that way?” to build self-compassion and curiosity.
Darrah Whitman Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706
I provide individual, couples, and group therapy to a wide array of individuals with varying issues they are seeking support around. I support clients in developing self-awareness, increasing self-esteem, and managing anxiety in their lives. My clients often report goals of increased feelings of life satisfaction, more fulfilling relationships, and confidence in themselves. My clients are looking to feel self-assured in their decisions and direction in life. I offer a secure, supportive environment where my client's whole selves, as well as their goals are accepted without judgement, but with curiosity and compassion.
I provide individual, couples, and group therapy to a wide array of individuals with varying issues they are seeking support around. I support clients in developing self-awareness, increasing self-esteem, and managing anxiety in their lives. My clients often report goals of increased feelings of life satisfaction, more fulfilling relationships, and confidence in themselves. My clients are looking to feel self-assured in their decisions and direction in life. I offer a secure, supportive environment where my client's whole selves, as well as their goals are accepted without judgement, but with curiosity and compassion.
If your child is experiencing tantrums or aggression, feels anxious, angry, or sad, has a low tolerance for frustration, or has poor relationships with other children or adults, I can help. I am a therapist specialized in working with young children and their families. I work with parents to help them understand their child's behavior and know how to respond during difficult parenting moments. I work with children to help them build social skills, understand and regulate their emotions, and overcome traumatic experiences (ex.death, illness) or difficult life transitions (ex. birth of a new sibling, divorce, school expulsion).
If your child is experiencing tantrums or aggression, feels anxious, angry, or sad, has a low tolerance for frustration, or has poor relationships with other children or adults, I can help. I am a therapist specialized in working with young children and their families. I work with parents to help them understand their child's behavior and know how to respond during difficult parenting moments. I work with children to help them build social skills, understand and regulate their emotions, and overcome traumatic experiences (ex.death, illness) or difficult life transitions (ex. birth of a new sibling, divorce, school expulsion).
Therapy is a partnership between you and me. My desire is to help you achieve your goals, to find your life purpose, to resolve your issues, whatever they may be. Change comes from within you—and that’s where we focus—on your body and the traumas it holds—so with can release them through various techniques that can really create true change inside you. Whether you are an individual or a couple, whatever you bring into the therapy office can be transformed.
Therapy is a partnership between you and me. My desire is to help you achieve your goals, to find your life purpose, to resolve your issues, whatever they may be. Change comes from within you—and that’s where we focus—on your body and the traumas it holds—so with can release them through various techniques that can really create true change inside you. Whether you are an individual or a couple, whatever you bring into the therapy office can be transformed.
Hi! I’m Julia, a holistic psychotherapist. My passion is guiding professionals and couples through the unique challenges of relationships, dating, anxiety, and self-esteem. With a unique blend of psychological expertise, practical tools, and transformational spiritual practices (such as mindfulness meditation and visualization), I can help you transform your unconscious patterns into conscious choices. My compassionate and integrative approach is tailored to your specific needs, helping you unlock your greatest potential and achieve lasting transformation.
Hi! I’m Julia, a holistic psychotherapist. My passion is guiding professionals and couples through the unique challenges of relationships, dating, anxiety, and self-esteem. With a unique blend of psychological expertise, practical tools, and transformational spiritual practices (such as mindfulness meditation and visualization), I can help you transform your unconscious patterns into conscious choices. My compassionate and integrative approach is tailored to your specific needs, helping you unlock your greatest potential and achieve lasting transformation.
Gail Susan Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
Albany, CA 94707 (Online Only)
You want to make positive changes that will last. I’ll work with you, or you and your child, to address whatever is getting in the way of living the life you’d like. There may be feelings that run the show, behaviors that seem unchangeable, or relationships and jobs/school that don’t meet your needs and dreams. Whatever your history and current challenges, there are ways to move forward. Even in this period of pandemic uncertainty, we can build your resilience, developing strengths and capacities that lead to a more fulfilling life.
You want to make positive changes that will last. I’ll work with you, or you and your child, to address whatever is getting in the way of living the life you’d like. There may be feelings that run the show, behaviors that seem unchangeable, or relationships and jobs/school that don’t meet your needs and dreams. Whatever your history and current challenges, there are ways to move forward. Even in this period of pandemic uncertainty, we can build your resilience, developing strengths and capacities that lead to a more fulfilling life.
Bay Area Psychotherapy / Kelly Ransom, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Albany, CA 94706 (Online Only)
Evening, weekend, early morning appointments available. If you are struggling with stress, anxiety, parenting or relationship issues, give me a call. Together we will get clear on what results you want to see, and create a potent “healing space” for initiating positive change. Whether you’re wanting a fresh perspective on patterns that are no longer working for you in your relationships, need support for you and your partner or child, or feel stuck in terms of creating the life you’ve envisioned as a result of anxiety or other issues, together we will find a way forward.
Evening, weekend, early morning appointments available. If you are struggling with stress, anxiety, parenting or relationship issues, give me a call. Together we will get clear on what results you want to see, and create a potent “healing space” for initiating positive change. Whether you’re wanting a fresh perspective on patterns that are no longer working for you in your relationships, need support for you and your partner or child, or feel stuck in terms of creating the life you’ve envisioned as a result of anxiety or other issues, together we will find a way forward.
See more therapy options for Albany
Nearby Emotionally Focused Therapists Searches for Albany
- Berkeley
- El Cerrito
- El Sobrante
- Emeryville
- Kensington
- Oakland
- Orinda
- Piedmont
- Pinole
- Richmond
- San Pablo
- Tiburon
Emotionally Focused Therapists
Who is emotionally focused therapy for?
Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is for couples who are emotionally distressed, stuck in an unsatisfying relationship pattern or feeling deeply alienated. They may even believe the relationship is beyond repair. Very often, the partners display intense anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal in the relationship. In addition, EFT is helpful to couples and individuals who have difficulty expressing emotions and those who have trouble regulating emotions.
Why do people need emotionally focused therapy?
People need emotionally focused therapy because the need for others is built into the brain, but the pressures of daily life can erode feelings of love, and couples often do not have the skills to find their way back to the comfort of each other. Instead, they may be stuck in repetitive patterns of anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal. Emotionally focused therapy regards such strong negative feelings as expressions of protest over the loss of connection and turns them into pathways of reconnection.
What happens in emotionally focused therapy?
Over the course of eight to 20 weekly sessions, couples de-escalate their negative emotional reactivity to one another so that they can listen to each other and be responsive to each other’s needs. Then the deep emotional and physical bond is restored, giving partners a sense of comfort and security, which they can use to solve whatever problems come their way. The therapist plays an active role, helping partners understand how anger and withdrawal are actually misguided cries for connection.
What problems does emotionally focused therapy treat?
EFT is designed to help couples stuck in dysfunctional relationship patterns regain closeness and rebuild their relationship. Typically, such couples experience considerable distress, with partners feeling alienated and distrustful of one another, not certain their relationship can survive. EFT is also helpful to individuals experiencing attachment-related fears of loss; it helps them learn to use their fears as a way of eliciting the closeness they desire.