Therapists in Contra Costa County, CA

Photo of Brandy Gadson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandy Gadson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Ramon, CA 94583
I work with individuals facing depression, chronic illness, anxiety, guilt, grief/loss, or who have endured physical, emotional or spiritual trauma.
My practice is rooted in the belief that there is power in knowing and telling your own story. Who are you? Where did you come from? What's important to you? Let's work together to untangle your story, identify your strengths, goals, passions, and barriers; and make you the author of what comes next. I work with people who want to make positive changes, but feel paralyzed by stress, fear, indecision, or old habits. I can also help you learn concrete strategies for managing uncomfortable thoughts, emotions, transitions, health conditions or problematic relationships.
I work with individuals facing depression, chronic illness, anxiety, guilt, grief/loss, or who have endured physical, emotional or spiritual trauma.
My practice is rooted in the belief that there is power in knowing and telling your own story. Who are you? Where did you come from? What's important to you? Let's work together to untangle your story, identify your strengths, goals, passions, and barriers; and make you the author of what comes next. I work with people who want to make positive changes, but feel paralyzed by stress, fear, indecision, or old habits. I can also help you learn concrete strategies for managing uncomfortable thoughts, emotions, transitions, health conditions or problematic relationships.
(510) 901-3757 View (510) 901-3757
Photo of Sheila Ali, ACSW, MSW
Sheila Ali
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
I focus on areas of traumatic events- abuse, chronic illness, death, divorce, disaster and war- complex cultural family problems and gender dysphoria, transition, GCS.
I continue to feel humbled by the power of therapy. Therapy will heal your pain. But it will not just relieve your suffering, a strong client-therapist fit will allow you to bear witness to the strength that comes from the courage of confronting the vulnerability within ourselves. Looking for a therapist should feel like buying a car- it needs to feel right, cost right and look right. Because that feeling of trust and safety is crucial to creating a space of brutal honesty as you begin to identify and explore your conscious and unconscious obstacles to equip yourself with the emotional tools and healing you seek.
I focus on areas of traumatic events- abuse, chronic illness, death, divorce, disaster and war- complex cultural family problems and gender dysphoria, transition, GCS.
I continue to feel humbled by the power of therapy. Therapy will heal your pain. But it will not just relieve your suffering, a strong client-therapist fit will allow you to bear witness to the strength that comes from the courage of confronting the vulnerability within ourselves. Looking for a therapist should feel like buying a car- it needs to feel right, cost right and look right. Because that feeling of trust and safety is crucial to creating a space of brutal honesty as you begin to identify and explore your conscious and unconscious obstacles to equip yourself with the emotional tools and healing you seek.
(925) 965-7775 View (925) 965-7775
Photo of Kiran C. Easwarachandran, MSS, R-DMT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kiran C. Easwarachandran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, R-DMT, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Ramon, CA 94583
chronic illness, body disorders, trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, group process work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and groups.
I have practiced as an Integrative Movement Psychotherapist for over 17 years and believe that true healing shines through when we work with the whole self-the body, the mind and spirit. As a body-mind therapist I bring in an eclectic mix of psychodynamic theories, strengths based practice, CBT, dance and movement therapy, expressive arts, eco-therapy and mindfulness work to my practice.
chronic illness, body disorders, trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, group process work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and groups.
I have practiced as an Integrative Movement Psychotherapist for over 17 years and believe that true healing shines through when we work with the whole self-the body, the mind and spirit. As a body-mind therapist I bring in an eclectic mix of psychodynamic theories, strengths based practice, CBT, dance and movement therapy, expressive arts, eco-therapy and mindfulness work to my practice.
(520) 214-5015 View (520) 214-5015
Photo of Kendra Urton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kendra Urton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Martinez, CA 94553
Has your life suffered because of trauma you have experienced? I work with individuals, couples, and families to overcome their challenges related to abuse and trauma as well as anxiety, depression, and interpersonal issues. I have worked with survivors of sexual trauma and domestic violence, the LGBT community and unique concerns within that community, and individuals who struggle with co-occurring mental illness and substance use. I'm also familiar with the struggles you may have in managing a chronic illness. I value the importance of creating a safe, non-judgmental space to work on yourself.
Has your life suffered because of trauma you have experienced? I work with individuals, couples, and families to overcome their challenges related to abuse and trauma as well as anxiety, depression, and interpersonal issues. I have worked with survivors of sexual trauma and domestic violence, the LGBT community and unique concerns within that community, and individuals who struggle with co-occurring mental illness and substance use. I'm also familiar with the struggles you may have in managing a chronic illness. I value the importance of creating a safe, non-judgmental space to work on yourself.
(925) 293-9135 View (925) 293-9135
Photo of Joseph R Giove - Clinical Hypnosis of Joseph R Giove, CCht
Clinical Hypnosis of Joseph R Giove
Clinical Hypnotherapist, CCht
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
As a biomedical engineer and clinical hypnotist, I have developed a unique approach to mind-body wellness and performance optimization. For over 30 years I have helped people suffering from stress, anxiety, insomnia, addiction, panic, fears, phobias, chronic illness, allergies, weight loss and more.
As a biomedical engineer and clinical hypnotist, I have developed a unique approach to mind-body wellness and performance optimization. For over 30 years I have helped people suffering from stress, anxiety, insomnia, addiction, panic, fears, phobias, chronic illness, allergies, weight loss and more.
(925) 297-1391 View (925) 297-1391
Photo of Robin Criner, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Criner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or stress? Are you adjusting to a new situation in your life? Robin is highly skilled at helping adults navigate challenges and build self-esteem in a safe, trusting and caring space where her clients can reach their goals. Robin has a background in behavioral health, making her particularly adept and helping clients navigate challenges with illness or their physical health. She has expertise in navigating grief and caregiver stress.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or stress? Are you adjusting to a new situation in your life? Robin is highly skilled at helping adults navigate challenges and build self-esteem in a safe, trusting and caring space where her clients can reach their goals. Robin has a background in behavioral health, making her particularly adept and helping clients navigate challenges with illness or their physical health. She has expertise in navigating grief and caregiver stress.
(925) 886-2931 View (925) 886-2931
Photo of Marguerite Stagg, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Marguerite Stagg
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I offer treatment for both individuals and couples, primarily addressing depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relational issues, family conflict, life transitions and health issues. I focus on the comprehensive picture of each person’s circumstance in order to bring about change that is sustainable and lasting for you. I will work with you in a collaborative manner, discovering your strengths in order to build upon the tools and skills that you already have to work towards your objectives.
I offer treatment for both individuals and couples, primarily addressing depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relational issues, family conflict, life transitions and health issues. I focus on the comprehensive picture of each person’s circumstance in order to bring about change that is sustainable and lasting for you. I will work with you in a collaborative manner, discovering your strengths in order to build upon the tools and skills that you already have to work towards your objectives.
(925) 298-9705 View (925) 298-9705
Photo of Dr. Catherine Ferreira-Babor, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Catherine Ferreira-Babor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
I completed my doctoral training in the UCSF Dept. of Psychiatry working primarily with trauma survivors. Within that setting our standards of care were very high & I maintain that standard in my practice. My patients felt confused, irritated, exhausted & hopeless, worrying that their lives would never improve. I imagine that you do as well. With perspective & compassion I will help you make sense of your experiences, reducing the degree to which you blame yourself & helping you use your strengths to create a much more satisfying life.
I completed my doctoral training in the UCSF Dept. of Psychiatry working primarily with trauma survivors. Within that setting our standards of care were very high & I maintain that standard in my practice. My patients felt confused, irritated, exhausted & hopeless, worrying that their lives would never improve. I imagine that you do as well. With perspective & compassion I will help you make sense of your experiences, reducing the degree to which you blame yourself & helping you use your strengths to create a much more satisfying life.
(925) 267-6803 View (925) 267-6803
Photo of Micaela Maria Vicuna, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Micaela Maria Vicuna
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
It’s hard to be human. There are no manuals on how to deal with our thoughts and emotions. Sitting with vulnerability can be scary and uncomfortable. As a Client-Centered clinician I plan to meet you in the here and now and help get you to where you want to be in a holistically happy and healthy manner. We all could use a bit of guidance, and at times, a push in the right direction.
It’s hard to be human. There are no manuals on how to deal with our thoughts and emotions. Sitting with vulnerability can be scary and uncomfortable. As a Client-Centered clinician I plan to meet you in the here and now and help get you to where you want to be in a holistically happy and healthy manner. We all could use a bit of guidance, and at times, a push in the right direction.
(209) 231-4832 View (209) 231-4832
Photo of Julia Brochstein, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Brochstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
As your psychotherapist, I will listen to your unique lived experience. My approach is direct, client-centered, and prioritizes cultural sensitivity. While the majority of my practice focuses on improving one's relationship with food and body, I also collaborate with parents of teens in recovery from disordered eating, and people who struggle to cope with trauma, anxiety, or depressed mood. In your course of treatment we can navigate issues such as perfectionism, low self-esteem, body image distress, family issues and disordered eating behaviors. I will help you feel confident, safe and empowered in your body and in your life.
As your psychotherapist, I will listen to your unique lived experience. My approach is direct, client-centered, and prioritizes cultural sensitivity. While the majority of my practice focuses on improving one's relationship with food and body, I also collaborate with parents of teens in recovery from disordered eating, and people who struggle to cope with trauma, anxiety, or depressed mood. In your course of treatment we can navigate issues such as perfectionism, low self-esteem, body image distress, family issues and disordered eating behaviors. I will help you feel confident, safe and empowered in your body and in your life.
(925) 319-6181 View (925) 319-6181
Photo of Peter Oppermann, PhD, Psychologist
Peter Oppermann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Feeling restless or easily distracted? Lacking energy, motivation, focus, or direction in life? Spinning your wheels in your career or relationships? Prone to pleasing others at all costs, yet feeling unhappy and misunderstood? Always too busy to stop and smell the flowers? I'd like to help you become more empowered, confident, and satisfied through facing and letting go of your fears, irritating beliefs, guilt, and suffering, so you can learn to communicate more effectively and have healthy relationships. For more than twenty-five years I have provided time-limited and in-depth psychotherapy to individuals, couples and groups.
Feeling restless or easily distracted? Lacking energy, motivation, focus, or direction in life? Spinning your wheels in your career or relationships? Prone to pleasing others at all costs, yet feeling unhappy and misunderstood? Always too busy to stop and smell the flowers? I'd like to help you become more empowered, confident, and satisfied through facing and letting go of your fears, irritating beliefs, guilt, and suffering, so you can learn to communicate more effectively and have healthy relationships. For more than twenty-five years I have provided time-limited and in-depth psychotherapy to individuals, couples and groups.
(925) 365-6955 View (925) 365-6955
Photo of David S. Wu, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David S. Wu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Something has you feeling off... You are a hardworking adult who gives it your all.  You want to feel good, connected, & supported.  But instead, it never feels good enough!  You are exhausted & overwhelmed day & night.  You find yourself constantly running on empty or on edge.  Simple tasks like scheduling and eating feel like chores. You can’t even enjoy a night out if it happens at all.  You get along with others, and so many people and communities rely on you. Yet, you feel like you don’t belong, or those you love don’t really see you. Let’s not even start with our society and world.
Something has you feeling off... You are a hardworking adult who gives it your all.  You want to feel good, connected, & supported.  But instead, it never feels good enough!  You are exhausted & overwhelmed day & night.  You find yourself constantly running on empty or on edge.  Simple tasks like scheduling and eating feel like chores. You can’t even enjoy a night out if it happens at all.  You get along with others, and so many people and communities rely on you. Yet, you feel like you don’t belong, or those you love don’t really see you. Let’s not even start with our society and world.
(510) 901-3093 View (510) 901-3093
Photo of Lima Daugherty, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lima Daugherty
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Welcoming safe, supportive haven for all those living "outside the boxes”. Experience with youth, adults, elders in supporting the unique therapeutic healing journey of LGBTQIA+, artists, performers, empaths, healers, alternative families (donor/adoption/foster/blended culture), and non mainstream relationships. I bring genuine compassion and endurance for your process to find, embrace, and honor all the dimensions of your authentic expression, identity, culture, sexuality, spirituality, and life path.
Welcoming safe, supportive haven for all those living "outside the boxes”. Experience with youth, adults, elders in supporting the unique therapeutic healing journey of LGBTQIA+, artists, performers, empaths, healers, alternative families (donor/adoption/foster/blended culture), and non mainstream relationships. I bring genuine compassion and endurance for your process to find, embrace, and honor all the dimensions of your authentic expression, identity, culture, sexuality, spirituality, and life path.
(707) 683-8275 View (707) 683-8275
Photo of Complex Trauma And Identity Healing Catherine Lamme, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Complex Trauma And Identity Healing Catherine Lamme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Welcome! Are you feeling tired of the patterns and old stories that impact the development of your vitality and the best version of your life? Does your sense of self feel fractured? Does your body seem to mirror the internal negative thought patterns that seem to block you creating the life you want to live? Do you feel like there are moments that you cannot imagine living in the internal chaos another moment? I am inspired and honored to work with adults who are motivated to heal and release the negative internal stories, especially from trauma, that have dictated their behavior in order to create their own life worth living.
Welcome! Are you feeling tired of the patterns and old stories that impact the development of your vitality and the best version of your life? Does your sense of self feel fractured? Does your body seem to mirror the internal negative thought patterns that seem to block you creating the life you want to live? Do you feel like there are moments that you cannot imagine living in the internal chaos another moment? I am inspired and honored to work with adults who are motivated to heal and release the negative internal stories, especially from trauma, that have dictated their behavior in order to create their own life worth living.
(760) 263-6052 View (760) 263-6052
Photo of Deepa Ranganathan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deepa Ranganathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530  (Online Only)
By the time people start therapy, they've often tried nearly everything to solve their problems on their own. I respect the hard work you may have already done -- and your courage in seeking more support. Therapy can help you free up the "stuck" places in your life. My approach is warm, open-minded, active, and empathic. My goals are to help you find more satisfaction in your work and relationships, feel more self-confidence and vitality, and live a happy, meaningful life. My priority is always to respect the pace and direction that is right for you.
By the time people start therapy, they've often tried nearly everything to solve their problems on their own. I respect the hard work you may have already done -- and your courage in seeking more support. Therapy can help you free up the "stuck" places in your life. My approach is warm, open-minded, active, and empathic. My goals are to help you find more satisfaction in your work and relationships, feel more self-confidence and vitality, and live a happy, meaningful life. My priority is always to respect the pace and direction that is right for you.
(341) 444-2875 View (341) 444-2875
Photo of Haley Woodside (Hewitt), MA, LMFT, E-RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Haley Woodside (Hewitt)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
My name is Haley Woodside and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, perinatal and women’s health, gender and/or sexual identity, & LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS & Somatic Experiencing.
My name is Haley Woodside and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, perinatal and women’s health, gender and/or sexual identity, & LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS & Somatic Experiencing.
(925) 275-5742 View (925) 275-5742
Photo of Michael J Rubino - Rubino Counseling Services, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rubino Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
We understand many people feel ashamed having to seek therapy for their child, family or themselves. However, no one is perfect and we all need help from time to time. We have created a relaxing atmosphere where you will not feel judged. We are here to assist you through a difficult time and to make the changes you need to make. Teens need help to. It is very common for teens to need therapy to deal with an issue in their life.
We understand many people feel ashamed having to seek therapy for their child, family or themselves. However, no one is perfect and we all need help from time to time. We have created a relaxing atmosphere where you will not feel judged. We are here to assist you through a difficult time and to make the changes you need to make. Teens need help to. It is very common for teens to need therapy to deal with an issue in their life.
(925) 705-4833 View (925) 705-4833
Photo of Debbie L Rosenberg, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbie L Rosenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing support for individuals, couples, and adolescents. I’m passionate about supporting and empowering individuals through a collaborative process — with a focus on improving overall psychological well-being and quality of life. We will work together to assist in your healing, to increase your insight of patterns you may wish to change, and also find creative solutions that allow you to achieve your goals and live a more fulfilled and authentic life.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing support for individuals, couples, and adolescents. I’m passionate about supporting and empowering individuals through a collaborative process — with a focus on improving overall psychological well-being and quality of life. We will work together to assist in your healing, to increase your insight of patterns you may wish to change, and also find creative solutions that allow you to achieve your goals and live a more fulfilled and authentic life.
(707) 309-7165 View (707) 309-7165
Photo of Chelsie Crilly, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chelsie Crilly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I specialize in working with ADHD, HSP, and ASD. Being in our bodies- and being in our world- can be very difficult. This is especially true when when you're a highly sensitive person. My typical client often hears "you're being too much" while also dreading the feeling of not "being enough". I'm here to take a deep dive into what's making you feel like "too much" and highlight the ways you are "just enough for the right people". Typically, my client's goals are to live more comfortably in their sensitive skin, find liberation from shame, and better manage depression and anxiety.
I specialize in working with ADHD, HSP, and ASD. Being in our bodies- and being in our world- can be very difficult. This is especially true when when you're a highly sensitive person. My typical client often hears "you're being too much" while also dreading the feeling of not "being enough". I'm here to take a deep dive into what's making you feel like "too much" and highlight the ways you are "just enough for the right people". Typically, my client's goals are to live more comfortably in their sensitive skin, find liberation from shame, and better manage depression and anxiety.
(925) 744-6783 x8 View (925) 744-6783 x8
Photo of Dr. Rebecca A Scott, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Rebecca A Scott
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94506  (Online Only)
When we feel stuck in our situation, it can create feelings of hopelessness. In addition to the many problems that complicate our daily lives such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, patients come to me with complex relationship issues including marital distress, divorce recovery, verbal & emotional abuse, loss of child, parent, or spouse. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective, to address the root problem, not just the symptoms. Like physical therapy, the goal is to get well and end treatment. I offer perspective on your experience, and provide clear, concise directions on meeting your treatment goals.
When we feel stuck in our situation, it can create feelings of hopelessness. In addition to the many problems that complicate our daily lives such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, patients come to me with complex relationship issues including marital distress, divorce recovery, verbal & emotional abuse, loss of child, parent, or spouse. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective, to address the root problem, not just the symptoms. Like physical therapy, the goal is to get well and end treatment. I offer perspective on your experience, and provide clear, concise directions on meeting your treatment goals.
(925) 413-3305 View (925) 413-3305
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See more therapy options for Contra Costa County

Chronic Illness Therapists

How does therapy for chronic illness work?

Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?

Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?

No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?

There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.