Therapists in Contra Costa County, CA

Photo of Chloe Lucas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chloe Lucas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
I am Chloe Lucas, LMFT. I've been a therapist for just under 10 years now. My personality has been described as direct, curious, and grounding. My practice focuses on trauma work, teens, adult individuals, and parenting. My training is rooted in spirituality as an important part of the whole self. I see therapy as an important tool for existential growth. Our culture doesn't make enough space for emotional expression and introspection. Therapy is a unique relationship that allows for the practice of emotional intimacy such that we may become more attune and connected to ourselves and others.
I am Chloe Lucas, LMFT. I've been a therapist for just under 10 years now. My personality has been described as direct, curious, and grounding. My practice focuses on trauma work, teens, adult individuals, and parenting. My training is rooted in spirituality as an important part of the whole self. I see therapy as an important tool for existential growth. Our culture doesn't make enough space for emotional expression and introspection. Therapy is a unique relationship that allows for the practice of emotional intimacy such that we may become more attune and connected to ourselves and others.
(925) 667-3498 View (925) 667-3498
Photo of Teagan Benson Darnell - Private Practice, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Private Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I blend empirically supported neuroscience with EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Structural Dissociation, DBT, CBT, Existential, Gottman, Bowen Family Systems, Person-Centered Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in my treatment.
EMDR therapist in the East Bay specialized in Trauma / PTSD, Marriage Counseling, Food Issues / Disordered Eating, Anxiety, LGBTQ, Depression, Women's Issues, Spirituality, Life Transitions, Adoption, Parenting, and Teen Issues. I regularly see Couples, Families, Teens and Adults ranging from early adolescence to late 60's.
I blend empirically supported neuroscience with EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Structural Dissociation, DBT, CBT, Existential, Gottman, Bowen Family Systems, Person-Centered Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in my treatment.
EMDR therapist in the East Bay specialized in Trauma / PTSD, Marriage Counseling, Food Issues / Disordered Eating, Anxiety, LGBTQ, Depression, Women's Issues, Spirituality, Life Transitions, Adoption, Parenting, and Teen Issues. I regularly see Couples, Families, Teens and Adults ranging from early adolescence to late 60's.
(925) 948-8070 View (925) 948-8070
Photo of Susan Bolea, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Bolea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
Treatment includes: DBT, CBT, Attachment, EMDR, Expressive Arts, Guided Meditation, Experiential, Existential/Humanistic, Metaphor, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused.
Do you find yourself at a crossroads, with recent events or longstanding issues to sort through and understand? Are you experiencing a challenged relationship, a sadness lingering from Covid isolation, anxieties, a shake up of self esteem, or a desire to re-calibrate life/career goals? What do you want to release and what to retain as learning? I offer compassionate, supportive, resourceful, pragmatic collaboration to help you balance these awarenesses. Together, we will set achievable goals and reclaim your resources within, so that you, and your relationships can move forward in a positive way.
Treatment includes: DBT, CBT, Attachment, EMDR, Expressive Arts, Guided Meditation, Experiential, Existential/Humanistic, Metaphor, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused.
Do you find yourself at a crossroads, with recent events or longstanding issues to sort through and understand? Are you experiencing a challenged relationship, a sadness lingering from Covid isolation, anxieties, a shake up of self esteem, or a desire to re-calibrate life/career goals? What do you want to release and what to retain as learning? I offer compassionate, supportive, resourceful, pragmatic collaboration to help you balance these awarenesses. Together, we will set achievable goals and reclaim your resources within, so that you, and your relationships can move forward in a positive way.
(341) 444-2172 View (341) 444-2172
Photo of Joseph Malancharuvil, LCP, Psychologist
Joseph Malancharuvil
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94804
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches such as psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, existential, psycho-biological, etc.
My name is Joseph Malancharuvil (you may call me Dr. Joseph). I am a Doctor of Clinical Psychology, licensed in California and Board Certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology. I served as the Chief of Psychology at one of the largest mental facilities in California. I have treated a large number and variety of patients over the last 30 years both in an inpatient and outpatient setting. In inpatient hospital setting, I specialized in treating severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and Schizophrenia.
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches such as psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, existential, psycho-biological, etc.
My name is Joseph Malancharuvil (you may call me Dr. Joseph). I am a Doctor of Clinical Psychology, licensed in California and Board Certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology. I served as the Chief of Psychology at one of the largest mental facilities in California. I have treated a large number and variety of patients over the last 30 years both in an inpatient and outpatient setting. In inpatient hospital setting, I specialized in treating severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and Schizophrenia.
(657) 571-2849 View (657) 571-2849
Photo of Chandra Shanmugavel, LPCC, Counselor
Chandra Shanmugavel
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburg, CA 94565  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Dependent on the needs of my client, I use a mix of narrative, internal family systems parts work, acceptance and commitment, existential, somatic, and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) interventions.
Hello and welcome. My name is Chandra and I co-create healing spaces with women and non-binary identifying adults who are looking to integrate past traumas and life experiences, to have more self acceptance. Whether you’re new to therapy or looking to establish ongoing care, I am here to support you on your journey home to yourself. The human experience comes with inadvertent messaging of what parts of us are acceptable and what parts are not. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate these complexities to unearth their most authentic self, leading to a more fulfilling and connected life.
Dependent on the needs of my client, I use a mix of narrative, internal family systems parts work, acceptance and commitment, existential, somatic, and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) interventions.
Hello and welcome. My name is Chandra and I co-create healing spaces with women and non-binary identifying adults who are looking to integrate past traumas and life experiences, to have more self acceptance. Whether you’re new to therapy or looking to establish ongoing care, I am here to support you on your journey home to yourself. The human experience comes with inadvertent messaging of what parts of us are acceptable and what parts are not. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate these complexities to unearth their most authentic self, leading to a more fulfilling and connected life.
(707) 744-3666 View (707) 744-3666
Photo of K Kerstin Gutierrez - K. Kerstin Gutierrez, Psy.D., PsyD, Psychologist
K. Kerstin Gutierrez, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
A healthy, satisfying relationship is challenging, whether you strive for a good one with your parent, your spouse or partner, or your child. Each person experiences the relationship differently, and individual needs change. My practice includes working with relationship issues, stress and trauma, as well as depression and the impact of substance use, and separation and divorce on individuals, families and children. My therapeutic approach incorporates research and my years of clinical experience working with families, adults and children at all stages of relationships and development. I specialize in treating family members following divorce. Please call with any questions you may have.
A healthy, satisfying relationship is challenging, whether you strive for a good one with your parent, your spouse or partner, or your child. Each person experiences the relationship differently, and individual needs change. My practice includes working with relationship issues, stress and trauma, as well as depression and the impact of substance use, and separation and divorce on individuals, families and children. My therapeutic approach incorporates research and my years of clinical experience working with families, adults and children at all stages of relationships and development. I specialize in treating family members following divorce. Please call with any questions you may have.
(805) 243-0829 View (805) 243-0829
Photo of Meghan Veronica Pardi, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meghan Veronica Pardi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clayton, CA 94517
Your Mental Health Matters, my goal is to be your guide, confidante and empathetic listening ear while you figure out what you want, what you need and how to get your life in a position where you feel fulfilled and balanced. The world can be a chaotic and stressful place. I am here to help anyone who is willing to process and explore their emotions to heal. The only goal to start with is making the call or sending the e-mail to ask for help. Speaking and hearing your truth can be scary but is necessary for the process of healing to begin. Therapy is a journey that I am honored to take with you to improve your quality of life.
Your Mental Health Matters, my goal is to be your guide, confidante and empathetic listening ear while you figure out what you want, what you need and how to get your life in a position where you feel fulfilled and balanced. The world can be a chaotic and stressful place. I am here to help anyone who is willing to process and explore their emotions to heal. The only goal to start with is making the call or sending the e-mail to ask for help. Speaking and hearing your truth can be scary but is necessary for the process of healing to begin. Therapy is a journey that I am honored to take with you to improve your quality of life.
(833) 987-2762 View (833) 987-2762
Photo of Iara Campos-Davids, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Iara Campos-Davids
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94597  (Online Only)
Be willing to open yourself to refreshing new beginnings , new ideas, opportunities and gain insights about old patterns that are no longer working for you. In our work together you will become stronger and will be able to develop new beliefs by making meaning of traumatic experiences in a compassionate, non judgmental environment. I have had success working with adults, adolescents and families who have experienced depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief/loss, post-traumatic stress disorder and many other issues. Originally from Brazil, I am fluent in Spanish, English and Portuguese .
Be willing to open yourself to refreshing new beginnings , new ideas, opportunities and gain insights about old patterns that are no longer working for you. In our work together you will become stronger and will be able to develop new beliefs by making meaning of traumatic experiences in a compassionate, non judgmental environment. I have had success working with adults, adolescents and families who have experienced depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief/loss, post-traumatic stress disorder and many other issues. Originally from Brazil, I am fluent in Spanish, English and Portuguese .
(925) 231-8979 View (925) 231-8979
Photo of Eileen Heo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eileen Heo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moraga, CA 94556
I am skilled in treating clients with the following problems: work stress; depression and anxiety; post traumatic stress syndrome; domestic violence, physical, emotional and sexual abuse; issues of acculturation and inter-generational conflict; relationship and women's health; as well as aging, losses and bereavement.
I am skilled in treating clients with the following problems: work stress; depression and anxiety; post traumatic stress syndrome; domestic violence, physical, emotional and sexual abuse; issues of acculturation and inter-generational conflict; relationship and women's health; as well as aging, losses and bereavement.
(510) 860-4216 View (510) 860-4216
Photo of Shalini Mongia - Alamo Counseling, LMFT, MS, AMFT, PsyD, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alamo Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, AMFT, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alamo, CA 94507
Alamo Counseling is a group private practice comprised of highly skilled, warm, and engaging counselors and educators. Our services include specialized therapy and wellness solutions for our clients, as well as clinical consultation and continuing education trainings for mental health professionals. Our clinicians implement evidence-based treatment with interventions from humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic therapies. We help get to the root of your concerns and empower you with strategies and insights to achieve your goals.
Alamo Counseling is a group private practice comprised of highly skilled, warm, and engaging counselors and educators. Our services include specialized therapy and wellness solutions for our clients, as well as clinical consultation and continuing education trainings for mental health professionals. Our clinicians implement evidence-based treatment with interventions from humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic therapies. We help get to the root of your concerns and empower you with strategies and insights to achieve your goals.
(925) 578-3812 View (925) 578-3812
Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(510) 391-3959 View (510) 391-3959
Photo of Mary Ruth Cross - Treehouse Family Counseling Services, MS, MFT, NCC, RPT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Treehouse Family Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Ramon, CA 94583
HELP! WE NEED HELP!!! Treehouse Family Counseling Services has successfully treated individuals and families in the Tri-Valley area for over 20 years. Life is full of challenges and sometimes those challenges need extra help to figure out. We are master level practitioners specializing in work with individuals, children, teens, adults and families. Do you need someone who will really listen and help you or your family members figure things out? We work as a treatment team to ensure that your family is thriving. Growth and healing start here because this is a safe place for the whole family heal.
HELP! WE NEED HELP!!! Treehouse Family Counseling Services has successfully treated individuals and families in the Tri-Valley area for over 20 years. Life is full of challenges and sometimes those challenges need extra help to figure out. We are master level practitioners specializing in work with individuals, children, teens, adults and families. Do you need someone who will really listen and help you or your family members figure things out? We work as a treatment team to ensure that your family is thriving. Growth and healing start here because this is a safe place for the whole family heal.
(925) 238-8912 View (925) 238-8912
Photo of Brandy Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandy Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburg, CA 94565
My name is Brandy Smith, LCSW, LICSW. I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed to practice independently in both California and Rhode Island. I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, panic disorder, anxiety, or chronic low self-esteem. I am a United States Veteran and have special expertise in working with Active-Duty Military and Veterans. I am a client centered therapist who uses an integrative approach. I pull from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness techniques, DBT Skills, and EMDR to best support you.
My name is Brandy Smith, LCSW, LICSW. I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed to practice independently in both California and Rhode Island. I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, panic disorder, anxiety, or chronic low self-esteem. I am a United States Veteran and have special expertise in working with Active-Duty Military and Veterans. I am a client centered therapist who uses an integrative approach. I pull from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness techniques, DBT Skills, and EMDR to best support you.
(925) 567-2791 View (925) 567-2791
Photo of Ryan Kellett Crochiere - Ryan Crochiere, LMFT, MA, BA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryan Crochiere
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563
The most important journey you may make in your life is the journey of building an honest and compassionate relationship with yourself. From shame, pride, trauma, and introjected "shoulds" there are so many reasons that we often operate from a partial and compassionless understanding of ourselves. These blind spots can cause us anxiety, depression, addictions and a multitude of other symptoms that we mistake to be "who we are". I have faith in the human condition and the ability our heal into our own fullness. Therapy is the place to make this journey.
The most important journey you may make in your life is the journey of building an honest and compassionate relationship with yourself. From shame, pride, trauma, and introjected "shoulds" there are so many reasons that we often operate from a partial and compassionless understanding of ourselves. These blind spots can cause us anxiety, depression, addictions and a multitude of other symptoms that we mistake to be "who we are". I have faith in the human condition and the ability our heal into our own fullness. Therapy is the place to make this journey.
(415) 630-5506 View (415) 630-5506
Photo of Jacquie Josephson, CP, Psychologist
Jacquie Josephson
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509
My name is Jacquie Josephson, PsyD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I work with individuals who struggle with symptoms that are related to depression, anxiety, and trauma which include things like self-esteem issues, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and substance abuse. I provide psychotherapy with a client-centered approach, meaning that my work is a collaborative process where my client's expressed goals are the guide for their treatment. I utilize a few approaches including psychodynamic, relational, EMDR, internal family systems, somatic, and mindfulness modalities.
My name is Jacquie Josephson, PsyD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I work with individuals who struggle with symptoms that are related to depression, anxiety, and trauma which include things like self-esteem issues, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and substance abuse. I provide psychotherapy with a client-centered approach, meaning that my work is a collaborative process where my client's expressed goals are the guide for their treatment. I utilize a few approaches including psychodynamic, relational, EMDR, internal family systems, somatic, and mindfulness modalities.
(925) 430-7841 View (925) 430-7841
Photo of John Jakubowski, AMFT, APCC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
John Jakubowski
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94803
Things are really hard right now - it is more important than ever to have support. That looks different for everyone, but whether it's parenting, relationship, work, family - or all of the above, create some space and a plan to walk through it - together. It is a journey of insight, compassion, respect, honesty, integrity and courage.
Things are really hard right now - it is more important than ever to have support. That looks different for everyone, but whether it's parenting, relationship, work, family - or all of the above, create some space and a plan to walk through it - together. It is a journey of insight, compassion, respect, honesty, integrity and courage.
(510) 726-1326 View (510) 726-1326
Photo of Katherine Hughes, PhD, Psychologist
Katherine Hughes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
I am a clinical psychologist based in Walnut Creek, CA. My graduate and postgraduate training included most major approaches to psychotherapy. When I begin psychotherapy with someone, my intent is to work in partnership with you. My style is one of active collaboration. Only with both of us involved, sharing our thoughts and ideas, can a safe and effective working environment develop. Change isn't easy. If it was, you might not be thinking about therapy.
I am a clinical psychologist based in Walnut Creek, CA. My graduate and postgraduate training included most major approaches to psychotherapy. When I begin psychotherapy with someone, my intent is to work in partnership with you. My style is one of active collaboration. Only with both of us involved, sharing our thoughts and ideas, can a safe and effective working environment develop. Change isn't easy. If it was, you might not be thinking about therapy.
(925) 526-4116 View (925) 526-4116
Photo of Gabriel Rogus-Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gabriel Rogus-Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pittsburg, CA 94565
Gabriel Jones, LMFT: I started in psych as an inpatient nurse (RN: 2008 - 2018). Since 2018, I've worked as an MFT (trauma, addiction, mood & psychosis). My approach brings together Positive Psychology, Internal Family Systems, Attachment, Mindfulness, Trauma-Informed, Relational, Experiential, and Spiritual Practices. I specialize in stress/trauma spectrum issues.
Gabriel Jones, LMFT: I started in psych as an inpatient nurse (RN: 2008 - 2018). Since 2018, I've worked as an MFT (trauma, addiction, mood & psychosis). My approach brings together Positive Psychology, Internal Family Systems, Attachment, Mindfulness, Trauma-Informed, Relational, Experiential, and Spiritual Practices. I specialize in stress/trauma spectrum issues.
(925) 387-6703 View (925) 387-6703
Photo of Donna Christianson, MA, LMFT, CCATP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donna Christianson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinez, CA 94553  (Online Only)
Are you in transition? Struggling with anxiety, depression, self-criticism or low self-esteem? Wanting to feel more empowered in your life, relationships and work? Tired of simply surviving? Are you seeking a warm and caring therapist who will listen and help support you to create a life that truly reflects and supports your aspirations and dreams? Who is devoted to your well-being and can offer both the practical help and emotional support to help you to thrive? If so, I'd like to help; I offer affordable day and evening appointments.
Are you in transition? Struggling with anxiety, depression, self-criticism or low self-esteem? Wanting to feel more empowered in your life, relationships and work? Tired of simply surviving? Are you seeking a warm and caring therapist who will listen and help support you to create a life that truly reflects and supports your aspirations and dreams? Who is devoted to your well-being and can offer both the practical help and emotional support to help you to thrive? If so, I'd like to help; I offer affordable day and evening appointments.
(925) 293-9491 View (925) 293-9491
Photo of Valorie de Leña, MA, MFT, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valorie de Leña
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, SEP
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
Our pursuit of a good life can be deeply affected by the current world situations. We may be struggling not only in our personal lives but also by difficult worldly events such as climate change, the economy, retirement, health care and many more. When the world doesn't feel safe, it's more difficult to tolerate the emotions, sensations, and thoughts arising inside of us, making us turn toward old coping mechanisms This will not heal us. We need to build the confidence to be with and understand our inner experiences no matter what! This is our pathway to truly heal and live a more peaceful and meaningful life in the world.
Our pursuit of a good life can be deeply affected by the current world situations. We may be struggling not only in our personal lives but also by difficult worldly events such as climate change, the economy, retirement, health care and many more. When the world doesn't feel safe, it's more difficult to tolerate the emotions, sensations, and thoughts arising inside of us, making us turn toward old coping mechanisms This will not heal us. We need to build the confidence to be with and understand our inner experiences no matter what! This is our pathway to truly heal and live a more peaceful and meaningful life in the world.
(925) 452-7943 View (925) 452-7943
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See more therapy options for Contra Costa County

Existential Therapists

How does existential therapy work?

Existential therapy focuses on a patient’s inner experiences. The therapist tries to help the individual comprehend and alleviate symptoms by exploring their interior life. By confronting negative disquiet and emotions, the individual will hopefully become more open to finding meaning and purpose. This therapy can be administered to individuals or groups.

Is existential therapy evidence-based?

Existential therapy is an evidence-based practice. Research has determined that existential therapy can lead to significant improvement in the mental health of patients, and for some people it can be just as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy. The benefits of existential therapy are enduring, even long after treatment has ended.

How long does existential therapy last?

The goal of existential therapy is to understand a person’s internal experiences, which may sound like a lengthy process, but it does not have to be so in-depth. However, sessions are not short-term, and therapy can continue for months or up to a year. And because patients learn the theory behind existential therapy during treatment, they can also practice its tenets throughout life after therapy sessions have been completed.

Is existential therapy effective?

According to research, many patients find success with existential therapy. Researchers note that the therapy is particularly useful in improving feelings of isolation, feelings of purposelessness, as well as conditions such as anxiety and depression. Improvements in problem areas can persist even after the end of existential therapy, as individuals can continue working on themselves by using the tools they’ve developed during treatment.