Narrative Therapists in Oakland, CA
Cathy Swift Nagel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609 (Online Only)
I take an "ecclectic" approach and use techniques from various modalities, including CBT, Person-Centered, Narrative, Feminist, and Brief Psychotherapies, to name a few.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2001, I am deeply committed to supporting the well-being of each client, providing culturally competent services and helping clients improve their quality of life. I see older and disabled adults, often dealing with chronic illness or a new diagnosis. I have an extensive history working in medical settings and am also available to assist caregivers with navigating the health care system. I believe that positive change is possible at any age and at any juncture in a person's life. I believe you can have a more fulfilling life, and that I can help you.
I take an "ecclectic" approach and use techniques from various modalities, including CBT, Person-Centered, Narrative, Feminist, and Brief Psychotherapies, to name a few.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2001, I am deeply committed to supporting the well-being of each client, providing culturally competent services and helping clients improve their quality of life. I see older and disabled adults, often dealing with chronic illness or a new diagnosis. I have an extensive history working in medical settings and am also available to assist caregivers with navigating the health care system. I believe that positive change is possible at any age and at any juncture in a person's life. I believe you can have a more fulfilling life, and that I can help you.
Narrative and Solution Focused therapy assists in shifting from self-defeating language/thoughts to a positive life narrative.
During challenging times, people often feel defeated and focus on what is wrong. I want to shift the focus from what is "not working" to identifying what is "working." We will work to uncover patterns (behavioral, thought beliefs, relationship), that will lead you to making better decisions. I want to offer a safe place to process thoughts and feelings around issues that can be challenging. I am interested in helping people who experience stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss and challenges with relationships (social or romantic). Many conversations are around “adulting” and how to manage life, career, relationships, etc.
Narrative and Solution Focused therapy assists in shifting from self-defeating language/thoughts to a positive life narrative.
During challenging times, people often feel defeated and focus on what is wrong. I want to shift the focus from what is "not working" to identifying what is "working." We will work to uncover patterns (behavioral, thought beliefs, relationship), that will lead you to making better decisions. I want to offer a safe place to process thoughts and feelings around issues that can be challenging. I am interested in helping people who experience stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss and challenges with relationships (social or romantic). Many conversations are around “adulting” and how to manage life, career, relationships, etc.
Jessica Alder
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612 (Online Only)
We all want to feel seen, heard, accepted and affirmed. I support people who are in transition, who are working to define their relationships more clearly, and people who are struggling with issues of identity and sexuality, with a particular focus on polyamory and consensual non-monogamy. I believe we can dismantle behavior and reactions that no longer serve us through self-reflection and challenging entrenched habitual communication. I use narrative techniques, emotionally-focused strategies, and parts work to build acceptance, compassion, and presence in oneself.
We all want to feel seen, heard, accepted and affirmed. I support people who are in transition, who are working to define their relationships more clearly, and people who are struggling with issues of identity and sexuality, with a particular focus on polyamory and consensual non-monogamy. I believe we can dismantle behavior and reactions that no longer serve us through self-reflection and challenging entrenched habitual communication. I use narrative techniques, emotionally-focused strategies, and parts work to build acceptance, compassion, and presence in oneself.
I have over 10 years of experience working as a clinician in a variety of settings. I am adept at working with patients affected by addiction, complex trauma, as well as depression and anxiety. I have also helped many people who have experienced medical trauma, as well as life-changing illness and injury. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, combining psychodynamic therapy and narrative counseling with mindfulness to meet your unique and specific needs.
I have over 10 years of experience working as a clinician in a variety of settings. I am adept at working with patients affected by addiction, complex trauma, as well as depression and anxiety. I have also helped many people who have experienced medical trauma, as well as life-changing illness and injury. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, combining psychodynamic therapy and narrative counseling with mindfulness to meet your unique and specific needs.
I also incorporate expressive arts, identity and spiritual development, narrative therapy, and project-oriented activities as catalysts for healing.
I use a warm, down-to-earth approach in my work with children, teens, adults and couples. I collaborate with clients to develop a whole view of challenges and strengths, which is informed by my wide breadth of clinical experience across the lifespan. I have expertise in working with infants and parents, developmental disabilities, trauma, and both anticipated and unexpected crises across all ages. I integrate these perspectives so that I can attune to your needs and provide responsive support. My hope is to help you water the seeds of your inner strengths, push through stuck situations, and live with more connectedness and vitality.
I also incorporate expressive arts, identity and spiritual development, narrative therapy, and project-oriented activities as catalysts for healing.
I use a warm, down-to-earth approach in my work with children, teens, adults and couples. I collaborate with clients to develop a whole view of challenges and strengths, which is informed by my wide breadth of clinical experience across the lifespan. I have expertise in working with infants and parents, developmental disabilities, trauma, and both anticipated and unexpected crises across all ages. I integrate these perspectives so that I can attune to your needs and provide responsive support. My hope is to help you water the seeds of your inner strengths, push through stuck situations, and live with more connectedness and vitality.
I use a multitude of interventions including CBT, Internal Family Systems and and Narrative interventions.
My work with every is client rooted in their natural strengths and tailored to their needs and experiences. You are the expert of your experience. I hold space to make meaning out of your thoughts, feeling and experiences. I believe that everyone possesses the tools to empower you in the next step of your healing journey. I simply help you to access those tools.
I use a multitude of interventions including CBT, Internal Family Systems and and Narrative interventions.
My work with every is client rooted in their natural strengths and tailored to their needs and experiences. You are the expert of your experience. I hold space to make meaning out of your thoughts, feeling and experiences. I believe that everyone possesses the tools to empower you in the next step of your healing journey. I simply help you to access those tools.
My approach is eclectic utilizing combinations of relational, Afro-centric, person-centered, narrative, and trauma informed techniques.
I am trained to listen deeply, assess the cause of symptoms, and assist in developing strategies to reduce suffering. I have experience helping people cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic health issues, acculturation/adaptation issues, and couple/family relationship problems.
My approach is eclectic utilizing combinations of relational, Afro-centric, person-centered, narrative, and trauma informed techniques.
I am trained to listen deeply, assess the cause of symptoms, and assist in developing strategies to reduce suffering. I have experience helping people cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic health issues, acculturation/adaptation issues, and couple/family relationship problems.
For years, I've been practicing and teaching Narrative Therapy and am deeply informed by its respectful, life-affirming perspectives.
I've been working as a clinical social worker/therapist for 18 years, with individuals and groups, from youth through adulthood, in a diverse array of settings. This includes my current private practice; many years at a school-based health center, counseling teens and supervising and training graduate student interns; time at a family therapy clinic; also a jail, and an SRO. My calling and gift is to hold sacred, safe + brave spaces for people to be truly seen and known, and from there to support them stepping into their unique and authentic selves. It is my great privilege to meet people in this courageous place.
For years, I've been practicing and teaching Narrative Therapy and am deeply informed by its respectful, life-affirming perspectives.
I've been working as a clinical social worker/therapist for 18 years, with individuals and groups, from youth through adulthood, in a diverse array of settings. This includes my current private practice; many years at a school-based health center, counseling teens and supervising and training graduate student interns; time at a family therapy clinic; also a jail, and an SRO. My calling and gift is to hold sacred, safe + brave spaces for people to be truly seen and known, and from there to support them stepping into their unique and authentic selves. It is my great privilege to meet people in this courageous place.
Carla Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
I have an enthusiasm for helping people create the change they would like to see in their everyday reality. I use various therapy modalities such as CBT, solution focused, humanistic, person centered, strengths based, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, supportive therapy, and interpersonal therapy. I enjoy working with a variety of populations, including, the LGBTQIA+ community, those with chronic health conditions, those suffering from depression and anxiety, other therapists and helping professionals, and young professional women. My interest in mental health came from my early experiences in my family of origin.
I have an enthusiasm for helping people create the change they would like to see in their everyday reality. I use various therapy modalities such as CBT, solution focused, humanistic, person centered, strengths based, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, supportive therapy, and interpersonal therapy. I enjoy working with a variety of populations, including, the LGBTQIA+ community, those with chronic health conditions, those suffering from depression and anxiety, other therapists and helping professionals, and young professional women. My interest in mental health came from my early experiences in my family of origin.
I utilize versatile interventions such as IFS, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative, and Inner Child Work.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
I utilize versatile interventions such as IFS, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative, and Inner Child Work.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
Sage Barrett
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
I use modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and narrative therapy.
I support teens (17+) and adults as they work toward developing meaningful relationships, emotional stability, and work-life balance. My clients have primarily been people navigating life transitions, exploring their identities, and coping with stress, loneliness, or anxiety. Each client has unique strengths and circumstances. Together we would collaborate on finding your path forward with personalized tools to get there.
I use modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and narrative therapy.
I support teens (17+) and adults as they work toward developing meaningful relationships, emotional stability, and work-life balance. My clients have primarily been people navigating life transitions, exploring their identities, and coping with stress, loneliness, or anxiety. Each client has unique strengths and circumstances. Together we would collaborate on finding your path forward with personalized tools to get there.
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![Photo of Dolores Antolín Y Muñiz [Aka Dolores Antolín], MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61810132-9b42-484e-a14d-2c7e693c510b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dolores Antolín Y Muñiz [Aka Dolores Antolín]
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I work relationally with clients, utilizing process work and narrative therapy for healing.
My passion is working with clients from unique backgrounds and/or experiences who often contact me because they want to work on or through complex trauma, such as oppression based and/or inter-generational trauma. Modalities used addresses the concerns of those whose race, ethnicity, gender identification, income, disability/accessability, and other social factors which often go unrecognized/disavowed. Issues that arise for minority groups, such as oppression, racism, and marginalization, are relevant, recognized, validated, safely contained, and honored by me.
I work relationally with clients, utilizing process work and narrative therapy for healing.
My passion is working with clients from unique backgrounds and/or experiences who often contact me because they want to work on or through complex trauma, such as oppression based and/or inter-generational trauma. Modalities used addresses the concerns of those whose race, ethnicity, gender identification, income, disability/accessability, and other social factors which often go unrecognized/disavowed. Issues that arise for minority groups, such as oppression, racism, and marginalization, are relevant, recognized, validated, safely contained, and honored by me.
I am informed by contemporary psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and narrative approaches and will collaborate with you to develop an understanding of the issues that brought you into therapy.
Our society often moves fast, and it is easy to get caught up and not allow the time to address the thoughts and emotional reactions that may emerge with challenges and changing life circumstances. With over 10 years of experience serving individuals across the lifespan, I provide an affirmative space for individuals to explore areas in their life where they would like to see growth and change. I also value the opportunities to notice areas of life that feel fulfilling, to explore strengths and reflect on positives. My style is warm and thoughtful. and interactive.
I am informed by contemporary psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and narrative approaches and will collaborate with you to develop an understanding of the issues that brought you into therapy.
Our society often moves fast, and it is easy to get caught up and not allow the time to address the thoughts and emotional reactions that may emerge with challenges and changing life circumstances. With over 10 years of experience serving individuals across the lifespan, I provide an affirmative space for individuals to explore areas in their life where they would like to see growth and change. I also value the opportunities to notice areas of life that feel fulfilling, to explore strengths and reflect on positives. My style is warm and thoughtful. and interactive.
Dierdre Wallace
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
I integrate EMDR, Narrative, Mindfulness, and Somatic practices to create lasting healing.
Hey single ladies, I get it. You’re tired. It’s getting harder not to feel lonely, sad, and down on yourself. Confronted with the stigma 'being single' can carry. You judge yourself, internalizing shame and embarrassment. You wonder, 'What's wrong with me?' It impacts your self-esteem. You're worried about your life path and pattern of failed relationships, and that grief grows louder. This isn’t how you imagined your life. Coping is tough when faced with the unfair perception of being single is bad. I help single women struggling with loneliness discover they DO have the power to create a fulfilling life with healthy relationships.
I integrate EMDR, Narrative, Mindfulness, and Somatic practices to create lasting healing.
Hey single ladies, I get it. You’re tired. It’s getting harder not to feel lonely, sad, and down on yourself. Confronted with the stigma 'being single' can carry. You judge yourself, internalizing shame and embarrassment. You wonder, 'What's wrong with me?' It impacts your self-esteem. You're worried about your life path and pattern of failed relationships, and that grief grows louder. This isn’t how you imagined your life. Coping is tough when faced with the unfair perception of being single is bad. I help single women struggling with loneliness discover they DO have the power to create a fulfilling life with healthy relationships.
Adrian Antonia Eraslan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I'm informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Hi there, I'm Adrian. Kudos to you for taking this step and seeking support! It's my goal to provide a compassionate, creative space to work together on what may be holding you back or weighing you down. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore your story and the narratives we've been told, and get to a place where we feel like we're the authors of our own lives. Whether it involves laughing, crying, art-making, deconstructing, deep breathing, crystals, curse words...we get to figure out together what healing might look like for you. (Please note: I'm currently licensed under my legal name, Leyla Antonia Eraslan).
I'm informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Hi there, I'm Adrian. Kudos to you for taking this step and seeking support! It's my goal to provide a compassionate, creative space to work together on what may be holding you back or weighing you down. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore your story and the narratives we've been told, and get to a place where we feel like we're the authors of our own lives. Whether it involves laughing, crying, art-making, deconstructing, deep breathing, crystals, curse words...we get to figure out together what healing might look like for you. (Please note: I'm currently licensed under my legal name, Leyla Antonia Eraslan).
In an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding and clarity, I am here to support your relationship with yourself. Using tools such as mindfulness, insight, somatic and narrative approaches, I create a space where the many parts of you are welcome. Goal setting is a collaborative process and therapy can be long or short term depending on your needs. I deeply support the listening process, as well as the interplay between individual needs and relationship needs. I have a particular orientation towards meaning and purpose, and I draw from your values as a means of integrating both difficult and inspiring experiences.
In an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding and clarity, I am here to support your relationship with yourself. Using tools such as mindfulness, insight, somatic and narrative approaches, I create a space where the many parts of you are welcome. Goal setting is a collaborative process and therapy can be long or short term depending on your needs. I deeply support the listening process, as well as the interplay between individual needs and relationship needs. I have a particular orientation towards meaning and purpose, and I draw from your values as a means of integrating both difficult and inspiring experiences.
Other theories include relational, existential, archetypal, narrative, Jungian, Gestalt, attachment-based, and transpersonal as well as ACT and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a therapist who believes that healing is done within the context of relationship. This includes an individual’s relationship to their body, their environment, and interpersonally. I seek to help empower my clients in order for them to gain confidence in their own capacity to be successful. I hope to offer individuals an opportunity to enrich and find deep meaning in their lives
Other theories include relational, existential, archetypal, narrative, Jungian, Gestalt, attachment-based, and transpersonal as well as ACT and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a therapist who believes that healing is done within the context of relationship. This includes an individual’s relationship to their body, their environment, and interpersonally. I seek to help empower my clients in order for them to gain confidence in their own capacity to be successful. I hope to offer individuals an opportunity to enrich and find deep meaning in their lives
Danika Grundemann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608 (Online Only)
I have been practicing client-centered, depth, narrative, and somatic psychotherapy for nine years and have a master's degree in clinical psychology, with a concentration in community mental health, from the California Institute of Integral Studies.
Welcome! I specialize in working with folx who are LGBTQA+ and who are struggling with anxiety, depression and/or a history of trauma. I love supporting those who are either making the transition from monogamy to non-monogamy or need support in their existing CMN relationships. I'm also kink and BDSM competent and enjoy helping others heal shame and foster empowerment in their unique sexuality. I think of psychotherapy as a necessary form of social activism toward a larger goal of equity for people of all races, genders, sexual/relational orientations, levels of ability, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
I have been practicing client-centered, depth, narrative, and somatic psychotherapy for nine years and have a master's degree in clinical psychology, with a concentration in community mental health, from the California Institute of Integral Studies.
Welcome! I specialize in working with folx who are LGBTQA+ and who are struggling with anxiety, depression and/or a history of trauma. I love supporting those who are either making the transition from monogamy to non-monogamy or need support in their existing CMN relationships. I'm also kink and BDSM competent and enjoy helping others heal shame and foster empowerment in their unique sexuality. I think of psychotherapy as a necessary form of social activism toward a larger goal of equity for people of all races, genders, sexual/relational orientations, levels of ability, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
My clinical training includes narrative, solution-focused, multicultural, and family systems therapies.
If you have problems at work, at home, or from places unknown, I will collaboratively work with you to find a path forward. By being transparent and nonjudgmental, I meet individuals where they're at and support them in achieving their goals. I practice with strong ethics around having the folks I meet with be the experts in their own lives. I am committed to understanding individuals' unique stories and finding solutions grounded in their own experiences and resources. As a life-long learner, I practice cultural humility and enjoy working with people of all identities and cultural backgrounds.
My clinical training includes narrative, solution-focused, multicultural, and family systems therapies.
If you have problems at work, at home, or from places unknown, I will collaboratively work with you to find a path forward. By being transparent and nonjudgmental, I meet individuals where they're at and support them in achieving their goals. I practice with strong ethics around having the folks I meet with be the experts in their own lives. I am committed to understanding individuals' unique stories and finding solutions grounded in their own experiences and resources. As a life-long learner, I practice cultural humility and enjoy working with people of all identities and cultural backgrounds.
By utilizing a combination of therapies such as Solution-focused, Narrative, Cognitive Behavior, Insight-oriented, Strength based and a Psychodynamic approach we can create a therapy space that is collaborative, compassionate, warm and empowering.
I have a strong passion for helping individuals feel empowered and strive to live their best lives by finding meaning and purpose within themselves. Let’s face it, life can be difficult, but those difficult experiences do not have to define you as a person. By creating a safe and healing space my goal is to tap into your own personal power and natural strengths to focus on what is most important to you and your wellness.
By utilizing a combination of therapies such as Solution-focused, Narrative, Cognitive Behavior, Insight-oriented, Strength based and a Psychodynamic approach we can create a therapy space that is collaborative, compassionate, warm and empowering.
I have a strong passion for helping individuals feel empowered and strive to live their best lives by finding meaning and purpose within themselves. Let’s face it, life can be difficult, but those difficult experiences do not have to define you as a person. By creating a safe and healing space my goal is to tap into your own personal power and natural strengths to focus on what is most important to you and your wellness.
See more therapy options for Oakland
Nearby Narrative Therapists Searches for Oakland
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- El Cerrito
- Emeryville
- Kensington
- Lafayette
- Moraga
- Orinda
- Piedmont
- San Francisco
- San Leandro
Narrative Therapists
Is narrative therapy evidence-based?
Narrative therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy. Some small studies do show that depressed and anxious individuals who were treated with narrative therapy reported improvement in anxiety and depression symptoms.
How long does narrative therapy last?
Narrative therapy is less structured when compared with psychoanalysis, for example. Narrative therapy is more open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a few months, and sometimes a year or longer. Patients see their therapist one to two times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a person’s challenges and progress. Individuals can also practice the principles of narrative therapy after treatment has ended.
Does narrative therapy work?
Narrative therapy can help a person manage or reduce symptoms of conditions like depression or anxiety. This type of therapy encourages a person to reflect on the moments of their life when their particular problem was not at the forefront of their minds—perhaps life celebrations, achievements, and other successes. The individual is encouraged to rewrite their storyline as if their particular problem was not part of their life. This therapy may offer benefits that are hard to measure.
What are the possible limitations of narrative therapy?
Narrative therapy is person-centered or client-centered, and the health professional pays more attention to the subjective narratives that are constructed by the client, as opposed to other objective measures. The therapist privileges the individual’s perspective over all others. This open form may feel frustrating for individuals seeking a more structured approach; certainly, no one therapy type will work for every individual.