Sandplay Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Lori Goldrich, PhD, Psychologist
Lori Goldrich
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Along with traditional verbal therapy, we may utilize expressive arts, sandplay, and dreamwork according to interest.
Are you looking to find ways to make changes so you can live a more satisfying and meaningful life? Are you finding yourself in repetitive patterns that are no longer working for you? I may be of assistance to you. I bring an in-depth approach that builds on your strengths and aims to untangle the roots to what is causing problems for you. This can lead to reduction in painful symptoms such as anxiety and depression, and to finding more constructive ways for you to address life challenges. I bring a gift in helping you fulfill your life potential.
Along with traditional verbal therapy, we may utilize expressive arts, sandplay, and dreamwork according to interest.
Are you looking to find ways to make changes so you can live a more satisfying and meaningful life? Are you finding yourself in repetitive patterns that are no longer working for you? I may be of assistance to you. I bring an in-depth approach that builds on your strengths and aims to untangle the roots to what is causing problems for you. This can lead to reduction in painful symptoms such as anxiety and depression, and to finding more constructive ways for you to address life challenges. I bring a gift in helping you fulfill your life potential.
(510) 698-4353 View (510) 698-4353
Photo of Therese Noël Allen, MFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Therese Noël Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608
I have 20 years experience with extensive advanced training, teaching and supervisory experience in Jungian, somatic, expressive arts, sandplay, and trauma therapy.
I specialize in working with adults, couples, children, trauma, queer/trans/LGBTQ+ folks, and those willing/wishing to work in creative ways that allow us to reach beyond our ideas about ourselves. We hold your ways of coping as meaningful communication from a deeper, knowing part of you, worth being listened to and understood. In the places that a medical model often believes are worth eradicating, we find the fibers of a soulful life. I am highly skilled in working with dreams, images that come to mind, and other aesthetic material as ways of accessing your deeper levels of knowing.
I have 20 years experience with extensive advanced training, teaching and supervisory experience in Jungian, somatic, expressive arts, sandplay, and trauma therapy.
I specialize in working with adults, couples, children, trauma, queer/trans/LGBTQ+ folks, and those willing/wishing to work in creative ways that allow us to reach beyond our ideas about ourselves. We hold your ways of coping as meaningful communication from a deeper, knowing part of you, worth being listened to and understood. In the places that a medical model often believes are worth eradicating, we find the fibers of a soulful life. I am highly skilled in working with dreams, images that come to mind, and other aesthetic material as ways of accessing your deeper levels of knowing.
(707) 926-4088 View (707) 926-4088
Photo of Baljeet Heyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Baljeet Heyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
If you’re experiencing anxiety or trauma, I can help. Trauma, particularly from early childhood can have a deep impact on your self-esteem, relationships and functioning. You may struggle with perfectionism, people pleasing or codependency. Your nervous system may be dsyregulated which can lead to feeling flooded with emotions and or exhausted. This can lead to adaptions which may have serious consequences. Some interventions I use with clients include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, somatic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, art, sandplay and play therapy. Which interventions are based on your preferences and fit.
If you’re experiencing anxiety or trauma, I can help. Trauma, particularly from early childhood can have a deep impact on your self-esteem, relationships and functioning. You may struggle with perfectionism, people pleasing or codependency. Your nervous system may be dsyregulated which can lead to feeling flooded with emotions and or exhausted. This can lead to adaptions which may have serious consequences. Some interventions I use with clients include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, somatic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, art, sandplay and play therapy. Which interventions are based on your preferences and fit.
(510) 254-3478 View (510) 254-3478
Photo of Amy Taylor Griffin, LCSW, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Taylor Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Adulting is hard! So is being a kid! My therapy offers a safe space to strengthen you and/or your child’s resiliency and find the ease you’ve been seeking. Together, let’s deepen your self-understanding with therapy in a collaborative journey of compassion, healing, and skill building. We all need support at times to develop our strengths, gain guidance towards healing, and create space for positive change.
Adulting is hard! So is being a kid! My therapy offers a safe space to strengthen you and/or your child’s resiliency and find the ease you’ve been seeking. Together, let’s deepen your self-understanding with therapy in a collaborative journey of compassion, healing, and skill building. We all need support at times to develop our strengths, gain guidance towards healing, and create space for positive change.
(510) 350-3934 View (510) 350-3934
Photo of Teresa Cole, LPCC, MA, Counselor
Teresa Cole
Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma (EMDR certified), grief and loss, career, disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families dealing with all types of issues and mental health disorders. My approach is process oriented and goal directed while providing psycho-education and resources. I will help you access your inner strength and build tools to cope, grow, and heal.
I specialize in trauma (EMDR certified), grief and loss, career, disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families dealing with all types of issues and mental health disorders. My approach is process oriented and goal directed while providing psycho-education and resources. I will help you access your inner strength and build tools to cope, grow, and heal.
(510) 588-5277 View (510) 588-5277
Photo of Patrick D. Chrisman, BA, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Patrick D. Chrisman
Psychologist, BA, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I believe that understanding and compassion are vital for building trust, mutual respect, and openness, all of which are essential in forming a therapeutic relationship that can encourage change. My style in therapy is a mix of person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic theories. With children I utilize a variety of expressive therapies including play, art, narrative, sand tray and bibliotherapy. In working with children, adolescents and adults, I use a cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach.
I believe that understanding and compassion are vital for building trust, mutual respect, and openness, all of which are essential in forming a therapeutic relationship that can encourage change. My style in therapy is a mix of person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic theories. With children I utilize a variety of expressive therapies including play, art, narrative, sand tray and bibliotherapy. In working with children, adolescents and adults, I use a cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach.
(415) 570-8936 View (415) 570-8936
Photo of Matthew McKernan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew McKernan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I see therapy as a collaborative process. In a sense, you are my guide—and I am yours. Together, we will explore your nature and seek for an embodied understanding of your path toward well-being—as defined by you and your goals. You are the expert of your own experience. I fully respect and celebrate this fact, and encourage in all my clients the growth of self-awareness, creativity, intuition, self-love, acceptance, empowerment, self-support, compassion, imagination, meaning, and sense of purpose—the roots of a healthy life. I am here to help you align with the natural healing power inherent within life, within you.
I see therapy as a collaborative process. In a sense, you are my guide—and I am yours. Together, we will explore your nature and seek for an embodied understanding of your path toward well-being—as defined by you and your goals. You are the expert of your own experience. I fully respect and celebrate this fact, and encourage in all my clients the growth of self-awareness, creativity, intuition, self-love, acceptance, empowerment, self-support, compassion, imagination, meaning, and sense of purpose—the roots of a healthy life. I am here to help you align with the natural healing power inherent within life, within you.
(510) 369-1672 View (510) 369-1672
Photo of Hannah Rudsten, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hannah Rudsten
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Hello! My name is Hannah, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults ages 18+, primarily female identified, navigate pivotal life transitions. Whether you're a young adult fostering independence, a parent stepping into the realm of empty nesting, or someone embracing a new career, I'm here to offer you guidance and support. My hope is to walk alongside you during these times of change, uncertainty, and growth, providing a safe space for exploration, healing, and empowerment. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of transition, uncovering hidden opportunities for personal evolution and resilience.
Hello! My name is Hannah, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults ages 18+, primarily female identified, navigate pivotal life transitions. Whether you're a young adult fostering independence, a parent stepping into the realm of empty nesting, or someone embracing a new career, I'm here to offer you guidance and support. My hope is to walk alongside you during these times of change, uncertainty, and growth, providing a safe space for exploration, healing, and empowerment. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of transition, uncovering hidden opportunities for personal evolution and resilience.
(510) 216-1979 View (510) 216-1979
Photo of Merideth Bowen Shamszad, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Merideth Bowen Shamszad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94602
If you find yourself seeking new ways to be in relationship to your life, yourself and others, the sensitive and attuned psychotherapy I provide can help. Using inquiry, dialogue, guided imagery, Enneagram explorations and the arts, we can work together to explore and untangle your distress and illuminate the creative solutions that lie within you.
If you find yourself seeking new ways to be in relationship to your life, yourself and others, the sensitive and attuned psychotherapy I provide can help. Using inquiry, dialogue, guided imagery, Enneagram explorations and the arts, we can work together to explore and untangle your distress and illuminate the creative solutions that lie within you.
(510) 878-3048 View (510) 878-3048
Photo of Roksana Sarrafan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roksana Sarrafan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I bring a wealth of multicultural knowledge and experience to the table, ensuring you receive professional services built on respect and trust. Let’s bust the myth together: therapy isn’t just for those who’ve faced trauma. Whether you’re seeking clarity, a self-esteem boost, or solutions to life’s challenges, talking with a therapist can be life-changing!
As a therapist, I bring a wealth of multicultural knowledge and experience to the table, ensuring you receive professional services built on respect and trust. Let’s bust the myth together: therapy isn’t just for those who’ve faced trauma. Whether you’re seeking clarity, a self-esteem boost, or solutions to life’s challenges, talking with a therapist can be life-changing!
(510) 257-9758 View (510) 257-9758
Photo of Melissa Murphy, MA, JD, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Melissa Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, JD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Whether you or your child struggle with depression, anxiety, phobias, trauma, grief, life transitions, addiction or other conditions, I would be honored to accompany you or your loved ones on your healing journey. Our work will focus on creating the safety and acceptance that allows for change. Because our lives are shaped by the culture in which we live, we can also consider the social forces that may have shaped you, including racial, gender, and class biases.
Whether you or your child struggle with depression, anxiety, phobias, trauma, grief, life transitions, addiction or other conditions, I would be honored to accompany you or your loved ones on your healing journey. Our work will focus on creating the safety and acceptance that allows for change. Because our lives are shaped by the culture in which we live, we can also consider the social forces that may have shaped you, including racial, gender, and class biases.
(415) 792-0372 View (415) 792-0372
Photo of Porscha Nichole Castillo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Porscha Nichole Castillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I help clients deal with an array of life problems such as; depression, anxiety, IPV, trauma, assault, chemical dependency, co occurring conditions, maternal and postpartum, infertility, grief, etc. Previous clients have expressed therapy sessions with me have led to; better relationships, solutions to specific problems, and reduction of feelings of stress.
I help clients deal with an array of life problems such as; depression, anxiety, IPV, trauma, assault, chemical dependency, co occurring conditions, maternal and postpartum, infertility, grief, etc. Previous clients have expressed therapy sessions with me have led to; better relationships, solutions to specific problems, and reduction of feelings of stress.
(510) 616-9768 View (510) 616-9768
Photo of Steven Herrmann, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Steven Herrmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Jungian Analyst Steven Herrmann, Ph.D., MFT, Montclair, Oakland, California. Are you looking to find ways to make changes in order to live a more satisfying and meaningful life? Are you finding yourself in repetitive patterns that are no longer working for you? Then I may be of assistance to you. I bring an in-depth approach that builds on your strengths and aims to untangle the roots to what is causing problems. This may lead to a reduction in painful symptoms, an opening of vocational possibilities, a newly found sense of joy, and to the transformation of your personality. Please feel free to visit my website at stevenherrmann.com
Jungian Analyst Steven Herrmann, Ph.D., MFT, Montclair, Oakland, California. Are you looking to find ways to make changes in order to live a more satisfying and meaningful life? Are you finding yourself in repetitive patterns that are no longer working for you? Then I may be of assistance to you. I bring an in-depth approach that builds on your strengths and aims to untangle the roots to what is causing problems. This may lead to a reduction in painful symptoms, an opening of vocational possibilities, a newly found sense of joy, and to the transformation of your personality. Please feel free to visit my website at stevenherrmann.com
(510) 531-2534 View (510) 531-2534
Photo of Kathryn Orfirer, PhD, Psychologist
Kathryn Orfirer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I am a clinical and developmental psychologist with over 35 years experience. I currently have limited availability for 1) caregivers seeking parenting support; 2) people anticipating or during pregnancy, adoption, fostering or otherwise transitioning to parenthood and early parenting; and, 3) for consultation and supervision for professionals and students.
I am a clinical and developmental psychologist with over 35 years experience. I currently have limited availability for 1) caregivers seeking parenting support; 2) people anticipating or during pregnancy, adoption, fostering or otherwise transitioning to parenthood and early parenting; and, 3) for consultation and supervision for professionals and students.
(510) 692-9736 View (510) 692-9736
Photo of Molly Mulanax, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Mulanax
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating women struggling with anxiety, depression, codependency, history of family dysfunction, history of family substance use, perfectionism, low self esteem and navigating motherhood. My goal as a therapist is to help you reach a greater understanding and compassion for yourself, heal from painful experiences and to find new ways of coping with stress and interacting with others. I am committed to learning about who you truly are and working with you to make long lasting changes
I specialize in treating women struggling with anxiety, depression, codependency, history of family dysfunction, history of family substance use, perfectionism, low self esteem and navigating motherhood. My goal as a therapist is to help you reach a greater understanding and compassion for yourself, heal from painful experiences and to find new ways of coping with stress and interacting with others. I am committed to learning about who you truly are and working with you to make long lasting changes
(510) 858-2597 View (510) 858-2597
Photo of Michael Rochette, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Rochette
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
I have a lifelong commitment to exploring our interconnections with our selves, our families, our significant others, our coworkers/neighbors, and our natural world. I see many of our personal challenges, which tend to manifest as anxiety and depression, correspond with disconnected patterns that leave us stuck, emotionally, cognitively, somatically, and spiritually. As a California registered associate marriage and family therapist, I work with clients to heal existing interconnections and cultivate new ways of being in connection.
I have a lifelong commitment to exploring our interconnections with our selves, our families, our significant others, our coworkers/neighbors, and our natural world. I see many of our personal challenges, which tend to manifest as anxiety and depression, correspond with disconnected patterns that leave us stuck, emotionally, cognitively, somatically, and spiritually. As a California registered associate marriage and family therapist, I work with clients to heal existing interconnections and cultivate new ways of being in connection.
(510) 298-3372 View (510) 298-3372
Photo of Catarina Maria Rodrigues, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catarina Maria Rodrigues
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Life guarantees each of us joy and despair. And yet, our highly individualistic culture seems to over promote self sufficiency. I've found that life transitions, relational and professional challenges are considerably more manageable with consistent support. Through reflection, collaborative brainstorming and guidance in noticing response patterns, clients in my care become more aware. This growing self awareness uncovers outdated beliefs, surfaces issues that need tending and, most importantly, gives folks more agency around their daily life choices. I enjoy this discovery process with individuals, couples and parent/child teams.
Life guarantees each of us joy and despair. And yet, our highly individualistic culture seems to over promote self sufficiency. I've found that life transitions, relational and professional challenges are considerably more manageable with consistent support. Through reflection, collaborative brainstorming and guidance in noticing response patterns, clients in my care become more aware. This growing self awareness uncovers outdated beliefs, surfaces issues that need tending and, most importantly, gives folks more agency around their daily life choices. I enjoy this discovery process with individuals, couples and parent/child teams.
(415) 236-3570 View (415) 236-3570
Photo of Karen Pernet, LCSW, BCD, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Pernet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94602
When individuals, couples, families or children make the difficult decision to come to therapy they are usually feeling stuck and often scared. Each of us has our own strength and wisdom which we don't see when we are troubled. My goal is for us to work together to rediscover those qualities. I use a cattail plant as a symbol of how I see therapy. Why? Cattails are found stuck in a marsh and often regarded as weeds. But when looked at carefully they are graceful and strong. Let me help you find your strength and grace.
When individuals, couples, families or children make the difficult decision to come to therapy they are usually feeling stuck and often scared. Each of us has our own strength and wisdom which we don't see when we are troubled. My goal is for us to work together to rediscover those qualities. I use a cattail plant as a symbol of how I see therapy. Why? Cattails are found stuck in a marsh and often regarded as weeds. But when looked at carefully they are graceful and strong. Let me help you find your strength and grace.
(925) 695-7986 View (925) 695-7986
Photo of Dean Jones - EMDR Therapist Dean Jones, LCSW , LCSW , EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
EMDR Therapist Dean Jones, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
As a well-seasoned therapist, I have a balance of wisdom and knowledge. I have worked with various demographics assisting in the healing process of various forms of trauma. I also provide training to clinicians as well, EMDR. With me, you will get experience, compassion, and sensitivity to your needs as we work together collaboratively to heal the wounds of the past that will allow for joy presently and in your future. It is possible as I have witnessed it hundreds of times. Let the healing start now. I am also a culturally focused therapist with a special interest in reprocessing racialized trauma and other form of oppression.
As a well-seasoned therapist, I have a balance of wisdom and knowledge. I have worked with various demographics assisting in the healing process of various forms of trauma. I also provide training to clinicians as well, EMDR. With me, you will get experience, compassion, and sensitivity to your needs as we work together collaboratively to heal the wounds of the past that will allow for joy presently and in your future. It is possible as I have witnessed it hundreds of times. Let the healing start now. I am also a culturally focused therapist with a special interest in reprocessing racialized trauma and other form of oppression.
(510) 216-1664 View (510) 216-1664
Photo of Patricia Banchik Rothschild, LMFT, CMHIMP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Banchik Rothschild
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
My experience comes from 31 years of helping children, adults, couples and families in both Community Mental Health and Private Practice. My approach is eclectic and tailored to each individual's needs to facilitate healing and growth. Through my years of experience I have witnessed over and over again people coming into therapy with great pain, discomfort and despair but with time, (sometimes within a very short time) their symptoms diminish and a whole new person emerges. Crisis times can be extremely painful and distressful but they can also be opportunities for growth and healing through therapy.
My experience comes from 31 years of helping children, adults, couples and families in both Community Mental Health and Private Practice. My approach is eclectic and tailored to each individual's needs to facilitate healing and growth. Through my years of experience I have witnessed over and over again people coming into therapy with great pain, discomfort and despair but with time, (sometimes within a very short time) their symptoms diminish and a whole new person emerges. Crisis times can be extremely painful and distressful but they can also be opportunities for growth and healing through therapy.
(510) 403-8151 View (510) 403-8151
Sandplay Therapists

What problems are best treated with sandplay therapy?

Research has examined this therapy’s utility in young people and found positive results. It has been shown to be useful for those who suffer from autism, attention deficit disorder, anxiety, and or aggressive behavior. Children who have suffered abuse, neglect, or trauma have also seen improvement through this therapy. Abused children are often fearful and anxious about their safety, making verbal communication more difficult.

Is sandplay therapy suitable for children and teenagers?

Children and adolescents are good candidates for sandplay therapy. Many kids and teens are often unable to form and communicate their thoughts, let alone the emotions they are experiencing. Through this play therapy, they will hopefully make connections between what they feel inside and how the world works outside.

Is sandplay suitable for adults?

This type of therapy can be useful for adults who have difficulties expressing themselves. People who have suffered neurological changes after a brain injury or because of a traumatic event might be good candidates for this therapy. In fact, anything that has had an effect on the brain, such as substance abuse, can make non-verbal sandplay a valuable option.

Does sandplay therapy work?

There have been studies on the effectiveness of sandplay therapy, and it appears to improve difficult behaviors in children. It may also enhance self-esteem and lessen feelings of physical anxiety as well as hypersensitivity. This type of therapy is based on non-verbal communication and may feel less threatening to the individual.