Narrative Therapists in Orinda, CA
![Photo of Jonathan Packman, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83d30ff5-acc5-4c3b-ac9b-5f2e648c3194/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Packman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
I work from a strength-based approach to counseling, including narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness and CBT.
Every person is confronted by obstacles in life: internal and external. I work with individuals, families and couples to establish and work towards specific goals, on the way to navigating through or around those obstacles. We'll collaborate to create a safe space to uncover what is getting in the way of growth or healing. I enjoy working with young children, adolescents and young adults to sharpen the skills that are necessary to move through the stages of development on the path towards academic, career, athletic, creative and personal achievement.
I work from a strength-based approach to counseling, including narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness and CBT.
Every person is confronted by obstacles in life: internal and external. I work with individuals, families and couples to establish and work towards specific goals, on the way to navigating through or around those obstacles. We'll collaborate to create a safe space to uncover what is getting in the way of growth or healing. I enjoy working with young children, adolescents and young adults to sharpen the skills that are necessary to move through the stages of development on the path towards academic, career, athletic, creative and personal achievement.
![Photo of Chelsie Crilly, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfd4868f-8078-4079-ab1f-c9c1048f72bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsie Crilly
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563
My therapy practice integrates a multitude of approaches including Attachment Theory, Narrative, Strengths-Based, Humanistic, Psycho-dynamic (with a focus on gender, racial, and neurodivergent justice), Visual Arts, and Play Therapy.
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.
My therapy practice integrates a multitude of approaches including Attachment Theory, Narrative, Strengths-Based, Humanistic, Psycho-dynamic (with a focus on gender, racial, and neurodivergent justice), Visual Arts, and Play Therapy.
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.
![Photo of Deb Shell, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25e4ca43-5bc3-4478-923f-254e56045602/2/320x400.jpeg)
I incorporate Internal Family Systems, Narrative Theory, and CBT.
Being a human being is complicated, and complex, and can sometimes be overwhelming. It is therapeutic to have someone to share our true selves with free of judgment. I believe each client holds the answers, and in my work, I support you on your journey. I meet you where you are, and together we identify where you would like to go, and what parts of yourself you would like to call forward. I can help you explore your inner world, and help you connect your internal experiences to your external experiences. I support clients dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relational dynamics.
I incorporate Internal Family Systems, Narrative Theory, and CBT.
Being a human being is complicated, and complex, and can sometimes be overwhelming. It is therapeutic to have someone to share our true selves with free of judgment. I believe each client holds the answers, and in my work, I support you on your journey. I meet you where you are, and together we identify where you would like to go, and what parts of yourself you would like to call forward. I can help you explore your inner world, and help you connect your internal experiences to your external experiences. I support clients dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relational dynamics.
![Photo of Ari Oklan, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b88c139-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jennifer Pister, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6f81d1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Pister
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563 (Online Only)
Whether you are depressed, anxious, confused, or wanting better communication between you and your partner, family, friends or self, I can help you get to know yourself and what is driving your thoughts and feelings. This self wisdom leads to greater choice in your relationships. You can only change you, but changing you leads to changes in the world around you, including the people in your life. I would love to help you listen to and trust your inner guidance in making choices that support you.
Whether you are depressed, anxious, confused, or wanting better communication between you and your partner, family, friends or self, I can help you get to know yourself and what is driving your thoughts and feelings. This self wisdom leads to greater choice in your relationships. You can only change you, but changing you leads to changes in the world around you, including the people in your life. I would love to help you listen to and trust your inner guidance in making choices that support you.
![Photo of Dr. Adrienne Candell, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f400af5f-5ea9-44a1-b362-e5d1cb873559/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inner peace. Family harmony. Satisfying relationships. It’s what we all want, but obstacles get in our way. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience helping people overcome these obstacles. We will work to uncover the strengths and resilience you already have and discover new ways of thinking, communicating and interacting with the world that lead to a sense of balance and life satisfaction. I work with people of all ages who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, social problems, family conflict and life transitions.
Inner peace. Family harmony. Satisfying relationships. It’s what we all want, but obstacles get in our way. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience helping people overcome these obstacles. We will work to uncover the strengths and resilience you already have and discover new ways of thinking, communicating and interacting with the world that lead to a sense of balance and life satisfaction. I work with people of all ages who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, social problems, family conflict and life transitions.
![Photo of Aza Tetelman, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee0138ac-92a1-4c0b-9c68-11d6849b3cbf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Aza Tetelman is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, inter-generational conflicts and acculturation difficulties. She enjoys facilitating self-understanding via bibliotherapy techniques, whether through the use of novels, self-help books, comics, or other media. She also believes that preventative care is just as important as healing in the aftermath of life challenges. Her clinical approach is warm and attentive, and takes on relational, dialectic, and insight-oriented approaches to treatment.
Dr. Aza Tetelman is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, inter-generational conflicts and acculturation difficulties. She enjoys facilitating self-understanding via bibliotherapy techniques, whether through the use of novels, self-help books, comics, or other media. She also believes that preventative care is just as important as healing in the aftermath of life challenges. Her clinical approach is warm and attentive, and takes on relational, dialectic, and insight-oriented approaches to treatment.
![Photo of Sara Denman, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd747f42-b348-478f-8194-bcc85f6e6c6f/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed clinical psychologist I offer compassionate therapy for change, helping people move from merely surviving to thriving. I work with clients struggling with a variety of issues such as: surviving after divorce, life changes, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, food/body image, addictions, and trauma/PTSD. Every effort is made to exceed clients' expectations by working with an individual's strengths to address, confront and finally overcome challenges. I provide a warm and supportive enviornment, enabling clients to build a solid foundation for a confident future.
As a licensed clinical psychologist I offer compassionate therapy for change, helping people move from merely surviving to thriving. I work with clients struggling with a variety of issues such as: surviving after divorce, life changes, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, food/body image, addictions, and trauma/PTSD. Every effort is made to exceed clients' expectations by working with an individual's strengths to address, confront and finally overcome challenges. I provide a warm and supportive enviornment, enabling clients to build a solid foundation for a confident future.
![Photo of Ryan Kellett Crochiere - Ryan Crochiere, LMFT, MA, BA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4b22b5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Tiana Beard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7760e19-5439-4e85-8dfe-3efa957120a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Parenting is rewarding, but it's also one of the hardest jobs. Navigating the responsibilities of managing a household with children can cause parents to feel overwhelmed and stressed. For working parents, things get even more complex. Overseeing department operations can create anxiety for executive level professionals. Trying to juggle one's familial and professional roles can produce extreme burn out. I help executive level parents who are at risk of falling into the self-sacrificing pattern of overextending recover from emotional bankruptcy, enhance the connection with their children and improve their overall quality of life.
Parenting is rewarding, but it's also one of the hardest jobs. Navigating the responsibilities of managing a household with children can cause parents to feel overwhelmed and stressed. For working parents, things get even more complex. Overseeing department operations can create anxiety for executive level professionals. Trying to juggle one's familial and professional roles can produce extreme burn out. I help executive level parents who are at risk of falling into the self-sacrificing pattern of overextending recover from emotional bankruptcy, enhance the connection with their children and improve their overall quality of life.
![Photo of Leslie Foge, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d915acf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with adults facing transitions -- launching, having a child, beginning or ending a relationship, moving through developmental stages, etc. I love working with folks touched by adoption -- potential adoptive parents, adoptive families, birth families, adopted persons, etc. I enjoy working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, compulsivity, disconnection, loneliness. .
I enjoy working with adults facing transitions -- launching, having a child, beginning or ending a relationship, moving through developmental stages, etc. I love working with folks touched by adoption -- potential adoptive parents, adoptive families, birth families, adopted persons, etc. I enjoy working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, compulsivity, disconnection, loneliness. .
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![Photo of Nicole Kangas, PhD, MA, LMFT, JD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b183664a-cffe-4dc5-93c6-b0228b30992d/3/320x400.jpeg)
*VIDEO/PHONE SESSIONS AVAILABLE* Do you find yourself facing difficult or unexpected struggles? Responding to life's challenges can be hard and can result in stress and unwanted feelings or symptoms. I am here to help you gain the strength, confidence, and clarity needed to tackle life’s obstacles and to feel well. I work with individuals from adolescence through adulthood who are dealing with a range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transitions, relationship and parenting concerns, grief and loss, trauma recovery, and more. I also help couples work through problems and strengthen their bond.
*VIDEO/PHONE SESSIONS AVAILABLE* Do you find yourself facing difficult or unexpected struggles? Responding to life's challenges can be hard and can result in stress and unwanted feelings or symptoms. I am here to help you gain the strength, confidence, and clarity needed to tackle life’s obstacles and to feel well. I work with individuals from adolescence through adulthood who are dealing with a range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transitions, relationship and parenting concerns, grief and loss, trauma recovery, and more. I also help couples work through problems and strengthen their bond.
![Photo of J Aaron Foster, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8207ea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
J Aaron Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563 (Online Only)
My focus in therapy revolves around relationships and support. The most important relationship I speak of is our relationship with ourselves. To be truly whole we benefit from a well developed relationship with ourselves to then be able to have good relationships with others. This comes from learning and honoring our strengths and our limitations. In fact, one's limitations can grow into strengths when addressed from a position of self-care
My focus in therapy revolves around relationships and support. The most important relationship I speak of is our relationship with ourselves. To be truly whole we benefit from a well developed relationship with ourselves to then be able to have good relationships with others. This comes from learning and honoring our strengths and our limitations. In fact, one's limitations can grow into strengths when addressed from a position of self-care
![Photo of Brian Clark, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cab13ec-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
My practice focuses on therapy for adolescents and adults. I specialize in achievement pressure, school stress, work stress, AD/HD, acting out teens, single parenting, parental support, depression, and anxiety. My treatment approach supports both parents and children in developing healthy strategies for navigating the pressure that is so prevalent in schools and communities today. I also work with individual adult clients facing anxiety, depression, and life changes.
My practice focuses on therapy for adolescents and adults. I specialize in achievement pressure, school stress, work stress, AD/HD, acting out teens, single parenting, parental support, depression, and anxiety. My treatment approach supports both parents and children in developing healthy strategies for navigating the pressure that is so prevalent in schools and communities today. I also work with individual adult clients facing anxiety, depression, and life changes.
![Photo of Judy Bensinger Haynes, MEd, MA, LMFT , #114669, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6e84344-9de2-4d4f-bb89-d8554a1115fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Judy Bensinger Haynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MA, LMFT , #114669
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
JBHtherapy.com These days there are times when we need someone to talk to. For the past forty years I have embraced individuals who have experienced shame, anxiety, social anxiety, depression and stress. Individuals and families served have had questions and concerns related to caring for family members with special needs and adoptions. My approach is optimistic, empathic and enhances attachments and relationships. My wish is to lessen stress and provide advocacy. Whether your journey is individual, infant-child related or a family dream; I will work to support you and your loved ones in a warm and engaging therapeutic relationship.
JBHtherapy.com These days there are times when we need someone to talk to. For the past forty years I have embraced individuals who have experienced shame, anxiety, social anxiety, depression and stress. Individuals and families served have had questions and concerns related to caring for family members with special needs and adoptions. My approach is optimistic, empathic and enhances attachments and relationships. My wish is to lessen stress and provide advocacy. Whether your journey is individual, infant-child related or a family dream; I will work to support you and your loved ones in a warm and engaging therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Grace Malonai - TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment , PhD, LPCC, BC-TMH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb044e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
![Photo of Alethea M Gardner - Alethea Gard'ner, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f35bb20-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alethea Gard'ner, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563
Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction have a way of taking over our lives, leaving no room to experience joy. I'm here to help. Change is often scary and hard, but in a safe, therapeutic partnership, it becomes possible. By creating an empathetic and supportive environment, we're able to refocus your energy so you can rediscover yourself, achieve lasting relief, and ultimately embrace more opportunities to experience joy and fulfillment.
Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction have a way of taking over our lives, leaving no room to experience joy. I'm here to help. Change is often scary and hard, but in a safe, therapeutic partnership, it becomes possible. By creating an empathetic and supportive environment, we're able to refocus your energy so you can rediscover yourself, achieve lasting relief, and ultimately embrace more opportunities to experience joy and fulfillment.
![Photo of Haley Woodside (Hewitt), MA, LMFT, E-RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6e0d8d8-6cf8-4fc5-b84d-22530adc4a8f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Haley Woodside (Hewitt)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563
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.
![Photo of Lindsey Antin, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bae9519-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
We are a small practice specializing in resolving depression, anxiety, insomnia, and relationship issues. We practice research-based therapy using the science of good relationships and other evidence-based models. Cognitive behavioral therapy is our specialty and has excellent outcomes.
We are a small practice specializing in resolving depression, anxiety, insomnia, and relationship issues. We practice research-based therapy using the science of good relationships and other evidence-based models. Cognitive behavioral therapy is our specialty and has excellent outcomes.
![Photo of Erica Fawn Thomas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8a43744-dfcb-4729-add5-3c9e207a8fff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Parenting can be the hardest job in the world and I am here to help. Do you have a difficult teenager? Is your child having trouble in High School? Has your family experienced divorce, remarriage, or difficulties with co-parenting? These types of issues have become very common and it is normal to need some help coping with them. I have many years experience working with children and their families and as a parent I can relate to the difficulties that arise each day. The decision to start therapy can be difficult because you may feel that you have already tried everything or you wonder if this will really help.
Parenting can be the hardest job in the world and I am here to help. Do you have a difficult teenager? Is your child having trouble in High School? Has your family experienced divorce, remarriage, or difficulties with co-parenting? These types of issues have become very common and it is normal to need some help coping with them. I have many years experience working with children and their families and as a parent I can relate to the difficulties that arise each day. The decision to start therapy can be difficult because you may feel that you have already tried everything or you wonder if this will really help.
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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.