Gestalt Therapists in San Leandro, CA

Photo of Joan Gold, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joan Gold
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
As a depth-oriented trauma specialist, I utilize parts work/mapping and gentle Gestalt inquiry in service of healing.
I help women become more present and powerful in their lives. In a safe, collaborative setting, I help individuals from all walks of life free themselves from the pain of the past, make better choices in the present, identify and realize their dreams. I also provide psychedelic integration to make the most of insights and experiences gained from expanded states of consciousness.
As a depth-oriented trauma specialist, I utilize parts work/mapping and gentle Gestalt inquiry in service of healing.
I help women become more present and powerful in their lives. In a safe, collaborative setting, I help individuals from all walks of life free themselves from the pain of the past, make better choices in the present, identify and realize their dreams. I also provide psychedelic integration to make the most of insights and experiences gained from expanded states of consciousness.
(510) 573-7586 View (510) 573-7586
Photo of Monica M Brown, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica M Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
I am a licensed psychotherapist working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, children, and groups using EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy,Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and humanistic modalities.I embrace cultural diversity and am experienced with treating a broad spectrum of clinical issues such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression,addictions,grief and loss, marital, relationship,life issues, and stress management among others.I work with all ages, starting from age 3 on up.
I am a licensed psychotherapist working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, children, and groups using EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy,Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and humanistic modalities.I embrace cultural diversity and am experienced with treating a broad spectrum of clinical issues such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression,addictions,grief and loss, marital, relationship,life issues, and stress management among others.I work with all ages, starting from age 3 on up.
(510) 985-4539 View (510) 985-4539
Photo of Vaughn L Baker, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vaughn L Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
I am a thought leader and teacher and I share the knowledge I have acquired through formal education and life experience. I view therapy as a spiritual path to expand, grow, and evolve as a human being. I will guide you to an awareness and understanding of your thoughts and underlying beliefs which contribute to your actions and decision making. I use a holistic approach that is warm and supportive for Individuals, couples, families and other forms of relationships. Together we'll establish an environment for you to develop the strengths and strategies which will guide you to goal achievement.
I am a thought leader and teacher and I share the knowledge I have acquired through formal education and life experience. I view therapy as a spiritual path to expand, grow, and evolve as a human being. I will guide you to an awareness and understanding of your thoughts and underlying beliefs which contribute to your actions and decision making. I use a holistic approach that is warm and supportive for Individuals, couples, families and other forms of relationships. Together we'll establish an environment for you to develop the strengths and strategies which will guide you to goal achievement.
(510) 573-7314 View (510) 573-7314
Photo of Michael S Gelbart, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael S Gelbart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
Waitlist for new clients
We’re living in a highly stressful society striving to balance our personal lives, relationships, family needs and work livelihoods to care for who and what is most important to us. Past trauma can interfere with our daily functioning and create isolation and mental unwellness. We all need support and guidance: good psychotherapy and relationship counseling can be a great benefit! I assess comprehensively, work pragmatically and use a well-developed tool kit! Together we work to help you balance emotions, shift unhelpful beliefs, resolve trauma, deepen forgiveness and forge new pathways to wellness and relationship health!
We’re living in a highly stressful society striving to balance our personal lives, relationships, family needs and work livelihoods to care for who and what is most important to us. Past trauma can interfere with our daily functioning and create isolation and mental unwellness. We all need support and guidance: good psychotherapy and relationship counseling can be a great benefit! I assess comprehensively, work pragmatically and use a well-developed tool kit! Together we work to help you balance emotions, shift unhelpful beliefs, resolve trauma, deepen forgiveness and forge new pathways to wellness and relationship health!
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Photo of Donna Renee Williams - Renewing Adults & Adolescents Spirits, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renewing Adults & Adolescents Spirits
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Leandro, CA 94577
Greetings, we finally found each other. I would love to be a part of your life's journey of becoming the best you. Through our partnership we can discover how your past effects your present, and how you can be the best version of yourself. Have you experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, or are you in a transition in your life? Have these issues created barriers to your success in your work life and or personal life or are you paralyzed by the fear of success? Together we can create strategies and coping skills that will allow you to take control of your life. It's time to take the lead, let's do it together!
Greetings, we finally found each other. I would love to be a part of your life's journey of becoming the best you. Through our partnership we can discover how your past effects your present, and how you can be the best version of yourself. Have you experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, or are you in a transition in your life? Have these issues created barriers to your success in your work life and or personal life or are you paralyzed by the fear of success? Together we can create strategies and coping skills that will allow you to take control of your life. It's time to take the lead, let's do it together!
(510) 907-4780 View (510) 907-4780
Photo of Kathleen Ekins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Ekins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
Kathleen Acosta Ekins, LCSW. I have been doing therapy with children, families, and adults for over 20 years. I work with clients who are experiencing childhood trauma, adult anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, and grief. I use talk therapy as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I use talk therapy (psychodynamic therapy) as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I have been trained in many different approaches; trauma-informed therapy is one of the main modalities I use.
Kathleen Acosta Ekins, LCSW. I have been doing therapy with children, families, and adults for over 20 years. I work with clients who are experiencing childhood trauma, adult anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, and grief. I use talk therapy as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I use talk therapy (psychodynamic therapy) as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I have been trained in many different approaches; trauma-informed therapy is one of the main modalities I use.
(805) 263-1373 View (805) 263-1373
Photo of Juanita Smith, LCPC, Counselor
Juanita Smith
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94578
I am a highly experienced Licensed Clinical Therapist with over 20 years of practice in Illinois, Texas, California, and Nebraska. Throughout my career, I have successfully helped numerous individuals and families navigate life's challenges, including personal, peer, work, school, and family-related issues. With a strong foundation in strength-based and client-centered principles, I prioritize collaboration and active participation between myself and my clients. By fostering a supportive and empowering therapeutic environment, we work together to identify strengths, overcome obstacles, and create positive change.
I am a highly experienced Licensed Clinical Therapist with over 20 years of practice in Illinois, Texas, California, and Nebraska. Throughout my career, I have successfully helped numerous individuals and families navigate life's challenges, including personal, peer, work, school, and family-related issues. With a strong foundation in strength-based and client-centered principles, I prioritize collaboration and active participation between myself and my clients. By fostering a supportive and empowering therapeutic environment, we work together to identify strengths, overcome obstacles, and create positive change.
(831) 604-2645 View (831) 604-2645
Photo of Stefani Hadley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stefani Hadley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94578
A former journalist, I have a natural curiosity about people and am able to appreciate and embrace those from all cultures. I specialize in diverse populations including at-risk youth,victims of violence and adults who struggle with anger or behavioral issues due to past experiences or traumas. I utilize CBT, DBT and TF-CBT in most of my practice and am very direct, but always feel that a humanistic approach is the key to reaching a person with authenticity and genuine curiosity. I believe in second chances and that everyone deserves a voice in this world.
A former journalist, I have a natural curiosity about people and am able to appreciate and embrace those from all cultures. I specialize in diverse populations including at-risk youth,victims of violence and adults who struggle with anger or behavioral issues due to past experiences or traumas. I utilize CBT, DBT and TF-CBT in most of my practice and am very direct, but always feel that a humanistic approach is the key to reaching a person with authenticity and genuine curiosity. I believe in second chances and that everyone deserves a voice in this world.
(707) 985-3799 View (707) 985-3799
Photo of Deatria Davis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deatria Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94578
My name is Deatria Davis and I'm an LMFT. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and non-judgment. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings while moving toward a journey of self-awareness, cultivating resilience, developing interpersonal skills, and the healing needed to form and sustain relationships with oneself and others. I use an integrative approach of CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and other theoretical approaches depending on the client's needs.
My name is Deatria Davis and I'm an LMFT. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and non-judgment. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings while moving toward a journey of self-awareness, cultivating resilience, developing interpersonal skills, and the healing needed to form and sustain relationships with oneself and others. I use an integrative approach of CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and other theoretical approaches depending on the client's needs.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Yesenia Cortez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yesenia Cortez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94578
Hello and welcome to my page! Congratulations on taking your first steps toward beginning your healing journey! I know it takes a lot of courage to begin this process and I am already immensely proud of you. For me, the greatest reward as a therapist is helping clients grow through discovering ways to make changes in their lives that allow for a hopeful future. I offer a warm, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed space for you to feel safe, validated, and authentic. I have experience working with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, struggles with processing grief, and cognitive distortions.
Hello and welcome to my page! Congratulations on taking your first steps toward beginning your healing journey! I know it takes a lot of courage to begin this process and I am already immensely proud of you. For me, the greatest reward as a therapist is helping clients grow through discovering ways to make changes in their lives that allow for a hopeful future. I offer a warm, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed space for you to feel safe, validated, and authentic. I have experience working with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, struggles with processing grief, and cognitive distortions.
(209) 396-8967 View (209) 396-8967
Photo of Martin Newman, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Martin Newman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
I believe that every one of us has the potential of establishing a fuller and more joyous relationship with others and the world. As we work to bring our own unique voice into our lives, we frequently struggle against our childhood conditioning and the culture within which we find ourselves. Therapy as I see and practice it, is a process by which people, reconnect with their deepest yearnings and are helped to become more of whom they were meant to be so they may fulfill their truest destiny.
I believe that every one of us has the potential of establishing a fuller and more joyous relationship with others and the world. As we work to bring our own unique voice into our lives, we frequently struggle against our childhood conditioning and the culture within which we find ourselves. Therapy as I see and practice it, is a process by which people, reconnect with their deepest yearnings and are helped to become more of whom they were meant to be so they may fulfill their truest destiny.
(415) 236-2916 View (415) 236-2916
Photo of Larisa Escalante, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Larisa Escalante
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
My name is Larisa Escalante, and I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 140018). My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a highly effective and evidence-based therapeutic modality. In addition to my expertise in CBT, I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting therapies. These trauma-focused therapies are instrumental in helping individuals process and heal from distressing or traumatic experiences, fostering resilience and emotional growth.
My name is Larisa Escalante, and I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 140018). My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a highly effective and evidence-based therapeutic modality. In addition to my expertise in CBT, I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting therapies. These trauma-focused therapies are instrumental in helping individuals process and heal from distressing or traumatic experiences, fostering resilience and emotional growth.
(747) 285-7137 View (747) 285-7137
Photo of Jane Lori Peal, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jane Lori Peal
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Leandro, CA 94577
My work is with individuals and couples who are ready to roll up their sleeves and get down to the task of making transformative shifts in their lives. Often people come to therapy believing that our history makes us who we are. Using the therapy relationship as a secure base from which to explore, clearing away the clutter and loosening a few knots, we often find that our history has obscured who we really are. In some way, most of us are longing for a sense of well-being that is not wholly dependent on external circumstances.
My work is with individuals and couples who are ready to roll up their sleeves and get down to the task of making transformative shifts in their lives. Often people come to therapy believing that our history makes us who we are. Using the therapy relationship as a secure base from which to explore, clearing away the clutter and loosening a few knots, we often find that our history has obscured who we really are. In some way, most of us are longing for a sense of well-being that is not wholly dependent on external circumstances.
(415) 902-5761 View (415) 902-5761
Photo of Maria Galvan-Perry, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Galvan-Perry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
Hi, I am Maria Galvan-Perry, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I have experience working with most age groups from children to adults. My specialty areas include depression, mood disorders, anxiety, coping skills, grief & loss, relationship issues, and crisis intervention. My mission is to support my clients through their pain and discomfort and to help them grow towards achieving hope, insight, healing, and learning skills to cope with life's challenges. I appreciate working with all people and I have the most experience working with people with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relational issues.
Hi, I am Maria Galvan-Perry, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I have experience working with most age groups from children to adults. My specialty areas include depression, mood disorders, anxiety, coping skills, grief & loss, relationship issues, and crisis intervention. My mission is to support my clients through their pain and discomfort and to help them grow towards achieving hope, insight, healing, and learning skills to cope with life's challenges. I appreciate working with all people and I have the most experience working with people with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relational issues.
(669) 338-1711 View (669) 338-1711
Photo of Audrina Smith, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Audrina Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
You are struggling and you feel alone. I can help. Have you ever been told you are too sensitive? Do you often feel judged or alone? Are you interested in looking within, learning more about yourself and creating the life you deserve? If so, I am here to help. I support clients struggling with depression and anxiety, learning about and coping with the highly sensitive trait, as well as grief and difficult life transitions. I specialize in older teens, college students, young adulthood/emerging professionals. and women around issues of fertility, pregnancy, postpartum and family life.
You are struggling and you feel alone. I can help. Have you ever been told you are too sensitive? Do you often feel judged or alone? Are you interested in looking within, learning more about yourself and creating the life you deserve? If so, I am here to help. I support clients struggling with depression and anxiety, learning about and coping with the highly sensitive trait, as well as grief and difficult life transitions. I specialize in older teens, college students, young adulthood/emerging professionals. and women around issues of fertility, pregnancy, postpartum and family life.
(510) 288-9386 View (510) 288-9386
Photo of Maria Curameng Teresi, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Curameng Teresi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94578  (Online Only)
Maria Curameng Teresi is a licensed marriage, family and child therapist, and has worked in mental health and behavioral health since 2004. She works with people who have been abused and experienced different types of trauma. She helps her clients reduce the effects of trauma including anxiety, depression, stress, starting and completing tasks, and struggles with relationships, with career goals, with life changes and with managing mood changes. She supports her clients to reach their life goals and live their lives in healthy, productive and effective ways that is unique to her individual clients.
Maria Curameng Teresi is a licensed marriage, family and child therapist, and has worked in mental health and behavioral health since 2004. She works with people who have been abused and experienced different types of trauma. She helps her clients reduce the effects of trauma including anxiety, depression, stress, starting and completing tasks, and struggles with relationships, with career goals, with life changes and with managing mood changes. She supports her clients to reach their life goals and live their lives in healthy, productive and effective ways that is unique to her individual clients.
(916) 571-0913 View (916) 571-0913
Photo of Laura Castro, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Castro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
Hello, my name is Laura Castro, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 6 years of experience. My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and a strength-based approach incorporating a holistic perspective. I view each client as a unique individual shaped by their relationships and life experiences and I am committed to helping clients navigate challenges, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful connections. My professional journey has equipped me with valuable insights into the complexities of human relationships and the profound impact they have on mental health.
Hello, my name is Laura Castro, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 6 years of experience. My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and a strength-based approach incorporating a holistic perspective. I view each client as a unique individual shaped by their relationships and life experiences and I am committed to helping clients navigate challenges, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful connections. My professional journey has equipped me with valuable insights into the complexities of human relationships and the profound impact they have on mental health.
(657) 837-5140 View (657) 837-5140
Photo of Ken Athey, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ken Athey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Leandro, CA 94578  (Online Only)
I specialize in relationship issues with over 30 years of clinical experience. I provide compassionate care when you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or feeling stuck. I work on shifting problematic thoughts and behaviors.
I specialize in relationship issues with over 30 years of clinical experience. I provide compassionate care when you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or feeling stuck. I work on shifting problematic thoughts and behaviors.
(510) 394-3788 View (510) 394-3788
Photo of Mirely Vasquez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mirely Vasquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94578
Bienvenidos/Welcome! I am a bilingual/bicultural Spanish-speaking therapist located in the East Bay area of California. I have been working with children, teens, and adults of color struggling with an array of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship satisfaction, life purpose, trauma, postpartum depression, and spirituality, related to life transitions, family stress, trauma, and grief. Although my work has focused on the unique needs of minorities and underrepresented individuals, being a member of that community is certainly not a requirement for your personal development.
Bienvenidos/Welcome! I am a bilingual/bicultural Spanish-speaking therapist located in the East Bay area of California. I have been working with children, teens, and adults of color struggling with an array of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship satisfaction, life purpose, trauma, postpartum depression, and spirituality, related to life transitions, family stress, trauma, and grief. Although my work has focused on the unique needs of minorities and underrepresented individuals, being a member of that community is certainly not a requirement for your personal development.
(510) 916-3215 View (510) 916-3215
Photo of Valerie Doyle, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valerie Doyle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Leandro, CA 94578
Not accepting new clients
It takes courage and strength to embrace healing, to create change, to experience deeper intimacy and to grow personally and spiritually. I believe that people are uniquely equipped in what they need to create both the life and relationships they want. In collaboration with you, we will work together to resolve any roadblocks and develop the tools to create both the life and relationships you desire. A quality that defines my practice is the ability to help people feel accepted and able to open up to share and explore what is on their heart and mind.
It takes courage and strength to embrace healing, to create change, to experience deeper intimacy and to grow personally and spiritually. I believe that people are uniquely equipped in what they need to create both the life and relationships they want. In collaboration with you, we will work together to resolve any roadblocks and develop the tools to create both the life and relationships you desire. A quality that defines my practice is the ability to help people feel accepted and able to open up to share and explore what is on their heart and mind.
(510) 756-3494 View (510) 756-3494

Gestalt Therapists

What is gestalt therapy?

Gestalt therapy is based on the idea that to address unresolved negative feelings, emotions must be not only discussed but also actively expressed in the present moment. The term is from a German word meaning “whole,” and gestalt therapists believe that people should be considered whole entities made up of mind, body, and emotions. Gestalt sessions are rooted in the notion that a client’s total self must be discovered, explored, and confronted, so that they can take greater responsibility for themselves and their behavior, learn to satisfy their own needs while still respecting the needs of others, and reconnect with feelings they might otherwise deny.

How does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy sessions do not just involve talking with a therapist. Clients may take part in role-playing, re-enactment, or artistic exercises like drawing and painting, with the goal of becoming more aware of negative thought patterns that limit happiness. One common gestalt exercise is “the empty chair,” in which a client sits across from an empty chair representing a partner, relative, boss, or a part of themselves—and, with the therapist’s encouragement, improvises a dialog with it. The intention is to bring the emotions raised by past conflicts into the present and work through them in the moment.

How long does gestalt therapy last?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for gestalt therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. New patients should understand that it may take some time to become comfortable with gestalt exercises but once they do, they should expect sessions to extend for a number of months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions.

Does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy has generally been found to be as effective as other forms of talk therapy in helping people living with anxiety, depression, phobias, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders, as well as helping individuals reduce conflict in relationships. Gestalt techniques, on their own or in combination with other therapies, can also be effective in managing physical ailments including ulcerative colitis, migraines, and back spasms. It should be noted that some people may have trouble adapting to gestalt therapy’s lack of formal structure or to a therapist’s close observations of their body language and emotions; others may struggle to commit to techniques that feel unnatural, like the empty chair exercise.