Therapists in California

 Love and work are essential to a meaningful life. Relationships with others define experience and work gives a sense of purpose. Disturbance in these affect well being and contribute to an overwhelmed response leading to collapse. As trauma is relational so is recovery and healing. Having the right therapeutic alliance is a key element and requires, attunement and constistency.  James has over 17 years of clinical experience treating diverse individuals in a variety of settings. As a Mind-Body-Awareness trained therapist, he works with adults having problems with anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. In addition to having a graduate degree in Social Work from San Jose State University; he also attended years of practicum training from the following: Certification in Somatic Experiencing from SE Trauma Institute; Sierra Institute for Contemporary Gestalt Training; Professional Training in Hakomi Mindfulness-Based Experiential Psychotherapy Santa Cruz; iRest Integrative Restoration, an evidence informed meditation practice for trauma; Certification in Satyananda Yoga Nidra; and Completion of 500 hours of Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training. 

Hi there, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Oakland, California. I studied Somatic Psychotherapy at the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) in San Francisco, and have been practicing for about 5 years. I work somatically and relationally, helping people to integrate their mind, body, and feelings through talk therapy, mindfulness, parts work, guided imagery, and more.

My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of California State University in Bakersfield. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, and relationships issues.

There is always room for growth no matter what age or where you are in life. It is my mission to help people in their personal growth and reach their full potential. I genuinely care for others and provide a safe and non-judgmental space for healing. Life can get overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Through the Rogerian approach, I meet people where they’re at, being compassionate and warm, yet honest and straightforward. As a therapist I love utilizing a combination of therapeutic techniques from person-centered, CBT, TF-CBT, mindfulness, REBT, solution focused, psycho-dynamic, Gestalt and other modalities that have research proven results. Whatever you’re going through, I am here to support your journey. I am experienced and qualified to provide psychotherapy to individuals for issues varying from: depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, low self-esteem, suicide ideation, to life stressors and more. You deserve to heal, grow, and live the life you want to live.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed or find yourself stuck in the same relationship patterns? Life can throw us emotional and mental challenges that leave us feeling lost, disconnected, or unsure of what to do next. My goal is to help you make sense of what’s happening, understand yourself more deeply, and find healthier ways to move through difficult moments. Since 2002, I’ve worked with men and women who are tired of always putting others first. Together, we’ll explore what’s keeping you stuck and build clarity, confidence, and direction—so you can create relationships (and a life) that feel more authentic and fulfilling.

I am a Bay Area native woman who identifies as a Christian, mother, social worker, and African-American. Growing up, I had a rough childhood in which I stayed with multiple family members and was exposed to the “fast” life and dysfunctional relationships, as well as the “9 to 5 working”, church centered, married life. While both made me into the woman I am, it was really my grandparents taking me in as a teen and showing me unconditional love, that made me able to not become another statistic, and understand what love is. My healing journey was not easy, but it was necessary! It is the people who poured into me and believed in me when I didn’t love or believe in myself that help me transform from broken and angry to the confident woman who loves herself and steps out on faith and gives back to those who have past or current circumstances that are holding them back from being there best version of them. I am not here to judge or tell anyone how to live. I am here to help people release their traumas, hurts, and other obstacles so they can restore to a healthy level of functioning mentally, spiritually, and physically. I focus on the person as a whole as our health mentally, spiritually, and physically, has a direct impact on on well being, and an imbalance in any one can hinder our level of functioning.

Hi there, I'm Kash! Thank you so much for taking the time to read this bio. I want to first congratulate in you on taking a step of putting yourself first. Taking that first step could have many mixed feelings of excitement, fear and uncertainty. I am here to be a support system for your self growth and development. Many things in life can occur which can hinder our growth. Such events can be disheartening (e.g. divorce, death of a loved one, stress in school or work, etc.) or even events that are normally viewed as positive (e.g. recently getting married, moving in together, getting a new job or promotion, children, etc). Events of any sort creates change which many individuals, couples and families experience differently. My role in these changes is to be a safe place to openly discuss these events and changes and to provide the support essential for growth. The approach I use for treatment with patients are integrative. You and I will develop an effective approach together to determine what would work best based on my clinical judgement and you knowing yourself.

Dr. Sterling focuses on specifically "women issues," grief, life transitions, cultural issues, anxiety, depressed moods, and will support other various challenges. Dr. Sterling practices a humanistic and person-centered approach when providing counseling and life coaching support. She is very compassionate while helping people with overcoming adversities and reaching their resilience. Also, she is genuine, real, and present during each conversation. Dr. Sterling displays a real authentic persona that is comfortable, relaxed, and filled with good energy! The objective she focuses on is to bring ease into a persons life no matter the situation or where they come from! Dr. Sterling will uplift your spirits and is someone to look forward to speaking with! "I have a PhD. in Philosophy/Advanced Human Studies. I have over 17 years of experience educating higher learners & helping others through various lived experiences. I take nothing for granted, all I have is a blessing including working with people from this perspective within my life!" Dr. Sterling has accomplished a lot, but she is truly genuine and humble. She will not only build you up, she will lift you up, and teach you how to get up no matter how many times you fall down! "I'm here, lets talk!" ~Dr. Sterling

I’m Dr. Gabe Veas, a psychotherapist who helps high-achieving adults, couples, and creatives move past shame, fear, and pressure to keep it all together. Many appear successful on paper yet feel disconnected, anxious, or unfulfilled inside. Our work focuses on rebuilding intimacy, confidence, and freedom that lasts. My learning didn’t end with degrees; it continues through mentorship, embodiment, and years of helping people reclaim the parts of themselves that feel hidden or shut down. I founded Palm Springs Psychotherapy to offer a private, deeply personalized space for clients who want more than symptom relief. My approach blends cognitive, relational, and somatic methods to help you reconnect with what feels real and alive, both in your mind and in your body. f you’re ready to feel more connected and fully alive, let’s begin with a private consultation. This work is for people who are ready for real change, deeper relationships, sexual confidence, and a clearer sense of self.

I am a licensed therapist providing compassionate, collaborate results oriented therapy for clients seeking to change their lives for the better. I am devoted to acceptance and commitment therapy with the understanding that people have the capacity to grow and resolve. I believe that clients have the answers within themselves to remove barriers and challenges in their lives and it is a privilege to assist them in recognizing it and bringing it out.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, complemented by my background as a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. My clinical training includes a Master’s in Social Work with a focus on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality, which informs my understanding of how diverse life experiences shape individuals’ perspectives and interactions with their environments. This foundation allows me to approach therapy with cultural humility and a deep appreciation for the complexities of identity and systemic influences. In my practice, I utilize a person-centered, solution-focused approach that prioritizes client autonomy and self-determination. I collaborate closely with clients to identify their unique challenges and barriers, empowering them to develop realistic and meaningful short-term and long-term goals. Together, we explore and optimize the therapeutic tools that clients have already been using, while considering the introduction of additional strategies when appropriate. My goal is to support clients in creating actionable plans that align with their values and aspirations, fostering resilience and sustainable growth in both their present lives and future endeavors.

Hello, my name is Pak. I am a licensed therapist providing services for individuals in California, Texas, and Nevada. If you're considering therapy, you're likely facing challenges or difficulties that are impacting your well-being and quality of life. It takes courage to acknowledge these struggles and seek help, and I want you to know that I understand how difficult this can be. I want to help my clients develop meaningful insight that will contribute to better self-awareness and personal growth. I want to help couples strengthen their relationship through better support and communication. I am a true believer in relationships. Healthy relationships will lead to emotional strength, which is ultimately my goal for all my clients.

My goal is to increase self compassion and compassion for others as individual women navigate their personal, academic and professional lives. I am taking individual female clients over the age of 18 for virtual sessions throughout the state of California. I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family, comedy, theatre, filmmaking, creative writing, improvisation, nature, traveling, film and television, documentaries, dancing and making art of all kinds. I graduated from the High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Texas. In college, I studied theatre, documentary film and creative writing. I have a BA from Columbia College Chicago. While in Chicago, I was on the faculty at the Second City Training Center where I directed and co-wrote original sketch comedy revues and taught acting and improvisation to children, teens and adults. I received my master's in clinical psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles. I am currently based in the East Bay of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Tonya Meeks, LMFT Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Specialties: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety, Bullying, Addiction, Eating Disorders, Trauma, IVF/Fertility Support Hi, I’m Tonya—a therapist, writer, and performer with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. My approach is deeply informed by my background in writing and performance, blending creativity and empathy to foster healing. As a parent of a neurodivergent son, I understand the unique needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). My personal experience allows me to connect with families in profound ways and offer insights grounded in real-world experience. I also offer compassionate support for individuals navigating fertility struggles, having personally undergone IVF as a single mother by choice. In addition to traditional therapy, I integrate creative expression into my work. Through storytelling and performance, I help clients explore their narratives, reframe challenges, and unlock new pathways to self-discovery. This holistic, individualized approach allows me to support clients in ways that resonate with them personally. I specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults, offering tailored treatment plans for emotional regulation, social skills, and mental health challenges such as anxiety, trauma, and addiction. My approach is collaborative and trauma-informed, helping clients gain insight and build resilience at their own pace. Beyond therapy, I created and perform in Flying Standby, a one-woman show that explores themes of vulnerability and personal transformation. I believe in the power of creative expression as a tool for healing and personal growth. Whether you’re navigating trauma, addiction, or neurodiversity, I am here to guide you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.

In my role as a mindfulness-based therapist, I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment that is nurturing and non-judgmental, allowing clients to delve into their inner workings with a sense of compassion and empathy. I emphasize the importance of being fully present in the current moment and embracing a mindset of acceptance without criticism in my therapeutic approach. Furthermore, I prioritize guiding clients toward cultivating a deep sense of self-compassion and understanding, recognizing these as fundamental elements for personal advancement and emotional reconciliation. By integrating mindfulness techniques and meditation practices, I actively assist clients in developing an enhanced self-awareness and fostering a compassionate outlook on their experiences.

Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!

Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and the elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments. She teaches at five local universities, including UCLA’s medical school. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising. She also works with family and criminal law courts as an expert witness.

My name is Ana Del Rosario Murray. I am a Latina Indigenous woman, mother, and wife proudly rooted in the vibrant SF Bay Area. I earned my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco and have spent the past seven years working throughout San Francisco in service of community wellness. With a deep passion for community-based work, I bring an intimate understanding of the complexities faced by diverse populations. Growing up in the tightly knit community of South San Francisco, I witnessed firsthand the socioeconomic, cultural, and systemic challenges that shape people’s lives. This lived experience fuels my unwavering commitment to making a meaningful impact and uplifting those around me. I believe deeply in the power of collective action and healing. By embracing my cultural heritage and drawing from personal and professional experience, I strive to foster authentic connections, empower individuals and families, and promote social justice within the communities I serve.