Therapists for Individuals
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Therapist for someone in late 20's
Dec 2011
I am need of a good therapist. I am in my late 20's and
kinda fit into the disaffected ''youth'' category. I need to
see someone that ''gets'' me. Does anyone have good
experiences with a therapist in the area (El
Cerrito/Albany/Richmond/Berkeley) Any recs would be highly
appreciated! Thank you!!
Grateful
I recommend Marenka Cerny, MFT. Marenka is located in south Berkeley, easy to
reach by public transportation or car. See her website at www.somatic-
psychotherapy.org I can't say enough good things about this woman as she has
studied and worked in clinics 7 years, and has an inherent understanding of
teenage youths and young adults.
She is kind, appreciative, and hard working and will thoroughly consider your
needs throughout your sessions. I know first hand of her work with two people
in our family and I have to say that she is great on setting boundaries and
communicating to others on how to focus on their needs and goals, and work
within their personal limitations.
a10
I would recommend Yvonne Mansell, (510) 528-9551. She also
has a website so you can get a sense of her that way as
well. She is warm and insightful and quite in touch with
the needs of young women.
Good luck,
Marie H
Katie Jennette, MFT has a lot of experience working with
young adults and is wonderful. She's in south Berkeley:
(510) 859-7340.
S. B.
You should call Emily Johnson, she's a great therapist. She's located in
Rockridge, which hopefully isn't too far for you. Emily is really bright, engaged,
and has a good sense of humor, which is a nice asset in a therapist. She's a really
open-minded listener and can really help you sort out what you want and feel.
Her number is 510-601-0734.
anonymous
Need help sorting out issues of major transition
Aug 2011
I'm looking for a therapist to help me with the issues of teen
getting ready to leave home, coming to terms with what my marriage
has evolved into, how to make the transition to what is next....
It is the beginning of lots of transitions. It is kind of confusing
and a bit lonely. I would love help in figuring this stage out.
Thank you for your suggestions and experiences.
First of all congrats on making the decision to look for a good
therapist. I highly recommend that you contact Shira Gallagher,
LCSW. She is a highly skillful, warm and engaging therapist who is
excellent at working with people who are undergoing a lot of change
and need a safe place to sort through feelings. She is wonderful.
You can reach her at 510-594-4008. Her website:
www.shiragallagher.com. Good luck.
ems
What you're describiing is so familiar to me. When I was going
through a series of major transitions, a friend recommended a
wonderful, experienced therapist in North Berkeley named John
Conger (510-524-8212). Wise and kind, practical and insightful, he
helped me with some major decisions until I began to reconnect with
parts of my life that I had set aside long ago. He has seen me
through some rough spots in my marriage, too. My life is so much
better, and I'm very grateful to him. I can't recommend him highly
enough.
Good luck to you.
Lesley
Help me make peace with my situation
Aug 2009
I hate living in Berkeley but am stuck here because of my husband's
job. I need to find a therapist to talk to, but don't even know
where to start. The recommendations all seem to be geared toward
depression and anxiety, neither of which I have. I just need to
find someone who can either help me make peace with my situation or
help me/us think of alternatives.
Anon
A therapist sounds like a good choice, but don't be mislead by what
therapists specialize in. Therapists all are trained to work with life
transitions even if it you aren't depressed or having major anxiety. For
example I see mostly women dealing with infertility issues, but I also see
clients with a variety of life issues and a wide range of ages. So look
for someone you can connect too.
Miriam Gross, MSW is terrific at ''putting our heads together'' to look at
a problem like this. She's at 1225 Marin Ave, Albany. Phone:510-524-5103.
She's respectful, good at putting things into words, and great at
collaborative problem solving. If you want a more traditional therapist,
Candis Cousins, Ph.D., is fantastic, too. She's near Piedmont and her
office phone number is 510- 763-5358. They could be on vacation, but both
are good about returning calls when in town.
Judy
Elayne Savage, Ph.D. is the best therapist around! She's great with helping
you look at options and alternatives to feel ''unstuck''. She will make
you feel totally at ease and is non-judgmental, down to earth, and has many
years of experience. I have really benefitted from seeing her and leave the
sessions feeling positive and grateful
to have an objective person when talking through issues.
Here is her web address: http://www.QueenofRejection.com and her phone is:
510-540-6230. I believe she is accepting new clients at this time.
feeling positive
re: your request for a therapist to help you make peace with your decision
or help you think of alternatives. I live in the East Bay and am seeing
Fran Wickner in Albany. I like her style: very non judgemental and she
works on what I want to work on, not what she thinks I need to do. She's
very practical and could be a good fit to help you make a decision to stay
or go. She has a website with her email if you want that, or her phone
number is 510-527-4011.
LK
I would recommend Lisa Lancaster. She helped me with a similar issue. I
have found her to be a sensitive and insightful therapist. She is in
Berkeley and her number is 510-841-2525.
anon
Oct 2008
I am looking for a therapist who can help me with a range of
issues, primarily about myself, but also related to
parenting. I homeschool my children, so my ideal is someone
who is familiar with homeschooling. At the very least, I
need someone who is homeschool-friendly and who won't
immediately assume that any and all difficulties are the
result of that one factor.
Needing Some Help
I saw Ahbi Vernon while I was homeschooling. She took an unjudgmental
attitude about homeschooling and was very helpful around other
parenting and personal issues. I should say that we did actually
conclude together that it would work better for our family to have the
kids in school, but I felt that came from an unbiased place and was
supporting my/our needs. She's right near the Berkeley Bowl;
510-845-4808
Sept 2008
I am looking for a therapist in the East Bay that specializes in
Borderline Personality Disorder. Or at the very least, someone with
a substantial number of years
experience treating Personality Disorders in general. Any referrals
shared would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much.
Kirsten Beuthin specializes in working with personality
disorders, and she can be reached at 510-652-0990 or
415-401-7180. She's an exceptional therapist. Best wishes.
anonymous
Emily Johnson, LCSW is a wonderful clinician generally, and one
of few colleagues I confidently refer to when looking for a
therapist to work with Borderline Personality Disorder. Emily is
very bright and skillful while also having a personable and
straightforward style. Her office is in Rockridge and phone
number is 510-601-0734.
Best of luck-
May 2008
I finally have the time and energy to spend some quality time learning more
about myself, my relationships, patterns of behavior that I see but don't
understand. etc. I have MHN (health net) insurance and live near Solano
Avenue. Anyone have a fabulous therapist that is on the MHN panel of
providers? Thanks!
anon
Paul Minsky is a psychologist on Solano Ave in Berkeley. He's real good. I'm pretty
sure he is on alot of the insurance panels (I have MHN) 510 524-0700
Good Luck
Anne Marshall has been a terrific fit for me, and helped me understand and start to
address some longstanding core issues. She is smart, empathetic, funny, and gives good
PRACTICAL feedback. I come out of sessions with a sense of what my next steps need to
be. Her office is midway down Solano, and she takes MHN. 220-0808.
anon
i can wholeheartedly refer laine demetria as an integrative psychotherapist. her wise
and compassionate approach to listening, relating and participating is unlike any
other counselor i have ever been involved with. you can see her website and decide if
you're on the same page - www.lainedemetria.com.
a hopeful work in progress
Feb 2008
I am a woman and mother looking for a therapist in the
Berkeley/Albany area. I have reviewed the webpage, but without a
particular name to start with, all of the information there is a
little overwhelming. I am struggling with three issues in
particular -- work-related stress and anxiety, possible
depression, and losing my temper with my kids (obviously all
related). I want to see someone who will understand my life as a
professional with a high stress, high stakes, high anxiety career
that I cannot just leave because I am the primary breadwinner for
my family. Most immediately, I want some guidance on parenting
skills and how not to blow up at my kids (harsh yelling), but I
want to see someone who can talk to me about that, at both a
practical level and with respect to the deeper issues, without
making me feel even worse about myself. Someone down-to-earth and
practical, with a sense of humor, and not too hypothetical or
spiritual, if that makes sense.
Need Help
I highly recommend Sara Grunstein. She specializes in children and
families and is also great for adults. I brought my son to her when he
had some difficult fears. She has children herself and works at
Children's Hospital as well as private practice in Berkeley near
Andronico's on Telegraph.
548-0161
S
I can recommend a ''down-to-earth'', direct but also deep therapist who I
worked with for over a year. He helped me to make some profound changes
in my life. He got to the fundamental issues very quickly. It was a very
good experience that made me believe in therapy again. His name is Dr.
Hans Stahlschmidt in North Berkeley,
(510)848 5347.
anon
Hi--I don't have a good bay area
therapist recommendation (very sorry) but
your situation sounds very similar to mine as far as stress! I
tend to turn to books and wanted to recommend ''10 days to a less
distracted child''--my depression and stress has made my child spacey and
distracted (in part, some is just him). It helped me feel less frantic
about my child's ups and downs and treat us
both more gently. Be kind to yourself! It sounds like you are
doing a ton and as a high intensity professional I'm sure you are
expert at seeing what can be changed and trying to do it, but it
also sounds like you are perhaps (?) as a result criticizing yourself
more than you should. Good luck in your search--even
before meeting any professionals,
it might help to remember to treat yourself with as much love
and respect as you wish for your children! You deserve it too!
Take care!
still working on it
Feb 2008
Can anyone recommend a therapist who truly provides insight and
education, as well as emotional support? I benefit most from
understanding why I behave the way I do, and I've yet to meet a
therapist who is really insightful about human behavior. If
there's a therapist who can relate to being brought up Catholic
and dealing with the fallout (good girl/bad girl, constantly
feeling judged) from that, even better.
Need Therapy Now
Hi,
I have been seeing Dr. Lisa Lancaster for about 6 months now and
can truly say that she is most insightful therapist I have ever
seen. I have been struggling with the fall out from a very
painful divorce and the death of my mother, who was a very devoted
catholic. I left the church in my 20s. Dr. Lancaster has been
extremely helpful in getting me to understand all of the emotional
tummult that these losses have stirred up. I can recommend her
very, very highly.
She is in Berkeley. Her number is 510-841-2525.
Seek her out!
anon.
i'd like to recommend Yvonne Mansell on the Berkeley/ Albany
boarder. she is definately insightful and supportive in helping
me navigate the effects of being raised mormon. i always feel she
is accepting
of where i am, yet willing to share her wisdom so i can
let go and move forward. i believe her bio is in the
BPN files. she also has a website.
autumn
I want to recommend Isabelle Choniere-Correa she is a professional
Intuitive Consultant. I think she is exactly what your looking
for! She works with clients one on one and is extremely insightful
about all areas of your life and helps you overcome and grow as a
person. She is wonderful to work with, call her today. Her contact
information is below. www.insightsandforesights.com
Karle
Hi,
I think Claire Rubin is a really insightful and caring therapist.
She is really good at seeing the whole picture and helping others
see it too. I don't know what area you are looking for, and she is
on the Oakland/Berkeley boarder. Her number is (510) 594-1851.
Good luck,
Marie
Try Christie Rigg. She's not just a good listener; she's smart,
insightful and kind. You can reach her at 287-5845
Her website:
www.cristierigg.com
--Anon
I highly recommend my own therapist who I have worked with for 2
years, and is very insightful, and very helpful, and yes I worked
with other therapists before who just didn't seem to have much to
offer. She's great though. Warm, supportive, REAL, and proactive,
and gets in there with me, and educates me about stuff. And, I am
a ''recovering catholic'' myself and without going into it too
much, I can say she understands all the guilt, shame, etc, that
goes along with it and has helped me with that a lot... She's in
Oakland and also SF. Tell her Sarah referred you! I refer people
to her a good deal... 510-220-3558 is her #. Oh, Kathryn Hirt is
her name, she's an MFT. (kathhirt@hotmail.com)
I would like to recommend Audrey Martin as a tremedously
insightful therapist. She is direct, empathic, compassionate and
has a good sense of humor. I have experienced wonderful personal
growth with her as my therapist, and I highly recommend her. She
has an office in Oakland near the Rockridge BART station, her
phone number is 428-1505.
anon.
Jan 2008
I need a recommendation for a good therapist (preferably in or around the Walnut Creek
area) to help with stress, anger management and self esteem issues.
Anonymous
Here are 2 resources for therapy services.
1. Bay Area Psychotherapy Training Institute (BAPTI) in Lafayette
provides therapy on a sliding fee scale. www.bapti.org 925-284-2298
2. Women's Therapy Center in El Cerrito provides therapy on a sliding
fee scale and works specifically with women, adolescent girls, and
couples of any gender mix/sexual orientation. www.womenstherapy.org or
510-524-8288 x1
I am a Marriage Family Therapist Intern at both locations and would be
happy to answer any specific questions or meet for a consultation.
CM
May 2007
I would appreciate any recommendations on a couples/family therapist in the
Pinole/Hercules/El Sorbrante area.
Needs Help in Pinole
Hi,
WE live in the same area and I haven't found anyone around here. I drive to
Berkeley and I have a wonderful therapist, her name is Monica Simms and you can
reach her at 510-848-3633
Hope it helps you
May 2007
I am looking to find a good therapist (female preferred) in the Foster
City/Peninsula area, mostly to deal with past relationship issues. Prefer to find
one who is willing to give you honest opinions/feedback (versus someone who just
sits back and listens). I have reviewed the previous recommendations on the
parents website, but info on women therapists and Peninsula was limited. Thanks!
RR
I highly recommend you call Lori Luft, a psychologist who practices in San Mateo.
She works with individuals and couples, and offers a good combination of attentive
listening and insightful feedback. Her number is 650-340-8229.
anon.
Kristina Speer Cooper is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who does
individual therapy in both Palo Alto and the South Beach area of San Francisco. She
specializes in relationship issues and is very good. Her phone number is: 650-
619-7213. I believe her email is: krissyscoop@hotmail.com. She also has a website
dealing with her faimly services at: keepingfamiliesconnected.net
a.r.
April 2007
Hi, I'm hoping to get recommendations for a therapist in or near Alameda for individual
therapy. I'd like someone with experience in work/family balance issues, but really I
mostly need someone who can help me through some mild depression and feelings of being
overwhelmed all the time. I'd even be open to a career counselor with some therapy
skills, since some of this is likely related to my career. I'd like someone who's a good
listener, but who will be a little assertive in helping me delve into issues--I can be
passive and unwilling to work on things, and this made a previous effort at therapy
pretty useless. Thank you.
anonymous
try edith dutch key or scott perna at california counseling on park
street. both are great. anon
Try Kathryn Hirt, an MFT in North Oakland, not far from the Alameda tube.
She's interactive, works with anxiety and depression in a caring way that
is warm but will still gently push you towards shifts in how you think
about things, taking action, etc. Very helpful, insightful and proactive
too, and down-to-earth at the same time. 510-220-3558. Good luck to you.
Paul
Charles Wickstrand MFCC
I saw him for quite some time. He is very supportive but also
directive, there is no blathering on and on without guidance. Charles
offers sound commentary and advice and doesn't really
allow you become so self absorbed that you make no progress. I
have seen some therapists who just let you talk forever and don't
intervene to get you going in a positive direction. i really
enjoyed our sessions and if i ever go into therapy again (i'm
sure i will) i will choose to see him. his number is 510.522.8922
Jo
I really like Karen Hollinger Jackson in Alameda. She is kind, helpful
and wise and is helping me with anxiety and family issues.
anon
I highly recommend my career coach, Louise Goeckel, who can be reached at
510-749-9624. Louise is a wonderful human being, a great listener, a
compassionate yet straight forward support. she was able to help me sort
out all my ideas and emotions about my life and career. She gave me the
tools to mature, to grow and to feel good about my decisions. I can't say
enough good about her.
Celine
Jan 2005
I am looking for a recommendation for a therapist in Alameda
(or perhaps Oakland) to discuss the typical issues associated
with having kids, becoming a SAHM, arguing with the partner,
etc. I don't need a touchy-feely personality - just looking for
someone who is very smart and insightful. Thanks for any
leads.
anon
My husband and I recently saw Karen Hollinger-Jackson
MFCC, 2121 Central Av, Alameda, CA 94501, (510)
523-8404 to help deal with similar issues. I liked her
because she was a good communicator and helped us
resolve our issues.
Christina
April 2007
I'm looking for a solid therapist in Marin -- preferably San Rafael -- to
help me with some family of origin issues. Does anyone have a
recommendation?
time to heal
I highly recommend Susan Stordahl in Corte Madera. Wow, she has guided me through some
family of origin issues like no therapist ever has. 415-924-4098.
finally making progress
There is a wonderful and experienced therapist in Marin named Heidi Minnick. I am certain
that she can work with family of origin issues. I highly recommend her. Her number is
415-457-1793. lynn
Oct 2006
After years of trying to figure out why I am the way I am, I have
come to realize that I am in a mother-daughter ''codependent''
relationship. I know many therapists don't whole-heartedly
subscribe to the theory, but whatever you want to call it, I need
to learn some coping skills so that I can stop wasting my life
trying to gain the approval of my mother and others. I have
behavioral health insurance coverage through Aetna, but can't
fathom blindly picking a random name off an extensive list of
providers. I live in the Walnut Creek/Concord/PH area. Anyone
know of a good therapist in the area that might help those w/
''codependent'' characteristics work through their issues? Any and
all names, male and female are appreciated...I can check
insurance coverage before calling.
Thanks
anon
I would recommend Debra Lyman 510.594.4099 3120 Tel. Ave, Ste. 9,
Berkeley, CA 94705.
She has an amazing background and is well rounded in her practice
analuz
Linda Blackstone, LCSW has an office in both Concord and Oakland/Berkeley border.
She is one of the best therapists I know (I'm in the Social Work field .)Everyone I
have ever referred to her both for addiction/co-dependency issues and other issues,
have thanked me even for years afterwards. Her number is (925) 676-3054 Good
luck. Betty
Dianne Donnelly in Lafayette is great. I went to her years ago - not sure if she
specializes in co-dependency, as you described it but worth a call... Good luck!
anon
This is not silly or outdated at all. Codependence is real, and I can speak to it,
and got great help with it through my therapist Kathryn Hirt who works in Oakland
and SF. She is fantastic, and really understands how things work- what the hooks
are, what the behaviors look like, what attitudes are underlying all this- she is
extremely insightful and at the same time very down-to -earth and REAL, and
compassionate. And sometimes funny. Call her-510-220-3558. She'll help you through
this and give you great support and feedback. Good luck to you!
Sarah
Gheorghe Cosmin, Licensed MFT was my teens and my family
therapist for almost 3 years.
He is great with kids and adults and families. Before I found him
we went through 5 different therapist and programs without any
success. He help my teen son to recognize and cure from drug
dependencies. He help my whole family to deal with it.
It was almost tree years back. Then Cosmin left for New York. Now
he is back and he opens his private practice in San Francisco 5-10 min walk from
Momtgomery BART.
You can see his website at:
http://www.synergiscounseling.com
Also he gives free seminars:
http://www.synergiscounseling.com/EVENTS.html
His phone: 415 279 8240
His email: cosmin@synergiscounseling.com
If you have questions you are welcome to email me
jvk
August 2006
Can anyone recommend a good therapist in the city? Someone who
is willing to cover everything - from family/kids issues to
anger management?
Marina
I recommend Jane Walter on Sacramento St. She can be reached at (415) 433-4633. She is
caring, warm, smart and capable, and does individual and couples therapy on a variety of
issues
anonymous
I just started working with someone in SF who came very highly recommended (and so far seems
really good). Very smart, well trained (Stanford), sharp/stays on topic, assuring but stays
''real''. My belief is that he will be as good as everyone says (but don't have much more to
offer in terms of a recommendation than that given how little time I have been seeing him).
His name is Cannon Thomas and he has a website (if you Google him you will find him). Had to
move to the city
My friend sees a therapist she loves in SF who works with families and with couples and also
individuals. Her name is Kathryn Hart, she practices in the Richmond district and has
affordable fees. She says she's really down-to-earth and also skilled, insightful and clear
and also compassionate and warm. Contact info is 415-668-3904, ext. 5. Hope that is helpful!
Tip Giver
Dr. Terri Campbell is a terrific therapist in San Francisco. She does one-on-one
and couples therapy. She has a really good approach - kind but no-nonsense, and is
very insightful and intuitive. I know she has a Jungian background, but she also
seems to use other approaches as necessary. I have found her to be extremely warm
and so helpful. She's very open-minded to all lifestyles, too. Her office is on
Sacramento Street, her number is 415-823-4910. Good luck!
anonymous
March 2005
Finally after years and years of us pleading with her, my
sister is finally ready to seek therapy. She has had years of
issues around intimacy, abandonment, depression, aniexty and
panic. So this is a really big step for her. She is also slow
to open up and talk so it would be great to have someone who
can draw her out. She is looking for someone in the Pac
Heights, Marina area who could meet with her early evenings or
on weekends. Thanks!
Try Sandra Lewis, PhD on Union Street. She is the best therapist (she is actually a
psychologist) I have ever seen. She gets right to the heart of the matter and doesnt
let you beat around the bush. If you want to make progress call her: 415-567-3882.
Now Happy
I recommend Marc Wallis. He is very sensitive and competent and
sees individuals and couples. I think he can see people on
Saturdays. His phone number is 415-820-9609.
June 2006
Can anyone suggest a therapist (or other help) for a middle aged
man who has finally concluded that he needs help getting to the
underlying reasons for chronic disorganization, procrastination,
and constant lateness? Admitting the problem is a good first
step, but he needs help overcoming these issues before he drowns
in a sea of paperwork, lost items and missed appointments!
anonymous
I know of a very good therapist who has helped me with my
procrastination and really helped me move forward in practical ways as
well as helping me understand myself better and any underlying issues
around my procratination. Her name is Dr. Joanne Chao. She is very
interactive, compassionate and easy to work with. Her # is (510)
594-4003. You can also check out her website at www.drjoannechao.com.
Hope that helps
anon
As you seek a therapist for your lifelong procrastinator, you
might also consider the possibility that the procrastination has
a biological rather than a psychological basis. I, too, was a
lifelong procrastinator, and was very down on myself for being
unable to make what seemed to be pretty trivial changes in
behavior. Then in my 50s I discovered quite by accident that I
have actually had ADD all my life (ADD = Attention Deficit
Disorder, though the name doesn't really capture the essence of
the condition). This is a real disorder, and there are
medications and other treatment approaches that have helped a lot
of people. I suggest you read ''Delivered from Distraction'' by
Edward Hallowell and John Ratey, two down-to-earth
Harvard-affiliated physicians who have ADD themselves and who
have done what I think is some of the best writing in this field.
They also offer reasonably-priced conference call ''classes''
where they talk about many aspects of ADD, including medications
and strategies for dealing with ADD and for dealing with
partners who have ADD. The attendance is generally small enough
that participants can ask questions about topics of particular
interest to them.
For me it has been an eye-opener and a tremendous relief to
realize that there's a physiological reason I have trouble
getting organized, following through on tasks, taking minutes,
finishing projects in advance, etc., etc. (even though it's a
downer to realize there's something organic ''wrong with'' your
brain). But ADD has a positive side, too, which Hallowell and
Ratey emphasize.
The website with info on the classes is http://www.allaboutminds.com/
The website for Dr. Hallowell and the Hallowell [medical] Center
(a branch of which has recently opened up in San Diego) is
http://www.drhallowell.com/
There's a list of some of the positive attributes associated with
ADD there, as well as links to other useful articles.
Good luck!
Finally understanding my procrastination
June 2006
I'm looking for a therapist in Richmond, El Cerrito, Pinole,
Hercules, Albany areas. I have issues from my childhood and
they are still going on mainly
with my mother and they are affecting my marriage. I also need
therapy for anger management. Any recommendations would be
greatly appreciated.
MCA
For MCA, who was looking for a therapist in the North Bay and another
woman looking for a female therapist in Berkeley:
Lisa Larsen - 510-232-9122 - is a great therapist who sees clients in
Richmond and Berkeley. She can definitely help with the issues
mentioned. Couples, childhood issues, marriages, anger - the whole
sturm und drang. speaking from experience.
Nov 2005
Can anyone recommend a seasoned therapist in the Berkeley (ideally N. Berkeley)
area who might be a good fit for a cerebral and stressed mom? I've done a lot of
therapy in the past but am new to this area and facing a daunting littany of issues
from an interminable home remodel to a divorce while still adjusting to my
unrecognizable life as a mom in a new town. I'd love to work with an articulate,
smart, and compassionate therapist who is comfortable being direct. It would be
great to have a competent guide while I endure more transitions than I could ever
have imagined. Also, might there be groups out there for moms with young children
on the verge of divorce? Many thanks for any suggestions and referrals.
-Anon
Super Stressed Mom-
Call Robin Gayle, Phd, at 415.456.4607. She is over the San
Rafael bridge, on Sir Francis Drake in Kentfield but is totally
worth the short drive. I have been in Robin's Womens Group for
over 10 years--which doesn't sound like a recommendation in
itself, except the group is constantly seeking higher ground
from pretty good ground now. Having had much therapy, from
numerous practitioners before Robin, I can assure you with great
confidence she is absolutely the BEST. She teaches at Domenican
College (training other therapists)--the most professional,
insightful, supportive, innovative, focused-on-the-solution-to-
help-you therapist you could possibly find. I can't say enough
great things about her. She can definitely help you.
Good luck-
Another Mom who relates
My husband goes to Michael Thomkins. He is really fantastic.
It sounds to me like you could use a behavioral therapist (I
have found that practice of therapy to be the most direct, most
effective at helping create skills and solutions for the types
of situations you are facing). Their group is described at
www.sfbacct.com (652-4455, in Rockridge, on College by
Bittersweet and Diesel books). I know another therapist in the
group who specializes in kids and is also really great. You
should check them out.
Many years on the couch, found behavioral therapy to be the best
I recently saw Michael Simon,
who is a therapist located in the Rockridge area.
While I originally started sessions to help me get organized as a mom feeling
stressed and overwhelmed with trying to keep up with the demands of kids, school,
running a household, etc. In the end, there were unresolved issues that came up
which I ended up working on that helped me deal with the issues I was initially
trying to cope with.
I thought that Michael Simon was great in helping me sort through things and he is
very pro-mom and encouraging of you doing things for yourself while taking the
time that you need so that you are not stressed and in turn are a happy mom. He
also does drop in appointments for parenting issues that come up.
You can view his website at: www.affordabletherapy.com or 433-2959.
-anon
Jill Lebeau is the greatest therapist in the world. She is
well known in the area and does this type of therapy that she
has coined as rapid transformation. This is very different
than talking about your past while someone stares at you for an
hour. She is very involved and takes you through a process
that will teach you how a new way of living that does not
include feeling overwhelmed and stress. She changed my life
and many of my friends who have also seen her. She was just
featured in the Berkelely Voice last week and has a big
following at her elephant pharmacy workshops.
Her number is 849.1010. Her office is off of solano ave.
Good luck.
maureen
I would recommend the Alexander Technique, and Susan Schreier
Williams is an excellent teacher. Since you are a cerebral
person, this work, though it definitely includes the mind, is
very body based. Susan has been really honest and right on with
me about my habits physically, emotionally, mentally and
spiritually. I had no idea how much these habits were running
me. It has been extemenly helpful and all encompassing in terms
of my ability to relax, regardless of external circumstances.
Her number is (510) 482-2276. She is in Oakland, right off
Grand Ave. exit, and very worth the drive. Good luck!
been there
Aug 2005
I am writing on behalf of my husband who might not seek this type
of information out for himself.
He has recently completed his MBA and has made a career change.
He is unhappy in his new career, and is starting to feel lost and
depressed.
He has had weak results with career counselors in the past and
approached me tonight with the possibility that he might need to
see a therapist.
The website had some recommendations for career counselors, but
is there anyone out there who is a therapist specializing in
issues surrounding career changes? Maybe there is someone who is
a therapist/career counselor all combined into one?
Hopeful thinking from a concerned spouse
I would highly recommend Eric Grabow in Berkeley. Although he
isn't a therapist that only deals with career issues, he does
deal with men's issues, one being career stuff. He has an
amazing gift for being a manly guy and incredibly sensitive. He
has been in practice for over 20 years and I know many of his
clients, and we all LOVE him. I think your husband will too.
His number is 549-3797
Patty
May 2005
Hoping you can help...
I have a number of issues that I'd like to see a therapist for.
I suffer from clinical depression, which I've managed
successfully with and without medication for 10+ years, am a
recent first time mother, am having some marital issues and
also self re-assessment issues that I would like to talk to
someone about.
Therapy/counseling has not worked for me in the past because I
never felt like the therapist had much to offer me. I'm an
intelligent woman and do a lot of self-evaluation and self-
managed cognitive therapy, and none of the therapists I saw
seemed, well, smart or good enough to do anything for me I
couldn't do myself. And bad therapists just make things worse
when you're feeling frustrated. I'd like to see someone who is
exceptionally sharp and can help me examine the many issues in
my life. I am not interested in a ''crunchy'', feel-good
approach, but want to talk to someone who is extremely well
educated, experienced, and down to earth. Someone with
experience with clinical depression (maybe even a
pyschiatrist?), but also with marital issues would be
preferred. Someone who has evening or weekend hours available
would be ideal. Thanks!
anon
I have seen a therapist who fits your description--Carol Drucker
in Albany. She is so sharp and no BS or shrink mumbo jumbo.
She is very direct and excellent and gauging what you can handle
and not pussy-footing around things if you can handle them in a
straightforward way. She is so smart too and moves things
along. If she is not available, Bob Heavner in Berkeley is
equally terrific. But I got the impression you want a woman.
e
I highly recommend Dr. Allen Kanner -- 510-558-7210. He's a
gifted, experienced, kind, extremely smart, patient therapist --
who is not afraid to challenge the conventional and see things
through an alternative lens; however he has a traditional
orientation -- nothing ''touchy feely.''
anon
I saw a therapist for a couple of years to deal with similar
issues (depression, relationship). One of the best things about
her was that she did not insult my intelligence. I'm no
Einstein, but like you, I use my brain and am pretty good at
self-evaluation.
One caveat: while she certainly has experience with patients who
have clinical depression and marital issues, she is not herself
a parent. I don't know how that would affect her treatment of
parenting-related issues for you, since I stopped seeing her
before I became a parent.
She is
Colleen Hoff, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychologist
925-283-0190
She sees clients at her office on Piedmont Ave. Not sure about
evening or weekend times.
smart girl
Try Denah Joseph - her office is on Piedmont. Don't have the number off hand, but I
sound very much like yourself and found what I was looking for in Denah. I have seen
her off and on for over ten years. She is very no nonsense, knows her stuff and has
amazing skill with couples counseling as well.
anon
I can relate to your post. I too, suffer from major depression,
am very self-aware, and have been to numerous therapists in the
past 20 years. I also am a mom of two, so I know how the
post-partum period can complicate things.
Based on your post, I can highly recommend my current therapist,
Alisa Genovese. He number is 286-7599. She is an extremly
skilled theapist who is very intelligent, down to earth,
intuitive, and supportive without being touchy-feely. She has
particular expertise in Post partum depression and sees a lot of
moms and couples. I almost always leave her office feeling
better than when I went in. My husband and I have also done
couples work with her and she is able to work with us without him
feeling she is solely my advocate- a skill very few therapists
have. I know she works in the evenings but she may be booked up.
good luck!
March 2005
My therapist recently referred me to a psychiatrist to look into
medication for depression. The psychiatrist thinks that I have
mild bipolar disorder. He has prescribed medication and it is
working wonders for me. As I have started to read and understand
the difference between bipolar and depression, I think that he is
right and I've felt a real sense of relief that I can finally
understand what's been going on with me for years. It has also
really opened up alot of areas that I need to work on in therapy,
but I'm not sure that my current therapist is the right person to
work with. He initially said he didn't think that I was bipolar,
but rather mildly depressed. He has been helpful in the past, but
I'm starting to wonder if there is someone who would be better
for me to work with. Though he is clearly happy to see me getting
relief from the medication, sometimes I think he's still not
buying the diagnosis, but it is the first thing I've felt clear
about in a long time. (The psychiatrist does medication
monitoring only, so that's not really an option.)
I'd prefer someone who is part of MHN, in the north Berkeley
vicinity, and female (though that's not an absolute requirement).
Any suggestions would be welcome.
anon
Dr. Rebecca Epstein in Berkeley has helped me with adjusting
to the problems associated with newly diagnosed and treated
biplor disorder. She is not an M.D. but seems to have a lot of
experience in this area. She gets it, the triggers, the stigma,
the struggle to get and stay healthy. She has helped me a lot
with impulsive behaviors and roller coastering moods until I
finally was stable. Anon
I had a very good experience with Susan Drager when I first was
diagnosed with mild bipolar disorder. I continue to see my
psychiatrist to monitor my meds, but she but she helped me to
work out a lot of other issues and to get my life back on track.
She also taught me how to monitor and manage my bipolarism. Her
office is in Oakland, by Lake Merritt.
Anonymous
Feb 2005
I am feeling like I might crack... I am a young mom of 2. I work
3 days and stay at home the others. My husband thinks when I'm
home I should be a total house wife, but thatjust aint me, sorry
hubby! At this point, my patience are worn thin and I snap
easily at my 7 year old buy who is now talking back and trying
to parent me. Which is not even at all ok! So mama's, you know
any really good therapists with a sliding scale who are down to
earth, loving but who can tell me that I need to get my sh*t
together too? Pass me a line I'm ready to take care of me!
Signed: -an overworked almost housewife
This message could apply to many of those requesting a good
counselor. I highly recommend Tobey Hiller who works right off Grand
in Oakland. She is smart and EXTREMELY insightful, has a sense of
humor, a sense of compassion, but is honest and really helps set goals
toward making change in your life. I worked one on one with her, but
also worked in couples therapy with her and her husband Phillip
Ziegler. I thought they were both excellent. Her number is (510) 658-
6282.
anon.
This is a general recommendation for everybody who is seeking a
good therapist with a sliding fee scale.
I work at Bay Area Psychotherapy Services, a non-profit
organization which provides therapy for adults, couples,
children, adolescents, and families on a sliding fee scale
($30,- to $90,-). We have offices in Berkeley (across from
Berkeley Bowl), Oakland (Piedmont Ave), Hayward, Pleasant Hill,
Antioch, Dublin and Brentwood. Therapy is provided by a variety
of very skilled MFT interns who are supervised by licenced MFTs
and psychologists (many of them faculty at the Graduate School
of Professional Psychology at John F. Kennedy University).
Feb 2004
I'm new to the east bay and have a new baby. So for convenience
I'm looking for a therapist in Rockridge. Since there are about
50 on College Avenue alone--I''m hoping for a good referal.
My husband goes to Michael Thomkins and has had a really
incredible experience with him. His office is right by Diesel
Books. Michael was recommended by my therapist, Lisa Post, who
is down at Stanford and is just awesome (so her recommendation
means quite a bit). My husband has been able to grow actively
in Michael's care, not just in how he feels, but in how he ''is''
in his life. It has had a very positive impact on him, on his
job and in our relationship. I would highly recommend Michael
(and I am sure if my husband ever took the time to write to the
UCB Parents Network he would too, and much more eloquently).
A good therapist is worth his/her weight in gold
August 2008
Does anyone have any experience and recommendations for Alison
McCabe? I am looking for a therapist that can help me with an
eating disorder, anxiety, depression and career guidance.
Need Help
I took a class on anxiety management with her at Kaiser..I enjoyed
it..found it very helpful ..the group aspect..and great resources
from her and others in the class..if you embrace the exercises,,they
really help.
I see Alison for similar issues. I think she's great.
April 2008
Help. Having a tough time with infertility & considering adoption. Has anyone
used therapist Deena Solwren? Is she helpful? She advertises as ''All Things
Maternal'' focusing, it seems, on women's issues. Any other therapist
recommendations for these issues would be welcome as well. Thank you.
anon
I think your best bet is to have a conversation with her, or
with any other therapist that you are interested in working
with, to see if it's a good fit for you. For me, after finally
speaking with her for 15-20 minutes, I felt like it clearly was
not the right fit, though I initially thought she'd be terrific.
She phoned me back a few times to ''check in'' with me, and each
time I told her that it wasn't going to work out. I got the
impression that it was difficult for her to understand that, and
I had to ask her a couple of times to not call me back to
''check in'' before she got the message, and having to ask her
more than once made me extremely uncomfortable. However, I do
think she is very interested in assisting with ''all things
maternal.''
Oct 2006
I am a 40 yr old working mom, interested in individual
counseling. Any recommendations for a good family therapist,
in or around rockridge, that will accept Aetna Insurance?
anon
Diane Santas, (510) 834-4848, who works in Rockridge, helped me enormously with
both PPD and generalized anxiety. I'm happy to be able to recommend her, and yes,
she took my Aetna insurance. I just checked the online Aetna directory and she's
still in there
August 2006
Has anyone been to Ava Charney-Daykin? I have heard good things
about her as a therapist, and am thinking of going to her for
help in recovering from a recent trauma. Thanks,
anon
I went to Ava Charney-Danesh with my daughter for family therapy. We did
art
therapy together and found it and her to be really helpful! We didn't go
for very long
because we didn't have huge issues at the time, but I would go back to her.
I know 2 other people who went to her for both family therapy and
individual adult
therapy, and both really liked her as well.
As you know, connecting with a therapist is as much based on chemistry
as any
relationship is, but she is comfortable, clear-headed, and calm. I hope
that will give
you a good starting point.
Good luck
anon
June 2006
Re: Seeking a therapist
I'd like to share a treasure I found out about through a friend - the
Berkeley Free Clinic provides peer counseling for free (but I think
donations are welcome/accepted). I know that I have benefitted from
being able to talk to an empathetic counselor....They hold drop-ins on
Tuesday and Wednesday evening at 6:45, and then if you have a
long-term relationship with a counselor, you can schedule sessions at
mutual convenience....
Here's their website: http://www.berkeleyfreeclinic.org/ and their
phone is 1-800-6-clinic of 510-548-2570
anonymous
June 2006
Re: Seeking a therapist
Kathryn Hirt is a therapist I have been seeing for 8 months, and she has been
an invaluable support. I have felt skeptical about doing therapy for years
because I didn't want someone just to say ''how does that feel?'' repeatedly and
a lot of ''mmmm hmmm''s so it took me some time to finally make an appt.
Kathryn has helped me immensely. I am seeing her for issues of anxiety and
depression, as well as self-esteem, and feel blessed to have found someone
who is extremely insightful and astute, but also compassionate, kind and REAL.
Down to earth. I'd be happy to tell you more about my experience if you want
to contact me, or contact her yourself. Her office is in Piedmont. Her rates are
average. I think she also sees couples and is great with women, and I bet would
be great with men. Here's her #-510-220-3558. I have gotten so many great
referrals from BPN and wanted to share the wealth. Sarah
sarah
March 2006
For the many people who inquire about psychotherapists, I just
wanted to let all of you know of a great resource, an
information and referral search tool (an online directory) on
the Alameda County Psychological Association's website:
http://www.alamedapsych.org/iandr/iandrsearch.php
You can select a psychologist by population served, areas of
practice, office location, payment method, etc. The
psychologists listed are all fully licensed by the Board of
Psychology and are members of the California Psychological
Association. Of course, you can also call for a referral at 510-
433-9580, but I find that many people like the convenience of
an online directory.
Good luck. M.K.
2005
Therapist Lloyd Willey has asked not to be reviewed on the Berkeley Parents Network,
so previous reviews have been removed
and we cannot accept new requests for reviews.
More info here.
Sept 2005
I'm wondering if anyone has seen Karen Barnes (MFT in Oakland) as a
therapist.
I need to find someone on my insurance plan and she was
recommended, but not by someone I know. I'd love to find out more
about her style.
I'm particularly looking for someone who can help me with
perimenopausal issues as well as other things.
Other recommendations would be appreciated too.
Thanks
I have been a patient of Karen Barnes for about 3 years now and
have been very happy with her. I have found that she asks
questions, affirms what she is hearing me say and helps me get
to the next step. She never gives advice (unless I ask). She
has a very professional way of ''reading between the lines'' and
helping me understand myself and my family better. I hope that
helps. She has truly been a miracle worker in my life.
Although I do not have issues of perimenopause that you
mentioned, I do have PMS issues that she has helped me through,
so I can't see why she wouldn't be able to help in your area of
focus as well. Best of luck in whomever you find!
J.
2001
Does anyone have experience, positive or negative with:
Therapist Sally Clark MFCC especially dealing with children's issues?
Thanks very much.
I saw Sally myself for a couple of years, and highly recommend
her. I think she'd be great with children as
well as adults, as I know her to be very compassionate, gentle
and insightful. She has experience with pre
and perinatal psychology, which I found especially helpful as
a parent and as someone who works with
babies, to become more aware of how fully conscious babies are
even before they are born.
Lucia
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