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315 verified Psychotherapists in Oakland, CA
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 09/09/2026
Availability last updated 09/09/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Oakland, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Kathy! Congratulations on taking steps toward creating the life and relationships you desire. My name is Kathy Tanner, and I have been a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California since 2002. I am passionate about working with people who want to heal, grow, and live their bes...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Sep 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·8 reviews
Oakland, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Welcome! My name is Hue Dang, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the Board of Behavioral Sciences in California. I earned both my Master's Degree in Social Work and my Master's in Occupational Studies from California State University, Long Beach. I have over 10 years of experience worki...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Sep 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
2.00
·1 review
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic non-alzheimer's dementia + 2 more ·
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Hi there, I'm John! I have been licensed in California as a clinical psychologist for forty years. I have been the director of a Ph.D. level internship in a major San Francisco hospital, and Chief of the Outpatient psychiatry program in the same hospital. My approach I chose the psychotherapy approa...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Natalie! My name is Natalie Nguyen, and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned my Master's in Social Work from California State University Long Beach. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve meaningful growt...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·3 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Thirty years in this field has taught me one profound truth: change is incredibly uncomfortable—even when it is exactly what we need to grow. As a licensed clinical social worker with three decades of experience in health and mental health settings, I bring a unique blend of deep clinical wisdom and...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Christina! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about helping individuals navigate anxiety, stress, life transitions, self-esteem challenges, and emotional overwhelm. My background in hospital-based crisis work has strengthened my ability to provide compassionate, grounded ...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·8 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 59 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello, I'm David. Are you facing a change and unsure which direction to take? Are you questioning your identity or aspects of who you are? Are you struggling with challenges that feel too large to conquer? Are stressors weighing you down? I help navigate these tough questions and work with you to ...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 22 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Ready to build resilience and self-love? As a Bilingual therapist with broad US/global experience, I offer a compassionate, strength-based approach to guide you through life changes, trauma, and multicultural concerns. Let's start this collaborative work today! My approach My approach is Strength-B...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·4 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts UnitedHealthcare + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Welcome! I'm Allison, a LCSW licensed in California. First, I want to acknowledge your courageous first step towards improving your life because let's be honest, its not always easy to prioritize our mental health and process the areas where we feel stuck in our lives. I strive to create a warm an...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.00
·1 review
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 57 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California. I received my Doctorate from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio and completed my post-doctoral residency at UCSD. I have been licensed since 2018 and have several years of clinical experience prior to that while in school as well. I h...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Fernando! I am passionate about helping people work through life's challenges and achieve meaningful personal growth. I strive to provide a supportive, compassionate environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. My goal is to help individuals overcome obstacles, buil...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
san francisco, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm a Bay Area based therapist providing in-person therapy in Oakland and San Francisco, as well as virtual therapy throughout California. I work with teens, adults, and couples. I'm naturally curious about people's stories and the experiences that have shaped them. I believe therapy offers an oppo...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I’m Alexa Aversano, a marriage and family therapist based in Pasadena, CA, and I work with clients both in person and virtually through Spark All Wellness. I believe therapy works best when you feel genuinely heard, understood, and supported. My approach is warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed....Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Los Angeles, offering telehealth to clients statewide. I strive to create a safe space with compassion and authenticity to allow you the opportunity to explore difficult topics and conversations. I specialize in adults strugg...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Marry! Do you have a desire to be the best ‘you’ that you can be? Or maybe you just need a little assistance to get through a tough time. I have experience with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and ADHD, and can assist with developing coping strategies for a varie...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·16 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi my name is Ray Radeka, LCSW, CATC IV. I am a US Navy Veteran. Huge Dodger fan :)! I want to congratulate you on having the courage to reach out for assistance, it is not an easy thing to do. That being said you are already on your way to healing! I am a strength based, solution focused, compassio...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I support young adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions in a space rooted in empathy and respect. My collaborative approach helps you build insight, resilience, and practical tools at a pace that feels right. When you’re ready, I’m here to support your next step.Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.73
·30 reviews
rude, lacked empathy, and made me feel uncomfortable.Click to read more
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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My name is Carol Kosta. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I hold a master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles, and I am a certified EMDR practitioner. Over the last 20 years, I have worked as a therapist with diverse populations in private practi...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Welcome Taking the first step toward therapy is a powerful and courageous decision. Whether youre seeking support for life transitions, navigating overwhelming emotions, or simply desiring a deeper connection with yourself, I am here to walk alongside you. You dont need to have all the words or even...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·9 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I bring both professional and personal experience to my work as a therapist. Having a Bipolar 1 diagnosis has given me a unique perspective on the challenges of navigating the institutional and often stigmatized aspects of mental health and the impact on day-to-day life. This lived experience helps ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello. My name is Marina Ramirez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been a therapist for 7 years. Are you feeling stressed or overwhelmed with life's challenges and adversities? Maybe you just need guidance and help to alleviate your day? I would like to be that person to help...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Jordanna! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in adolescent and young adult mental health. I support adults (18+) in improving self-esteem, strengthening communication, and building deeper relationships. I also bring a neurodiversity-affirming approach to my work...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·6 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California, with a Master's in Social Work from California State University, East Bay. I have worked as a therapist for the past 12 years. As a first-generation Vietnamese American with immigrant parents, my life experiences of growing up in two...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·13 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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If you are reading this then you have already taken the first step to addressing whatever challenge you are facing or questions you may be asking yourself. Perhaps you are unsatisfied with your life and don't know how to change it. Perhaps you know what the underlying issue is but are afraid to tack...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! My name is Paul Sanger, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Benicia, CA. I build a collaborative partnership with my clients, focusing on thoughts, emotions, relationships, values, and life experiences to address whatever is causing distress. My goal is to support you thro...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Sep 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
Oakland, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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When we as human beings experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for our lives to unravel. My great passion is bringing healing to people who have been through a traumatic or stressful experience. I help my clients find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their rel...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist
5.00
·16 reviews
by WBClick to read more
7 mi · 220 Montgomery St, Suite 600, San Francisco, CA 94104
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I specialize in evidence-based treatment for adults with trauma, anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues. I have trained in community mental health clinics and in the VA system, working with diverse populations including veterans, LGBTQIA+, and sexual assault survivors. Many of the people I w...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Sep 16
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.91
·11 reviews
Oakland, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 47 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi there, I'm Monica! I earned my Master's in Counseling from National University in Fresno. It is my experience that my clients know themselves better than anyone; they are their own best resource when it comes to treatment goals. I see therapy as a joint venture where our knowledge and skills are ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Oct 6
Marriage and Family Therapist (Virtual)
Oakland, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Based in Oakland, CA, I am a licensed therapist offering comprehensive support to individuals across various age groups, with a primary focus on teenagers and adults. My approach is integrative, drawing from Narrative Therapy, Relational Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address a v...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Marriage and Family Therapist
5.00
·2 reviews
I felt safe with them right away. They’re affirming without being performative and really understand the nuance of gender work. I’ve never had a therapist approach things with this much respect and clarity. Truly a supportive therapist. by KSClick to read more
3.5 mi · 1955 Mtn Blvd, Ste 101, Oakland, CA 94611
Accepts UnitedHealthcare + 1 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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The provider is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and is currently working under the supervision of a licensed practitioner. Their current employer is Unfold Psychology. Channah Foreman offers both in-office and virtual consultations. Mx. Foreman assists couples and families in navigating...Click to read more
Next available: today
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Ana! As a first-generation American with life experiences both inside and outside the United States, I bring a culturally informed perspective that goes beyond assumptions. I strive to understand your unique story through the lens of your individual experiences, not just your cultural ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Sep 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Jennifer! Hello, I am Jennifer Rios-Zambrano, a passionate and dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My extensive training allows me to approach therapy with cultural sensitivity and a holistic understanding of individual and family dynamics. With a background in social w...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Sep 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.92
·26 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 65 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience serving diverse populations, including clients facing financial hardship, life changes, relationship issues, emotional and physical abuse or trauma, serious mental illness diagnoses in the family, and depression or anxiety. I ea...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Sep 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Destiny! Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of your next step? I help clients navigate anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional healing in a supportive and nonjudgmental space. Together, we’ll build insight, strengthen coping skills, and help you fee...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Sep 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Melissa Morales, LCSW, CADC. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Walden University. My goal is to provide a safe and appropriate environment that fosters both acceptance and change, utilizing an insight-oriented approach. My clinical expertise includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (C...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Sep 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I specialize in providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals, couples, and families. My practice focuses on addressing mental health challenges, navigating life transitions, and promoting overall well-being through evidence-based inter...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Sep 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Roxana! If you're here, you've already taken one of the hardest steps. I'm Roxana, an LMFT who works with children, teens, adults, and seniors navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where your story is heard and your str...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Sep 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Greetings! I'm a caring, warm, and strengths-based therapist who is rooting for your goals right alongside you. I don't shy from asking the hard questions when needed, but also believe in cultivating a trusting and supportive environment to help ensure we are navigating obstacles in a way that. My a...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Sep 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Francis! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California, providing services statewide via telehealth. I earned my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy and Child Counseling from California State University, Sacramento. I spec...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Sep 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·24 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 47 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Jerome! I have been extremely successful in providing couples and individual psychotherapy, ensuring that each client receives the highest level of therapeutic care. In addition, I have always maintained a specialized clinical practice that requires an advanced Cognitive Behavioral th...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Sep 13
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Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

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I checked out Zocdoc’s website and was pleasantly surprised. I read a lot of positive reviews from most of their providers...My only regret is that I didn’t make an appointment sooner.
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Psychotherapist in Oakland?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Psychotherapist in Oakland, book an appointment, and see the Psychotherapist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Psychotherapists in Oakland who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find an Oakland Psychotherapist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Oakland Psychotherapist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Psychotherapist in Oakland?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Psychotherapists in Oakland and book appointments instantly. You can search for Oakland Psychotherapists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Psychotherapist in Oakland?

When you search for Oakland Psychotherapists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Psychotherapists in Oakland who match your preferences.


How can I find an Oakland Psychotherapist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Oakland Psychotherapists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Psychotherapist in Oakland?

You can use Zocdoc to find Psychotherapists in Oakland who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Psychotherapist online in Oakland?

Psychotherapists in Oakland on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Psychotherapists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Psychotherapist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Psychotherapists in Oakland who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Psychotherapist in Oakland who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Psychotherapist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Psychotherapist in Oakland who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Psychotherapists in Oakland. Many Psychotherapists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Who is a psychotherapist? 

Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is a means to support people who are suffering from various kinds of emotional problems and mental diseases. A psychotherapist can assist in reducing or managing bothersome symptoms to improve function, well-being, and recovery.


Psychotherapists work with individuals, couples, groups, or families to resolve mental issues. They often use talk therapy to manage their patients' emotional problems, trauma, or illness. As part of your treatment, your psychotherapist may also prescribe medication and suggest a few lifestyle adjustments in addition to talk therapy.


What does a psychotherapist do?

Psychotherapists use talk therapy to treat psychological illnesses. You learn about your condition, emotions, feelings, ideas, and behaviors during psychotherapy. Psychotherapy has a significant impact on improving emotions and behavior.


Psychotherapy also helps flush out negative thoughts and brings about positive changes in the body and brain. It allows one to regain control over one's life and develop effective coping mechanisms. 


Education and training

Psychotherapists are specialists in psychology and counseling. They can only start working as therapists once they earn their doctorate. After an undergraduate and graduate degree, a student must get a doctoral degree. However, few people have a master's degree, and those who do are counselors, not therapists. After that, one must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Finally, they must finish their practicum hours, which typically total between 1500 and 1600 hours of supervised, hands-on work. 


What should you expect from your first therapy session?

This session is mostly about gathering information about you and your needs. You must share your physical and mental health history and current circumstances. Similarly, it is also an opportunity for you to see if the way of work and approach your therapist uses will work for you. You must understand the type of therapy, treatment goals, session lengths, and the number of sessions you need. 


How can you maximize the result of a psychotherapy session? 

You may maximize your psychotherapy sessions and contribute to their effectiveness by following simple steps.

  • Ensure that you are comfortable with your therapist and can talk freely. If you aren't, you must look for another therapist you can trust and talk to easily. Your willingness to share your ideas, emotions, and experiences and consider fresh perspectives, ideas, and approaches will determine how well your session goes.
  • Sticking to your treatment plan is essential. Although there may be times when you are demotivated, attending your sessions is crucial. 
  • Remember that treatment takes time, so don't expect instant results. Working on emotional issues is painful and requires hard work. Thus, work with patience and trust in the process. You may need a few sessions before you begin to see improvement.
  • It is advisable to do your homework between sessions. Then, follow through if your therapist instructs you to keep a journal or engage in other activities outside treatment sessions. You can better apply what you've learned in therapy sessions to your life through this.


However, if you feel your psychotherapy isn't helping, talk to your therapist. Your therapist may make some changes or try a different approach for an effective result. 


How do psychotherapy and counseling differ?

Although psychotherapy and counseling share similarities, they differ in several key aspects:

1. Training and Education

  • Psychotherapists: Typically undergo extensive training, often earning advanced degrees. Their education includes supervised clinical practice and specialized training in various therapeutic methods.
  • Counselors: May have diverse educational backgrounds, ranging from bachelor's degrees in counseling or related fields to shorter certificate programs or focused training in counseling techniques.

2. Scope of Practice

  • Psychotherapists: Work with individuals facing severe or complex mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, dissociative identity disorder, schizophrenia, and severe depression. They often provide long-term therapy to address deep emotional and behavioral patterns.
  • Counselors: Help clients navigate immediate or situational concerns, such as relationship issues, grief, or career challenges. Their focus is typically on short-term support and practical strategies for overcoming specific problems.

3. Therapeutic Approach

  • Psychotherapists: Use structured therapeutic techniques tailored to a client’s needs, such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These methods often explore past experiences and unconscious processes.
  • Counselors: Take a more flexible and eclectic approach, drawing from various counseling theories and techniques. Their primary focus is on providing support, guidance, and practical tools for addressing present-day concerns.

4. Regulatory Oversight

  • Psychotherapists: Are subject to strict licensing and regulatory requirements, which vary by region. They must meet specific education, training, and supervision standards and comply to professional code of ethics.
  • Counselors: May also require licensing or certification, but the standards vary widely depending on their work setting and the services they provide.

5. Depth of Exploration

  • Psychotherapy: Involves an in-depth exploration of a client’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences to uncover underlying issues and promote long-term personal growth and healing.
  • Counseling: Focuses more on addressing present challenges with practical solutions and problem-solving strategies. While emotions and thoughts may be explored, the emphasis is on immediate coping skills and behavioral changes.


What is holistic psychotherapy?

Holistic psychotherapy, also known as holistic therapy or body-centered psychotherapy, combines traditional and non-traditional therapy methods to treat and benefit individuals. Instead of focusing on a single problem, it considers the emotional, physical, and spiritual components that influence an individual's well-being and aims to help people recover and grow deeper. 


Holistic treatment combines elements of traditional talk therapy and nontraditional methods such as hypnosis, breath therapy, and meditation. In addition to treatment, these approaches center on prevention. Thus, incorporating holistic therapies before problems arise may be beneficial in preventing problems that can impair a person's emotional, physical, social, or spiritual well-being.


Types of holistic psychotherapy

Holistic psychotherapy is an umbrella term that includes various types of treatments. Professionals offering this treatment are known as holistic therapists, and they may provide one or more of the following treatments:

  • Eclectic or integrative therapy is a method that relies on different traditions and techniques to meet a person's requirements, such as cognitive-interpersonal therapy, transtheoretical therapy, person-centered therapy, etc.
  • Mind-body therapy is a set of treatments that enhance physical functioning and produce calmness to improve health.
  • Somatic therapy focuses on healing trauma, stress, and other mental health disorders using a body-centered approach. It employs practices such as breathwork, dancing, and meditation.
  • Spiritual therapy is a method of exploring issues in a person's life that involves belief systems and spiritual faith.


Techniques used in holistic psychotherapy

Holistic treatment employs various strategies to help patients understand their symptoms and build greater self-awareness. 


Based on mindfulness and bodywork practices, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) techniques induce relaxation and assist individuals in better comprehending the relationship between the body, mind, and spirit. Among these practices are:

  • Acupuncture
  • Guided imagery
  • Biofeedback
  • Breathwork
  • Meditation
  • Reiki
  • Tai chi
  • Hypnosis
  • Massage
  • Mindfulness
  • Yoga


How does therapy help with substance abuse?

If you have a substance use disorder, you can schedule a session with a psychotherapist near you to get the required assistance. Treatment to minimize substance misuse comprises a combination of individual and group therapy sessions. These sessions aim to educate individuals in recovery on the skills required to become and remain sober, as well as how to handle various situations without resorting to drugs or alcohol. Here are some other practical techniques that help with addiction and substance abuse:

  • Individual, group, and family treatment: Patients can participate in treatment supervised by a therapist in a one-on-one format, with a group setting in a safe, peer-supported environment, or with the participation of family or anybody significant in the patient's life.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): It encourages individuals to question and evaluate repeated thoughts to eliminate negative and harmful thoughts. CBT addresses a wide range of problematic substance use behaviors and helps people observe and change their maladaptive behaviors. 
  • Motivational Interviewing (MI): This strategy aims to help recovering individuals overcome ambivalence and embrace their treatment efforts. MI strengthens their motivation and changes commitment to be consistent with their values. As a result, rather than imposing or forcing specific changes, the therapists "meet the client where the client is" and assist them in moving toward their goals by identifying and developing their readiness for change.
  • Rational-emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT): It assists patients in identifying, challenging, and replacing harmful attitudes and beliefs with healthy, adaptive ones. It helps them comprehend their thoughts, which leads to improved behaviors, more positive and rational thinking, and healthier emotions.


Top holistic psychotherapist near you in Oakland, California 

Every person is fighting their own battle, and sometimes we need a little help with these mental battles we fight daily. Asking for help is one of the bravest things you can do, and Zocdoc is here to help make that easy!


If you are looking for holistic psychotherapy near you in Oakland, just log into Zocdoc and enter your requirements in the search bar. You can search by specialty, symptoms, or procedures.


It is also helpful to find an in-network provider for affordable medical costs. 


Will Zocdoc ask you to upload a photo of your insurance card? Uploading a photo of your medical insurance card will help you find the right insurance plan on Zocdoc, but it is not required. If you don't want to upload a picture of your health insurance card, you can manually enter your insurance information into your account by selecting your plan from a selection. If you have any queries, contact the Zocdoc patient's help center.


You can include your secondary insurance details in the appointment notes if you have multiple insurance plans. Alternatively, if your healthcare provider uses Zocdoc's Intake forms, you can enter your secondary insurance information directly through the form.


With Zocdoc, you can schedule appointments before, during, or after office hours, depending on the psychotherapist's availability. If the psychotherapist's schedule allows, you can also book in-person or online appointments on weekends and holidays.


Moreover, you can also add your specifications, like language, area, gender, etc., to get filtered results. Each doctor on Zocdoc has a profile with details such as education, training, specialties, awards, experiences, licensing, and other accomplishments and affiliations. 


Locate the best psychotherapist near you according to your timings. You can also check previous patients' reviews and ratings for clarity. Then, you can book a simple, free, and secure appointment. 


Mental health statistics of California

Mental illness is very common in the US, and around 1 in 20 adults experience it each year. Similarly, as per a report from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, about 1,243,000 adults and 396,000 youths (aged 6-17) are recorded to have serious mental illness in California. The report also states that in Feb '21, 46.1% of adults reported anxiety symptoms, and approximately 21.6% could not get the required therapy. Additionally, 4,491 people died due to suicide, and around 1,232,000 adults thought of suicide in the last year.


Sources

WebMD

Mayo Clinic

American Psychiatric Association

National Alliance on Mental Illness

Verywell Mind[1]

Verywell Mind[2]

American Addiction Centers

Medical News Today

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

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