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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 05/11/2026
Availability last updated 05/11/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Essy! Hello, I'm Essy Knopf, a licensed therapist specializing in supporting LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from California State University, Dominguez Hills, and a Bachelor’s degree from UNSW Sydney. My approach combines lived experiences ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 34 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Jairo! My name is Jairo Lozano Lopez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am here to assist you in becoming your ideal self, transforming your relationships and experiences, and helping you find a purpose that drives you forward. I offer unconditional positive regard ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Donetta Jackson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 25 years of experience. Based in Southern California, I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I help individuals facing difficulties in relationships, stress, and parenting challenges, often alongsid...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.43
·7 reviews
Have received very very poor service. Would not recommend - Apr 10, 2025Click to read more
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Ever feel as though there is much on your mind but no one to share it with? Like no one will understand what it is that you have to say? Are these thoughts or feelings leading to depression or anxiety? Or perhaps you've experienced trauma in your life that remains unresolved? Let me be the one to li...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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No human is immune from heartache, loss, fear, insecurities, and traumas, big and small. If you’re alive, you’ve experienced some STUFF, and you don’t have to carry the burden alone. I offer compassionate, trauma-informed care using EMDR, CBT, Brain spotting, and relational approaches to help you he...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.82
·11 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hola, welcome to my profile! My name is Edna Salcido, and I am a bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I earned my bachelor's degree from California State University, Monterey Bay, and my master's degree in Social Work from the University of Southern Californ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 72 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello, my name is Vicki! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, anger, behavioral issues, and mood disorders. When I am not practicing therapy, I enjoy spending time w...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·6 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, my name is Karina. Do you currently feel you are at full capacity with life and need assistance managing struggles in family, relationships, past trauma, work, or health? I assist people who have experienced trauma that is currently affecting their work, school, family, relationships, or ca...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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My name is Myrna. I am a Spanish-speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's in Social Work from California State University. I have over 15 years of experience working with adults suffering from depression, autism, anxiety, chronic pain, grief, and loss. When the stress in life becomes...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·18 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Asking for help is one of the most courageous things you can do for yourself. Life can be stressful, and you can feel pulled in many different directions. As an African American man who grew up in Los Angeles, I have faced my share of challenges and obstacles. When stress sets in, I understand that...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·10 reviews
My first therapy session was incredible and eye opening. I felt seen and comfortable to share whatever I wanted. She already had great things to say and I felt that I walked away with a little more knowledge about myself. It was truly one of the best things. - Jan 9, 2025 by Belen C.Click to read more
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Seeking therapy is not easy, and you deserve the support that you're looking for. I approach therapy from a strengths-based perspective, and my mission is to partner with motivated individuals seeking to improve their quality of life. I spend the first few sessions really getting to know you as a pe...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·8 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! Welcome to my page! I'm a bilingual, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Master's from Notre Dame de Namur University in Clinical Psychology and have been practicing for 6 years. In the past, I have worked with children, youth, adults, couples, and fa...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, my name is Katrina Gonzalez, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I meet my clients where they are and build on your strengths to help you live a fulfilling life. My approach I am a structural therapist who focuses on relationships, boundaries, conflict resolution, mindfulness, and se...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Do you currently feel you are at full capacity with life and need assistance with managing current struggles in family, relationships, past trauma, or grief? I assist teenagers and adults who have experienced trauma and/or grief that is currently affecting their work, school, family, relationships...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm confident in my ability to build a rapport and meet my clients where they're at, both intellectually and emotionally. I'm able to treat most adult populations with moderate to severe mental illness. My style is client-centered, and I'm interested in helping clients communicate with themselves an...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.90
·21 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello, my name is Patricia Bevan. I have always found human behavior interesting. I love getting to know people and listening to their life stories. I find it very rewarding to empower people to achieve their best, support them through their personal challenges, and help ease emotional burdens. I ho...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Richard! My name is Richard Madero, LCSW [106291] in California, with 8 years of professional experience. I help clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, depression, and anger management. My approach My approach is Christian-based, strength-based, in...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 34 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Kasi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to helping adult individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve their optimal contentment. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, I support those facing life stressors, interpersonal conflicts, communication...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I utilize an integrative approach to therapy, including combining foundational and specific approaches: client-centered and cognitive behavioral therapies. If you've felt stuck by not being able to stop ruminating on fearful or self-critical thoughts and overwhelmed by intense emotional states, I ca...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Gary Youssef and I have been providing mental/behavioral health services for children, adolescents, adults and families for 25+ years. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing mental/behavioral health issues impacting children and adults such as: career/school stressors, ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 29 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Angela Arellano, LMFT, helps children, teens, and adults across California navigate emotional challenges, build resilience, and move toward a more grounded and fulfilling life. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at LifeStance Health, she provides individual therapy for a wide range of conce...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 20
Psychotherapist
5.00
·6 reviews
I was struggling with questions about meaning and direction in my life. Dr. Thompson’s way of working helped me sit with uncertainty without feeling overwhelmed, and I felt more anchored over time. by AAClick to read more
8.5 mi · 1728 Union Street, #302, San Francisco, CA 94123
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Michael Guy Thompson, PhD is a clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst who offers depth-oriented psychotherapy grounded in existential and psychoanalytic traditions. He is deeply attentive to the suffering that can emerge in ordinary life, including fear, alienation, depression, confusion, and the f...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Marriage and Family Therapist
4.64
·22 reviews
Rachel is not like any therapist I’ve had before and she really does Somatic therapy (unlike other providers who I’ve been to). She showed me how to find manageability in my mood swings. This has shifted my self concept, and built my strength from the inside out. Thank you Rachel, I will always be g...Click to read more
3.5 mi · 1955 Mtn Blvd, Ste 101, Oakland, CA 94611
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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When you find yourself in need of support. Where your quality of life does not feel as it should - this is who I work with. Man, woman, child, adolescent, couple - we all suffer, thrive and have unique drives. In my opinion, the more important question is if you feel comfortable. Your trust, your fa...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Melissa Patti, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I hold a Master's in Social Work from California State University, Northridge, and I am a Diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy. For the past 12 years, I have been providing individual therapy services...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, May 16
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Starting therapy is a meaningful yet vulnerable decision. Reaching out for support takes courage, and you're already doing something important by being here. I'm here to make the process feel safe, grounded, and human. I work with adults navigating anxiety, anger, life transitions, identity explorat...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello, I am Allison Nurse-Hofer, a licensed psychotherapist practicing virtually in California. I call my practice The Women's Corner because I focus primarily on issues which are of concern to adult women ages 21 to 101 . IF YOU DO NOT SEE YOUR INSURANCE LISTED HERE, DO NOT GIVE UP! I do offer sup...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.92
·24 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi There! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with seven years of experience supporting individuals navigate life’s challenges. My approach is rooted in empathy and compassion, and I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel genuinely seen and heard. I believe ther...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
San Francisco, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I’m a licensed marriage & family therapist offering short-term therapy to individuals who feel overwhelmed, anxious, burned out, or disconnected underneath. My approach is humanistic and insight-oriented, grounded in curiosity, warmth, and deep respect for your lived experience. I believe therapy is...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Meiqi! Therapy is a space where you deserve to be seen, heard, and respected. I am a first-gen immigrant and queer therapist who believes in the value and importance of cultural and human connection in the therapeutic space. My approach I practice from a person-centered and trauma-in...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there! I'm Barbara G. Perry, an LCSW dedicated to helping my clients navigate life's challenges and find a path to healing and self-discovery by developing coping strategies and fostering positive change. I work empathically and collaboratively with clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, an...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, May 16
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·6 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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As a therapist and coach, I seek to treat the whole person and begin where they are. Through deep listening, positive regard, and an open presence, I partner with you and draw from various modalities to create a path that helps you discover your abilities, strengths, and, most of all, resilience to ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 34 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Darryl! I would like to offer myself, my time, and my expertise to assist you in your journey, whether you find yourself struggling with emotional issues, seeking self-improvement, or exploring relationship needs. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Master’s i...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
This is YOUR JOURNEY and YOU DESERVE specialized support. Are you having trouble functioning in your environment while experiencing unproductive thoughts, feelings, or actions? Are your emotions working against you-controlling you and keeping you from experiencing the relationships and life you want...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 18 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. In my practice I value empathy, optimism and belief in the power of resiliency and healing. These are guiding principles in my personal and professional life. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide individual mental health treatme...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
- Oct 9, 2024 by Shahar S S.Click to read more
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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My name is Dr. Oreet Schrader. I hold a Doctor of Psychology and a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University, as well as my MFT license. I enjoy working with adults, teenagers, and couples, and I also provide parenting education and guidance. I work collaboratively to hel...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My goal is to help guide those that have lost their way, to help them build or rebuild the relationship with themselves that will allow them to make better choices. To help change negative thoughts to positive and to learn that they deserve to walk through the journey of life happy, fulfilled, and w...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
With 25 years as a clinical social worker and a Master's in Social Work from the University of Southern California, I have learned that finding the right therapist is like trying on a pair of shoes. It has to be the right fit for you to begin the journey of self-exploration. I believe in a strength-...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Welcome Im glad you are here considering starting your therapy journey. My name is Vik and I have been a marriage and family therapist for over 9 years. My therapy style includes a focus on empowerment and skillbuilding to assist you with the challenges youre facing. I focus on building a safe, cari...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.71
·7 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 72 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
My name is Kristine Fernandez, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the beautiful and sunny state of California. I earned my Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University, Inland Empire. I have worked with all ages and specialize in trauma-informed care by using a blend of Cogniti...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 15
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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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