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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 04/02/2026
Availability last updated 04/02/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Raymeka! My name is Raymeka Moss, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a Master’s degree in Clinical Health Services from The Chicago School. I use an eclectic approach to therapy based on my clients’ presenting problems and unique personalities. I consider myself...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
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 Paris! My name is Paris E. Conner, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a passion for helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges. I am deeply committed to fostering healing and growth by using a compassionate and client-centered approach to ther...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello there! My name is Krystal Faraz, and I’m a licensed mental health counselor in Washington state as well as California. I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Texas, San Antonio. My approach I primarily practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My goal is to provide you with skills that you can take and maintain even after you complete your therapy journey with me. I focus on helping my clients understand and take control of their emotions, which can improve day-to-day life and manage triggers. I believe that through self-awareness and und...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 6
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 Amber Thuston. I hold a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University and am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I utilize a holistic position when treating individuals with relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety and mood disorders, multicult...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT119689) with a master's degree in Counseling Psychology, specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco, USF. My approach I offer an integrative approach including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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You might be seeking therapy at a time when you feel stuck, unsure, or overwhelmed. I specialize in working with individuals' anxiety & depression, trauma, family issues, self-esteem, people-pleasing, dating, and relationships. My goal is to help you understand the root of your struggles, to build i...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 34 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I have a doctorate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I also hold a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Loma Linda University. My personal style is casual and comfortable. My approach I provide a supportive space where my patients can...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 72 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, my name is Abram Andersen. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked in the field for 12 years. I strongly believe healthy relationships are the foundation for a happy healthy life. Relationships really matter! Sometimes things like depression, anxiety, and trauma can get i...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 6
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 Monet! My name is Monet Fields, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California, and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I hold a Master?s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University. I work with children, parents/guardia...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychologist
5.00
·26 reviews
I've been a patient of David's for several years. He's been a consistent source of support and guidance through some very challenging life experiences, relationships, and has aided me in my personal growth journey. by SLClick to read more
3 mi · 5655 College Ave, Ste 316 C, Oakland, CA 94618
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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My aim is to help my patients better understand their individual life context by exploring what a particular symptom is trying to express. I listen closely and look beyond the surface of suffering so that together we can address the underlying issues and create the conditions for lasting change. My ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist
5.00
·2 reviews
Naomi has such a genuine warming presence. She’s thoughtful, curious, and just feels naturally easy to connect with. She always makes me feel seen, heard, and supported. With Naomi, it feels like my growth and well being are personally important to her. Naomi is truly talented at what she does and I...Click to read more
9.5 mi · 3195 California St, San Francisco, CA 94115
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 1 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a psychotherapist practicing at Spark All Wellness in San Francisco, CA, where I offer both in-person and virtual sessions. I earned my master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Loyola Marymount University. I provide therapy for individuals, couples, and families, with a focus on str...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Naomi has such a genuine warming presence. She’s thoughtful, curious, and just feels naturally easy to connect with. She always makes me feel seen, heard, and supported. With Naomi, it feels like my growth and well being are personally important to her. Naomi is truly talented at what she does and I...Click to read more
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a psychotherapist practicing at Spark All Wellness in San Francisco, CA, where I offer both in-person and virtual sessions. I earned my master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Loyola Marymount University. I provide therapy for individuals, couples, and families, with a focus on str...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 75 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Katerina Sorrell, MA, PPSC, LPCC, is a licensed psychotherapist and National Board Certified Counselor with over a decade of experience helping clients achieve healing, resilience, and personal growth. With a Master’s in Counseling from Chapman University and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from CSULB, s...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 22 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I'm a clinical therapist with five years of experience working with children, families, and individuals who have faced challenging situations such as domestic violence or family separation. My focus is on creating a safe, empathetic space where clients can explore their strengths, heal, and grow. I ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·2 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I have always been fascinated by human behavior, the process of producing it, and the impact it has on the lives of those involved. From my earliest days of rural living to my time in Los Angeles, I truly experienced a journey of wonder regarding these topics. Engaging in my own therapy increased my...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi it's nice to meet you, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from Fuller Theological Seminary and have been practicing for over 8 years. I help adults struggling with trauma, anxiety and life stressors to regain their sense of agency, make...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Do you feel overwhelmed? Are the things you used to enjoy just not doing it for you anymore? Do you feel stuck and disconnected? It may feel like you are constantly anxious, stressed, and worried. You find yourself turning toward unhealthy behaviors to cope. You want to feel comfortable in your own...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 34 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Deciding to start the journey of therapy is something people come to for so many reasons. To heal trauma. To grieve. To vent. To find the way through a huge life transition. To discover who they are. To learn better ways to cope. To find a way to become unstuck when things just aren’t working. I am ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I'm Patricia. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience supporting clients in becoming the best version of themselves. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I meet you where you are in your life and circumstances, offering a non-judgmental, compassiona...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
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 April! So proud of you for taking the first step in reaching out for support. I look forward to working with you in the area of your choice and supporting you in any area of concern. Focus areas for my practice include couples, first responders (fire/EMS), law enforcement, and compass...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
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 Nailah! Nailah Kokayi is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCS #75618) with a Master’s in Social Work from California State University, Sacramento. Her goal as a therapist is to help people find solutions to their inner conflicts. Nailah believes we all have the answers to our inne...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! My name is Diana, and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master’s in Social Work from California State University, Fresno. I have over 21 years of mental health experience working with adults, children, and families in inpatient, outpatient, and resid...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a licensed clinical social worker in California and Colorado, holding a Master's in Clinical Social Work from the University of Calgary. I am currently accepting clients both virtually and in person and have been practicing in mental health for over thirteen years across various clinical and su...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 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 know that choosing to seek therapy is hard, and I’m glad you’re here. I’ve been working in the mental health field for over twenty years. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction, chronic il...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Kristy! My name is Kristy Crownover, and I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Master’s in Psychology from California Southern University. I am a trauma-informed, emotionally focused therapist working with couples, families, and individuals. I specialize in improv...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 34 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Gillermina Alvarado, and I go by Mina. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Riverside, CA, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I hold a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Phoenix. I work with adults, children, and adolescents...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
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 Kim! Do you feel lost? Do you know who you are? Is it difficult to trust others? Are you attracting the same toxic people in your life? If this sounds like you, let's take a journey through meaningful conversation to create a tailored plan for becoming the best version of yourself. M...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am passionate about fostering genuine connections with clients to create a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I believe that every individual deserves space to express themselves freely and work to...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am so glad you are here. Let me take a moment to introduce myself. I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from California Lutheran University. I specialize in a strengths-based and person-centered approach. I work with adolescents, a...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·9 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I am energetic, fun-loving, and charismatic. As a therapist, you will find me to be open, honest, encouraging, compassionate, and supportive. My passion is to help all my clients explore their unique individuality, inspire them to discover their strengths, and happily embrace their challenges. I ho...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there! My name is Madalina Stancu, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (#16412) in California. I hold a Master's in Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I am excited to meet you and walk alongside you on your journey as we work through day-to-day stressors, anxiety, depression, buildin...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a first-generation Vietnamese-American refugee and daughter of immigrants. I have personally experienced the challenges of healing and living with trauma, and I share many of the same experiences as those who are on this journey. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the impact that...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.92
·12 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello – I am an LCSW serving the adult population in California. I earned my Master's in Social Work from San Jose State University and have been licensed for 12 years. I work with clients from a strength-based perspective, offering knowledge and skills to support increased functioning and efficacy....Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Have you ever felt alone in a crowded room? Like nobody could understand what you are going through? Like your world is spinning out of control, and you don't know how to stop or slow it down? I want to help you get out of the darkness, the place where no one else is allowed or has been. It can be l...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
You have a good life on paper, but inside, something still feels unsettled, unspoken, or incomplete. You might be navigating existential questions, subtle relational pain, or a longing for greater connection to your body or spiritual path. You may not even know exactly what’s missing—only that you w...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 34 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Kelly! I am a licensed therapist with over 21 years of experience, holding a Master's in Counseling from National University. I work with kids, teens, adults, and seniors. My approach I provide a direct approach to therapy using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Good listener and sincere. I can put my trust in Karen. - Sep 21, 2023 by Sau W.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 ·
Read bio
Dr. Karen Quek, an experienced mental healthcare professional with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Marital and Family Therapy from Loma Linda University, is a dual-licensed couple and family therapist and professional clinical counselor. My professional goal is to help you empower yourself, move f...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
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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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