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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 09/30/2026
Availability last updated 09/30/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Aimee! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Master's in Art Therapy, both from Phillips Graduate University. I most commonly use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as my therapeutic approach. I work hard to help people pinpoi...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Welcome, I’m glad you’re here today. I know starting therapy can feel uncomfortable or unfamiliar, however my role is to support you, aim to create a safe and comfortable environment where clients can openly explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences at their own pace.Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
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 Alicia! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with a Master�s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Argosy University and 12 years of experience working with children, teens, parents/guardians, and families. I am passionate about empowering those I work with to develop tool...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Oct 3
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 NaTonya! Hello and welcome! I'm NaTonya Scott, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Mind Renewal Coach. I have a passion for guiding individuals toward their most effective selves. As a person-centered therapist, I believe in tailoring our therapeutic journey to suit your unique ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
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 Cassandra! I work with clients across a broad range of life's challenges, whether you're navigating anxiety, working through a difficult transition, processing something painful from the past, or just feeling stuck and not sure why. My approach is collaborative and grounded: I meet you...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I always felt called to help others. Growing up in South Los Angeles, I developed a deep sense of culture and community among Black and Brown people, along with a profound respect for the struggles of BIPOC. I was surrounded by artists, musicians, poets, leaders, givers, and eccentrics from all walk...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 47 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Navigating something challenging in your life? You are welcome here! I help clients process various life changes, issues with mood or stress and anxiety and attend to these issues with care, curiosity, empathy and understanding. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected—to ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
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 Elsa! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from UMass Global. My goal is to provide you with support and guidance to promote personal growth, uncover your strengths, and make the behavioral changes you're seeking. ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Oakland, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have been licensed since 2001. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach. For over 25 years, I have worked with individuals, families, and groups. I chose the MSW/LCSW degree and license because I believe that p...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 19
Psychotherapist
4.53
·53 reviews
I highly recommend this doctor, my daughter feels much better just after one consultation.Click to read more
8.5 mi · 2860 Laguna St, Ste 101, San Francisco, CA 94123
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 1 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
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My name is Dr. R. Austin Heafey. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a PsyD in Clinical Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies. I also hold a Master's in Counseling and Forensic Psychology from Holy Names University and a Bachelor's degree from Georgetown University. I w...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
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
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 Natzayeth Barrales, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in Los Angeles, California, working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I earned my Master’s in Counseling from California Baptist University and bring over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescen...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Oct 3
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, Oct 3
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 Adia! Life can feel overwhelming when you are carrying stress, navigating change, or trying to understand patterns that no longer serve you. I offer a warm, supportive space where you can feel heard, gain insight, and develop practical ways to move forward with greater confidence. My ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Admitting we need help is difficult for most of us. Admitting we need mental health help is even more challenging. Taking the right step toward obtaining that help can also be a struggle; but you are here, and I applaud you for it! Whether it is a long or recent battle with depression, anxiety, rela...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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My name is Dr. Mahsa Mafee, and I also go by Emily. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with a doctorate degree. I earned my Master's in Mental Health Counseling from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. For the past ten years, I have worked with a wide range of client population...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
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, Oct 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 64 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Jared and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of California. I have 6 years of professional experience as an individual therapist, family therapist and clinical case manager. My expertise is helping reduce maladaptive behaviors, anxiety, stress, depression, ...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Oct 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·11 reviews
Incredible therapist, definitely recommend if you are struggling with anxiety and other stress related symptoms. She meets her clients where they are abd supports them to where they want to go. by ADClick to read more
San Francisco, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Ms. Alexis Warrington is a psychotherapist at Authentic Self Therapy, offering virtual consultations for adults experiencing anxiety, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion. She works with individuals who have often felt misunderstood or not accepted for who they are, while struggling with self-doubt ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Ms. Del Feld was kind and welcoming. I was in a lot of distress and she spoke with me gently and calmly until we were able to tame my anxiety. I suffer from latent stage fright as an artist, and we are working on that together. Highly recommend. by SLClick to read more
San Francisco, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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So. No one told you life was gonna be this way. Do you feel alone-like nobody sees your unique brand of awesomeness? Do you feel scared, like adulting comes with a lot of unforeseen challenges that you don't know how to handle? Do you feel frustrated with your relationships-like they're falling way ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Renzo! As a Latino male therapist, I’m passionate about breaking the mold and showing that men can be empathetic, supportive, and emotionally attuned. I help clients feel understood, empowered, and confident as they work toward meaningful change. My focus I support clients dealing wit...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
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, Oct 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi there, I'm Margarita! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPCC13947) based in Modesto, California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults, specializing in trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, and couples counseling using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Oct 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 60 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience and hold a Master's in Social Work from California State University, Northridge. I have experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting challenges, and depression. I believe tha...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Oct 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Gregory! Find yourself and resolve what is in the way of being satisfied in life. My goal is first to understand what you are facing, then to work with you to resolve past hurts, present obstacles, and help you find your way to a better path forward. Let's create a life for you to live...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I’m a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California, an MEd in Educational Psychology from McGill University, and a Bachelor’s from Concordia University. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs arou...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Oct 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Research shows that real growth isn’t about a specific technique—it’s about finding someone you genuinely connect with and feel safe opening up to. I work with you on your goals, with an approach tailored to your preferences and needs. You deserve support; you are brave for taking this step. Let's g...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Oct 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·10 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Supporting 20-Somethings Who Are Ready to Live Their Most Peace-Filled, Confident Lives Hey friend, I'm so glad you're here. My name is Devoney. If you're struggling with overthinking, replaying conversations in your mind & feeling like your brain is always going - I would love to support you. My w...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Oct 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.95
·21 reviews
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi, I'm Teresa Haro - Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA LMFT #117156/Valid 1/31/2028)--Offering secure Telehealth therapy throughout California. Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, and I'm glad you're here. Therapy can help you build self-awareness, confidence, and a stronge...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Oct 3
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, Oct 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Starting therapy is a meaningful step, and I honor the courage it takes to reach out. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or ready for change, you don’t have to face it alone. I support individuals and couples navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges, offe...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 2
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 Emily! Hi, my name is Emily Gomez, LMFT and I have been practicing since 2006. I have worked in a variety of settings and specialties throughout my career, such as outpatient psychiatric, substance abuse recovery, IOP/PHP, and private practice, so I bring an eclectic approach to my wor...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.85
·13 reviews
Oakland, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Men and women of all ages come to see me in therapy to explore healthy ways to cope with anger, irritability, difficulty with concentration and focus, and for support through their 12-step recovery. If you have found it difficult to cope with uncomfortable feelings, struggle with negative self-talk,...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 26
Psychotherapist
5.00
·16 reviews
Helped me cope with my trauma. by LSClick 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, Oct 7
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
Marriage and Family Therapist
5.00
·4 reviews
Channah creates a deeply affirming and thoughtful therapeutic space grounded in strong relational principles. She has a unique ability to meet clients where they are, whether they are youth, adults, or parents seeking a better understanding of gender identity, gender theory, or gender transition. He...Click to read more
3.5 mi · 1955 Mtn Blvd, Ste 101, Oakland, CA 94611
Accepts Aetna, 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
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Unfortunately, the docto I met with is is Florida and I am In California. Everything went very well and I definitely respect and understand why she would not effectively be able to treat me. However, she’s excellent! - Apr 26, 2026 by Angela S.Click to read more
Alameda, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a Master's in Nursing from Nova University. I am experienced and compassionate, with exceptional interpersonal skills. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and addiction medicine. My approach to care i...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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, Oct 3
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Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

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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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