Therapists in Berkeley, CA
Dr. Carey Shaffer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I am a seasoned Psychologist with over 20+ years of community mental health, private practice and organizational experience. I have worked with hundreds of children, adults and families in a variety of mental health settings in the Bay Area including Seneca Family of Agencies and A Better Way, Inc. both prominent East Bay Child and Family organizations. I currently work as a part-time staff Psychologist with Kaiser Permanente’s Child and Family Department of Psychiatry, where I provide assessment and therapeutic services to children and families.
I am a seasoned Psychologist with over 20+ years of community mental health, private practice and organizational experience. I have worked with hundreds of children, adults and families in a variety of mental health settings in the Bay Area including Seneca Family of Agencies and A Better Way, Inc. both prominent East Bay Child and Family organizations. I currently work as a part-time staff Psychologist with Kaiser Permanente’s Child and Family Department of Psychiatry, where I provide assessment and therapeutic services to children and families.
Jennifer Kapczynski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94709
Are you seeking support in dealing with a new challenge, or in getting unstuck from older patterns of thinking, feeling, and being? Do you want to improve your relationships, overcome isolation or nurture your sense of connection and community? Or perhaps you want to get in touch with yourself again – to figure out not just what you think, but what you feel. Therapy can help, and you’ve probably found yourself here because you’re curious about how it – and I – might work for you. I specialize in working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, perfectionism, isolation, grief and trauma.
Are you seeking support in dealing with a new challenge, or in getting unstuck from older patterns of thinking, feeling, and being? Do you want to improve your relationships, overcome isolation or nurture your sense of connection and community? Or perhaps you want to get in touch with yourself again – to figure out not just what you think, but what you feel. Therapy can help, and you’ve probably found yourself here because you’re curious about how it – and I – might work for you. I specialize in working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, perfectionism, isolation, grief and trauma.
Rivka Geoghegan, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94703
I have been working with clients for over 20 years, helping them make significant changes in their lives. I work with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, self-judgement, family and relationship issues, marriage and sexuality, past trauma and spirituality. There are many things in life that can be difficult, and I help people see and understand the meaning and purpose in their experiences. I believe that change comes from awareness. If you cant see what is causing you suffering, you cannot tend to it. I help you know yourself and your circumstances so that you can feel empowered as opposed to victimized by life.
I have been working with clients for over 20 years, helping them make significant changes in their lives. I work with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, self-judgement, family and relationship issues, marriage and sexuality, past trauma and spirituality. There are many things in life that can be difficult, and I help people see and understand the meaning and purpose in their experiences. I believe that change comes from awareness. If you cant see what is causing you suffering, you cannot tend to it. I help you know yourself and your circumstances so that you can feel empowered as opposed to victimized by life.
Neda Ehya
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94703 (Online Only)
My therapy style is down to earth, warm, inviting and active. I believe therapy is most effective when it is a collaborative process between the client and the therapist. We will work together to explore, reflect and identify areas in which insight and change are needed to achieve your goals. In sessions, I openly share my thoughts and my perspective as a guiding force but respect and believe that you are the leader in the room. I provide therapy as a transformative experience or a space to just let go, it can be whatever you need it to be, as long as the purpose of this space is for you to heal and find more joy in your life.
My therapy style is down to earth, warm, inviting and active. I believe therapy is most effective when it is a collaborative process between the client and the therapist. We will work together to explore, reflect and identify areas in which insight and change are needed to achieve your goals. In sessions, I openly share my thoughts and my perspective as a guiding force but respect and believe that you are the leader in the room. I provide therapy as a transformative experience or a space to just let go, it can be whatever you need it to be, as long as the purpose of this space is for you to heal and find more joy in your life.
Ben Ringler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94710
With over 14 years of clinical experience, I help men and women, couples and families (especially adult siblings) address a variety forms of distress, from anxiety and depression, to addiction or just a general sense that something feels off in their lives in order to find more fulfillment and meaning. Whether I am working with an individual, couple or family, I am attuned to multiple forms of communication as a direct means for assessment, diagnosis and treatment for what ails each client, and what blocks them from their own joy and peace. I am interested in working with clients with a curiosity of their inner worlds.
With over 14 years of clinical experience, I help men and women, couples and families (especially adult siblings) address a variety forms of distress, from anxiety and depression, to addiction or just a general sense that something feels off in their lives in order to find more fulfillment and meaning. Whether I am working with an individual, couple or family, I am attuned to multiple forms of communication as a direct means for assessment, diagnosis and treatment for what ails each client, and what blocks them from their own joy and peace. I am interested in working with clients with a curiosity of their inner worlds.
Deborah Schwing
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
As a therapist, my goal is to help you reclaim your sense of empowerment to approach your life with self-awareness and self-respect while strengthening your capacity to navigate life’s inherent challenges. I see my role as a supportive guide in helping you heal from painful experiences and rediscover your unique gifts and abilities to meaningfully connect with yourself, your loved ones, and your community.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you reclaim your sense of empowerment to approach your life with self-awareness and self-respect while strengthening your capacity to navigate life’s inherent challenges. I see my role as a supportive guide in helping you heal from painful experiences and rediscover your unique gifts and abilities to meaningfully connect with yourself, your loved ones, and your community.
Art Practice: Psychotherapy for Children
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94710
I work with children, adolescents, and families impacted by chronic conditions, in particular type 1 diabetes. Because managing chronic conditions creates added and continual stress as well as greater dependency on others, the ability to regulate emotions and improved interpersonal functioning can make life smoother. Helping a child better understand his or her strengths, and how to more effectively draw on them, can assist the child, and family members, in adjusting to life with illness. I believe that finding individual solutions and discovering new strengths in therapy can be fun and imaginative.
I work with children, adolescents, and families impacted by chronic conditions, in particular type 1 diabetes. Because managing chronic conditions creates added and continual stress as well as greater dependency on others, the ability to regulate emotions and improved interpersonal functioning can make life smoother. Helping a child better understand his or her strengths, and how to more effectively draw on them, can assist the child, and family members, in adjusting to life with illness. I believe that finding individual solutions and discovering new strengths in therapy can be fun and imaginative.
Lisa Bograd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
If you are someone who is motivated to understand yourself on a deeper level and to challenge and change beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you than I am the therapist for you. I work well with people who are struggling with addiction and relationship issues; people who keep repeating the same unfufilling patterns and want to change them, whether at work, with their partner or spouse, or with their children. Often these dynamics are reflective of deeper wounds, and need to be addressed so they can change and heal. I am deeply committed to helping my clients get unstuck, and this process takes some time, but is well worth it.
If you are someone who is motivated to understand yourself on a deeper level and to challenge and change beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you than I am the therapist for you. I work well with people who are struggling with addiction and relationship issues; people who keep repeating the same unfufilling patterns and want to change them, whether at work, with their partner or spouse, or with their children. Often these dynamics are reflective of deeper wounds, and need to be addressed so they can change and heal. I am deeply committed to helping my clients get unstuck, and this process takes some time, but is well worth it.
Joy Wong Liu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94707
Do you often feel ashamed and not good enough, even though others think you have it all together? Do you find yourself caring for those around you, all the while wondering when it will be your turn to get what you need? Does the intensity of your negative feelings sometimes scare you?
Do you often feel ashamed and not good enough, even though others think you have it all together? Do you find yourself caring for those around you, all the while wondering when it will be your turn to get what you need? Does the intensity of your negative feelings sometimes scare you?
Susanna G Bernat
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
Not accepting new clients
Unseen opportunities often present themselves in the midst of pain and struggle. However the signs are easily missed when stress, grief or heartache overwhelm your ability to cope. I offer a safe, supportive environment to gain perspective on your current situation so that you can move forward with a sense of dignity, insight and awareness. I am available for a free phone consultation. I will also make referrals to the appropriate resource if I believe that you will be better served by another specialist.
Unseen opportunities often present themselves in the midst of pain and struggle. However the signs are easily missed when stress, grief or heartache overwhelm your ability to cope. I offer a safe, supportive environment to gain perspective on your current situation so that you can move forward with a sense of dignity, insight and awareness. I am available for a free phone consultation. I will also make referrals to the appropriate resource if I believe that you will be better served by another specialist.
Vanessa Lowe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707
A natural and common response to anxiety can be to shut down and try to avoid difficult feelings and sensations. However, this often results in a smaller, constricted-feeling life, where we are not doing and pursuing the things that really matter to us. Together we will identify your own goals and values, and we will work to help you move toward a more full rich life. I am committed to helping clients learn new, more effective, ways of dealing with anxiety and stress-related issues, including worry that is difficult to manage, social anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, work stress, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
A natural and common response to anxiety can be to shut down and try to avoid difficult feelings and sensations. However, this often results in a smaller, constricted-feeling life, where we are not doing and pursuing the things that really matter to us. Together we will identify your own goals and values, and we will work to help you move toward a more full rich life. I am committed to helping clients learn new, more effective, ways of dealing with anxiety and stress-related issues, including worry that is difficult to manage, social anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, work stress, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
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Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Waitlist for new clients
If you've ever felt lost or stuck in a painful pattern or conflict, or struggle with overwhelming emotions, or have trouble connecting with them, therapy with me is a profound way to discover yourself again and have new experiences. To restore balance and flexibility, and to reawaken your inherent capacity for joy and resilience. I listen with attention, empathy, & curiosity as we encounter and explore your conflicts, pains, and desires. We accomplish your goals by concentrating on what is important to you in a space where you will be listened to and heard, and where we will share an honest & accurate reflection of your experience.
If you've ever felt lost or stuck in a painful pattern or conflict, or struggle with overwhelming emotions, or have trouble connecting with them, therapy with me is a profound way to discover yourself again and have new experiences. To restore balance and flexibility, and to reawaken your inherent capacity for joy and resilience. I listen with attention, empathy, & curiosity as we encounter and explore your conflicts, pains, and desires. We accomplish your goals by concentrating on what is important to you in a space where you will be listened to and heard, and where we will share an honest & accurate reflection of your experience.
Gussie Lynn Rubin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94709
I emphasize warmth, compassion and collaboration. I give feedback and listen to yours.
Together we look at what you do outside and what we do together. We use conversation, intuition, meditation and silence to discover what drives you, what nourishes you, what blocks you, and what helps you make changes that allow you to develop a fuller, more spontaneous life.
I emphasize warmth, compassion and collaboration. I give feedback and listen to yours.
Together we look at what you do outside and what we do together. We use conversation, intuition, meditation and silence to discover what drives you, what nourishes you, what blocks you, and what helps you make changes that allow you to develop a fuller, more spontaneous life.
Akshay Naresh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704 (Online Only)
Dr. Akshay Naresh is a clinical psychologist and has worked with patients across the lifespan in various contexts including community mental health clinics, hospitals, and educational facilities (secondary, community colleges, & universities). He has experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, body image issues, eating disorders, relationship issues, gender and sexual identity, and multi-cultural issues. He uses an integrative approach to create a space for meaningful life changes by helping patients develop self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-awareness.
Dr. Akshay Naresh is a clinical psychologist and has worked with patients across the lifespan in various contexts including community mental health clinics, hospitals, and educational facilities (secondary, community colleges, & universities). He has experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, body image issues, eating disorders, relationship issues, gender and sexual identity, and multi-cultural issues. He uses an integrative approach to create a space for meaningful life changes by helping patients develop self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-awareness.
Patricia Hart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94707
I believe that fulfilling relationships are the central component of growth and healing. In couples therapy whether you are struggling with sexual issues or problems with money, mess, time, work or children, I will focus on helping you develop a closer connection and greater security which will enable you to more effectively address your concerns. In individual therapy, I will work to develop an authentic, attuned therapy relationship with you through which we can understand and develop your capacity in your relational world with partner, children, parents, work, creative and spiritual quests on a path of growth and healing.
I believe that fulfilling relationships are the central component of growth and healing. In couples therapy whether you are struggling with sexual issues or problems with money, mess, time, work or children, I will focus on helping you develop a closer connection and greater security which will enable you to more effectively address your concerns. In individual therapy, I will work to develop an authentic, attuned therapy relationship with you through which we can understand and develop your capacity in your relational world with partner, children, parents, work, creative and spiritual quests on a path of growth and healing.
Trish (Trishanjit) Singh
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
Is your child having difficulty at school, with learning or being social? Is your child being called hyperactive, withdrawn, or distracted? Is your child seem angry, sad, worried, or nervous? Do you wonder if your child might benefit from special education services? Or if they need therapy? Do you wonder if your child is functioning at a level that is comparable to children within their peer group? Having a Psychological Assessment or Psycho-Ed Evaluation can help you learn how to help your child develop and grow in a safe manner and give your family answers to the above.
Is your child having difficulty at school, with learning or being social? Is your child being called hyperactive, withdrawn, or distracted? Is your child seem angry, sad, worried, or nervous? Do you wonder if your child might benefit from special education services? Or if they need therapy? Do you wonder if your child is functioning at a level that is comparable to children within their peer group? Having a Psychological Assessment or Psycho-Ed Evaluation can help you learn how to help your child develop and grow in a safe manner and give your family answers to the above.
Triumph Over Trauma East Bay - Erika Huguenard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705 (Online Only)
Triumph Over Trauma East Bay provides trauma-informed counseling services in Berkeley for Individuals, Couples and Families.
Triumph Over Trauma East Bay provides trauma-informed counseling services in Berkeley for Individuals, Couples and Families.
Josie Levine
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702 (Online Only)
Telehealth only, early a.m. sessions available, prompt email communication. Are you plagued by "What if..." thoughts? Overwhelmed by fear, worry? Consumed by negativity? Self-talk can be debilitating. It drives behavior, alters mood, interferes with sleep. Feeling stuck or frustrated? Nothing is permanent. Difficult situations at work, with your health or in your personal life can be navigated. Acceptance of your reality, like health, transitions or aging issues, makes a significant difference. Let me help you feel more at peace and learn skillful ways to respond to those thoughts.
Telehealth only, early a.m. sessions available, prompt email communication. Are you plagued by "What if..." thoughts? Overwhelmed by fear, worry? Consumed by negativity? Self-talk can be debilitating. It drives behavior, alters mood, interferes with sleep. Feeling stuck or frustrated? Nothing is permanent. Difficult situations at work, with your health or in your personal life can be navigated. Acceptance of your reality, like health, transitions or aging issues, makes a significant difference. Let me help you feel more at peace and learn skillful ways to respond to those thoughts.
Dr. Elizabeth Aranda
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
My clients are courageous people who want to live sustainably in their truth and authenticity. Often nervous, but ready for change. In my style of practice we work to improve your understanding of yourself and identify what is inhibiting you from living your best life. We explore internal processes like your feelings & beliefs as well as systemic processes that impact LGBTQ+ BIPOC identit(ies), relationships, and life experiences. I take a similar approach to my assessments which are both strength-based and neuro-diversity affirming. All services aim to move you towards your unique treatment goals and improving your mental health.
My clients are courageous people who want to live sustainably in their truth and authenticity. Often nervous, but ready for change. In my style of practice we work to improve your understanding of yourself and identify what is inhibiting you from living your best life. We explore internal processes like your feelings & beliefs as well as systemic processes that impact LGBTQ+ BIPOC identit(ies), relationships, and life experiences. I take a similar approach to my assessments which are both strength-based and neuro-diversity affirming. All services aim to move you towards your unique treatment goals and improving your mental health.
Barbara Hooks
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
I believe that therapy can be a catalyst not only for insight, but also for transformation. Life can be challenging, and at times, despite our best efforts we can feel stuck or lost. I strive to provide a calm and compassionate space where you can get in touch with what matters most to you, and use that as a guide to making changes in your life. I offer specific strategies and tools to help you change your relationship to difficult thoughts and feelings, and work collaboratively with you to take steps toward a life that is full of vitality and personal fulfillment. My style is warm and genuine, interactive, and culturally-sensitive.
I believe that therapy can be a catalyst not only for insight, but also for transformation. Life can be challenging, and at times, despite our best efforts we can feel stuck or lost. I strive to provide a calm and compassionate space where you can get in touch with what matters most to you, and use that as a guide to making changes in your life. I offer specific strategies and tools to help you change your relationship to difficult thoughts and feelings, and work collaboratively with you to take steps toward a life that is full of vitality and personal fulfillment. My style is warm and genuine, interactive, and culturally-sensitive.
See more therapy options for Berkeley
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Berkeley, CA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$190
Therapists in Berkeley, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
85% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Grief |
66% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
50% | Aetna |
39% | Cigna and Evernorth |
38% | Other |
How Therapists in Berkeley, CA see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
76% | Female | |
22% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Berkeley?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.