Connect with Therapists who accept CareFirst in Oakland, CA

Book a session as soon as April 25

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ therapists who accept CareFirst

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ therapists who accept CareFirst
A headshot image of Damanpreet Mangat

Damanpreet Mangat

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Damanpreet Mangat, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Damanpreet has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology, MFT from National University.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with experience working in mental health and psychiatric services, including chronic mental illness. My approach is warm, collaborative, and evidence-based, using CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and the Gottman Method to help couples strengthen emotional connection.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Vanessa Garcia Guido

Vanessa Garcia Guido

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Vanessa Garcia Guido, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Vanessa has a Master in Counseling (MC) Marriage, Family & Child Therapy from University of Phoenix.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
ADHD
Divorce
Infidelity
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Empowering

I have practiced in community mental health centers, an Outpatient Center, an Intensive Case Management program, and educational school settings. I have worked with clients with developmental disability, severe mental illness, or mild to moderate concerns.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Daniel Phillips

Daniel Phillips

LCSW
6+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Daniel Phillips, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Daniel has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Children and Families from University of California, Berkeley.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Domestic Violence
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Curious

I work with people navigating childhood trauma, substance abuse, anger management, relationship difficulties, intimate partner violence, and other traumas. My focus is creating a space where you can explore what's holding you back and find a path forward.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Luiza Pinaud

Luiza Pinaud

LMFT
4+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Luiza Pinaud, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Luiza has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from Wright Institute.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Curious

I am looking forward to working with you. My initial goal is to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore and work through your challenges.

She's been very good at helping me understand my anxiety and teaching me how to handle it when I become overwhelmed. I noticed results within 2-3 weeks of talking to her.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Christopher Kelley France

Christopher Kelley France

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Christopher Kelley France, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Christopher Kelley has a Master of Arts (MA) in Transpersonal Psychology from National University.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Men's Issues
Spirituality
Substance Use
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Motivational

I am a holistic, humanistic LMFT with a degree in Transpersonal psychology, which means that I include body, mind, and spirit in our work, whatever this means to you. I also pull from my training and experience using expressive arts, art therapy, and somatic therapy. Much of my work is done with male clients.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Devin Nigh

Devin Nigh

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LMFT
4+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Devin Nigh, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Devin has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from Antioch University.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Addiction
LGBTQIA+
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Supportive

I work with adolescents, adults, and families facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and substance abuse. Using a humanistic approach and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy tools, I help clients make positive changes. I identify as part of the LGBTQ community and provide culturally competent care to LGBTQ, BIPOC, and multiracial clients.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jeorgina Chavez

Jeorgina Chavez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
12+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Jeorgina Chavez, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jeorgina has a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology from Golden Gate University.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Alcohol Use
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Candid
Collaborative

My approach to therapy is to meet clients where they are at and work with them to identify goals that will help them improve their quality of life.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sean Garrett

Sean Garrett

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LMFT
3+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Sean Garrett, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Sean has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Curious

Thank you for reading my bio. My focus in our work will be on meeting you where you are and creating a safe, non-judgmental space where we can collaborate and explore what can be helpful in addressing your needs, wants, and barriers to getting them met.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Savannah Wilson

Savannah Wilson

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Savannah Wilson, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Savannah has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Holistic Counseling from National University.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
LGBTQIA+
Parenting
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Curious

Starting therapy can feel both exciting and overwhelming—you don't have to navigate it alone. I work with teens, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, and the complexities of relationships. My approach creates a space where all parts of you are welcome.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Mazu Master

Mazu Master

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
19+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Mazu Master, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Mazu has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from California Institute of Integral Studies.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Style
Responsive
Candid
Curious

I have over 20 years of clinical experience and have come to believe that fostering a trusting and compassionate therapeutic relationship can help us feel empowered and confident in our own healthy sense of self. As a South Asian/Indian woman who identifies as a person of color and within the LGBTQIA+ community.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Shawn Polivoi

Shawn Polivoi

LCSW
20+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Shawn Polivoi, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Shawn has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Sacramento.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Aging
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Style
Outcome-oriented
Candid
Curious

My approach is to meet you where you are and help you get where you want to be. I work with adults and older adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I believe in creating a warm, collaborative space where we can explore what's bringing you to therapy and work together toward meaningful change.

Homeboy allowed me to express myself and made me feel good about the accomplishments that I have achieved throughout the Therapy. Asked the hard hitting questions and got me thinking on doing better.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Janine Thomas

Janine Thomas

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
11+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Janine Thomas, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Janine has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of California, Berkeley.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Style
Directive
Attuned
Collaborative

I enjoy working with adolescents, adults of all ages, and couples. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Emotionally Focused Therapy to assist my clients with achieving the change they desire.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Shauna Goodenough

Shauna Goodenough

LMFT
17+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Shauna Goodenough, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Shauna has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Notre Dame De Namur University.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Supportive

I enjoy working with a variety of ages, with a focus on teens and young adults. My style is warm and supportive. I value client education and skill-building to effect change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Lauren Aiken

Lauren Aiken

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
4+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Lauren Aiken, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Lauren has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy from Wright Institute.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Grief
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Warm
Supportive

I am an LMFT providing therapy for adults experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship stress, and major life transitions. I offer a grounded, compassionate approach to help clients feel steadier, less overwhelmed, and more supported during periods of emotional strain, including perinatal and parenting transitions.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Taeko Bufford

Taeko Bufford

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW
13+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Taeko Bufford, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Taeko has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from UCLA.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Mood Disorders
Racial Identity
Style
Insightful
Candid
Motivational

Thank you for taking the first step during these challenging times. Therapy is a journey, and I am here to walk you through this process.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Porscha Castillo

Porscha Castillo

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW
3+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Porscha Castillo, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Porscha has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Walden University.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Gentle
Motivational

I look to help with anything you're struggling with. I work with a plethora of clients with challenges and barriers from Depression, Relationships, Life Coaching, Home Stress, Work Stress, Trauma, Maternal Health, and Child Mental Health.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Danielle Brenes

Danielle Brenes

LCSW
12+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Danielle Brenes, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Danielle has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Chico.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Coping Skills
Depression
Grief
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Attuned
Supportive

I have worked in Social Work with a specialty in Mental Health. I bring years of experience supporting people through difficult times, and I'm committed to creating a space where you feel heard and understood.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Katharine Mechem

Katharine Mechem

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LMFT
18+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Katharine Mechem, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Katharine has a Master of Science in Counseling, Dual Specialization: Marriage, Family and Child Counseling, and Rehabilitation Counseling from San Francisco State University.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Chronic Illness
Grief
LGBTQIA+
Life Transitions
Relapse Prevention
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

I work with clients coping with chronic and life-threatening illnesses, disability, and grief, especially how these challenges affect families. My approach is integrative, meaning I use a combination of therapy methods depending on your needs and preferences.

She works with my schedule. She communicates in a way that will get me to be more open and talk things through.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Michael Matthews

Michael Matthews

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
25+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Michael Matthews, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Michael has a Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy from Saint Mary's University.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Alcohol Use
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Supportive

I grew up in LA on the beach, played basketball, and surfed. I have been a rehabilitation counselor for the disabled and an LMFT for 40 years. I can help with major depression, ADHD, anxiety, grief and bereavement, mood disorders, alcoholism and drugs, PTSD, and trauma, and I often use humor to create safety and trust.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jane Bond

Jane Bond

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
18+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Jane Bond, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jane has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology from New College of California.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Cultural Stress
Domestic Violence
Life Transitions
Racial Identity
Relationship Issues
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Curious

As a biracial therapist of Black and Japanese descent, I bring lived experience and cultural insight to our work. I use an integrative, psychodynamic, and multicultural approach to explore how your personal, social, and cultural history shapes your story and healing.

Every session with Jane has been so crucial and productive in helping me navigate my childhood past and how that has and continues to inform my sense of self and how that’s affected me in the present. I highly recommend Jane to anyone.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Vanessa Shea

Vanessa Shea

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Vanessa Shea, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Vanessa has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Smith College.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Supportive

I’m an LCSW with over 10 years in mental health. I work with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, burnout, grief, and transitions. My integrative approach supports insight and practical change. I view mental health holistically, shaped by personal history, identity, relationships, and larger systems.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Teresa Trout

Teresa Trout

LMFT
3+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Teresa Trout, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Teresa has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology & Expressive Arts Therapy from California Institute of Integral Studies.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Child Abuse or Neglect
LGBTQIA+
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Relationship Issues
Sex Therapy
Style
Insightful
Warm
Affirming

I specialize in working with queer, polyamorous, and kink communities. Clients often seek me out for support with polyamory and consensual non-monogamy, relationship dynamics, sexuality, gender identity, parenting, and healing from childhood trauma.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Heather Schrag

Heather Schrag

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
2+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Heather Schrag, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Heather has a Master in Counseling (MC) Marriage and Family Therapy from Palo Alto University.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Relationship Issues
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Collaborative

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, and it's my job to help you feel OK. I'm committed to helping you feel better as soon as possible. If we can get that to happen in a single conversation, wouldn't that be great? If it takes more time, we'll make the most of our sessions until you're satisfied.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Stephen Keenan

Stephen Keenan

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
11+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Stephen Keenan, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Stephen has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Sacramento.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Depression
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
Stress
Substance Use
Style
Responsive
Candid
Supportive

I am an LCSW in CA and a black belt. This is not about me, though. This is about you getting the help you need through a client-centered approach that will be tailored toward you reaching your goals in treatment.

Has a great ear and is willing to listen, while also giving his input and advice in terms of tweaking my reality to create a better version of it day by day. I always seem to end the session with a happy mood, and he has never failed to make me laugh. I love his approach with therapy and truly recommend him to anyone.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Marc Margolis

Marc Margolis

LCSW
17+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Marc Margolis, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Marc has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Bryn Mawr College.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
Stress
Substance Use
Style
Exploratory
Candid
Collaborative

My approach in working with clients is to understand what issues are of concern and then strategize a plan to address those concerns.

Available virtually

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