Oakland, California Therapists

Overview of Mental Health Resources in Oakland, California

Situated on the inner part of the San Francisco Bay Area, Oakland, CA is named for the grand oak trees that lined its streets and located across the San Francisco. Considered part of “The East Bay”, nearly 425,000 citizens call this industrial port city home. Currently, the area is the 45th largest city in the United States and growing at a rapid rate. Residents enjoy less than a thirty-minute commute to San Francisco and the area boasts being not only on the bay but also has access to Lake Merritt, the 155-acre lagoon in the city. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the ever-changing food scene, Jack London Square and the city’s vibrant arts community, considered the arts mecca of the West, making this city a unique addition to the Bay Area.

Ranked recently in the top 10 cities in the US for the healthiest city, best climate and best places to retire among a long string of accolades, Oakland has a diverse and socially conscious population. Because of the city’s recent popularity, the area is experiencing an affordable housing crunch as rent is increasing and those living outside the area are experience longer commutes into the area for work. While still less than its expense neighbor, San Francisco, many families are being priced out of the housing market. A recent study indicates that there is a correlation between the percentage that one spends on rent and how often they are hospitalized for a mental illness disorder. Due to the overcrowding issues, the local physicians are seeing an increase in patients caused by the stress of not having a true place to live. Many families are now reduced to squatting to have a place to call home.

Research has shown that one-third of adult health issues are due to mental health.  Whether it is you or someone you know, this means that you are not alone.  If you feel anxious, suffer from schizophrenia, or feel overwhelmed, the first step is recognizing that you need help. Treatment is important and we are here as our community of Oakland medical professionals that will aid you in your needs. The first step is to determine the symptoms that affect your well-being even if you just don’t feel like yourself anymore. In doing so, our site will help you narrow down the therapist that can help you create solutions to your problems. Take a moment to review their profiles, blogs, and bios to ensure that their specialties meet your needs. When researching your potential therapist, consider the following questions:

•    Why am I seeking help?
•    What are my goals in therapy?
•    Am I more comfortable with a man or a woman?
•    Are there any personal aspects I’m not willing to discuss?
•    Do I want to be able to lead the discussion, or have it led?
•    How long do I plan to attend therapy?
•    Does my problem need extra specialization?

Engaging in effective treatments from one of our licensed therapists will help you on the path to living a successful and productive life. Many mental health issues can affect you, how you think and feel on a daily basis. Decide how often you need to visit your therapist and make sure that their office is located near where you work or live. This will increase your chances of keeping your appointment times, which is important in making your treatment journey successful. Most offices are open only during the work day so if you need appointments outside the typical 9-5 work hours, add that to your list of interview questions. These sessions will help you build a relationship with your chosen professional so take time to set-up a phone interview with them. It is important that you feel that you can connect with your potential therapist, learn their style and if they seem engaged in the conversation.

There is no “one size fits all” type of mental health treatment and it will take time for you find the right therapist to help with the issues you have been struggling with for a while like an eating disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder.  Many individuals suffer from mental health concerns at various times in their life. It is a concern to take seriously when you notice symptoms and ongoing signs that prohibit your ability to function in society, causes frequent stress and does not allow you to enjoy life. Take your time to ask plenty of questions and to get to know your practitioner. Each will have a different skill set and that will help you achieve your personal goals while improving your life. The time spent researching our directory of Oakland professionals is an investment in you – and your future.