Pragmatic therapist for pessimistic, isolated young adult?
I'm wondering if anyone can recommend a therapist that fulfills the following criteria: -- Located in Albany, Kensington, El Cerrito, Berkeley, or possibly Rockridge or Piedmont. -- Offering in-person sessions. -- Experienced in helping intelligent, non-substance-abusing, joyless young adults find purpose, a little optimism, and the best way forward in life. -- Not too "alternative" or emotionally touchy-feeling in approach; my child is a cynic. -- Helpful with severe social anxiety but willing to take things slowly (not just pure, efficient cognitive behavioral therapy). My 20-year-old was socially anxious and withdrawn before the pandemic, got worse during quarantine, and now could really use a jump-start toward future happiness. I'm thinking maybe something in between therapy and life-coaching -- but maybe that's just what therapy is? All suggestions appreciated!
Parent Replies
Bri Byrne: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #77517
She is in Lafayette, and she is excellent and has been working with my teen kid for this issue too. She has helped my teen get through depression without medication. It takes some time, but she offers very compassionate and intelligent guidance and advice. She is also very open to speaking with the parents about progress and even some guidance at home but will not do family therapy so that the teen client keeps the trust that she is exclusively there for them. I really credit her for helping my teen to see herself and her place in this world from a positive perspective.
My teenager is seeing Ananda Patterson, MA, psychological associate, in Albany, and really likes her. She is under supervision of Dr. Ellen Balis and working toward her PhD. She was highly recommended by my kid’s previous therapist (who is fantastic), Dr. Adam Moss. (He didn’t have any after school hours available, so my kid wanted to see someone else). It’s been a good fit for my trans kid as Ananda is particularly in tune with LGBTQ+ adolescents.
We really like Dr Frank Davis in Berkeley. He help our teen/ young son and really support our family. You always have to try because it is difficult to find the right fit, but Dr Davis is young, experience and not your typical doctor, that really help my son to connect with him.
Good luck!