Grief counselors and therapists in Oakland, CA

You’re capable and use to managing a lot, but lately life feels overwhelming.

I’m Ashley Walay, LICSW, and I work with BIPOC women and LGBTQ+ individuals, professionals, single parents, and military-connected individuals (including spouses, veterans, contractors, and civilian employees) experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, chronic stress, and life transitions.

I value clear, direct communication and tailor therapy to your needs, whether you want tools or space to process. Together, we’ll work toward greater clarity, balance, and confidence.

As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am passionate about helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, and relationships with compassion and care. In my work as a Ketamine-Assisted Therapist, I support individuals healing from developmental and other traumatic experiences, offering a safe and grounded space for growth. My approach empowers clients to move beyond feeling stuck and discover a deeper sense of truth, resilience, and self.

I am a highly skilled therapist with a strong focus on trauma therapy, substance abuse, and mental health. I hold dual licensure as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and as an Associate Clinical Counselor. My educational background includes a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from William Jessup University and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Child Development from California State University, Chico.

I believe that the client, not the therapist, is the expert in their own life. My goal is to support and guide my clients see their strengths, increase self-awareness, and develop new skills to help them live a more satisfying life and build healthier relationships.

I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field working with youth and adults in clinical, research, and forensic settings. I have experience in treating a wide range of mental health problems and severity. I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, relationship problems, and family conflict.

I have extensive experience in working with individuals new to therapy and who belong to cultures that tend to stigmatize mental health treatment.

Hi, I'm Kim! I firmly believe that change is always possible- and it's never too late to start the process. I work in a collaborative, eclectic, with my clients. I will provide a safe space for you to explore and practice new skills- free of judgment. If you are ready to improve your life and open to discovering new solutions to life's challenges, I can help. Invest in yourself with focused time and energy in therapy to move toward the life you want and deserve!