Grief counselors and therapists in Pleasanton, CA

I am an African American woman with over 32 years of experience providing social service and therapeutic support to marginalized families who have experienced trauma — from Criminal Justice involvement, Adult and Child Protection systems, to housing insecurity, intimate partner violence and substance use challenges. I also have a deep passion for working with pregnant and postpartum individuals navigating pregnancy loss, perinatal mood disorders, leading to postpartum depression and anxiety. It is also important for me to hold space for Fathers who are navigating raising children as single fathers.

My therapeutic approach creates a safe, compassionate space where we partner together to challenge unhealthy beliefs, reduce shame and guilt, and address traumatic experiences at whatever pace feels right for you.

While my work is primarily centered with the BIPOC community — African American women specifically — it is my goal that no individual ever feel alone when dealing with depression, anxiety, or trauma. Through active listening and gentle, honest dialogue, I partner with individuals to uncover what is keeping them stuck and walk through those hard places together — building trust, fostering resilience, and creating a real sense of freedom for themselves and their families.

I am a person-centered therapist who creates a warm, nonjudgmental space where you are seen and heard. Together we will build practical coping skills and explore your values and strengths so you can navigate life's challenges with greater clarity, confidence, and resilience

With 47 years of experience and a deep commitment to my clients' well-being, I'm dedicated to providing a supportive and effective therapeutic experience. I graduated from Chapman University with departmental honors in both Sociology and Social Work, and I hold a graduate degree in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy. My core strengths as a therapist are sincere empathy and deep listening, which I believe are the most powerful tools for fostering growth and healing. I am dedicated to continuous learning and am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, allowing me to tailor my methods to each client's unique needs.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a professional background in Child Welfare, I have had the opportunity to work with diverse clients across all stages of life. I am also Spanish-speaking and strive to provide a culturally supportive and inclusive environment where clients feel understood and empowered.

Do you feel like something is wrong with you? Do you wish it would all just stop and go away? Is your child acting out and you don't know why or what to do? If you have had any of these thoughts, then you're in the right place! My practice is based around what happened to us, not what is wrong with us. I am here to support & guide you in processing thoughts and feelings, reflect on experiences, learn new coping skills, and figure out next steps. I will listen, teach, brainstorm, guide and help you build tools to meet your goals.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or caught between various obligations, you are not alone. I offer my clients with support to navigate their way through life challenges.

My focusI specialize in working with adults and families that need assistance in navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD symptoms, and relationship stress. My focus is on assessing how clients' circumstances stem from various life challenges- especially immigration and intergenerational experiences.

Your goals are most important to me, but I do recommend goals when needed. I accept you just as you are. I will work together with you to achieve an improved quality of life.

I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Nina, a licensed therapist who is passionate about helping people feel better and live more fulfilling lives. I’ve worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds and offer services in both English and Spanish. My goal is to support your well-being by helping you build skills, navigate challenges, and create healthier, more meaningful relationships.