There’s no single map for healing.

We bring the whole toolkit.

Our Therapy Approaches — Evidence-Based & Humanistic Care in Walnut Creek & the East Bay

Healing isn’t one-size-fits-all.

At Sana Therapy Collective, our therapists draw from a wide range of evidence-based and humanistic therapy approaches to meet each client exactly where they are.

Whether you need structured skill-building, deep relational work, body-based processing, or a blend of all three — we have the training and flexibility to make it work for you.

Our approaches

  • EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

    EMDR is an evidence-based, mind-body approach originally developed to treat trauma and PTSD, and now used effectively for anxiety, phobias, grief, attachment wounds, and more. Through bilateral stimulation — such as eye movements, tapping, or tones — EMDR helps the brain reprocess stuck memories so they lose their emotional charge. It is endorsed by the WHO and APA as a leading treatment for trauma. Learn more about EMDR at Sana

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

    DBT is a structured, evidence-based therapy that balances acceptance and change. It teaches four core skill sets: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. Originally developed for Borderline Personality Disorder, DBT is now used for trauma, depression, eating disorders, substance use, and anyone who struggles with intense emotions. Learn more about DBT at Sana

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS / Parts Work)

    IFS (Internal Family Systems), also known as parts work, is a powerful approach that views the mind as made up of different “parts” — each with its own perspective, feelings, and role. By getting to know these parts with curiosity rather than judgment, clients develop a more compassionate relationship with themselves and begin to heal the inner conflicts that drive painful patterns. IFS is particularly effective for trauma, shame, and complex emotional experiences.

  • Humanistic Psychology

    Humanistic therapy is grounded in the belief that people are inherently capable of growth and possess the inner wisdom to guide their own healing. Rather than treating clients as problems to be solved, our humanistic approach honors autonomy, dignity, and self-determination. This framework informs everything we do — from how we listen to how we hold space for each person’s unique path.

  • Liberation Psychology

    Liberation psychology recognizes that individual suffering cannot be separated from the social and political systems that shape our lives. We actively acknowledge the impact of racism, oppression, systemic inequality, and marginalization on mental health, and we work to empower individuals and communities to resist and heal from these forces. Therapy here is never apolitical.

  • Relational Psychology

    The research is clear: the quality of the therapeutic relationship is the single strongest predictor of positive outcomes in therapy. Relational therapy places this relationship at the center of the healing process. Our therapists are genuinely present, honest, and accountable — and the connection we build with you is not a backdrop to the work. It is the work.

  • Psychodynamic Theory

    Psychodynamic therapy explores how early experiences, unconscious patterns, and relational history shape the way we think, feel, and behave today. By bringing these hidden dynamics into conscious awareness, clients gain insight into why they repeat certain patterns — in relationships, work, and their inner lives — and develop the capacity to change them.

  • Transtheoretical Model of Change

    Change is rarely linear. The Transtheoretical Model recognizes that people move through distinct stages — precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance — and that relapse is a natural part of the process, not a failure. Our therapists meet clients at whatever stage they’re in without judgment, and help them move forward at their own pace. This approach is especially valuable in substance use recovery and behavioral change work.

  • Empowerment Theory

    Empowerment theory is rooted in the social work tradition and views clients as the experts in their own lives. Rather than positioning the therapist as the authority, this approach builds on each person’s existing strengths and knowledge to promote self-efficacy, agency, and positive development — particularly for those who have experienced marginalization, discrimination, or systemic harm.

A cozy scene by a window with an open book, reading glasses, a mug with a cat decoration, and string lights on a knitted blanket.
A cozy scene by a window with an open book, reading glasses, a mug with a cat decoration, and string lights on a knitted blanket.

Not sure which approach is right for you?

You don’t need to know.

During your first session, your therapist will listen to what you’re experiencing and explain what approaches might work best for your situation.

Our clinicians serve clients in Walnut Creek, Oakland, Orinda, Fremont, and online throughout California.