Registered Associate Therapist Program
We are committed to mental wellness for all. Master’s level Associates are qualified and trained ethical professionals who are accumulating hours to become independently licensed. Our Associates work with individuals, couples, and families to broaden their training through an immersed whole-person approach within the private practice setting. Associates looking to emphasize specific therapeutic skills work closely with our team of supportive Licensed Supervisors as they treat a variety of psychological issues.The psychotherapy fee is $150 per session. Associates may offer a sliding scale for those in need and will provide a Superbill for insurance reimbursement when requested. All Associates are Out of Network providers and do not accept insurance plans, Medicare, Medi-Cal, or CalVCB.
Associate Therapists
The Silver Fern Associate Therapist Program offers a supportive internship program for pre-licensed clinicians comprising of Registered Associate Marriage Family Therapists, Registered Associate Social Workers, and Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselors.
We value compassion, collaboration, and connection as core values that contribute to mental wellness. We believe well-rounded therapists who have a solid foundation of clinical education and diverse experience create for optimal growth and healing.
We are proud to highlight local professionals looking to expand their therapeutic experience.
The Associate Program offers a limited number of sliding scale slots to allow more members of our community to access mental health care.
All Associate Therapists have obtained a Master's Degree, are registered with the Board of Behavioral Sciences and supervised by a licensed psychotherapist.
Sara Appelbaum, ACSW 91202
Supervised by Elise Braganza, LMFT 90702
Breakthroughs in therapy are first and foremost the result of the relationship between client and therapist. I strive to offer therapy that feels like coffee with a dedicated friend. Blending wisdom from my own experiences as a peer who has “been there” with clinically based methods, I’ll meet you halfway with reflection, respect, kindness, and honest feedback. No judgment - just healing.
Every person has different motivations for pursuing therapy. Sometimes loved ones help us understand that we may need additional and professional support. Sometimes a life-altering event occurs that forces a new, uncomfortable perspective or reality. Sometimes it can be hard to know where to begin especially if everyday discomfort or stress has slowly increased.
Part of my therapeutic method is dedicated to reducing overall distress by clarifying, normalizing, and containing overwhelming feelings associated with: anxiety, depression, lowered self esteem and worth, suicidal ideation, emotional and physical self harm, and repeated harmful, challenging or confusing patterns in all relationships.
I also offer therapeutic support in these specific areas:
- identifying and finding personalized language for symptoms of PTSD and complex PTSD (cPTSD), and gaining awareness about the effects they have on our relationships
- use of EMDR and/or Brainspotting for PTSD and cPTSD, as well as a variety of chronic mental health and physical symptoms. Both techniques can be used to alleviate more than “classic” Big T trauma, including:
Little T trauma/cumulative stress due to social, racial, gender, sexual oppression and marginalization, stressful work environments, stress at home
Previous physical injury or chronic health issues
Unhealthy coping such as substance misuse, avoidance, and isolation
Current talk therapy enhancement (especially if you identify as a client who can “out talk” your therapist!)
-navigating boundaries and communications in challenging adult and parent/child relationships
-balancing perfectionism, Type - A, and achievement-based behavior with personal fulfillment and and everyday joy
-providing safe harbor for single and/or child-free women to explore identity, self worth, and the unique challenges of living independently
- individual white privilege self work sessions for those seeking to begin a practice of racial self awareness.
Direct confidential line: (510) 519-1530
Heather Scott, AMFT 135895
Supervised by Elise Braganza, LMFT 90702
Are you looking to improve your relationships and mental and emotional health? Do you feel stuck in unhealthy patterns of anxiety or depression? Is your child struggling to cope with life’s stressors? Working together, we can take a therapeutic walk through these difficulties and find hope, strength, and healing along the way.
My hope through therapy is to create a safe and sacred space where you can address your mental health needs without judgement.
My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy that will empower you to achieve your goals and improve your overall well-being.
If this sounds like what you are looking for, please give me a call.
Direct Confidential Line: (925) 338-1209
Christine Theis, AMFT 137210
Supervised by Lora Groppetti, LMFT 43369
"Finding the right therapist can be a challenging process. When working with clients I believe in being patient and free of judgment. Taking the step to go to therapy can be a big one and I wish to create a safe, comfortable environment for you to explore what is currently causing distress in your life. I believe in the process of change, and I know that each of us is capable of finding our happiness, reaching our goals, and achieving our full potential.
I enjoy working with children and adolescents, adults, as well as the family unit as a whole. I appreciate the differences in working with children and adults and adjust my style accordingly. I believe in meeting the client where they are and using the best scientifically proven modalities to work with each individual I engage with. We will create a collaborative treatment plan that you are comfortable with.
For families and children, I use play as a means of therapy as it is the best way to communicate. I also trust exposure and response therapy for the treatment of OCD, phobias, and other types of anxiety disorders. I believe we can all attain a higher quality of life by working together in a good therapeutic relationship. "
Direct Confidential Line: (925) 378-5129
Email: CTheisTherapy@gmail.com
Caitlin Dyer, AMFT 148341, APCC 17306
Supervised by Lora Groppetti, LMFT 43369
I believe therapy is beneficial no matter your stage in life. Whether you are experiencing a difficult chapter in life, proactively developing coping strategies for future stressors, or wanting to expand your communication and relational skills, there is a welcoming and empathetic space to do the work with me.
With a foundation of over 10 years as an educator and a background in personal training, I bring a unique, holistic perspective to therapy. My experience working in elementary and middle schools has allowed me to understand the developmental and emotional needs of children and adolescents. I have also crafted a healing and therapeutic approach to parenting, family relations, and bridging communication between children and the adults in their lives. I have a passion in working with adults and couples, with emphasis in individuals and couples experiencing infertility.
In my therapeutic practice, I believe in empowering clients through a strengths-based approach, creating a safe and compassionate space for them to explore challenges and develop healthy coping strategies. I have a deep personal understanding of the complexities of family life and the impact of health concerns on emotional well-being. I strive to bring healing through a variety of client-centered techniques that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. My goal is to support individuals and families in navigating life’s difficulties, fostering resilience, and promoting overall mental and emotional health.
Direct Confidential Line: (925) 322-0591
Email: CaitlinDyerTherapy@gmail.com