Smiling Caucasian female therapist with blonde hair at Blue Oak Therapy Center in Berkeley, providing family therapy and mental health support.

OUR THERAPISTS

(she/her/hers)

Registered Associate MFT #150066
Supervised by Patricia Ortiz, LMFT #46125

Terra Brigando, MA

WELCOME

Deciding to seek therapy can be a wonderful way to work toward living a life that is in line with our value system. Taking this step can feel daunting, and I am here to create a safe space for you so that together we can explore the patterns and areas in your life that you are hoping to understand or change. I know firsthand as both a therapist and a client how deeply transformative therapy can be, and my goal as a therapist is to create a warm, empathetic, honest, and judgement-free space for you to feel seen, understood, and witnessed on this journey of being human.

MY APPROACH

I see the therapeutic relationship as a place where great healing can occur. We transform within the safety and trust of secure relationships, and it is my goal to provide that for you. You are the expert on your own life, and I am here as a guide to help you discover your truths, change patterns and dynamics that are no longer serving you, strengthen and clarify your relationships, and learn to trust and accept yourself. I offer a safe space for you to explore your past and present circumstances, as well as your inner world and emotions, and I see myself as a curious, supportive, and compassionate collaborator to help you tap into your innate strengths and resources. I tailor my approach to what might work best for you and value your input along the way. I draw from a variety of theoretical models. Most notably, I work within a Psychodynamic and Attachment Theory framework. I also utilize strategies from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

MY BACKGROUND

I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and received my Master’s in Counseling Psychology from the Wright Institute in Berkeley in 2018. I also received a Master’s in Creative Writing from Mills College in 2012. I enjoy working with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families, and have experience with those facing situations related to:

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Communication issues

  • Family dynamics

  • Relationship challenges

  • Life transitions

  • Self-esteem

  • Identity exploration

  • Trauma

  • Grief and loss

  • Parenting

  • LGBTQIA+

  • Substance use

  • Eating issues

  • Body image

  • Pregnancy / Prenatal / Postpartum

I value working with clients of all backgrounds and identities. Everyone is welcome here!

In my free time, I like to read and write, hike, cook, and spend time with my dog and family. I’m looking forward to meeting you.