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Business Details
22 Years
experience
Trusted Counseling Services in Oakland, CA
Founded in 2004 by Patricia E. Craven and Mary Owens, Heart in Balance is a nonprofit counseling and training center dedicated to providing integrative mental health services to the Oakland community. Our mission is to create a supportive environment where individuals, couples, and families can access personalized therapy approaches that address the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. We specialize in short- and long-term psychotherapy for diverse populations, including children, adolescents, and families, delivered by a team of licensed therapists, postgraduate trainees, and registered marriage and family therapist associates. Our therapists employ evidence-based modalities such as Yoga Therapy, Art & Play Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and Mindfulness, tailoring treatment plans to meet each client's unique needs. As a training center, we also support pre-licensed and licensed therapists in developing their clinical skills and private practices.

With over two decades of experience, our team combines professional expertise with compassionate care to foster personal growth and healing. We maintain partnerships with local organizations to expand access to mental health resources and ensure our services remain financially accessible through sliding scale fees. Our commitment to ethical practice is demonstrated through compliance with state licensing boards and transparency in service delivery. By integrating traditional talk therapy with holistic approaches, we empower clients to achieve balanced, fulfilling lives. Heart in Balance continues to evolve as a community-centered resource, adapting to societal changes while maintaining its founding vision of accessible, integrative mental healthcare.
Services
Psychotherapy Couples Therapy Family Counseling Child & Adolescent Therapy Telehealth Services
Details
  • Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
  • We provide sliding scale fees for accessible mental health care
  • Our therapists use integrative approaches combining traditional and holistic methods
  • We offer specialized training for licensed and pre-licensed therapists
  • Our team includes registered marriage and family therapist associates
  • We serve diverse populations including children, adolescents, and families
Services
Psychotherapy
Our psychotherapy services combine traditional counseling with holistic approaches to address emotional, behavioral, and mental health concerns. Therapists create personalized treatment plans using evidence-based techniques while considering clients' physical and spiritual well-being. This comprehensive approach helps individuals develop coping strategies and achieve lasting personal growth.
Couples Therapy
Specialized therapy for couples focuses on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening relationships. Our therapists use integrative methods to address relationship dynamics while honoring each partner's unique perspective and needs. Sessions help couples develop healthier patterns and deeper understanding.
Family Counseling
Family counseling addresses interpersonal dynamics and systemic issues within family units. Our therapists employ holistic approaches to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen family bonds. Sessions consider cultural backgrounds and individual needs while promoting collective healing and understanding.
Child & Adolescent Therapy
Specialized mental health services for children and teens use age-appropriate techniques including play therapy and creative expression. Our therapists address developmental challenges, behavioral concerns, and emotional difficulties while involving families in the therapeutic process to support comprehensive care.
Telehealth Services
Secure virtual therapy sessions provide accessible mental health care for California residents. Our telehealth platform maintains the same integrative approach as in-person sessions, using video conferencing to deliver personalized treatment plans while ensuring confidentiality and therapeutic effectiveness.
People
Patricia E. Craven
Co-Founder
Licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience in integrative mental health, specializing in somatic approaches and trauma recovery. Developed training programs for emerging therapists.
Mary Owens
Co-Founder
Clinical supervisor with expertise in mindfulness-based therapies and family systems. Provides mentorship for pre-licensed therapists while maintaining a private practice.
Questions
What types of therapy does Heart in Balance offer?
We provide integrative approaches combining traditional talk therapy with Yoga Therapy, Art & Play Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness, and other modalities tailored to individual needs.
Are services available for children and adolescents?
Yes, our licensed therapists offer specialized psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and families addressing developmental and mental health concerns.
Do you offer telehealth appointments?
Yes, we provide both in-person and telehealth therapy sessions for California residents to ensure accessible mental health care.
How are therapy fees determined?
We use a sliding scale fee structure based on income to make mental health services affordable for all clients.
Can therapists receive training through your center?
Yes, we offer training programs for pre-licensed therapists and continuing education for licensed professionals in integrative therapy approaches.