Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Oakland, CA covered by United Healthcare

Shawna Adkins has nearly a decade of experience treating adults. Shawna specializes in the treatment of substance use and addiction. She is also a certified mindfulness meditation teacher.

Hello, I have been practicing therapy for about 12 years now. During those years, I have come to love exploring and uncovering what drives both our troublesome symptoms and our moments of contentedness. I am trained in EMDR, the EMDR Flash Technique, and Brainspotting and truly enjoy utilizing these modalities to help people heal on a deep level.

I believe that healing happens within the context of a safe, supportive relationship. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered to explore your experiences without fear of judgment. I understand that beginning therapy can feel vulnerable, and I consider it a privilege to walk alongside clients as they pursue healing and personal growth.

I am a licensed therapist in both Florida and California with over seven years of experience working with adults. I am EMDR trained and use an attachment-based, trauma-informed approach that integrates evidence-based practices, including EMDR, parts work, somatic techniques, and psychoeducation. My work focuses on helping individuals heal from trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety, and grief and loss while developing healthier relationships, greater emotional resilience, and lasting change.

As a Christian counselor, I also enjoy integrating faith into the therapeutic process for clients who desire it, while honoring each person's unique values and beliefs. I primarily work with adults who are navigating the effects of trauma, difficult life experiences, anxiety, grief, and relational challenges. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, I am committed to providing compassionate, collaborative care that supports your journey toward healing and hope.

My areas of focus include treatment of; trauma, anxiety, and depression. In particular, I am versed in supporting clients to work through religious trauma, generational/ family traumas, and process challenges associated with identity formation and breaking cycles of abuse.

I work primarily with children, adolescents, and families to promote growth and change. With over 25 years of experience in youth mental health and 11 years as a licensed psychologist, I support clients dealing with issues at home and school settings, disturbances in mood such as anxiety, depression, or anger, attention problems, behavior/conduct problems, family conflict, and autism.

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If you’ve found yourself meeting with provider after provider without finding the right fit, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to continue that cycle.

I provide comprehensive, individualized care to patients from diverse backgrounds, with expertise in ADHD, trauma, complex mental health conditions, geriatrics, and addiction recovery.

I approach care with deep respect for your values, preferences, and lived experience. Your voice is central to the process—we work collaboratively to create a treatment plan that is thoughtful, effective, and aligned with who you are.

*Please note that I do have additional intake documents outside of Headway that will be emailed to you upon booking. They must be completed prior to our meeting. Text "510-936-65two5" with any questions or assistance with filling them out.

I am deeply committed to supporting individuals in navigating life’s challenges with compassion and understanding. My approach focuses on creating a safe, open space for reflecting on experiences and developing tools for lasting change. I’m passionate about helping clients discover their strengths and guiding them toward a life that reflects their true values. Outside of therapy, I enjoy hiking, spending time at the beach, baking, and diving into adventure and thriller novels.

I am so glad that you are here seeking the wellness that you desire and deserve. I have worked in this field a long time. Having received my MSW from Cal Poly Humboldt, the course of study focused on rural and Indigenous communities and was both solution-focused and strength based.