Meet Your Therapist:

Andrea Tivers, LCSW

Hello, I’m Andrea (she/her), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW 28086) offering in-person therapy in Oakland, CA and Telehealth services to throughout California.

My work with clients is rooted in the belief that every person has the capacity to heal, and that healing begins with understanding how feelings, beliefs and behavioral patterns develop and become ingrained over time.  From there, we can harness your strengths and shift both unconscious and conscious limiting beliefs.  I  am deeply passionate about working with clients who may be navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, neurodivergence, relationship difficulties, and parenting while seeking new ways to care for themselves. Some of these areas resonate with me both personally and professionally, and I believe that  there is a resilience residing within each of us to create new pathways out of suffering.  Through active dialogue and collaborative experimentation, I guide clients toward a life of authenticity,  self compassion, and greater peace of mind.

Beyond the Office

In my personal time, I embrace a life of perpetual curiosity, always ready to embark on the next adventure. I find joy in exploring hiking, live music, creative arts, and immersing myself in the natural beauty of Oakland and the larger Bay Area.

Ocean shimmering in the sunlight with mountains at shore.
People with arms in peacefully in air in a circle in the forrest.

My Approach

My approach is deeply rooted in meaningful dialogue and collaborative exploration, where we actively experiment to find what works best for you. I place a strong emphasis on helping my clients discover their authentic selves, cultivate self-compassion, and achieve a greater peace of mind. By delving into your unique experiences and harnessing your individual strengths, we will work together to understand and transform the patterns and beliefs that have shaped your life. This process not only fosters personal growth and resilience but also empowers you to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and confidence.

My Background and Modalities

My formal education includes a Bachelors in Social Work and Political Science from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. In 2008, I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois - Chicago.

My journey as a therapist has taken me through many areas of care, from supporting survivors of domestic violence to working closely with high needs children and families for almost decade. I’ve also spent six years providing clinical supervision to staff working in methadone treatment, guiding people through the challenges of addiction recovery with compassion and understanding. Whether providing direct care or offering clinical supervision, my focus has always been on creating safe, nurturing spaces for others to feel heard and supported.

In 2013, I opened my private practice, where I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals from all walks of life navigate life’s ups and downs. Along the way, I’ve taken numerous trainings to make sure I’m always offering the most effective, up-to-date care possible. I recognize the deep connection between mind and body, and strive to integrate both aspects of the self into our session. I’m always learning, growing, and evolving in my work, driven by the hope that together, we can find the tools and strength you need to build the life you deserve.

  • A form of psychotherapy that helps individuals change negative thought patterns to improve their mood and behavior.

  • A specialized therapy focusing on changing thoughts and behaviors that affect sleep patterns to combat insomnia.

  • A therapy using eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to process and reduce the impact of traumatic memories.

  • A therapy that identifies and works with various sub-personalities or 'parts' within a person’s mental system for self-healing.

  • A therapeutic approach combining ketamine administration with therapy to enhance neuroplasticity and support healing of trauma, depression and anxiety.

  • Practices that focus on being present in the moment and showing kindness to oneself, often used to reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.

  • A therapy that encourages individuals to rewrite the negative stories of their lives, helping them see themselves in a more positive light.

  • For those exploring psychedelics in their personal journeys, I offer preparation and integration. Please note, I do not offer guided psychedelic experiences outside of KAP

  • Reiki is a technique that uses energy force to reduce stress and anxiety and encourage relaxation. The method uses gentle touch and placement for healing and tries to improve balance in your body. It does not treat conditions on its own but can be used to support traditional treatment you may receive.

  • A goal-directed therapy that focuses on finding solutions in the present time and exploring one’s hope for the future, rather than focusing on past problems.

  • Somatic therapy is a form of mental health counseling that focuses on releasing and healing traumatic experiences by tuning into bodily sensations and using mind-body techniques.

Ready to start your healing journey?

If you are interested in exploring how Evidence Based Practice such as CBT, EMDR and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy can help support you on your healing journey, please contact me to schedule a free consultation