Psychotherapy for Adults · East Bay
The way you were treated as a child doesn’t have to decide how you live as an adult.
I’m Dr. Lynn Winsten, a licensed Clinical psychologist in El Cerrito. I work with adults whose early experiences in life still shape how they feel about themselves, how they connect with other people, and how they get through the day.
This work is done relationally and experientially, with care and compassion — and it can genuinely change a life.
In-person in El Cerrito · Online sessions available · Serving Berkeley, Albany, Richmond & the greater East Bay
Does any of the following sound familiar?
People who were mistreated as children often grow up carrying patterns like these — and often blame themselves. Many of these patterns can be understood and transformed in therapy.
Low self-esteemTrouble believing in yourself, or knowing who you are and what would actually bring you gratification.
Difficulty connectingAvoiding closeness — or trying so hard to please that you put up with people who cannot see or hear you.
Feelings that don’t fit the momentEmotions that arrive too intensely for the situation — or feelings that seem impossible to reach or share at all.
Fearful, self-attacking thoughtsA mind that defaults to the negative, and turns on you when things go wrong.
Loneliness, even around peopleA sense of being fundamentally alone with what happened, and unsure it is safe to trust anyone with it.
The past, returning uninvitedFlashbacks, nightmares, or a body that reacts before you understand why — as if it were happening again.
“I should be over this by now”Pushing it aside, staying relentlessly busy, or soothing the pain in ways that only make it stronger over time.
“It may be easier to push these feelings and experiences to the side… but prioritizing yourself — taking yourself and your mental health seriously — is critical to obtaining awareness, understanding, and relief.”
Take the first step
It can feel intimidating to reach out for help when problems intrude in your life. A phone call is enough to start — you don’t need the right words, and you don’t need to be sure.
Please call (510) 847-4738125 Santa Fe Ave, El Cerrito, CA 94530 · Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM