Portrait to be added for the live site — a concept should never invent a face.
About Dr. Winsten
Lynn Winsten, PhD, is a licensed Clinical psychologist practicing in El Cerrito, California, in the East Bay near Berkeley, Albany and Kensington. She has had many years of intensive training and over 40 years practicing psychotherapy.
Her approach is psychodynamic, experiential and relational — grounded in the understanding that how we were treated when young and developing shapes our sense of self, our relationships, and our ability to succeed and feel content as adults. She is devoted to helping clients reach the origins of their grief and to facilitating a healing process that is careful, empathic, and honest.
The majority of people who seek psychotherapy have experienced some kind of childhood mistreatment. In Dr. Winsten’s office you will find a therapist who expects that story, is not shocked by it, and knows that recovery is possible.
- Licensed Psychologist, PhD
- El Cerrito · East Bay
- Childhood trauma specialist
- Psychodynamic, relational approach
- Adults · In person & online
How the work goes
Therapy for deep-rooted problems needs a therapist who is used to hearing difficult things — and who will guide you thoughtfully and empathically toward a clear understanding of what went wrong.
“After many years of intensive training and many more years practicing psychotherapy, I believe I have seen that people can address their suffering and come to a place of greater peace within — as well as improve their relationships, work concerns, and lives overall.”
A first conversation
We talk — by phone or in a first session — about what brings you in and whether this kind of work is the right fit. There is no pressure and no obligation.
Building safety and trust
It is hard to feel safe and trust when you have been hurt. We go at a pace you can manage, until the room feels like a place where the truth can be said.
Understanding what went wrong
Together we trace how early experiences shaped your self-regard, your relationships, and your ability to lead a content life — until it becomes clear why you have the problems you suffer from.
Living differently
Understanding turns into change: more peace within, relationships that see and hear you, and a life that feels valuable and your own. You are not alone in it, and you are not judged for who you have become.