Living Arts Counseling Center

Tessa Sugarbaker, MD, MA Marriage and Family Therapist Intern #62918 Phone (510) 595-5500 ext 23 tessasugarbaker@livingartscenter.org I create a warm, nurturing environment that enables you to grow. Building safety and trust is the foundation of my work. We will explore what is confusing, painful, and/or anxiety provoking for you and work towards identifying your strengths and overcoming what is overwhelming or challenging for you. I offer you an empathic, gentle, encouraging, and non patronizing presence in your journey towards healing.

After becoming a physician (I am a licensed Obstetrician Gynecologist), I discovered that my real calling is working with people and their emotions.  As a therapist who is also a licensed physician, I bring knowledge and wisdom of the body, medicine, and the mind-body connection.    With this background I offer you a seasoned, well-rounded provider.

I received a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Drama therapy from the California Institute of Integral Studies.   I work with couples, families, and individual clients of varying ages, from teens to elders.  I use action oriented techniques to help clients develop a fresh perspective.  I have a special interest in working with clients on relationship issues, anger expression, depression, anxiety, inner critic work, trauma, survivors of child abuse, grief work, and eating disorders.  With regards to grief work, I have a special interest in working with those who suffer from miscarriage, post abortion grief, or the loss of a family member.

I appreciate your courage, willingness, and trust.

Tessa Sugarbaker, MD, MA is a Marriage and Family Therapist Intern at the Living Arts Counseling Center and is supervised by Merry Ross, MFT, MFC# 37401.