I can make this very easy for you - unless you’re looking for a specific technique the only way to tell if your therapist is a good fit is by being in a relationship with them. This can be virtual or in person, but we’ve known for a long time that the primary determining factor in successful therapy is the alliance. While a resume and creds may be a starting point, I think you’ll find it’s rarely a deciding factor.
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For therapy to "work" you have to be vulnerable. To be vulnerable you need to feel safe. To feel safe you need to trust. This is the first layer of a deep, intimate, successful relationship that I model. Some people have never experienced this before - the idea that you can be heard, truly and deeply and not be judged, blamed or put in a box.
Walk with me - you're not alone in this.
Client Focus
Session Format: Couple, Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Adult, Children, Senior
Demographic Expertise: Asian, Buddhist, Men, Women clients.
Treatment Approach
- Biopsychosocial Therapy Takes into account biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding mental health. It looks at the whole person, not just symptoms.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) One of the most widely used approaches, CBT helps people identify unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier patterns. It is effective for anxiety, depression, and many other concerns.
- Eclectic Therapy Draws from different therapeutic methods based on what fits each client best. It is flexible and personalized rather than following one single model.
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Focuses on strengthening emotional bonds in couples or families. It helps people identify negative cycles and create more secure connections.
- Existential / Humanistic Therapy Encourages people to explore meaning, freedom, and authenticity in their lives. It focuses on personal growth and living in alignment with one’s values.
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy Based on decades of research, this method gives couples tools to improve communication, manage conflict, and strengthen intimacy.
- Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) A short-term approach focused on improving relationships and social support. It is often used for depression and grief.
- Narrative Therapy Encourages people to view problems as separate from themselves and reframe their life story. It helps build resilience and self-identity.
- Neuropsychology Examines how brain function affects thinking, memory, and behavior. It often involves assessment and rehabilitation strategies.
- Play Therapy Uses toys, games, and creative play to help children express emotions. It is especially useful when children can’t fully verbalize their feelings.
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) Focuses on solutions and future goals rather than past problems. It is practical, short-term, and goal-driven.
- Transpersonal Therapy Integrates spirituality and higher states of consciousness with psychology. It encourages growth beyond the individual self.
Approach Description: My therapeutic approach is best characterized as a shared journey towards meaning - a way of being grounded in a safe environment to create insights that are unique to you. In Zen we call this "the tangling of eyebrows".
We can choose to live better, more aware lives that open our freedom to love, work and play. It is a journey of curiosity, compassion and courage.
Fees & Insurance
Fees
- Average Session Fee $225
- Affordable sliding scale therapy: apply if you may be eligible.
- I do offer a limited number of low cost psychotherapy slots for those in need.
- Accepts Insurance
- I do provide SuperBills so you can claim on Insurance
Education & Credentials
John Jakubowski MACP LPCC LMFT
- Male
- License # 131493
- Licensed in California
- Practicing Since 2019
Education: I came to this profession after four previous careers. They have all led me here, where I am privileged to assist my clients in finding their path, mining clarity and awareness along the way.
John Jakubowski Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available In-Person in Orinda, CA 94563 and Piedmont, CA 94602
- Available Online for residents of California, Florida
- Online Therapy Details: Telehealth through SimplePractice
I think techniques and interventions are like tools and I treat every client differently. Everything should be customized to your situation, preference and tolerance. I have quite a large toolbox - CBT, EMDR, EFT, DBT, Psychodynamic, SBT, Existential, Somatics, blah blah blah. You can drown in acronyms in this profession. Let’s use what works and facilitates change. Change that allows you to live the life you desire and make choices that are authentic to your being and experience.
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I am a bit unorthodox. I use humour and swear from time to time. I disclose things from my own experience if I think they’ll be helpful. I am comfortable in silence and have the belief that you are the expert in you. My foundation is Mindfulness and Neurobiology. I was ordained as a Buddhist decades ago and lived in monasteries for years. This is my fifth and last profession. I make mistakes and am incredibly human. I have been told I am incredibly good at what I do, and I enjoy it.
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I suggest you interview as many different kinds and types of therapists that you can and go with your gut.
LMK if you’d like to chat.
If you are experiencing financial hardship, ask about limited sliding scale slots. I hold a few low-demand times for folks in need.
I also offer Spiritual Guidance and Mentorship for those on the path - feel free to inquire.