A soft place to land

In a world that moves too fast and asks for too much, therapy can be a space to soften and reconnect with yourself. Whether you're tending to grief, longing for change, or learning to listen to your inner voice—you don’t have to do it alone. With care and curiosity, let’s make room for what’s ready to grow.

Welcome!

Hi, I’m Mariru (mah-ri-ru). I'm a licensed clinical social worker based in Oakland, on Chochenyo Ohlone land. I am queer, and second-generation Japanese American. I work with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and more, while navigating life transitions, relationships, grief, stuckness, and the impact of intergenerational trauma.  

Starting therapy is a courageous and powerful choice. I’m happy for you, and inspired by you, for making that decision.

Please read on to see if I might be a good fit for you on your therapy journey. If you’d like to get a better feel by speaking on the phone, please feel free to reach out using the contact form.

Approach

My practice is grounded in warmth, presence, and radical curiosity. I take a decolonizing, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed approach that honors the complexity of your story—including cultural, intergenerational, and systemic layers. I deeply believe that all emotions carry meaning, and I see therapy as a collaborative space where you can practice curiosity and compassion towards yourself.

My approach draws from:

  • inner child work

  • mindfulness

  • relational healing

  • psychodynamic therapy

Client Focus

I work with adults and individuals navigating life transitions, grief, stuckness, and the impact of intergenerational trauma. I especially enjoy supporting BIPOC, queer, neurodivergent, and spiritually curious clients who are exploring identity, healing relational wounds, or seeking a deeper sense of connection with themselves. My practice is inclusive of all bodies, abilities, genders, and relationship styles, including CNM/polyamory, kink/BDSM, and sex work.

I am passionate about providing a space where your layered identities and lived experiences are not only acknowledged but centered in our work.

Contact

If you feel curious to work together and want to chat with me for a free 15-minute consultation, please reach out using the contact form!