Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Walnut Creek, CA

My name is Ben Zinke and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the States of Idaho and California. I graduated from Loma Linda University with a master in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2006 and a PhD in Family Studies in 2012. I also have work experience as a mediator, a college professor and a financial coach which tends to provide perspective in therapy.

I’m Thomas Moore, LPCC, a licensed professional clinical counselor providing therapy for individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, emotional overwhelm, identity development, and complex relational patterns. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in repeating cycles such as overthinking, people pleasing, emotional shutdown, intense reactions, or difficulty maintaining stable relationships even when they logically understand what they should do. My goal is to help you translate insight into real change.

My approach is structured and compassionate. I integrate evidence based methods including cognitive restructuring, emotional regulation training, interpersonal effectiveness skills, and trauma informed therapy. Sessions focus on understanding why your brain reacts the way it does and building practical tools you can actually use outside the therapy room. This is not only about talking through problems but learning how to respond differently when they show up in real life.

I work well with clients who want more than passive support and are ready to build skills, increase self awareness, and interrupt patterns that no longer serve them.

What clients should know before starting

Therapy with me is collaborative and active and you will learn strategies rather than only venting. We will work on understanding both the emotional and neurological side of your reactions. Sessions focus on present day functioning while also addressing past experiences that still affect you. I may gently challenge patterns when it supports growth while maintaining a supportive and respectful space. Progress often comes from small repeated changes rather than sudden breakthroughs.

If you are looking for therapy that combines validation with practical change, we will likely work well together.

I enjoy working with individuals in the recovery community, first responders, and those who have experienced traumatic childhoods. I don't just talk the talk, I walk the walk.

I have a masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I have been in practice for over 10 years. During my time in practice, I have served various age groups, populations, and diagnoses. I try to meet clients and families where they are at to help clients achieve their desired goals.

I draw strongly from decades of my own personal growth work. Psychology is not a theory for me. It is a daily practice, a way of life. I help people focus on what they can control, what is most important currently and how they can work through whatever they are facing.

I completed my undergraduate work at UCSB and later earned my master’s degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. The early part of my career was in corporate management roles. My experience in the business sector provides me with special insight into the particular demands of balancing work, life, and family roles.

I received my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University and have been practicing psychotherapy in a variety of settings including foster care, public health clinics, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) clinics, group homes, HIV clinics, primary care clinics and private practice for the past 20 years.

I'm warm, pleasant, knowledgeable, professional, efficient and approachable.

Great to meet you! You deserve a safe space where you feel truly seen, heard, and supported. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, relationship struggles, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. By fostering a strong, collaborative connection, we will work on the issues that matter most to you. If you are feeling overwhelmed or are ready to make meaningful changes in your life, I am here to guide you and walk that path right alongside you.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Seeking help can be one of the hardest parts, so congratulations on taking that step! I provide a welcoming environment that is safe, nurturing, and judgment-free.

I am a board certified, doctoral prepared PMHNP. I completed my post graduate at National University in Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I earned my DNP from Azusa Pacific University and graduated from CSUSB MSN program. I have been a faculty at CSUSB since 2014. Extensively trained and a certified Trauma-Informed specialist. I diagnose and treat mental disorders including medication-assisted treatment along with counseling for chemical dependency and substance use disorders.

Do you feel like something is wrong with you? Do you wish it would all just stop and go away? Is your child acting out and you don't know why or what to do? If you have had any of these thoughts, then you're in the right place! My practice is based around what happened to us, not what is wrong with us. I am here to support & guide you in processing thoughts and feelings, reflect on experiences, learn new coping skills, and figure out next steps. I will listen, teach, brainstorm, guide and help you build tools to meet your goals.