Margaret Oh, MA AMFT/APCC
Psychotherapist
in California
Supervised by Lisa Jellison LMFT 46430
How do I know? I have been there myself.
Hitting middle age felt like a jolt. As I was coming out of a 20-year marriage, watching my children leave for their own journeys, moving between countries, and winding down my business, I embarked on a solo journey, hoping to find myself in this big world.
Through therapy, I began to look inward and made a profound shift in my career, transitioning from an entrepreneur to becoming a therapist. I moved from constant anxiety and people-pleasing to prioritizing my own needs and finding peace within myself. It was a long journey, but I’ve finally found a place of calm and happiness.
What will therapy look like?
Skill-Based Therapy/Coaching
I grew up quickly, moving between countries at young age and starting several businesses along the way. As an entrepreneur, I understand the need for practical, actionable tools. If you’re looking for concrete strategies to advance in life, you’ll get exactly that—no sugarcoating, just effective solutions to help you move forward.
Empathy and Compassion
You might notice my directness and honesty, but that doesn’t mean I lack sensitivity. I deeply connect with your experiences, feeling alongside you as we work through your challenges. You’ll sense that I’m truly present, sharing in your emotions and understanding your journey.
Our SpecialtiesPersonalized Treatment
Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people need comfort and empathy, while others seek straightforward honesty. I’m trained in psychodynamic modalities like IFS and EMDR, but I also use structured approaches when needed. My goal is to tailor the treatment to fit your unique needs and preferences.
My approach
Internal Family System
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a transformative, evidence-based approach created by Dr. Richard Schwartz to help individuals heal from emotional distress by understanding their inner dynamics. IFS views the mind as comprising various sub-personalities or “parts,” each with unique perspectives and roles. These parts can interact in ways that create internal conflict and emotional challenges.
Through IFS therapy, clients identify and engage with these parts to promote internal harmony and self-leadership. This process helps heal past wounds, resolve internal conflicts, and enhance self-compassion.
You may benefit from this approach if you are looking to:
- Resolve internal conflicts and emotional difficulties.
- Heal from trauma and emotional pain.
- Improve self-awareness and emotional regulation.
- Enhance personal growth and relationships.
- Address issues such as anxiety, depression, or self-esteem challenges.
Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a dynamic, evidence-based approach designed to help individuals process and heal from trauma and distressing life experiences. Developed by Francine Shapiro, EMDR integrates elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy with guided eye movements to facilitate the processing of traumatic memories. During EMDR therapy, clients recall distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements. This process helps to reprocess these memories, reducing their emotional charge and integrating them in a more adaptive way.
You may benefit from this approach if you are experiencing:
- Trauma or PTSD from past experiences.
- High levels of anxiety or panic attacks.
- Persistent negative beliefs or emotional disturbances.
- Challenges in emotional regulation and stress management.
- Difficulty moving past significant life events or loss.
GOTTMAN Method
The Gottman Method Couples Therapy is a research-based approach designed to help couples build and maintain healthy, fulfilling relationships. Developed by Drs. John and Julie Schwartz Gottman, this method draws on over four decades of research into what makes relationships work and aims to enhance communication, understanding, and intimacy between partners. Using practical tools and strategies, the Gottman Method focuses on improving relational dynamics by addressing the four key areas of conflict: communication, emotional connection, conflict resolution, and shared goals. The therapy includes techniques for enhancing emotional intelligence, fostering positive interactions, and building trust and intimacy.
- Improve communication and resolve conflicts more effectively.
- Enhance emotional connection and intimacy.
- Address ongoing relationship issues or dissatisfaction.
- Strengthen their partnership and build a stronger foundation for the future.
- Navigate significant life transitions or challenges together.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective, evidence-based approach designed to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. This structured, goal-oriented therapy was developed by Aaron Beck and is widely used to address a range of psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress. In CBT, clients work with therapists to recognize and challenge distorted thinking patterns, replace them with more realistic and positive thoughts, and develop healthier coping strategies. This process aims to improve emotional well-being and promote more adaptive behaviors.
- Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety and panic attacks.
- Depression and low mood.
- Stress and difficulty managing emotions.
- Negative thought patterns and self-critical beliefs.
- Behavioral issues, such as procrastination or habits impacting daily life.