Meet Jacob Donnelly, LCSW
Let's figure out what's getting in the way, and move forward.
Therapy for anxiety, addiction, and anger, in Berkeley and online across California.
You’re in the right place.
I'm here to help you get back on track.
I'm Jacob Donnelly, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW #63900) in private practice in Berkeley, California. I work with adults and couples on anxiety, alcohol and addictions, anger, depression, and the patterns that keep people stuck, in person and online across California.
Most of the people I work with aren't starting from scratch. They've made progress before, felt some momentum, and then watched it slip, and what's left is the discouragement of having lost ground they worked hard for. My job is to help you understand what pulled you off course, and build something steadier this time, without judgment and at a pace that fits you.
My style
Understanding what's driving it, and building the skills to change.
My approach combines traditional talk therapy and psychodynamic work, understanding the deeper patterns and where they come from, with evidence-based, practical methods like CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Seeking Safety. I'm not rigid about method. Some people want concrete tools and homework; others mostly want to be heard. We'll find the mix that fits you.
And there's nothing you could say or do that would make me judge you. Years of high-acuity clinical work mean very little surprises me, so you don't have to clean it up or find the right words. Swear, use dark humor, sit in silence; you can show up exactly as you are, and we'll start there.
My guiding principles
Growth
Change is possible, even when it doesn't feel like it. We're working toward real movement, and a life that feels more like yours.
Authenticity
I'll be straight about what I see and what I think can help, and you don’t have to keep your guard up. Honesty over pretense.
Collaboration
We're figuring this out together. Cutting back, getting or staying sober, or still not sure yet, I meet you where you are.
Awareness
A lot of what keeps us stuck runs on autopilot. The work is noticing the patterns as they happen, so you can act with intention.
Training & Education
Approaches — Psychodynamic & talk therapy, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety, CBT for Chronic Pain, harm reduction
Education — MSW, UCLA · B.A. Psychology, UC Santa Cruz
Experience — 15+ yrs in community mental health, veterans services & private practice; Clinical Director at Swords to Plowshares; ED clinician at SF General; LA County DMH
Licensure — LCSW #63900 (CA); Certified Clinical Supervisor; LPS 5150 certified