I am Gerard Artesona, an Oakland-based psychotherapist specialising in psychedelic integration therapy.
My therapeutic approach bridges the science of psychology with entheogenic ritual & practice to support you in your healing journey.
I received a Masters in Counseling Psychology from the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology (currently known as Sofia University) in 2012. I have also received certification in Psychedelic Integration, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, Somatic Therapy, and as a yoga teacher.
I began my relationship with Ayahuasca/Yaje in 2010, and since then, have travelled frequently to Ecuador, Peru, and Colombia, often staying for months out of the year, to deepen my understanding of indigenous Amazonian usage of Ayahuasca and Yaje.
Prior to my personal therapy practice, I worked at John Muir Behavioral Hospital, Homeless Children's Network, group rehabilitation homes, and San Mateo County Jail. I have worked with migrant youth and families, minors and adults in psychiatric settings, patients detoxing from drugs and alcohol, and have facilitated integration groups for clients undergoing ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. I have experience working with patients and clients of all ages, gender identities, racial backgrounds, and mental health issues. In my private practice, I currently focus on working with adult clients who are experiencing the impacts of complex trauma, depression and anxiety, as well as major life transitions, existential concerns, chronic illness, neurodivergence, and non-ordinary states of consciousness.
Having grown up as a racial minority in small town America, and as a survivor of childhood abuse, I have first-hand experience of racial and intergenerational trauma, and the battle against depression and suicidality. I had my first entheogenic experience at the age of 19, which inspired me to study psychotherapy and psychedelic integration, and to pursue my own personal healing journey.
Many of the therapeutic modalities that I use with clients are ones that have transformed my own life. I am passionate about sharing the tools and skills that benefitted me for the wellbeing of others, and for our collective healing.
Education & Certifications
2022 | Somatic Trauma Reprocessing & Application, Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy
2021 | Certification of Training in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Ketamine Training Center
2018 | Center for Psychedelic Therapies and Research Program, California Institute of Integral Studies, Diversity Fellowship recipient
2017 | 200hr Hatha Yoga Teacher Training focused on the intersection between self-care & social justice, Piedmont Yoga RYT
2012 | Masters in Counseling Psychology, Institute of Transpersonal Psychology (currently known as Sofia University)
2009 | Bachelors Degree in Psychology, Delaware State University