Adults Support Groups in Santa Barbara, CA

This group is offered yearly for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of this expressive modality. I train from a Gestalt perspective using the phenomenological process of the Violet Oaklander Model. The trainings includes theory and experiential practice in order to better support a depth of understanding when using Sand Tray in Gestalt Play Therapy.
Photo of Stephanie Pawlowicz, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Hosted by Stephanie Pawlowicz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93101
This group is offered yearly for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of this expressive modality. I train from a Gestalt perspective using the phenomenological process of the Violet Oaklander Model. The trainings includes theory and experiential practice in order to better support a depth of understanding when using Sand Tray in Gestalt Play Therapy.
(805) 324-6675 View (805) 324-6675
Beginning Saturday October 8 running for 8 consecutive Saturday mornings from 10-11:45, Janus Counseling Center, led by Susan Hicks, MA, LMFT and Jennifer Vogel, MA, LMFT, is hosting an in-person processing group. When grief, loss, or loneliness strike, gathering together in the company of others going through similar feelings, brings about a healing that cannot happen in individual therapy. Please consider joining if you are experiencing complicated feelings of loneliness or loss. To reserve your spot, contact Jennifer at 805-617-3316. Group size is limited. $50 per session. If 4 or 8 weeks paid up front, a 10% discount applies.
Photo of Susan Hicks, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Susan Hicks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Beginning Saturday October 8 running for 8 consecutive Saturday mornings from 10-11:45, Janus Counseling Center, led by Susan Hicks, MA, LMFT and Jennifer Vogel, MA, LMFT, is hosting an in-person processing group. When grief, loss, or loneliness strike, gathering together in the company of others going through similar feelings, brings about a healing that cannot happen in individual therapy. Please consider joining if you are experiencing complicated feelings of loneliness or loss. To reserve your spot, contact Jennifer at 805-617-3316. Group size is limited. $50 per session. If 4 or 8 weeks paid up front, a 10% discount applies.
(805) 590-8084 View (805) 590-8084
The group for social anxiety is a group for individuals to meet and connect with peers who understand their experiences without judgment. This group will teach practical skills on how to be assertive within an environment of people who are willing to provide and receive support. This group is a safe space to share, experiment, and feel like you belong.
Photo of Alix Robinson, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Alix Robinson
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93109
The group for social anxiety is a group for individuals to meet and connect with peers who understand their experiences without judgment. This group will teach practical skills on how to be assertive within an environment of people who are willing to provide and receive support. This group is a safe space to share, experiment, and feel like you belong.
(805) 549-5176 x1 View (805) 549-5176 x1
Group is currently paused: This group exists to assist individuals to separate their oppressive religious experiences from their identity and personhood. Group therapy is offered 6 weeks at a time to a closed group of individuals seeking understanding for themselves and from others. The greatest outcome of this group I've witnessed over and over again is this: Members feel utterly alone in their experience and then find powerful relief when they share and hear someone else say, for the first time, "me too".
Photo of Sam Urena, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Sam Urena
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Group is currently paused: This group exists to assist individuals to separate their oppressive religious experiences from their identity and personhood. Group therapy is offered 6 weeks at a time to a closed group of individuals seeking understanding for themselves and from others. The greatest outcome of this group I've witnessed over and over again is this: Members feel utterly alone in their experience and then find powerful relief when they share and hear someone else say, for the first time, "me too".
(805) 500-7628 View (805) 500-7628
Clinical Supervision Group for AMFT registered interns. Individual and triadic also available at sliding fee.
Photo of Jill A Frandsen, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Jill A Frandsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Clinical Supervision Group for AMFT registered interns. Individual and triadic also available at sliding fee.
(805) 516-0452 View (805) 516-0452
Currently accepting members for in-person group therapy. This is an ongoing group for men aged 20 and older. This group provides a powerful space to gain greater self awareness, confidence, to receive support, and to upgrade one's ability to be successful in relationships. This group is ideal for Men who are functioning in their life but want to grow, heal, and change in deeper ways. This is an excellent opportunity to work on anxiety and depression, and to learn relational skills that will help you in your personal and professional life. This group is held Online.
Photo of Rudy Z Ruderman, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Rudy Z Ruderman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Currently accepting members for in-person group therapy. This is an ongoing group for men aged 20 and older. This group provides a powerful space to gain greater self awareness, confidence, to receive support, and to upgrade one's ability to be successful in relationships. This group is ideal for Men who are functioning in their life but want to grow, heal, and change in deeper ways. This is an excellent opportunity to work on anxiety and depression, and to learn relational skills that will help you in your personal and professional life. This group is held Online.
(805) 219-7010 View (805) 219-7010
SMART Recovery is a positive and proven, common-sense, self help approach to all addictive behaviors. Effective tools to sustain motivation, control urges, manage difficult thoughts and emotions, achieve life balance. Non-religious and empowering alternative to 12-steps. Contact: Len@fullspectrumrecovery.com or 805-886-1963. See www.fullspectrumrecovery.com or SMARTrecovery.org for more info.
Photo of Len Van Nostrand, CCP, MA
Hosted by Len Van Nostrand
Verified Verified
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93103
SMART Recovery is a positive and proven, common-sense, self help approach to all addictive behaviors. Effective tools to sustain motivation, control urges, manage difficult thoughts and emotions, achieve life balance. Non-religious and empowering alternative to 12-steps. Contact: Len@fullspectrumrecovery.com or 805-886-1963. See www.fullspectrumrecovery.com or SMARTrecovery.org for more info.
(805) 438-2076 View (805) 438-2076
Are you afraid, awkward or shut down regarding sex with yourself or your partner? Do you feel like you are missing out on what others have in the way of a sex life? Are you afraid to say what you want sexually? This group helps participants see how their history has shaped their sex life. We identify and cultivate your erotic template. Dr. Jenn will help you feel more comfortable and connected in your body and help you know what turns you on (and off). Learn more about the group at https://pleasureproject.us/small-group/
Photo of Jenn Kennedy, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, EMDR
Hosted by Jenn Kennedy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, EMDR
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Are you afraid, awkward or shut down regarding sex with yourself or your partner? Do you feel like you are missing out on what others have in the way of a sex life? Are you afraid to say what you want sexually? This group helps participants see how their history has shaped their sex life. We identify and cultivate your erotic template. Dr. Jenn will help you feel more comfortable and connected in your body and help you know what turns you on (and off). Learn more about the group at https://pleasureproject.us/small-group/
(805) 214-6910 View (805) 214-6910
The group focus is to improve interpersonal relationships with other men. As leader, I strive to offer a wide range of experiences whether it be weekly e-mail feedback or having members complete a genogram. The curriculum for the group draws off my various trainings - Gestalt, KAP, End of Life Doula, to name a few. This group is for men looking to be challenged, improve their relationships, and have some experience in therapy. All potential members are screened to make sure they are the right fit.
Photo of Taylor Schreiber, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Taylor Schreiber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I work with adults, couples, and families on a variety of issues like anxiety, depression, and self-worth.
The group focus is to improve interpersonal relationships with other men. As leader, I strive to offer a wide range of experiences whether it be weekly e-mail feedback or having members complete a genogram. The curriculum for the group draws off my various trainings - Gestalt, KAP, End of Life Doula, to name a few. This group is for men looking to be challenged, improve their relationships, and have some experience in therapy. All potential members are screened to make sure they are the right fit.
(818) 659-9494 View (818) 659-9494
A free monthly online group that runs on the FIRST THURSDAY of every month from 7:00pm-9:00pm. The forum is offered as a community service to support people who identify with the fatherhood role to learn, teach, and share about their struggles and successes related to parenting. Contact me directly for login credentials. Gender alignment is not MANdatory. Anyone who is interested in being a better parent is welcome.
Photo of James 'jamie' Fortin, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AATI
Hosted by James 'jamie' Fortin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AATI
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93105
A free monthly online group that runs on the FIRST THURSDAY of every month from 7:00pm-9:00pm. The forum is offered as a community service to support people who identify with the fatherhood role to learn, teach, and share about their struggles and successes related to parenting. Contact me directly for login credentials. Gender alignment is not MANdatory. Anyone who is interested in being a better parent is welcome.
(805) 953-7360 View (805) 953-7360
Stop making excuses. Start making changes. Are you tired of the same patterns? Ready to move beyond blame and victim stories? This group is about taking complete ownership of your life – your relationships, conflicts, and personal struggles. Radical Responsibility is asking "How am I creating this?" not "Why does this happen to me?" This is for men who are: Ready to examine themselves, not Blame others, Willing to face uncomfortable truths, Committed to breaking cycles. We will challenge each other with direct feedback and support real transformation. No coddling. No endless processing. Ready to own your life?
Photo of Gregory P Young II, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Gregory P Young II
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93150
Stop making excuses. Start making changes. Are you tired of the same patterns? Ready to move beyond blame and victim stories? This group is about taking complete ownership of your life – your relationships, conflicts, and personal struggles. Radical Responsibility is asking "How am I creating this?" not "Why does this happen to me?" This is for men who are: Ready to examine themselves, not Blame others, Willing to face uncomfortable truths, Committed to breaking cycles. We will challenge each other with direct feedback and support real transformation. No coddling. No endless processing. Ready to own your life?
(805) 617-1371 View (805) 617-1371
Each week we gather for mindfulness meditation. The group starts with a 20 min talk, meditation instruction, Buddhist philosophy, then we meditate for 25 minutes. we end with a 20-minute compassion meditation. On the First Tuesday of the month, we have guest speakers at Trinity Episcopal Church. The group is ongoing, you can drop in, and free of charge
Photo of Radhule Barbara Weininger - Radhule Weininger, Psychologist, PhD, MD
Hosted by Radhule Weininger
Psychologist, PhD, MD
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Each week we gather for mindfulness meditation. The group starts with a 20 min talk, meditation instruction, Buddhist philosophy, then we meditate for 25 minutes. we end with a 20-minute compassion meditation. On the First Tuesday of the month, we have guest speakers at Trinity Episcopal Church. The group is ongoing, you can drop in, and free of charge
(805) 409-8250 View (805) 409-8250
This is a 6 week group that focuses on sharing and connecting with others to help heal from the loss of our beloved companion animals.
Photo of Liz LaCasto, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Liz LaCasto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93110
This is a 6 week group that focuses on sharing and connecting with others to help heal from the loss of our beloved companion animals.
(805) 954-9299 View (805) 954-9299
Are you someone with a rich inner world but feel stuck when it comes to expressing it on the page? This writing group is designed for writers, creative types, neurodivergent and/or emotionally sensitive individuals—from mild to high-functioning—who want to develop their creative voice but struggle to find momentum and motivation. Whether it's a harsh inner critic, perfectionism, or a lack of community holding you back, you’re not alone. Together, we’ll co-create a supportive and inspiring space that honors both vulnerability and artistic exploration.
Photo of Jared Roehrig, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MFA
Hosted by Jared Roehrig
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MFA
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Are you someone with a rich inner world but feel stuck when it comes to expressing it on the page? This writing group is designed for writers, creative types, neurodivergent and/or emotionally sensitive individuals—from mild to high-functioning—who want to develop their creative voice but struggle to find momentum and motivation. Whether it's a harsh inner critic, perfectionism, or a lack of community holding you back, you’re not alone. Together, we’ll co-create a supportive and inspiring space that honors both vulnerability and artistic exploration.
(805) 918-1549 View (805) 918-1549
This course offers tools to help you deepen your awareness that life is available only in the present moment and to train yourself to live each moment of daily life fully, without being weighed down by regrets about the past or carried away by fears about the future. Ideal for people suffering from depression, anxiety or other mood disorders, this class can also help anyone who wants to stop suffering and to start living.
Photo of A. Christine Dawkins, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by A. Christine Dawkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93101
This course offers tools to help you deepen your awareness that life is available only in the present moment and to train yourself to live each moment of daily life fully, without being weighed down by regrets about the past or carried away by fears about the future. Ideal for people suffering from depression, anxiety or other mood disorders, this class can also help anyone who wants to stop suffering and to start living.
(805) 507-7062 View (805) 507-7062
Living authentically requires that we meet ourselves with more compassion, mindfulness and skill. This group explores common themes we wrestle with as women. Outcomes for members include: deepened awareness of our reactions to change and transition; discovery of blind spots and unsatisfying relationship patterns, support for transforming old, reactive ways of being into potent, inspired & self-directed action; resources for creating more satisfying connection with self and loved ones; safe, respectful feedback on how others experience us; and clarity of purpose to pursue and cultivate what matters most.
Photo of Thery Jenkins, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Thery Jenkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Living authentically requires that we meet ourselves with more compassion, mindfulness and skill. This group explores common themes we wrestle with as women. Outcomes for members include: deepened awareness of our reactions to change and transition; discovery of blind spots and unsatisfying relationship patterns, support for transforming old, reactive ways of being into potent, inspired & self-directed action; resources for creating more satisfying connection with self and loved ones; safe, respectful feedback on how others experience us; and clarity of purpose to pursue and cultivate what matters most.
(805) 335-1223 x203 View (805) 335-1223 x203
A group for prospective fathers to process the changing emotions and lived experiences of impending fatherhood. This group is appropriate for men that are currently expecting a child or are planning to start a family soon. There is no instruction manual for transitioning to fatherhood, it doesn't happen all at once. It is a journey and it can be lonely. This group offers education, support, and a community of people in the same life stage.
Photo of Daniel Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Hosted by Daniel Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93101
A group for prospective fathers to process the changing emotions and lived experiences of impending fatherhood. This group is appropriate for men that are currently expecting a child or are planning to start a family soon. There is no instruction manual for transitioning to fatherhood, it doesn't happen all at once. It is a journey and it can be lonely. This group offers education, support, and a community of people in the same life stage.
(805) 324-6623 View (805) 324-6623
*Screening for August 2026* Relationship Recovery Process (RRP) group is a virtual 6 month psychoeducational and experiential group for adults with childhood trauma. The RRP model is about grieving the childhood you did not have in community. Folks will learn where their very valid triggers come from and learn to deal with them in a healthier way so that they don’t negatively impact day to day living and relationships. Must reside in CA . Please fill out pre-screening form at https://www.rwsb.org/rrpgroup
Photo of Ari Rogers, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Ari Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93111
*Screening for August 2026* Relationship Recovery Process (RRP) group is a virtual 6 month psychoeducational and experiential group for adults with childhood trauma. The RRP model is about grieving the childhood you did not have in community. Folks will learn where their very valid triggers come from and learn to deal with them in a healthier way so that they don’t negatively impact day to day living and relationships. Must reside in CA . Please fill out pre-screening form at https://www.rwsb.org/rrpgroup
(805) 669-9568 View (805) 669-9568
Weekly intensive group therapy focused on living with sexual integrity. Each session is 50 minutes and is conducted via Zoom. Topics discussed include infidelity, porn/lust, risky sexual behaviors, and other unwanted behaviors. This is a safe space for men to take off their “mask,” practice honesty/vulnerability, develop an accountability network, and learn from others on the same journey. During the sessions, we share our struggles and successes. We develop solutions for difficult situations. We delve deeper into the underlying issues that hinder growth. We study books and selected readings to gain greater understanding.
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Hosted by Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Weekly intensive group therapy focused on living with sexual integrity. Each session is 50 minutes and is conducted via Zoom. Topics discussed include infidelity, porn/lust, risky sexual behaviors, and other unwanted behaviors. This is a safe space for men to take off their “mask,” practice honesty/vulnerability, develop an accountability network, and learn from others on the same journey. During the sessions, we share our struggles and successes. We develop solutions for difficult situations. We delve deeper into the underlying issues that hinder growth. We study books and selected readings to gain greater understanding.
(805) 849-1460 View (805) 849-1460
The group for social anxiety is a group designed for young adults in their 20s and adjacent to meet and connect to peers who understand their experiences without judgment. This group will teach practical skills on how to be assertive within an environment of people who are willing to provide and receive support. This group is a safe space to share, experiment, and feel like you belong.
Photo of Alix Robinson - California Counseling Clinics, Treatment Center, MA, LMFT, PhD, PsyD
Hosted by California Counseling Clinics
Treatment Center, MA, LMFT, PhD, PsyD
Group meets in Santa Barbara, CA 93109
The group for social anxiety is a group designed for young adults in their 20s and adjacent to meet and connect to peers who understand their experiences without judgment. This group will teach practical skills on how to be assertive within an environment of people who are willing to provide and receive support. This group is a safe space to share, experiment, and feel like you belong.
(805) 410-8211 View (805) 410-8211

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Adults Support Groups
Why should adults see a therapist?
Adults may benefit from therapy for a wide range of reasons—whether it’s managing symptoms of a diagnosed mental health condition like anxiety or depression, navigating life transitions, coping with grief or trauma, or simply seeking support during a challenging life period. Many adults find that therapy helps them build healthier coping skills and better process their emotions, which may lead to better relationships and reduced stress. It’s important to note that, unlike psychiatrists or primary care physicians, therapists do not prescribe psychiatric medication. However, they will often work alongside prescribing clinicians to ensure coordinated care and can provide behavioral therapy as an important addition to psychiatric medication. Mental health concerns can look different in adulthood than in childhood or adolescence, so finding a therapist with expertise working with adult clients is important. Conditions like major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for instance, may present or resurface differently in adulthood than in childhood or adolescence. Adult-specific stressors, such as job strain, caregiving responsibilities, relationship challenges, financial stress, or identity transitions, can also influence the onset and type of symptoms an individual experiences. Adult-focused therapists, therefore, are trained to understand these complexities and tailor care accordingly.

How do I know if a therapist is the right fit for me?
When seeking care, it’s important to understand a therapist’s treatment specialties and their overall approach to treatment . Some therapists focus on common adult conditions like anxiety or depression, while others specialize in areas such as trauma, substance use disorders, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. It’s also important to consider a therapist’s training when seeking care. Therapists hold various licenses depending on their training and state requirements. Common therapy credentials include Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs), Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs). Psychologists (PhD or PsyD) receive additional doctoral-level training and may focus on assessments or more specialized therapeutic approaches. All of these professionals can provide talk therapy but do not prescribe medication. When searching for a therapist, consider their credentials and training background to ensure a good fit.

How do I find a therapist who sees adults?
Psychology Today’s online directory allows you to search specifically for therapists who work with adults. Each provider profile includes key information such as clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, licensure, accepted insurance plans, languages spoken, and session fees. Reviewing these details can help you determine whether a particular provider aligns with your needs and can indicate whether they are a good match for adult clients.