Photo of Terri J Clarke, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Terri J Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Failing to get help, many divorced people regret that they gave up too soon. As a marriage specialist for over two decades, you can trust that you are in the care of a competent advocate for your marriage. Every marriage faces the power struggle -it's supposed to happen. Too many quit their marriage at this crucial time. Not giving yourselves the opportunity to work through this painful stage could be a tragedy because this very stage carries the seeds of true character growth and healing. An affair, dishonesty, conflict, or stress can rob you of the feelings of attunement.
Failing to get help, many divorced people regret that they gave up too soon. As a marriage specialist for over two decades, you can trust that you are in the care of a competent advocate for your marriage. Every marriage faces the power struggle -it's supposed to happen. Too many quit their marriage at this crucial time. Not giving yourselves the opportunity to work through this painful stage could be a tragedy because this very stage carries the seeds of true character growth and healing. An affair, dishonesty, conflict, or stress can rob you of the feelings of attunement.
(805) 980-7946 View (805) 980-7946
Photo of Ellen Morgan Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Ellen Morgan Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
(805) 303-5480 View (805) 303-5480
Photo of Erika Helene Torres, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Erika Helene Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 16+ years of experience. I specialize in Couples Therapy, Anxiety/Depression, Maternal Mental Health, Parenting, Phase of Life issues, and Relationship and Occupational challenges. I work with clients throughout CA providing therapy via Telehealth, which allows you to meet from the comfort of your home, maximize your time, and reduces scheduling challenges. For additional information, please visit my website at www.erikatorreslmft.com
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 16+ years of experience. I specialize in Couples Therapy, Anxiety/Depression, Maternal Mental Health, Parenting, Phase of Life issues, and Relationship and Occupational challenges. I work with clients throughout CA providing therapy via Telehealth, which allows you to meet from the comfort of your home, maximize your time, and reduces scheduling challenges. For additional information, please visit my website at www.erikatorreslmft.com
(949) 694-1496 View (949) 694-1496
Photo of Matthew R Chirman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Matthew R Chirman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For the 22 last years I have worked successfully with adult clients dealing with a wide range of issues including marital and relationship problems, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, abuse issues, personality issues and mental health concerns. I believe a trusting relationship between the therapist and client is the foundation for all growth and change. However, the relationship itself is typically not sufficient. I will help you set goals for your therapy based upon what you would like to have different in your life, and together we will explore and change the blocks which have prevented you from achieving your goals.
For the 22 last years I have worked successfully with adult clients dealing with a wide range of issues including marital and relationship problems, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, abuse issues, personality issues and mental health concerns. I believe a trusting relationship between the therapist and client is the foundation for all growth and change. However, the relationship itself is typically not sufficient. I will help you set goals for your therapy based upon what you would like to have different in your life, and together we will explore and change the blocks which have prevented you from achieving your goals.
(805) 791-2566 View (805) 791-2566
Photo of Clarissa Kugler, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Clarissa Kugler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, it is my privilege to offer a safe and confidential space where you can explore your unique challenges and work towards finding balance, healing and happiness. I offer both individual, family and couples therapy. My style is person centered, compassionate and strengths based.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, it is my privilege to offer a safe and confidential space where you can explore your unique challenges and work towards finding balance, healing and happiness. I offer both individual, family and couples therapy. My style is person centered, compassionate and strengths based.
(805) 918-6328 View (805) 918-6328
Photo of Denise C Williamson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Denise C Williamson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
With over 10 years' experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been dedicated towards helping individual adults resolve their issues.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or having relationship problems? Or, perhaps you just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life? Together we can focus on your healing, replacing any negative patterns, and promoting a more positive future. You deserve support and guidance towards achieving your dreams. I invite you to visit my website at www.brighterlifestyle.com.
With over 10 years' experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been dedicated towards helping individual adults resolve their issues.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or having relationship problems? Or, perhaps you just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life? Together we can focus on your healing, replacing any negative patterns, and promoting a more positive future. You deserve support and guidance towards achieving your dreams. I invite you to visit my website at www.brighterlifestyle.com.
(805) 322-3648 View (805) 322-3648
Photo of Trinity Berguia, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Trinity Berguia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Trinity works primarily with women who are navigating early adulthood. This often includes adjusting to college, life after college, marriage, motherhood, and breaking toxic family cycles. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe haven for you to explore your deepest inner wounds, and develop a sense of peace so that you may have healthy, secure relationships.
Trinity works primarily with women who are navigating early adulthood. This often includes adjusting to college, life after college, marriage, motherhood, and breaking toxic family cycles. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe haven for you to explore your deepest inner wounds, and develop a sense of peace so that you may have healthy, secure relationships.
(805) 723-3283 View (805) 723-3283
Photo of Anne Appel, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Anne Appel, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Over the past 30+ years its been my privilege to assist individuals and couples work through obstacles that have prevented them from experiencing meaningful and peaceful lives and relationships. My clients are coping with the everyday stress of marriage and family concerns, parenting, aging, health issues, career and financial challenges, loss or other critical and stressful situations. With those stressors often come depression, anxiety and a whole host of other symptoms.
Over the past 30+ years its been my privilege to assist individuals and couples work through obstacles that have prevented them from experiencing meaningful and peaceful lives and relationships. My clients are coping with the everyday stress of marriage and family concerns, parenting, aging, health issues, career and financial challenges, loss or other critical and stressful situations. With those stressors often come depression, anxiety and a whole host of other symptoms.
(805) 541-2020 View (805) 541-2020
Photo of Daniel Zacarias Messiter, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 93401, CA
Daniel Zacarias Messiter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Daniel is a graduate of Cal Poly’s Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy program.
Life is like a river of emotions, and sometimes the current can become unpredictable and overwhelming. Navigating this river can be exhausting, and when we try to block the flow, pressure builds, and builds and until it feels like there is too much to face alone. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for his clients to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, to finding new insight and resolution to the difficulties in your life.
Daniel is a graduate of Cal Poly’s Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy program.
Life is like a river of emotions, and sometimes the current can become unpredictable and overwhelming. Navigating this river can be exhausting, and when we try to block the flow, pressure builds, and builds and until it feels like there is too much to face alone. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for his clients to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, to finding new insight and resolution to the difficulties in your life.
(805) 516-0921 View (805) 516-0921
Photo of Dr. Nicole Lee Dolan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Dr. Nicole Lee Dolan
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
We can help with: marriage and relationship issues, healing heartbreak, attachment work, childbirth/postpartum/parenting, loss, grief and neurodiversity.
Bridging the gap between Psychology & Spirituality, I am in service to those whose trauma histories are causing issues in their daily lives and specifically in their relationships. We are meant for connection. Trauma disrupts that. It also causes negative energy patterns that imprint on our lives and impact our wellbeing as well as our ability to create the life that we truly desire. If I am unable to see you personally, I will match you with one of my highly skilled associate clinicians. Dr. Dolan
We can help with: marriage and relationship issues, healing heartbreak, attachment work, childbirth/postpartum/parenting, loss, grief and neurodiversity.
Bridging the gap between Psychology & Spirituality, I am in service to those whose trauma histories are causing issues in their daily lives and specifically in their relationships. We are meant for connection. Trauma disrupts that. It also causes negative energy patterns that imprint on our lives and impact our wellbeing as well as our ability to create the life that we truly desire. If I am unable to see you personally, I will match you with one of my highly skilled associate clinicians. Dr. Dolan
(805) 465-6146 View (805) 465-6146
Photo of Michael W Regier, PhD, Couple Therapist California, Psychologist in 93401, CA
Michael W Regier, PhD, Couple Therapist California
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Do you need help with communication? Does your partner lack empathy and emotion? Does he/she not listen? Have you been hurt by an affair? I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist, an expert in Couple & Marriage Therapy, betrayal trauma, emotional communication and divorce prevention. I help individuals and couples recover from the trauma of an affair and learn how to prevent future infidelity. I help couples in conflict understand and escape their patterns of arguing, re-build trust, and meet each other's emotional needs. I help couples in new relationships build the foundations for healthy relationship.
Do you need help with communication? Does your partner lack empathy and emotion? Does he/she not listen? Have you been hurt by an affair? I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist, an expert in Couple & Marriage Therapy, betrayal trauma, emotional communication and divorce prevention. I help individuals and couples recover from the trauma of an affair and learn how to prevent future infidelity. I help couples in conflict understand and escape their patterns of arguing, re-build trust, and meet each other's emotional needs. I help couples in new relationships build the foundations for healthy relationship.
(805) 242-4604 View (805) 242-4604
Photo of Denise Bila Seastrunk in 93401, CA
Denise Bila Seastrunk
RN, CNS, PhD, CTP
Verified Verified
I am experienced in individual, group, and marital therapy.
I treat clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors and transitions. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are experiencing all types of issues. Dealing with parenting and adolescence can be challenging, but these are the types of challenges I embrace. Whatever your issues or goals are in therapy, I can provide an integrated way of helping you due to my educational background and varied life experiences.
I am experienced in individual, group, and marital therapy.
I treat clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors and transitions. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are experiencing all types of issues. Dealing with parenting and adolescence can be challenging, but these are the types of challenges I embrace. Whatever your issues or goals are in therapy, I can provide an integrated way of helping you due to my educational background and varied life experiences.
(805) 244-6785 View (805) 244-6785
Photo of Christopher Canclini, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Christopher Canclini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Areas of Specialization include Children, Teens, Families, Relationships & Marriage - Parenting with Love & Logic - Teens and Adults struggling with Depression - Anxiety - Stress - Physical/ Sexual Abuse - Drug and Alcohol Abuse / Addiction - Aspergers (Using DBT) and Mood Disorders.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, relationships or family can feel broken or full of tension and fighting. Sometimes in life we can feel disconnected and struggle to find joy, peace, calm and serenity. Sometimes struggles, problems or relationship issues begin to disrupt our thoughts and daily life and damage relationships. If you are looking for hope in your life, family, and/or relationships... If you are tired of the anxiety, depression, fighting and tension with your partner, family or teens... if you feel like you've lost control it's time to seek help and therapy. I offer Tele Health in CA and TN.
Areas of Specialization include Children, Teens, Families, Relationships & Marriage - Parenting with Love & Logic - Teens and Adults struggling with Depression - Anxiety - Stress - Physical/ Sexual Abuse - Drug and Alcohol Abuse / Addiction - Aspergers (Using DBT) and Mood Disorders.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, relationships or family can feel broken or full of tension and fighting. Sometimes in life we can feel disconnected and struggle to find joy, peace, calm and serenity. Sometimes struggles, problems or relationship issues begin to disrupt our thoughts and daily life and damage relationships. If you are looking for hope in your life, family, and/or relationships... If you are tired of the anxiety, depression, fighting and tension with your partner, family or teens... if you feel like you've lost control it's time to seek help and therapy. I offer Tele Health in CA and TN.
(805) 395-4375 View (805) 395-4375
Photo of Helen Chadd, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Helen Chadd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
I work with HSP individuals and business professionals living a life of high stress and limited meaning, unable to balance work, relaxation and relationships; Couples struggling to stay committed to their marriage yet can't afford to leave.
When your life is disappointing you and your days are filled with anger and resentment and you can't sleep because you worry how you are going to keep faking you've got it all together and are happy, you begin to question whether you can take it anymore. I help you discover the choices which work for you to start living a congruent authentic life where your relationships and desires are in line with your values and beliefs. You don't have to just take it. Schedule an appointment today to discuss how therapy can help you blossom and thrive.
I work with HSP individuals and business professionals living a life of high stress and limited meaning, unable to balance work, relaxation and relationships; Couples struggling to stay committed to their marriage yet can't afford to leave.
When your life is disappointing you and your days are filled with anger and resentment and you can't sleep because you worry how you are going to keep faking you've got it all together and are happy, you begin to question whether you can take it anymore. I help you discover the choices which work for you to start living a congruent authentic life where your relationships and desires are in line with your values and beliefs. You don't have to just take it. Schedule an appointment today to discuss how therapy can help you blossom and thrive.
(805) 628-4101 View (805) 628-4101
Photo of Anita Sandler, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Anita Sandler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
I'm Anita Sandler, a California Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I have worked in a variety of settings including outpatient, inpatient, and community mental health clinics. I have had great success helping clients overcome symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and trauma. I also provide counseling to couples/families to increase communication skills, and to survivors of domestic violence to help recapture their confidence. The theoretical orientation that I prefer is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is based on the concept that your thoughts, feelings, and behavior are interconnected.
I'm Anita Sandler, a California Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I have worked in a variety of settings including outpatient, inpatient, and community mental health clinics. I have had great success helping clients overcome symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and trauma. I also provide counseling to couples/families to increase communication skills, and to survivors of domestic violence to help recapture their confidence. The theoretical orientation that I prefer is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is based on the concept that your thoughts, feelings, and behavior are interconnected.
(619) 503-7966 View (619) 503-7966
Photo of Travis L Harleston, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Travis L Harleston
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
As a state licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I would be honored to help you through your journey to happiness.
Life's too short to have things continue like this. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Do you want healthier relationships with your loved ones or significant other? Have you experienced a loss of a job or loved one - survived a traumatic event? Call my office, together we can work to achieve your personal goals and true potential. Today you are one step closer to a new you, where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential, overcome barriers, and help you live the life you deserve!
As a state licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I would be honored to help you through your journey to happiness.
Life's too short to have things continue like this. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Do you want healthier relationships with your loved ones or significant other? Have you experienced a loss of a job or loved one - survived a traumatic event? Call my office, together we can work to achieve your personal goals and true potential. Today you are one step closer to a new you, where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential, overcome barriers, and help you live the life you deserve!
(661) 689-7968 View (661) 689-7968
Photo of Alyn Bartick, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Alyn Bartick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Now is the time to remove the barriers to the life you desire. Using a supportive, strength-based, and straightforward approach, I will guide you to the more richly experienced life you deserve. I offer solution-focused sessions that achieve results quickly. From our first meetings, you will be less stuck and more prepared to move forward. After more than twenty-five years, I continue to find immense joy in helping clients to live healthy lives filled with meaning and contentment.
Now is the time to remove the barriers to the life you desire. Using a supportive, strength-based, and straightforward approach, I will guide you to the more richly experienced life you deserve. I offer solution-focused sessions that achieve results quickly. From our first meetings, you will be less stuck and more prepared to move forward. After more than twenty-five years, I continue to find immense joy in helping clients to live healthy lives filled with meaning and contentment.
(805) 246-9493 View (805) 246-9493
Photo of Hannah Morrison, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 93401, CA
Hannah Morrison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
As a therapist, I am passionate about creating a safe space to explore a deeper understanding of yourself, others and the world . With empathy and trust, I will walk alongside you as you navigate feelings of anxiety, sadness, fear, self-criticism, doubt and shame. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, gain confidence and self-compassion, advocate for your needs, and live a life that you deem meaningful and authentic to you.
As a therapist, I am passionate about creating a safe space to explore a deeper understanding of yourself, others and the world . With empathy and trust, I will walk alongside you as you navigate feelings of anxiety, sadness, fear, self-criticism, doubt and shame. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, gain confidence and self-compassion, advocate for your needs, and live a life that you deem meaningful and authentic to you.
(805) 723-2431 View (805) 723-2431
Photo of Dr. Sandra De Silva, Psychologist in 93401, CA
Dr. Sandra De Silva
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welcome and congratulations on taking this step! My role in our work together would be to support you in reaching your life goals, help you know your true self and live your most joyous and authentic life. My approach is warm, active, solution- focused and goal- directed. I not only provide support and a listening ear, but also strategies and recommendations that create a clear path to desired change. Whether you want to feel better, deepen enjoyment of life and relationships, discover purpose and spiritual connection or design and live the life you envision, my therapeutic approach is a direct means to work towards such change.
Welcome and congratulations on taking this step! My role in our work together would be to support you in reaching your life goals, help you know your true self and live your most joyous and authentic life. My approach is warm, active, solution- focused and goal- directed. I not only provide support and a listening ear, but also strategies and recommendations that create a clear path to desired change. Whether you want to feel better, deepen enjoyment of life and relationships, discover purpose and spiritual connection or design and live the life you envision, my therapeutic approach is a direct means to work towards such change.
(310) 916-6549 View (310) 916-6549
Photo of Krissy Shippey, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Krissy Shippey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
As a therapist, I am passionate about walking alongside folks as they reveal their truths and vulnerabilities to themselves. I believe, and have witnessed that people are capable of long standing change with knowledge, support, and connection, and that therapy is a great place for that. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, feel safe, gain confidence, and live a more joyful and purposeful life. I use cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques, while never ignoring the human element and connection where the real change happens.
As a therapist, I am passionate about walking alongside folks as they reveal their truths and vulnerabilities to themselves. I believe, and have witnessed that people are capable of long standing change with knowledge, support, and connection, and that therapy is a great place for that. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, feel safe, gain confidence, and live a more joyful and purposeful life. I use cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques, while never ignoring the human element and connection where the real change happens.
(805) 316-7071 View (805) 316-7071
Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.