Photo of Joann Olejnik, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Joann Olejnik
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Licensed to practice in: California.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Licensed to practice in: California.
(661) 370-2800 View (661) 370-2800
Photo of Katie Boucher, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Katie Boucher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93103  (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic illness, eating disorders, relationship issues, trauma, grief - and more.
Everyone has the capacity to change what's not working. My goal is to help you get to know all parts of yourself and understand that you are already in possession of a vast amount of resources for self-understanding, acceptance, and change. By showing appreciation for all parts of yourself, while focusing on your strengths and potentials, we will work to increase balance and well-being in your life.
I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic illness, eating disorders, relationship issues, trauma, grief - and more.
Everyone has the capacity to change what's not working. My goal is to help you get to know all parts of yourself and understand that you are already in possession of a vast amount of resources for self-understanding, acceptance, and change. By showing appreciation for all parts of yourself, while focusing on your strengths and potentials, we will work to increase balance and well-being in your life.
(805) 855-0889 View (805) 855-0889
Photo of Ryan Herald, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Ryan Herald
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Ryan Herald, MFT treats children & adults of all ages, couples, and families. He has extensive training and experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and relationship challenges. He utilizes a humanistic approach with cognitive behavioral strategies. After completing his bachelor's degree from California State University Long Beach, Ryan earned a master's degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University. He worked two years as an AmeriCorps volunteer serving at-risk youth in Los Angeles County. Ryan is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist licensed by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.
Ryan Herald, MFT treats children & adults of all ages, couples, and families. He has extensive training and experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and relationship challenges. He utilizes a humanistic approach with cognitive behavioral strategies. After completing his bachelor's degree from California State University Long Beach, Ryan earned a master's degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University. He worked two years as an AmeriCorps volunteer serving at-risk youth in Los Angeles County. Ryan is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist licensed by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.
(805) 790-7924 View (805) 790-7924
Photo of Brandi Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Brandi Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CPT, CPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Hi, my name is Brandi. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, primarily for those struggling with trauma, generalized anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, and relationships. Additionally, I work with couples to build Effective Communication Skills for a more sustainable and expansive connection and bond, working to de-escalate conflict while building awareness around foundational principles to lean on for long term success. My approach to therapy integrates several empirically supported treatment models in an effort to help clients meet their goals and ultimately improve their lives.
Hi, my name is Brandi. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, primarily for those struggling with trauma, generalized anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, and relationships. Additionally, I work with couples to build Effective Communication Skills for a more sustainable and expansive connection and bond, working to de-escalate conflict while building awareness around foundational principles to lean on for long term success. My approach to therapy integrates several empirically supported treatment models in an effort to help clients meet their goals and ultimately improve their lives.
(310) 340-1029 View (310) 340-1029
Photo of Teagan Manny, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Teagan Manny
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108  (Online Only)
Sessions are 100% virtual, anywhere in California. There are points in our life when we can feel burnt out, lost, stuck and could use an objective person to help us through these tough times. Whether you're facing the chaos of adulthood, seeking clarity, or simply craving a supportive space; you don't have to do it alone. I help others navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, imposter syndrome, relationship issues, self-esteem/exploration, and life transitions. I am dedicated to tailoring my approach to meet the specific needs of each client, recognizing the importance of individualized care in promoting lasting change.
Sessions are 100% virtual, anywhere in California. There are points in our life when we can feel burnt out, lost, stuck and could use an objective person to help us through these tough times. Whether you're facing the chaos of adulthood, seeking clarity, or simply craving a supportive space; you don't have to do it alone. I help others navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, imposter syndrome, relationship issues, self-esteem/exploration, and life transitions. I am dedicated to tailoring my approach to meet the specific needs of each client, recognizing the importance of individualized care in promoting lasting change.
(805) 360-6478 View (805) 360-6478
Photo of Matt Traube, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Matt Traube
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
I treat depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic attacks, phobias, PTSD, relationship anxiety, and anxiety related to medical problems.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a comfortable setting that allows you to get the greatest benefit from our work together. In addition to traditional office sessions, I offer flexible solutions including phone, teletherapy, or home visits. Emotional issues can trigger or make a significant contribution to anxiety, skin conditions, skin picking issues and hair pulling (trichotillomania) issues. Relaxation, visualizations, and a mixture of cognitive behavioral therapy and body-focused psychotherapy can make the difference. You can take more control by discovering how to manage your emotional triggers and by developing strategies to alleviate anxiety, skin issues, skin picking, and hair pulling.
I treat depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic attacks, phobias, PTSD, relationship anxiety, and anxiety related to medical problems.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a comfortable setting that allows you to get the greatest benefit from our work together. In addition to traditional office sessions, I offer flexible solutions including phone, teletherapy, or home visits. Emotional issues can trigger or make a significant contribution to anxiety, skin conditions, skin picking issues and hair pulling (trichotillomania) issues. Relaxation, visualizations, and a mixture of cognitive behavioral therapy and body-focused psychotherapy can make the difference. You can take more control by discovering how to manage your emotional triggers and by developing strategies to alleviate anxiety, skin issues, skin picking, and hair pulling.
(805) 628-4302 View (805) 628-4302
Photo of Ann Stephens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Ann Stephens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Ann Doud Stephens is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been practicing since 2008. Ann has experience in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, trauma and family dispute resolution. Ann worked in the family court system for thirteen years to assist families in divorce and child custody mediation. Ann has been seeing individuals in a clinical setting for the past two years and focuses on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist clients in processing and redirecting their thoughts. Ann offers video or telephone sessions, as determined by clients' preference.
Ann Doud Stephens is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been practicing since 2008. Ann has experience in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, trauma and family dispute resolution. Ann worked in the family court system for thirteen years to assist families in divorce and child custody mediation. Ann has been seeing individuals in a clinical setting for the past two years and focuses on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist clients in processing and redirecting their thoughts. Ann offers video or telephone sessions, as determined by clients' preference.
(805) 590-8507 View (805) 590-8507
Photo of Madeleine Mauk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Madeleine Mauk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Madeleine Mauk works with adolescents, adults and couples. She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and relationship issues. Her approach is client centered; tailored to her clients' individualized goals and values. Her priority is creating a safe and supportive environment. Her methods integrate a wide range of therapies: mindfulness based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems. Madeleine is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.
Madeleine Mauk works with adolescents, adults and couples. She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and relationship issues. Her approach is client centered; tailored to her clients' individualized goals and values. Her priority is creating a safe and supportive environment. Her methods integrate a wide range of therapies: mindfulness based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems. Madeleine is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.
(805) 429-8843 View (805) 429-8843
Photo of Ally Misanko, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Ally Misanko
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
I provide online therapy and primarily work with adult females and couples who are dealing with a wide range of issues including anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.
Are you frequently worrying about things you can’t control? Do you tend to talk negatively to yourself or feel like you aren’t enough? Are you concerned about relationship issues? Being a human today is hard and people come to therapy for many different reasons. It can be challenging to manage all the aspects of personal, professional, and family life, leaving self-care and wellness on the back burner. I am committed to helping women and couples improve communication, feel better, and live well. I value the importance of building a trusting and collaborative relationship and know that finding the right therapist can be hard.
I provide online therapy and primarily work with adult females and couples who are dealing with a wide range of issues including anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.
Are you frequently worrying about things you can’t control? Do you tend to talk negatively to yourself or feel like you aren’t enough? Are you concerned about relationship issues? Being a human today is hard and people come to therapy for many different reasons. It can be challenging to manage all the aspects of personal, professional, and family life, leaving self-care and wellness on the back burner. I am committed to helping women and couples improve communication, feel better, and live well. I value the importance of building a trusting and collaborative relationship and know that finding the right therapist can be hard.
(805) 749-2171 View (805) 749-2171
Photo of Edward Fales, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Edward Fales
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
100% Online Telehealth. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or disconnected from yourself? Are your personal issues leaving you feeling drained and unsure of how to proceed? We can work together to get to the core of these issues and restore your wellness so you can once again enjoy good health. Oftentimes our biggest challenges lead us to grow and heal in the most transformative of ways. I’m an integrative therapist that blends techniques from various evidence-based healing modalities to alleviate distress and support well-being. My work draws from attachment theory, interpersonal theory, and somatic psychology.
100% Online Telehealth. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or disconnected from yourself? Are your personal issues leaving you feeling drained and unsure of how to proceed? We can work together to get to the core of these issues and restore your wellness so you can once again enjoy good health. Oftentimes our biggest challenges lead us to grow and heal in the most transformative of ways. I’m an integrative therapist that blends techniques from various evidence-based healing modalities to alleviate distress and support well-being. My work draws from attachment theory, interpersonal theory, and somatic psychology.
(805) 507-8292 View (805) 507-8292
Photo of Ari Rogers, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Ari Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
If you grew up in a dysfunctional family system with abusive family members and dynamics it is inevitable that the unaddressed trauma is going to show up in your relationships, career, family life and your own self-concept. You’re here because you’re struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, codependency, shame and guilt, people-pleasing and perfectionism. I help adults with childhood and adolescent trauma process their past, gain awareness, and reconnect with themselves.
If you grew up in a dysfunctional family system with abusive family members and dynamics it is inevitable that the unaddressed trauma is going to show up in your relationships, career, family life and your own self-concept. You’re here because you’re struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, codependency, shame and guilt, people-pleasing and perfectionism. I help adults with childhood and adolescent trauma process their past, gain awareness, and reconnect with themselves.
(805) 669-9568 View (805) 669-9568
Photo of Alex Ashley Ayres, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Alex Ashley Ayres
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93105  (Online Only)
I have been licensed in California for 1 year and have 8 years of working experience in the mental health field. I have worked with adults facing a wide range of mental health diagnosis and challenges during that time including stress and anxiety, sleeping disorders, struggles with life changes. My overall style is to use gentle encouragement mixed with psycho education and person centered tailoring to meet your unique and specific needs.
I have been licensed in California for 1 year and have 8 years of working experience in the mental health field. I have worked with adults facing a wide range of mental health diagnosis and challenges during that time including stress and anxiety, sleeping disorders, struggles with life changes. My overall style is to use gentle encouragement mixed with psycho education and person centered tailoring to meet your unique and specific needs.
(805) 619-5189 View (805) 619-5189
Photo of Anthony Bonavita, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Anthony Bonavita
Psychologist, PhD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Waitlist for new clients
Life is truly uncertain, with the rapidly changing environment of modern life feeling overwhelmed seems to be commonplace. Whether you are encountering anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues and/or other possibly debilitating physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual obstacles they can be worked with during this time of uncertainty. Additionally, with over 15 years of experience in various healthcare settings I work with burnout, compassion fatigue, moral distress and other stressors.
Life is truly uncertain, with the rapidly changing environment of modern life feeling overwhelmed seems to be commonplace. Whether you are encountering anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues and/or other possibly debilitating physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual obstacles they can be worked with during this time of uncertainty. Additionally, with over 15 years of experience in various healthcare settings I work with burnout, compassion fatigue, moral distress and other stressors.
(805) 288-8658 View (805) 288-8658
Photo of SB Family Counseling & Wellness, PC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
SB Family Counseling & Wellness, PC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I recommend 'The Natural Medicine Guide to Anxiety by Stephanie Marohn.
Weekly psychotherapy is a place and time for you to unravel some of the issues in your life in order to create more harmony, success, and happiness. I work with individuals ages 7-75, couples, and families that are looking for tools and support to reduce symptoms that impact their life. From a trauma informed lens, I teach resources including EFT Tapping, use of Flower Essences, and Mindfulness based techniques.
I recommend 'The Natural Medicine Guide to Anxiety by Stephanie Marohn.
Weekly psychotherapy is a place and time for you to unravel some of the issues in your life in order to create more harmony, success, and happiness. I work with individuals ages 7-75, couples, and families that are looking for tools and support to reduce symptoms that impact their life. From a trauma informed lens, I teach resources including EFT Tapping, use of Flower Essences, and Mindfulness based techniques.
(805) 516-0452 View (805) 516-0452
Photo of Shannon D Murray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Shannon D Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Accepting new clients. I treat clients who struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, relationship conflicts, and life transitions. I find that so many of my clients feel overwhelmed by their anxiety and panic attacks and don't know what to do to help themselves truly feel better. The good news is there are so many strategies to overcome anxiety that you can learn! My clients have made enormous strides in conquering anxiety and other emotions that hold them back.
Accepting new clients. I treat clients who struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, relationship conflicts, and life transitions. I find that so many of my clients feel overwhelmed by their anxiety and panic attacks and don't know what to do to help themselves truly feel better. The good news is there are so many strategies to overcome anxiety that you can learn! My clients have made enormous strides in conquering anxiety and other emotions that hold them back.
(805) 243-1321 View (805) 243-1321
Photo of Bonnie Dooms, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Bonnie Dooms
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Everyone can use a little help at times. Children and adults often experience difficult emotions, such as anxiety, depression and anger that are hard to handle and interfere with relationships and quality of life. I will help you alleviate these unwanted symptoms, improve functioning and improve your relationships. I work with adults and couples who are having struggles in their personal lives. I also specialize in working with those who have experienced sexual trauma.
Everyone can use a little help at times. Children and adults often experience difficult emotions, such as anxiety, depression and anger that are hard to handle and interfere with relationships and quality of life. I will help you alleviate these unwanted symptoms, improve functioning and improve your relationships. I work with adults and couples who are having struggles in their personal lives. I also specialize in working with those who have experienced sexual trauma.
(805) 590-7764 View (805) 590-7764
Photo of Sheryl Chase, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Sheryl Chase
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I have extensive experience in working with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, self esteem, anger management, intimacy, past or recent trauma, change of life, physical illness, emotional and physical abuse.
Life is challenging. We are expected to manage relationships, work, sickness, finances, and other stresses. Many of us come to experience significant anxiety, shame, anger, or depression in coping with the world. Whether you are facing an immediate crisis or longstanding concern, psychotherapy can help. With over 25 years of experience, I have assisted people in developing more effective ways of living. My therapeutic approach is informed by current neuroscience research, contemporary relational psychoanalytic thinking, phenomenology, and child development research.
I have extensive experience in working with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, self esteem, anger management, intimacy, past or recent trauma, change of life, physical illness, emotional and physical abuse.
Life is challenging. We are expected to manage relationships, work, sickness, finances, and other stresses. Many of us come to experience significant anxiety, shame, anger, or depression in coping with the world. Whether you are facing an immediate crisis or longstanding concern, psychotherapy can help. With over 25 years of experience, I have assisted people in developing more effective ways of living. My therapeutic approach is informed by current neuroscience research, contemporary relational psychoanalytic thinking, phenomenology, and child development research.
(805) 250-8148 View (805) 250-8148
Photo of Dean Given, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dean Given
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Dr. Dean Given works with individuals, couples, families, employers and the court. He provides brief treatment that is goal-directed and solution-focused. While treating a wide variety of problems, he has sub-specialized in the treatment of anxiety disorders. He has given many presentations on various topics including stress, anxiety and anger management, shame, parenting, parent/adolescent conflict, marriage enrichment and the integration of faith and psychology. Dr. Given is a past-president of the California Psychological Association and the Santa Barbara County Psychological Association.
Dr. Dean Given works with individuals, couples, families, employers and the court. He provides brief treatment that is goal-directed and solution-focused. While treating a wide variety of problems, he has sub-specialized in the treatment of anxiety disorders. He has given many presentations on various topics including stress, anxiety and anger management, shame, parenting, parent/adolescent conflict, marriage enrichment and the integration of faith and psychology. Dr. Given is a past-president of the California Psychological Association and the Santa Barbara County Psychological Association.
(805) 567-7942 View (805) 567-7942
Photo of Edmond Otis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Edmond Otis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93109  (Online Only)
Hi. My name is Edmond Otis, and I'm a licensed therapist with 27 years of professional experience. I work to help clients understand the often confusing interplay that can exist between our thoughts and emotions. That understanding is really important and lets us be effective as we focus on a wide range of challenges, including; stress, depression and anxiety, relationship problems, performance, motivation, self-esteem, lack of confidence, career difficulties, and other related issues.
Hi. My name is Edmond Otis, and I'm a licensed therapist with 27 years of professional experience. I work to help clients understand the often confusing interplay that can exist between our thoughts and emotions. That understanding is really important and lets us be effective as we focus on a wide range of challenges, including; stress, depression and anxiety, relationship problems, performance, motivation, self-esteem, lack of confidence, career difficulties, and other related issues.
(562) 662-5839 View (562) 662-5839
Photo of Alix Robinson, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Alix Robinson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, life stress/transition, grief, and relationship issues.
Feeling stuck? It's amazing the difference a therapeutic hour can make. I understand that it takes courage to make the decision to start therapy and I consider it an honor to help you take that first step. My approach to therapy is scientifically informed while still responsive to your unique needs. I believe that there is no problem greater than your capacity and I want to help you find solutions to become the best version of yourself.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, life stress/transition, grief, and relationship issues.
Feeling stuck? It's amazing the difference a therapeutic hour can make. I understand that it takes courage to make the decision to start therapy and I consider it an honor to help you take that first step. My approach to therapy is scientifically informed while still responsive to your unique needs. I believe that there is no problem greater than your capacity and I want to help you find solutions to become the best version of yourself.
(805) 549-5176 x1 View (805) 549-5176 x1

See more therapy options for Santa Barbara

Anxiety Therapists

What are the most common treatments for anxiety?

Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other popular forms of therapy are popular, depending on a patient’s experience. Exposure therapy, for instance, can be useful for people dealing with fears and phobias, or who have experienced traumatic events. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy may be useful for patients who need help with emotion regulation. Anxiolytic medications, like benzodiazepines, can also help with calming a person enough to focus on the skills they’ve learned, and physical exercise has been shown to help symptoms of anxiety across the board.

How long does therapy for anxiety take to work?

The amount of time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. Anti-depressant medications typically take two to four weeks before a benefit is felt. Anti-anxiety medications are felt typically within 20-30 minutes. Medications are best used to offer a patient a better headspace in which to work on techniques learned in therapy. Exercise, improved sleep habits, and meditation are effective, but takes weeks or months to show results.

When should I seek treatment for anxiety?

Everyone feels anxious at times, but when anxiety causes disruption to your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Such disruption can be mental, physical, or both: having fear dominate your thoughts, avoiding situations or objects that bring on feelings of anxiety, or experiencing shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or panic attacks. When these symptoms are recurrent and distressing, it may be time to talk to someone.

How effective is treatment for anxiety?

Treatment for anxiety has been shown to be moderately to highly effective, according to a large body of psychology studies and analyses. For some people, treatment using CBT or exposure therapy alone is effective. Others respond best to a combination of medication and therapy.