Therapists in Santa Barbara County, CA
Emily Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105 (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in a situation or a circumstance that is keeping you from living a whole and healthy life? Whether it was something recent, something that happened a short while ago, or something you have carried your whole life, you keep thinking about this thing or feeling it in your body. It is impacting your daily life, keeping you trapped in old patterns that are no longer serving you, and you would like to heal that part of you and move forward. By being here on this page, you have already taken a step in your healing journey. How about taking one more brave step to reach out and begin a conversation with me?
Are you feeling stuck in a situation or a circumstance that is keeping you from living a whole and healthy life? Whether it was something recent, something that happened a short while ago, or something you have carried your whole life, you keep thinking about this thing or feeling it in your body. It is impacting your daily life, keeping you trapped in old patterns that are no longer serving you, and you would like to heal that part of you and move forward. By being here on this page, you have already taken a step in your healing journey. How about taking one more brave step to reach out and begin a conversation with me?
Julia Maleky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93111
I work with adolescents, young adults, and those who struggle with regulating their emotions and turn to the use of self-harm, substance use, eating disorders, or other maladaptive behaviors in an attempt to manage these intense emotions. My approach is eclectic and tailored to each individuals’ needs, however I draw primarily from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other mindfulness-based treatments. I provide a safe and compassionate space for you to explore the “why” behind your behaviors, and we will work collaboratively to find new ways of processing your emotions.
I work with adolescents, young adults, and those who struggle with regulating their emotions and turn to the use of self-harm, substance use, eating disorders, or other maladaptive behaviors in an attempt to manage these intense emotions. My approach is eclectic and tailored to each individuals’ needs, however I draw primarily from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other mindfulness-based treatments. I provide a safe and compassionate space for you to explore the “why” behind your behaviors, and we will work collaboratively to find new ways of processing your emotions.
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93455
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
Alice P. Arnold
MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I offer psychotherapy, with a focus on managing difficulties and learning from life's struggles. Together we reach an understanding of what you're experiencing, and create solutions geared toward easing your discomfort. When we are receptive to the voice of the unconscious, through exploration of dreams and struggles, we can find inner wisdom to meet life's challenges.
I offer psychotherapy, with a focus on managing difficulties and learning from life's struggles. Together we reach an understanding of what you're experiencing, and create solutions geared toward easing your discomfort. When we are receptive to the voice of the unconscious, through exploration of dreams and struggles, we can find inner wisdom to meet life's challenges.
Jenny Ziesenhenne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Welcome, I’m happy you’re here! I work with children and individuals of all ages suffering with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, eco-anxiety/grief, anger, relationship issues, isolation, and life transitions. I offer a safe environment to explore emotions and express your authentic self, with the intention to improve your relationship with yourself, your loved ones, and your extended systems. We’ll be a good match if you want a warm, gentle, accepting presence to guide you through the process of therapy.
Welcome, I’m happy you’re here! I work with children and individuals of all ages suffering with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, eco-anxiety/grief, anger, relationship issues, isolation, and life transitions. I offer a safe environment to explore emotions and express your authentic self, with the intention to improve your relationship with yourself, your loved ones, and your extended systems. We’ll be a good match if you want a warm, gentle, accepting presence to guide you through the process of therapy.
Sophia Willis-Conger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I am honored to be part of your healing and growth journey. I work with adults of all ages and couples to build on strengths, improve communication, and develop tools to persevere through challenges. My approach is built on the therapeutic relationship we create together and the unconditional positive regard I hold for my clients. I will help you cultivate greater self-compassion, awareness, and understanding. I love laughing with my clients, cheering them on in their journey, and helping them develop the necessary skills and insight to accomplish their goals.
I am honored to be part of your healing and growth journey. I work with adults of all ages and couples to build on strengths, improve communication, and develop tools to persevere through challenges. My approach is built on the therapeutic relationship we create together and the unconditional positive regard I hold for my clients. I will help you cultivate greater self-compassion, awareness, and understanding. I love laughing with my clients, cheering them on in their journey, and helping them develop the necessary skills and insight to accomplish their goals.
Stuart S Light
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My primary focus in therapy is on the problems that develop in intimate relationships. In today's world the interactions within the couple relationship are impacted by rapidly changing societal patterns and many conflicting demands and pressures. Partners also bring their own family and psychological histories that cause problems in relating that are often subtle and confusing. I use a non-judgmental, compassionate approach to help intimate partners, married, considering marriage, or contemplating separation or divorce, work through their problems and find a path forward to the happiest present, and future possible.
My primary focus in therapy is on the problems that develop in intimate relationships. In today's world the interactions within the couple relationship are impacted by rapidly changing societal patterns and many conflicting demands and pressures. Partners also bring their own family and psychological histories that cause problems in relating that are often subtle and confusing. I use a non-judgmental, compassionate approach to help intimate partners, married, considering marriage, or contemplating separation or divorce, work through their problems and find a path forward to the happiest present, and future possible.
Margaret Hoyne Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (Online Only)
With a genuine and warm-hearted demeanor, my clinical goals are to empower my clients to embark on a journey of self-discovery and positive transformation. Through the integration of Positive Psychology, CBT, and Adlerian principles, my success for more than a decade and a half has been equipping individuals with tools and insights needed to overcome challenges, build resilience, and achieve lasting well-being.
With a genuine and warm-hearted demeanor, my clinical goals are to empower my clients to embark on a journey of self-discovery and positive transformation. Through the integration of Positive Psychology, CBT, and Adlerian principles, my success for more than a decade and a half has been equipping individuals with tools and insights needed to overcome challenges, build resilience, and achieve lasting well-being.
Lauren Richardson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Solvang, CA 93463
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping individuals move away from old scripts and unhealthy views of the self. My goals are centered around helping individuals learn how to increase their quality of life and take control of their emotional experience. My clients often come to me experiencing anxiety and depression surrounding the path their lives have taken or during a difficult transition. I help them through increasing awareness and understanding and gaining the skills to make important and sustainable change.
I am passionate about helping individuals move away from old scripts and unhealthy views of the self. My goals are centered around helping individuals learn how to increase their quality of life and take control of their emotional experience. My clients often come to me experiencing anxiety and depression surrounding the path their lives have taken or during a difficult transition. I help them through increasing awareness and understanding and gaining the skills to make important and sustainable change.
Sherrie Anne Mondello
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Are you and your partner feeling lost in the depths of disconnection, struggling to rediscover your bond? From communication breakdowns to the ache of missing intimacy and the weight of balancing the mental load, it’s easy to feel adrift in a relationship that once felt like home. But you’re not alone. Seeking help is the first step towards finding your way back to healthy relating. Together, we can navigate the complexities of rebuilding love, trust, and connection while honoring individuality. I understand the loneliness and pain of feeling stuck and heartbroken while trying to share a life together, and I am here to help.
Are you and your partner feeling lost in the depths of disconnection, struggling to rediscover your bond? From communication breakdowns to the ache of missing intimacy and the weight of balancing the mental load, it’s easy to feel adrift in a relationship that once felt like home. But you’re not alone. Seeking help is the first step towards finding your way back to healthy relating. Together, we can navigate the complexities of rebuilding love, trust, and connection while honoring individuality. I understand the loneliness and pain of feeling stuck and heartbroken while trying to share a life together, and I am here to help.
Maria DEALBA
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
You’ve tried so many different ways to cope with the anxiety, the depression, the kid’s problems, your partners issues and still, you have nothing to show for it at this time. You’ve talked to the pediatrician and your primary caregiver and now you're contemplating whether you should take those antidepressants and look for another therapist since the last one didn't seem to understand what things are truly like for you. What you need is an expert who truly knows that it takes to love yourself, to be who you were meant to be. I am confident and guarantee that we can get you to where you want to be.
You’ve tried so many different ways to cope with the anxiety, the depression, the kid’s problems, your partners issues and still, you have nothing to show for it at this time. You’ve talked to the pediatrician and your primary caregiver and now you're contemplating whether you should take those antidepressants and look for another therapist since the last one didn't seem to understand what things are truly like for you. What you need is an expert who truly knows that it takes to love yourself, to be who you were meant to be. I am confident and guarantee that we can get you to where you want to be.
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Sheryl Chase
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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.
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.
Tracy Gillette
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Personal or relational suffering is often a call to look deeper into ourselves so that we can bring to light who we truly are. Diving into the depths of your pain takes courage, but it is there where your most authentic self can be discovered. I have a non-judgmental compassionate approach to all the different ways that life can be challenging. I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 15 years of experience assisting individuals in better understanding and accepting themselves so they can have more meaningful lives.
Personal or relational suffering is often a call to look deeper into ourselves so that we can bring to light who we truly are. Diving into the depths of your pain takes courage, but it is there where your most authentic self can be discovered. I have a non-judgmental compassionate approach to all the different ways that life can be challenging. I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 15 years of experience assisting individuals in better understanding and accepting themselves so they can have more meaningful lives.
Susan Soderman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93105 (Online Only)
I work with individuals and families that are feeling stuck, frustrated, and tired of living in the same negative behavioral patterns. I believe that we are all capable of achieving mental wellness.
I work with individuals and families that are feeling stuck, frustrated, and tired of living in the same negative behavioral patterns. I believe that we are all capable of achieving mental wellness.
Laura Ann Mitchell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Lompoc, CA 93436 (Online Only)
My goal is to assist you in empowering your mind, body and soul, achieve your best outlook, and take full control of your life, by creating "Beautiful Minds"
My goal is to assist you in empowering your mind, body and soul, achieve your best outlook, and take full control of your life, by creating "Beautiful Minds"
Katrina Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
It is easy to feel overwhelmed when we are trying to navigate stress, transition, trauma, loss, or conflict. Through compassionate inquiry into our hearts, minds, and souls we can better understand the path forward to the life we want and the person we want to be. I am a warm, collaborative, and person-centered therapist who believes in the innate capacity of humans to heal, grow, and thrive. I will join you and help guide you to connect to your authentic self, inner wisdom, strengths, and compassion. I work with adults, teens, children, couples and families to find balance and a greater sense of well-being.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed when we are trying to navigate stress, transition, trauma, loss, or conflict. Through compassionate inquiry into our hearts, minds, and souls we can better understand the path forward to the life we want and the person we want to be. I am a warm, collaborative, and person-centered therapist who believes in the innate capacity of humans to heal, grow, and thrive. I will join you and help guide you to connect to your authentic self, inner wisdom, strengths, and compassion. I work with adults, teens, children, couples and families to find balance and a greater sense of well-being.
James Claiborn
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, ACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I specialize in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and related disorders including tic disorders using CBIT. I also treat sleep disorders.
I provide cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I specialize in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and related disorders including tic disorders using CBIT. I also treat sleep disorders.
Kathleen D O'Neill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lompoc, CA 93436 (Online Only)
My approach involves exploring concrete steps that you can take to address your challenges and achieve their goals. I use techniques such as scaling questions, miracle questions, or exception finding to help you envision a future where your problems are less dominant and explore strategies to make that future a reality. Through empathetic understanding and non-judgmental acceptance, I work to create a safe and supportive space where you will feel empowered to explore your concerns and make positive changes.
My approach involves exploring concrete steps that you can take to address your challenges and achieve their goals. I use techniques such as scaling questions, miracle questions, or exception finding to help you envision a future where your problems are less dominant and explore strategies to make that future a reality. Through empathetic understanding and non-judgmental acceptance, I work to create a safe and supportive space where you will feel empowered to explore your concerns and make positive changes.
Julie Michelle Roman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed? Stuck? Unsatisfied in your relationships, work, or social life? Are you your own harshest critic? Is a life transition challenging you? Do you want a better understanding of yourself? Are you concerned about your child or teen's happiness? Do they struggle with pressures of school and or friends? Have difficulty communicating and expressing feelings? Do you sense something is wrong but don't know how to help? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, now may be time to explore psychotherapy. I welcome the opportunity to join you or your child through this journey.
Feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed? Stuck? Unsatisfied in your relationships, work, or social life? Are you your own harshest critic? Is a life transition challenging you? Do you want a better understanding of yourself? Are you concerned about your child or teen's happiness? Do they struggle with pressures of school and or friends? Have difficulty communicating and expressing feelings? Do you sense something is wrong but don't know how to help? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, now may be time to explore psychotherapy. I welcome the opportunity to join you or your child through this journey.
Kristine Gore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
The gift of therapy is priceless and highly transformative. I am walking proof of the impact and have lived through tremendous challenges related to grief & loss, high conflict relationships, health related battles, career challenges and changes, intergenerational trauma, raising young adults and lived experiences in different parts of the country. My therapeutic journey was led by a skilled therapist and through that learning an inherent calling to help others arose. Today, I work with clients in California and am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR,) Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR,) and Reiki.
The gift of therapy is priceless and highly transformative. I am walking proof of the impact and have lived through tremendous challenges related to grief & loss, high conflict relationships, health related battles, career challenges and changes, intergenerational trauma, raising young adults and lived experiences in different parts of the country. My therapeutic journey was led by a skilled therapist and through that learning an inherent calling to help others arose. Today, I work with clients in California and am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR,) Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR,) and Reiki.
See more therapy options for Santa Barbara County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Santa Barbara County, CA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$172
Therapists in Santa Barbara County, CA who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
73% | Self Esteem |
72% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Coping Skills |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Aetna |
59% | Cigna and Evernorth |
59% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Santa Barbara County, CA see their clients
72% | In Person and Online | |
28% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
17% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Santa Barbara County?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.