Therapists in Goleta, CA

Bradford Durian is an LMFT who has been licensed since September 2002. He graduated from Pepperdine University's Graduate School of Education and Psychology with a Master of Arts degree in the field of Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. Bradford applies cognitive behavioral approaches to address symptoms of depression and anxiety that were pioneered by Aaron Beck and Albert Ellis. Bradford believes in the application of family systems theory in order to fully understand the individual in their historical, cultural and developmental contexts.
Bradford Durian is an LMFT who has been licensed since September 2002. He graduated from Pepperdine University's Graduate School of Education and Psychology with a Master of Arts degree in the field of Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. Bradford applies cognitive behavioral approaches to address symptoms of depression and anxiety that were pioneered by Aaron Beck and Albert Ellis. Bradford believes in the application of family systems theory in order to fully understand the individual in their historical, cultural and developmental contexts.

When I was age 18, I went into therapy with a wonderful woman. She help me gain direction for my life, helped improve my self-esteem. Gave me hope for the future I became a resilient person. Life continues to be fun despite the heartaches. I want to help others in this way. I use many therapeutic approaches based on the individuals I see. To name a few: Reality therapy, CBT, psychodynamic. I care about their safety, what is important to them. That they will not be judged. That there is hope for their lives to change in the ways, that they choose. That if they try new behaviors, they will feel better. Connect more with others.
When I was age 18, I went into therapy with a wonderful woman. She help me gain direction for my life, helped improve my self-esteem. Gave me hope for the future I became a resilient person. Life continues to be fun despite the heartaches. I want to help others in this way. I use many therapeutic approaches based on the individuals I see. To name a few: Reality therapy, CBT, psychodynamic. I care about their safety, what is important to them. That they will not be judged. That there is hope for their lives to change in the ways, that they choose. That if they try new behaviors, they will feel better. Connect more with others.

I have been honored to support many through some of the most significant transitions in their lives. Opening my career with a decade as a hospital clinician, I was especially drawn to the beginning and end of life, and the incredible privilege it is to be welcomed to hold space during these times. In my private practice, I specialize in grief and loss, particularly death and dying, and the emotional and spiritual work surrounding other transitions, rites of passage, and life cycles. This includes work around the end of life, pregnancy loss (including TFMR), traumatic birthing processes, and plant spirit medicine integration.
I have been honored to support many through some of the most significant transitions in their lives. Opening my career with a decade as a hospital clinician, I was especially drawn to the beginning and end of life, and the incredible privilege it is to be welcomed to hold space during these times. In my private practice, I specialize in grief and loss, particularly death and dying, and the emotional and spiritual work surrounding other transitions, rites of passage, and life cycles. This includes work around the end of life, pregnancy loss (including TFMR), traumatic birthing processes, and plant spirit medicine integration.

We are meant to go through life with a support system that is conducive to our own growth. That process may consist of exploring and dissecting cultural and familial upbringings and environmental factors. If you are experiencing difficulties coping with anxiety, depression, cultural and familial pressures, I can assist you navigate these feelings and discover a path that serves you and your purpose.
We are meant to go through life with a support system that is conducive to our own growth. That process may consist of exploring and dissecting cultural and familial upbringings and environmental factors. If you are experiencing difficulties coping with anxiety, depression, cultural and familial pressures, I can assist you navigate these feelings and discover a path that serves you and your purpose.

My name is Shanna Gonzales and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Bakersfield, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and adolescents specializing in stress, anxiety, trauma, and anger management. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for children, teens, and young adults who may be dealing with trauma, the challenges of life transitions, and social pressures such as anxiety, depression, grief, and stress. I work to help my clients build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook overall.
My name is Shanna Gonzales and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Bakersfield, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and adolescents specializing in stress, anxiety, trauma, and anger management. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for children, teens, and young adults who may be dealing with trauma, the challenges of life transitions, and social pressures such as anxiety, depression, grief, and stress. I work to help my clients build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook overall.

Hi there, I'm Wendy! I'm a licensed psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience providing high-quality clinical services and crisis intervention. I have worked in diverse settings ranging from residential mental health settings, higher education work/life programs, private practice, and county behavioral wellness programs.
Hi there, I'm Wendy! I'm a licensed psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience providing high-quality clinical services and crisis intervention. I have worked in diverse settings ranging from residential mental health settings, higher education work/life programs, private practice, and county behavioral wellness programs.

Our relationships with others and growing up include really profound and beautiful experiences; and, our experiences can also leave us feeling stuck, afraid, and angry. This can be especially true when we are BIPOC-identified, are the children of immigrants or first-generation immigrants ourselves, identify as LGBTQIA+, and/or have other marginalized identities. Common concerns endorsed by my clients include imposter syndrome, perfectionism, body image issues, difficulty with safety and trust in relationships, low self-esteem, and persistent anxiety and depression.
Our relationships with others and growing up include really profound and beautiful experiences; and, our experiences can also leave us feeling stuck, afraid, and angry. This can be especially true when we are BIPOC-identified, are the children of immigrants or first-generation immigrants ourselves, identify as LGBTQIA+, and/or have other marginalized identities. Common concerns endorsed by my clients include imposter syndrome, perfectionism, body image issues, difficulty with safety and trust in relationships, low self-esteem, and persistent anxiety and depression.

My ideal client is self-aware or is becoming self-aware. This client should be wanting to make positive changes. I work with adults and couples. I work with clients in times of transitions. I am growth oriented. I work with individuals who are having relationship problems or are needing support, help in problem solving or making life decisions. I deal in both short and long-term therapy.
My ideal client is self-aware or is becoming self-aware. This client should be wanting to make positive changes. I work with adults and couples. I work with clients in times of transitions. I am growth oriented. I work with individuals who are having relationship problems or are needing support, help in problem solving or making life decisions. I deal in both short and long-term therapy.

My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.

Life can feel overwhelming and we can all benefit from having strong supports to help navigate these times. I offer a warm, supportive presence and collaborative approach, which allows for creating an atmosphere of trust, compassion, and authenticity with my clients. I am passionate about my work in supporting adolescents and adults who are experiencing anxiety and who are navigating life transitions and relational stressors.
Life can feel overwhelming and we can all benefit from having strong supports to help navigate these times. I offer a warm, supportive presence and collaborative approach, which allows for creating an atmosphere of trust, compassion, and authenticity with my clients. I am passionate about my work in supporting adolescents and adults who are experiencing anxiety and who are navigating life transitions and relational stressors.

I have a passion for helping people from all "walks of life." If you are facing challenges in your day-to-day life, I am here to help. I have helped individuals and couples with anxiety, depression, anger management, and marital issues. I work with children from 6 yrs and older, teenagers, and adults, both males, and females. I like to present psychotherapy in the simplest form. My top modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Trauma-Focused CBT for children and teens. Growing up in a city along the US-Mexico border I have the privilege of being bilingual and bicultural.
I have a passion for helping people from all "walks of life." If you are facing challenges in your day-to-day life, I am here to help. I have helped individuals and couples with anxiety, depression, anger management, and marital issues. I work with children from 6 yrs and older, teenagers, and adults, both males, and females. I like to present psychotherapy in the simplest form. My top modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Trauma-Focused CBT for children and teens. Growing up in a city along the US-Mexico border I have the privilege of being bilingual and bicultural.

Hello! My name is Amy Kuehl (she/her), and I’m a cisgender queer woman who was raised in a conservative community. Through my life experiences and learning, I understand how each person’s challenges are impacted by the unique systems they are a part of. These systems can often make it challenging to get to know or accept yourself, contributing to challenges with identity, self-worth, relationships, anxiety, and depression. While I have experience working with a wide range of individuals, I have a passion for working with queer and trans individuals in early adulthood navigating big life transitions from a trauma informed lens.
Hello! My name is Amy Kuehl (she/her), and I’m a cisgender queer woman who was raised in a conservative community. Through my life experiences and learning, I understand how each person’s challenges are impacted by the unique systems they are a part of. These systems can often make it challenging to get to know or accept yourself, contributing to challenges with identity, self-worth, relationships, anxiety, and depression. While I have experience working with a wide range of individuals, I have a passion for working with queer and trans individuals in early adulthood navigating big life transitions from a trauma informed lens.

I challenge you to bring in your most obstinate life problems, and we will work to a solution as quickly as possible. An honest, action-oriented approach to therapy can solve your problems in a matter of months rather than years. I do not hold any state board licenses and am a professional psychologist with a PhD in clinical psychology practicing as a life coach/consultant. I have more than 7000 supervised hours in the field and use a broad skill set tailored to each client. Although I do not take insurance, I strive to offset this by offering a time-limited, goal-oriented approach to therapy.
I challenge you to bring in your most obstinate life problems, and we will work to a solution as quickly as possible. An honest, action-oriented approach to therapy can solve your problems in a matter of months rather than years. I do not hold any state board licenses and am a professional psychologist with a PhD in clinical psychology practicing as a life coach/consultant. I have more than 7000 supervised hours in the field and use a broad skill set tailored to each client. Although I do not take insurance, I strive to offset this by offering a time-limited, goal-oriented approach to therapy.

Marilyn J Meyer (Formerly Owen)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
11 Endorsed
Goleta, CA 93111
Waitlist for new clients
Many of my clients are those who tend to give too much, disconnect from their own needs and desires, feel depressed and anxious, and/or experience chronic pain. They are often highly sensitive and imaginative, helpers and healers, with literary, artistic, or philosophical leanings. They are all seeking to heal inner conflicts and relationship problems rooted in early attachment wounds or traumatic experiences. Most importantly, my clients have come to recognize it's time to do their inner work in order to create the outer life they want, and they continue to grow and deepen into their innate wisdom long after therapy has ended.
Many of my clients are those who tend to give too much, disconnect from their own needs and desires, feel depressed and anxious, and/or experience chronic pain. They are often highly sensitive and imaginative, helpers and healers, with literary, artistic, or philosophical leanings. They are all seeking to heal inner conflicts and relationship problems rooted in early attachment wounds or traumatic experiences. Most importantly, my clients have come to recognize it's time to do their inner work in order to create the outer life they want, and they continue to grow and deepen into their innate wisdom long after therapy has ended.

Hi, I’m Amanda! I provide person-centered, trauma-informed, LGBTQ-affirmative, and feminist therapy to clients of all genders and ages. I have a particular passion for working with youth who are experiencing difficulties related to trauma, mood issues, sexual orientation, gender identity, and life transitions. My experience includes work in school-based therapy as well as residential treatment for unhoused clients with co-occurring substance use and severe mental health disorders. In my current practice, my approach is informed by my background in organizing for anti-racism, disability rights and the LGBTQ community.
Hi, I’m Amanda! I provide person-centered, trauma-informed, LGBTQ-affirmative, and feminist therapy to clients of all genders and ages. I have a particular passion for working with youth who are experiencing difficulties related to trauma, mood issues, sexual orientation, gender identity, and life transitions. My experience includes work in school-based therapy as well as residential treatment for unhoused clients with co-occurring substance use and severe mental health disorders. In my current practice, my approach is informed by my background in organizing for anti-racism, disability rights and the LGBTQ community.

I believe the therapeutic relationship is co-constructed and my foundational goal is to hold a warm, welcoming, non judgmental, and affirming space that allows people to show up safely and authentically in their efforts to seek support. I also look for opportunities to center clients' inherent strengths, wisdom, cultural values, and lived experiences to inform my clinical approach. I have had the privilege of providing therapeutic support to people with a broad range of intersecting identities, with a specific focus on supporting the psychological wellness of folks within the African diaspora.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is co-constructed and my foundational goal is to hold a warm, welcoming, non judgmental, and affirming space that allows people to show up safely and authentically in their efforts to seek support. I also look for opportunities to center clients' inherent strengths, wisdom, cultural values, and lived experiences to inform my clinical approach. I have had the privilege of providing therapeutic support to people with a broad range of intersecting identities, with a specific focus on supporting the psychological wellness of folks within the African diaspora.

Three guiding principles underscore my work with people and my own growth. Essentially, we are constantly in a state of potential for change and doing the best we can in life. In addition, I view negative thoughts and feelings that develop into anxiety, depression, and low self-worth as learned responses that serve a purpose; to cope with or protect against pain. And most importantly, happiness is a choice we can make once we have the skills to respond (instead of just react) to life's challenges.
Three guiding principles underscore my work with people and my own growth. Essentially, we are constantly in a state of potential for change and doing the best we can in life. In addition, I view negative thoughts and feelings that develop into anxiety, depression, and low self-worth as learned responses that serve a purpose; to cope with or protect against pain. And most importantly, happiness is a choice we can make once we have the skills to respond (instead of just react) to life's challenges.

Working on oneself is something anyone can do independently. That is undeniable. Something that is also undeniable: People achieve more when working together with a team. I hope to be someone who is part of your team in your journey towards understanding yourself and self-improvement. I could have said, “towards understanding the world more” but I like to support my clients in the context of their worldview. If you are looking for a therapist who is dedicated to learning about you through your personal story, upbringing, life experiences, and/or hopes and dreams) I want to hear from you!
Working on oneself is something anyone can do independently. That is undeniable. Something that is also undeniable: People achieve more when working together with a team. I hope to be someone who is part of your team in your journey towards understanding yourself and self-improvement. I could have said, “towards understanding the world more” but I like to support my clients in the context of their worldview. If you are looking for a therapist who is dedicated to learning about you through your personal story, upbringing, life experiences, and/or hopes and dreams) I want to hear from you!

Emily uses a trauma-informed, collaborative approach that empowers individuals to explore their challenges at their own pace. She integrates cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and strengths-based strategies to help patients build resilience, deepen self-awareness, and develop practical tools for managing emotions.
Emily uses a trauma-informed, collaborative approach that empowers individuals to explore their challenges at their own pace. She integrates cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and strengths-based strategies to help patients build resilience, deepen self-awareness, and develop practical tools for managing emotions.

Pamela N. Sowers is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who started practicing in 1999. She has a Bachelor of Arts from California State University, Sacramento with a Major in Child Development and a Master of Social Work from California State University Sacramento Graduate School. Pamela incorporates evidence-based types of therapy appropriate to the client's diagnosis, age and personal perspective.
Pamela N. Sowers is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who started practicing in 1999. She has a Bachelor of Arts from California State University, Sacramento with a Major in Child Development and a Master of Social Work from California State University Sacramento Graduate School. Pamela incorporates evidence-based types of therapy appropriate to the client's diagnosis, age and personal perspective.
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How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Goleta, CA
200+
Average cost per session
$180
Therapists in Goleta, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Self Esteem |
64% | Grief |
63% | Stress |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
69% | Aetna |
56% | Cigna and Evernorth |
42% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Goleta, CA see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
20% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Goleta?
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.