Compassion Focused Therapists in Ojai, CA

Photo of Brittany Holden, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brittany Holden
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
Throughout our life we experience changes, transitions, and milestones that challenge us, provoke reflection, and sometimes stop us in our tracks. My work is dedicated to honoring these moments and working collaboratively to turn potential obstacles into momentous achievements. Inspired by compassion-focused therapy, my goal is to offer a space which invites thoughtful self-examination, devoid of shame, judgement and self-criticism. Through this honest practice you will be able to identify, seek and strengthen the connections that empower you.
Throughout our life we experience changes, transitions, and milestones that challenge us, provoke reflection, and sometimes stop us in our tracks. My work is dedicated to honoring these moments and working collaboratively to turn potential obstacles into momentous achievements. Inspired by compassion-focused therapy, my goal is to offer a space which invites thoughtful self-examination, devoid of shame, judgement and self-criticism. Through this honest practice you will be able to identify, seek and strengthen the connections that empower you.
(805) 301-9315 View (805) 301-9315
Photo of Socorro Madrigal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Socorro Madrigal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
Waitlist for new clients
I have been in the field for over twenty years working with children, adolescents and adults with issues related to trauma, loss, family conflict and life changes. All of these can create stress, which left untreated, can develop into debilitating symptoms of depression and or anxiety. My work is focused on giving you the tools to manage your symptoms, while identifying defeating patterns of thought and behavior and helping you develop healthy thinking and behavior to promote healing, growth and wholeness.
I have been in the field for over twenty years working with children, adolescents and adults with issues related to trauma, loss, family conflict and life changes. All of these can create stress, which left untreated, can develop into debilitating symptoms of depression and or anxiety. My work is focused on giving you the tools to manage your symptoms, while identifying defeating patterns of thought and behavior and helping you develop healthy thinking and behavior to promote healing, growth and wholeness.
(805) 434-6781 View (805) 434-6781
Photo of Christine Williams, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is virtual over the phone or via zoom all you need to do is find a quiet space. My practice style is experiential, goal directed, and CBT oriented. I am available 4 days a week Monday-Thursday from 10am-7pm (hours may be adjusted). With me as your therapist, you can expect to be heard and seen from empathetic and nonjudgmental space. I can help you to develop insight into mental/physical aliments, and give you tools that you can use to move through some of life most difficult moments.
My practice is virtual over the phone or via zoom all you need to do is find a quiet space. My practice style is experiential, goal directed, and CBT oriented. I am available 4 days a week Monday-Thursday from 10am-7pm (hours may be adjusted). With me as your therapist, you can expect to be heard and seen from empathetic and nonjudgmental space. I can help you to develop insight into mental/physical aliments, and give you tools that you can use to move through some of life most difficult moments.
(424) 396-5396 View (424) 396-5396
Photo of undefined - Alysa Grigsby, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alysa Grigsby, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
Hi. I have been a licensed therapist for over 20 years; giving me vast knowledge and experience in multiple clinical areas. I enjoy helping my clients reach their own goals by offering support, time tested strategies and tools and even a little bit of humor. I work creatively and flexibly to meet the needs of my clients.
Hi. I have been a licensed therapist for over 20 years; giving me vast knowledge and experience in multiple clinical areas. I enjoy helping my clients reach their own goals by offering support, time tested strategies and tools and even a little bit of humor. I work creatively and flexibly to meet the needs of my clients.
(805) 793-1393 View (805) 793-1393
Photo of Rowan Octavia Lommel, LMFT, C-IAYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rowan Octavia Lommel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
I am open to clients with a wide range of backgrounds and challenges. My focus is simply this: to reduce suffering so that the client can lead a more fulfilling life. I love understanding what is holding you back from leading a deeply contented life, and helping you release that. I love working with couple clients because it is so exciting to hold the passion as we work on building harmony and trust. My ideal client wants to grow and change which requires being open to the magic of living beyond habits.
I am open to clients with a wide range of backgrounds and challenges. My focus is simply this: to reduce suffering so that the client can lead a more fulfilling life. I love understanding what is holding you back from leading a deeply contented life, and helping you release that. I love working with couple clients because it is so exciting to hold the passion as we work on building harmony and trust. My ideal client wants to grow and change which requires being open to the magic of living beyond habits.
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Photo of Gale Hayman, MBA, MA Psyc, MISPA, c
Gale Hayman
MBA, MA Psyc, MISPA, c
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
Counseling Psychology with emphasis in Depth Psychology manifests in the Heroine/Hero Journey. Soul Journey Counseling uses psychological archetypes to guide and enhance your inner search. Inquire within and rejoice with your inner wisdom...finally...It's right in front of you! This inner work gives you the foundational archetypal skills for you to construct confidence and trust in your inner wisdom.
Counseling Psychology with emphasis in Depth Psychology manifests in the Heroine/Hero Journey. Soul Journey Counseling uses psychological archetypes to guide and enhance your inner search. Inquire within and rejoice with your inner wisdom...finally...It's right in front of you! This inner work gives you the foundational archetypal skills for you to construct confidence and trust in your inner wisdom.
(805) 243-2885 View (805) 243-2885
Photo of undefined - Jan Buchanan  | Therapy Partners    CA & CO, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jan Buchanan | Therapy Partners CA & CO
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Whether you’re a person struggling to meet your full potential, a parent hoping to see your child thrive, or a family working to repair broken relationships, good therapy can result in growth and lasting change. It takes courage to be willing to honestly look at ourselves. It takes a safe, open and non-judgmental space, as well as an experienced therapist to make that work possible. As a licensed professional therapist, this is the work I do. My approach is open and straightforward, scientifically-based and customized to meet your needs.
Whether you’re a person struggling to meet your full potential, a parent hoping to see your child thrive, or a family working to repair broken relationships, good therapy can result in growth and lasting change. It takes courage to be willing to honestly look at ourselves. It takes a safe, open and non-judgmental space, as well as an experienced therapist to make that work possible. As a licensed professional therapist, this is the work I do. My approach is open and straightforward, scientifically-based and customized to meet your needs.
(805) 394-2637 View (805) 394-2637
Photo of Shana Burns, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shana Burns
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
Welcome! Are you experiencing an unexpected transition, difficulties in relationships, feelings of uncertainty, or are you at the threshold of having to make significant life decisions? If any of these questions resonate and you are in search of guidance to actualize change in your life, therapy can offer a compassionate private space to deepen your process of self-inquiry, gain renewed perspective, heal from past pain and losses and reimagine your future through clarifying your truest feelings, needs and choices. Therapy is most optimal as an interactive collaboration between client and therapist with the relationship at the heart.
Welcome! Are you experiencing an unexpected transition, difficulties in relationships, feelings of uncertainty, or are you at the threshold of having to make significant life decisions? If any of these questions resonate and you are in search of guidance to actualize change in your life, therapy can offer a compassionate private space to deepen your process of self-inquiry, gain renewed perspective, heal from past pain and losses and reimagine your future through clarifying your truest feelings, needs and choices. Therapy is most optimal as an interactive collaboration between client and therapist with the relationship at the heart.
(415) 635-0415 View (415) 635-0415
Photo of Joan Battelle, MA, NBC-HWC
Joan Battelle
MA, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Im passionate about helping adults like you who are navigating the complexities of life, yearning to find ease, contentment and joy. My clients’ issues are multifaceted, ranging from emotional upheavals to existential questions about purpose and fulfillment. You likely are seeking support not just to cope but to thrive amidst these challenges.
Im passionate about helping adults like you who are navigating the complexities of life, yearning to find ease, contentment and joy. My clients’ issues are multifaceted, ranging from emotional upheavals to existential questions about purpose and fulfillment. You likely are seeking support not just to cope but to thrive amidst these challenges.
(805) 970-4948 View (805) 970-4948
Photo of Kimberly Sampson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Sampson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
You are feeling alone, confused, stressed-out. You feel like you have tried everything, but things are still the same. Maybe you are really good at acting like everything is fine on the outside, but you are falling apart on the inside. Your relationships are suffering and your quality of life is being impacted. I’ve been there too. You deserve so much more! Investing in ourselves is one of the most important things we can do to feel healthy and balanced in our lives.
You are feeling alone, confused, stressed-out. You feel like you have tried everything, but things are still the same. Maybe you are really good at acting like everything is fine on the outside, but you are falling apart on the inside. Your relationships are suffering and your quality of life is being impacted. I’ve been there too. You deserve so much more! Investing in ourselves is one of the most important things we can do to feel healthy and balanced in our lives.
(805) 749-2427 View (805) 749-2427
Photo of Susan LaCroix, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan LaCroix
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
I provide compassionate guidance and support to individuals and couples who want to confront challenges, gain insight, and improve relationships and communication. I especially enjoy working with adults of all ages who are navigating life transitions, such as entering adulthood, facing midlife, changing careers, ending long-term relationships, or adjusting to an "empty nest." No matter what issues are being addressed, I bring a calm presence, a nonjudgmental attitude, curiosity, and a sense of humor.
I provide compassionate guidance and support to individuals and couples who want to confront challenges, gain insight, and improve relationships and communication. I especially enjoy working with adults of all ages who are navigating life transitions, such as entering adulthood, facing midlife, changing careers, ending long-term relationships, or adjusting to an "empty nest." No matter what issues are being addressed, I bring a calm presence, a nonjudgmental attitude, curiosity, and a sense of humor.
(510) 996-5573 View (510) 996-5573
Photo of Hannah Morris, Hannah, Morris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hannah Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, Hannah, Morris, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
Life can be hard, the world is a confusing place. Navigating the way through everyday situations can be challenging. Having someone come along side you to listen or to be a guide and suggest alternatives to behaviors that are troubling and holding you back from the life you want to live can make a difference. I have been working with people for over 20 years, helping them in their unique journeys. My emphasis is growth and change and I believe that acknowledging trauma through the individuals experience can aid in their own understanding and help to define their place in the world wherein healing can take place.
Life can be hard, the world is a confusing place. Navigating the way through everyday situations can be challenging. Having someone come along side you to listen or to be a guide and suggest alternatives to behaviors that are troubling and holding you back from the life you want to live can make a difference. I have been working with people for over 20 years, helping them in their unique journeys. My emphasis is growth and change and I believe that acknowledging trauma through the individuals experience can aid in their own understanding and help to define their place in the world wherein healing can take place.
(805) 427-8991 View (805) 427-8991
Photo of undefined - Jan Buchanan | Therapy Partners CO & CA, MA, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jan Buchanan | Therapy Partners CO & CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Whether you’re a person struggling to meet your full potential, a parent hoping to see your child thrive, or a family working to repair broken relationships, good therapy can result in growth and lasting change. It takes courage to be willing to honestly look at ourselves. It takes a safe, open and non-judgmental space, as well as an experienced therapist to make that work possible. As a licensed professional counselor this is the work I do. My approach is open and straightforward. I use scientifically-based methods, years of experience and customized techniques, to match your specific needs.
Whether you’re a person struggling to meet your full potential, a parent hoping to see your child thrive, or a family working to repair broken relationships, good therapy can result in growth and lasting change. It takes courage to be willing to honestly look at ourselves. It takes a safe, open and non-judgmental space, as well as an experienced therapist to make that work possible. As a licensed professional counselor this is the work I do. My approach is open and straightforward. I use scientifically-based methods, years of experience and customized techniques, to match your specific needs.
(720) 513-2366 View (720) 513-2366
Photo of Gina Marie Minardi, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gina Marie Minardi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
Traditional talk therapy is a beautiful container but it is limited. I have found over the years that people stay stuck looping in their "habits of being" in relationship to themselves, others, and careers. Often times we can't talk our way out of these deep patterns because we haven't accessed the traumas stored in the recesses of the subconscious mind, body, and nervous system. I incorporate EMDR into most of my therapy sessions, because it connects with these areas that need to be felt, witnessed, and soothed. Neural networks in the brain begin to grow and reorganize, which results in neuroplasticity and lasting changes.
Traditional talk therapy is a beautiful container but it is limited. I have found over the years that people stay stuck looping in their "habits of being" in relationship to themselves, others, and careers. Often times we can't talk our way out of these deep patterns because we haven't accessed the traumas stored in the recesses of the subconscious mind, body, and nervous system. I incorporate EMDR into most of my therapy sessions, because it connects with these areas that need to be felt, witnessed, and soothed. Neural networks in the brain begin to grow and reorganize, which results in neuroplasticity and lasting changes.
(310) 773-5383 View (310) 773-5383
Photo of Seraphina Geiter, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seraphina Geiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Maybe you've been struggling to feel like yourself for a while now, and have been hesitant to reach out for help. I'm glad you're here. Sometimes life loses its spark and sense of meaning and it's hard to find the way. Life can feel like a heavy burden, with feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or meaninglessness. Maybe you no longer want to participate in the things you once enjoyed. You find yourself isolating, or avoiding life. If you're tired of struggling and feeling bad about yourself and life, I can help. While these circumstances may have been the past, it doesn’t need to be your future.
Maybe you've been struggling to feel like yourself for a while now, and have been hesitant to reach out for help. I'm glad you're here. Sometimes life loses its spark and sense of meaning and it's hard to find the way. Life can feel like a heavy burden, with feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or meaninglessness. Maybe you no longer want to participate in the things you once enjoyed. You find yourself isolating, or avoiding life. If you're tired of struggling and feeling bad about yourself and life, I can help. While these circumstances may have been the past, it doesn’t need to be your future.
(805) 669-9283 View (805) 669-9283
Photo of Sean O'Connor, PsyD, Psychologist
Sean O'Connor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Waitlist for new clients
Are you down on yourself, overwhelmed with the demands of life, with anxiety that you won’t or can’t measure up to others? Are you worried, angry or depressed about the state of the world today? Do you wonder what the point of it all is, how you fit into it, if you even do? Who are you, really? What’s the real purpose of your life, if there even is one? Life transitions, crises, or problems in relationships, family, work or school may have triggered these kind of questions or feelings. Or you may have grappled with these issues for most of your life. How can you find some peace or meaning in all of this confusion and distress?
Are you down on yourself, overwhelmed with the demands of life, with anxiety that you won’t or can’t measure up to others? Are you worried, angry or depressed about the state of the world today? Do you wonder what the point of it all is, how you fit into it, if you even do? Who are you, really? What’s the real purpose of your life, if there even is one? Life transitions, crises, or problems in relationships, family, work or school may have triggered these kind of questions or feelings. Or you may have grappled with these issues for most of your life. How can you find some peace or meaning in all of this confusion and distress?
(805) 856-6621 View (805) 856-6621
Photo of Rebecca Elder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Elder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Hello! I offer my clients extensive experience and specialized training to assist them in their healing journey. I am strengths-based, client-centered, trauma-focused, culturally curious and humble, and knowledgeable about how oppression operates. Having worked for many years with thousands of different people in settings such as individual, community, and hospital levels of care, my practice is grounded in evidence-based paradigms, including neuroscience, sensory-motor therapies, Mindful Self-Compassion, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Harm Reduction.
Hello! I offer my clients extensive experience and specialized training to assist them in their healing journey. I am strengths-based, client-centered, trauma-focused, culturally curious and humble, and knowledgeable about how oppression operates. Having worked for many years with thousands of different people in settings such as individual, community, and hospital levels of care, my practice is grounded in evidence-based paradigms, including neuroscience, sensory-motor therapies, Mindful Self-Compassion, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Harm Reduction.
(626) 790-0921 View (626) 790-0921
Photo of Amanda Lee McQuade Crawford Lmft, MA, LMFT, RH -AHG, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Lee McQuade Crawford Lmft
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RH -AHG
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
You want to transform what's bothering you into deep wisdom. That can seem out of reach when you're in the middle of a mess, though. My job is to listen to the whole story, or as much as you want to tell, so we can find easy ways to ground you. You can build from a stable foundation. Do you feel you don't even know how to work up the energy for self-repair? Let me help you catch your breath. It liberates your reservoir of life-force as soon as you take the first step to self-care. Life's challenges point us toward clues in the sometimes mysterious road to vibrant health... not just getting by, but enjoying the life you deserve.
You want to transform what's bothering you into deep wisdom. That can seem out of reach when you're in the middle of a mess, though. My job is to listen to the whole story, or as much as you want to tell, so we can find easy ways to ground you. You can build from a stable foundation. Do you feel you don't even know how to work up the energy for self-repair? Let me help you catch your breath. It liberates your reservoir of life-force as soon as you take the first step to self-care. Life's challenges point us toward clues in the sometimes mysterious road to vibrant health... not just getting by, but enjoying the life you deserve.
(805) 856-6941 View (805) 856-6941
Photo of Alice Baldwin O'Keefe, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alice Baldwin O'Keefe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93024  (Online Only)
When everything is changing, the invitation is clear: learn from this, find a way to be closer to what really matters. But where to begin? How to navigate this new path? Who will walk with me as I rediscover fresh purpose, joy, and meaning in this mess? As the questions and doubts swirl, know that you are not alone. There is a way through.
When everything is changing, the invitation is clear: learn from this, find a way to be closer to what really matters. But where to begin? How to navigate this new path? Who will walk with me as I rediscover fresh purpose, joy, and meaning in this mess? As the questions and doubts swirl, know that you are not alone. There is a way through.
(805) 576-9216 View (805) 576-9216
Photo of Kayanna Campana, MS, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kayanna Campana
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
Being blindsided with change can interfere with life in ways we never knew how to expect or handle. There are many things in life that we feel prepared for. But sometimes, there are those things that hit us in the back of the head because we never saw them coming- at least not in the way that we expected. Processing this on it’s own might be manageable until we realize we have to combine that with the normal day to day life stuff that doesn’t go away. All these things that we used to be able to “handle” all of a sudden leave you feeling stuck, possibly even frightened and unsure of yourself. That’s where I come in ready to help..
Being blindsided with change can interfere with life in ways we never knew how to expect or handle. There are many things in life that we feel prepared for. But sometimes, there are those things that hit us in the back of the head because we never saw them coming- at least not in the way that we expected. Processing this on it’s own might be manageable until we realize we have to combine that with the normal day to day life stuff that doesn’t go away. All these things that we used to be able to “handle” all of a sudden leave you feeling stuck, possibly even frightened and unsure of yourself. That’s where I come in ready to help..
(805) 926-7015 View (805) 926-7015
Compassion Focused Therapists

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.