Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
I specialize in assessing and diagnosing various learning, social, emotional, behavioral and developmental disabilities in children, adolescents and adults. I provide comprehensive psychological evaluations in the following areas: forensic (civil and criminal), public safety, academic, cognitive, and medical. I am a qualified medical examiner (QME) and POST-certified. In addition to psychological evaluations, I can assist as a neutral and independent expert witness or consultant.
I specialize in assessing and diagnosing various learning, social, emotional, behavioral and developmental disabilities in children, adolescents and adults. I provide comprehensive psychological evaluations in the following areas: forensic (civil and criminal), public safety, academic, cognitive, and medical. I am a qualified medical examiner (QME) and POST-certified. In addition to psychological evaluations, I can assist as a neutral and independent expert witness or consultant.
As individuals, we all walk through difficult times, and having someone by our side makes all the difference. I provide a supportive and safe space for you to grow, heal, and work through the areas of your life that you are wanting to address. For over fifteen years I have had the privilege of working with individuals going through some of the most difficult times in their lives. I have witnessed the resiliency of individuals committed to making change. I wholeheartedly believe that we all can overcome, heal, and grow.
As individuals, we all walk through difficult times, and having someone by our side makes all the difference. I provide a supportive and safe space for you to grow, heal, and work through the areas of your life that you are wanting to address. For over fifteen years I have had the privilege of working with individuals going through some of the most difficult times in their lives. I have witnessed the resiliency of individuals committed to making change. I wholeheartedly believe that we all can overcome, heal, and grow.
I specialize in working with couples seeking to reconnect with their partner, heal deep wounds, and increase intimacy. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT) which utilizes experiential techniques to help couples understand their negative cycles, underlying feelings, and effectively express and receive needs & wants without distress. In addition to EFT, I am Internal Family Systems informed and often incorporate Expressive Arts, Creative Journaling, Somatic therapies, NonViolent Communication, and the Enneagram.
I specialize in working with couples seeking to reconnect with their partner, heal deep wounds, and increase intimacy. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT) which utilizes experiential techniques to help couples understand their negative cycles, underlying feelings, and effectively express and receive needs & wants without distress. In addition to EFT, I am Internal Family Systems informed and often incorporate Expressive Arts, Creative Journaling, Somatic therapies, NonViolent Communication, and the Enneagram.
Currently, I'm mostly using Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with my clients. When, as a child, we find ourselves traumatizing or trapped in negative circumstances, parts of our self system compensate by locking away that which at that time was too much for us to handle. Later, if we do not go back to this locked away material, the pain, confusion and injustice of what happened to us long ago, can get triggered, or, awakened, when similar such challenges arise in the present. IFS provides a safe way for that locked away material to be approached and reprocessed, allowing our core self to take back control of our lives.
Currently, I'm mostly using Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with my clients. When, as a child, we find ourselves traumatizing or trapped in negative circumstances, parts of our self system compensate by locking away that which at that time was too much for us to handle. Later, if we do not go back to this locked away material, the pain, confusion and injustice of what happened to us long ago, can get triggered, or, awakened, when similar such challenges arise in the present. IFS provides a safe way for that locked away material to be approached and reprocessed, allowing our core self to take back control of our lives.
Erik Edler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Sooner or later, we all need some help. You're wise to seek out a professional who can help you gain clarity and direction. I know you're struggling now, but I'm excited about how much better things can be for you. Modern life is certainly generating a lot of anxiety & depression, and taking a heavy toll. I'm here to help you get through these difficult times. My primary focus is helping young and midlife professionals get grounded, gain clarity, and build strong confidence in themselves. My approach to therapy is compassionate, interactive, focused on new perspectives, working through emotions, and skill building.
Sooner or later, we all need some help. You're wise to seek out a professional who can help you gain clarity and direction. I know you're struggling now, but I'm excited about how much better things can be for you. Modern life is certainly generating a lot of anxiety & depression, and taking a heavy toll. I'm here to help you get through these difficult times. My primary focus is helping young and midlife professionals get grounded, gain clarity, and build strong confidence in themselves. My approach to therapy is compassionate, interactive, focused on new perspectives, working through emotions, and skill building.
Erin Lindvall
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, FAPA
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I love my work as a psychotherapist, and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients and share in their quest for personal growth. I know that the decision to start therapy is often a difficult one. I applaud your willingness and initiative. My approach aims to engage, to inspire, and to help you imagine new possibilities. My goal is to assist you in developing tools and skills that enable you to more effectively deal with life and its challenges.
I love my work as a psychotherapist, and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients and share in their quest for personal growth. I know that the decision to start therapy is often a difficult one. I applaud your willingness and initiative. My approach aims to engage, to inspire, and to help you imagine new possibilities. My goal is to assist you in developing tools and skills that enable you to more effectively deal with life and its challenges.
Maria Castellano-Hsia
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you feeling like you are in a big life transition? Struggling with anxiety or depression?, Experiencing a big loss? Desiring to better communicate and connect with your loved ones? I provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space to explore and experience your inner life paying attention to what is essential. I practice from a depth somatic psychotherapy frame. I introduce psychodynamic and somatic method working directly in and through your body including mindfulness, breath work, conversation, imagination and humor. In my work exploration, promotes insight and awareness, emotional healing, and spiritual transformation
Are you feeling like you are in a big life transition? Struggling with anxiety or depression?, Experiencing a big loss? Desiring to better communicate and connect with your loved ones? I provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space to explore and experience your inner life paying attention to what is essential. I practice from a depth somatic psychotherapy frame. I introduce psychodynamic and somatic method working directly in and through your body including mindfulness, breath work, conversation, imagination and humor. In my work exploration, promotes insight and awareness, emotional healing, and spiritual transformation
Nicole Juliano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Let’s be real, life can be hard. The decision to look for a therapist and seek support is a brave and vulnerable step toward taking much deserved time for yourself. You may have sensed that something needs to shift in your life, and you aren't alone in that. In our work together, we will collaborate to learn to compassionately observe and change dysfunctional physical, mental, and emotional patterns that are keeping us stuck. We will work to help you to feel empowered to consciously create a life on your own terms, shift from self judgement to self compassion, and (most importantly) stop taking shit to yourself.
Let’s be real, life can be hard. The decision to look for a therapist and seek support is a brave and vulnerable step toward taking much deserved time for yourself. You may have sensed that something needs to shift in your life, and you aren't alone in that. In our work together, we will collaborate to learn to compassionately observe and change dysfunctional physical, mental, and emotional patterns that are keeping us stuck. We will work to help you to feel empowered to consciously create a life on your own terms, shift from self judgement to self compassion, and (most importantly) stop taking shit to yourself.
Pacific Emotional Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AMFT, LCSW, MA, MS
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Pacific Emotional Wellness is a group therapy practice led by Camille Johnson, and consists of several skilled therapists including Rachel Cha, Grace Peavy, Audrey DeFrisco, Beverly Collier, Cassidy Pierce, Téa Main, Bridget Schinnerer, and Griff Jennings. We take a deep and soulful approach to walking alongside our clients on their journey of growth and healing. Whether you are feeling stuck in the rut of life, dealing with grief/loss, having relationship concerns, experienced a trauma, etc., we are here for you no matter what stage of your healing journey you are in.
Pacific Emotional Wellness is a group therapy practice led by Camille Johnson, and consists of several skilled therapists including Rachel Cha, Grace Peavy, Audrey DeFrisco, Beverly Collier, Cassidy Pierce, Téa Main, Bridget Schinnerer, and Griff Jennings. We take a deep and soulful approach to walking alongside our clients on their journey of growth and healing. Whether you are feeling stuck in the rut of life, dealing with grief/loss, having relationship concerns, experienced a trauma, etc., we are here for you no matter what stage of your healing journey you are in.
We Are Nature
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CPAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
We believe we belong in a reciprocal relationship with nature. Nature is a co-facilitator in our therapeutic healing journey. Evidence based studies show that nature therapy engenders a variety of mental health benefits such as stress and anxiety reduction, attention restoration, depression alleviation, self-esteem, and embodiment. Through mindfulness and interactive practices, we will immerse ourselves in a chosen outdoor space. Noticing our role in the rich ecosystem around us, we acquaint ourselves with the truth that we are part of, not separate from; healing ourselves to wholeness.
We believe we belong in a reciprocal relationship with nature. Nature is a co-facilitator in our therapeutic healing journey. Evidence based studies show that nature therapy engenders a variety of mental health benefits such as stress and anxiety reduction, attention restoration, depression alleviation, self-esteem, and embodiment. Through mindfulness and interactive practices, we will immerse ourselves in a chosen outdoor space. Noticing our role in the rich ecosystem around us, we acquaint ourselves with the truth that we are part of, not separate from; healing ourselves to wholeness.
As a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP 4547) with Kates Education Solutions, I specialize in identifying and tailoring recommendations for ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, and Twice Exceptionality in both adults and children, including IEP/504 consultation and support. I offer free consultations, comprehensive diagnostic assessments, sliding scale payment options, and neuro-affirming support for families and individuals. I realize beginning this journey can be overwhelming, and support you at each step, drawing on 20+ years experience as a teacher, school psychologist and administrator to empower your ability
As a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP 4547) with Kates Education Solutions, I specialize in identifying and tailoring recommendations for ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, and Twice Exceptionality in both adults and children, including IEP/504 consultation and support. I offer free consultations, comprehensive diagnostic assessments, sliding scale payment options, and neuro-affirming support for families and individuals. I realize beginning this journey can be overwhelming, and support you at each step, drawing on 20+ years experience as a teacher, school psychologist and administrator to empower your ability
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Ron Huxley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Faith-Based Therapy for Anxiety and Trauma! I have Telehealth (M-Th) and In-Person options available (W/Th only). Are you seeking faith-based therapy to address anxiety and trauma? With 30+ years of experience, I integrate traditional mental health tools with Christian Inner Healing principles to facilitate the transformation you desire. I will provide a unique blend of spiritual and psychological support. Together, we will work towards bringing hope and wellness to your life and relationships.
Faith-Based Therapy for Anxiety and Trauma! I have Telehealth (M-Th) and In-Person options available (W/Th only). Are you seeking faith-based therapy to address anxiety and trauma? With 30+ years of experience, I integrate traditional mental health tools with Christian Inner Healing principles to facilitate the transformation you desire. I will provide a unique blend of spiritual and psychological support. Together, we will work towards bringing hope and wellness to your life and relationships.
Marian A Willingham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Are you seeking a safe theraputic environment where you can resolve issues, deal with internal emotional conflicts, heal and move forward in life? I can help you. In my private practice, I provide my clients with real help and real hope so you can recover and discover the person you were meant to be.
Are you seeking a safe theraputic environment where you can resolve issues, deal with internal emotional conflicts, heal and move forward in life? I can help you. In my private practice, I provide my clients with real help and real hope so you can recover and discover the person you were meant to be.
My name is Julia Richardson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California since January 1999. My License number is MFT35516. I work with children from age 10 and up. I also work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. My framework in working with individuals, couples and families is through a relational lens that incorporates brain science, attachment theory and mindsight. I see each (individual, couple dyad and family) as a magnificent portrait that comes to therapy when their life patterns are stuck in rigidity or chaos.
My name is Julia Richardson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California since January 1999. My License number is MFT35516. I work with children from age 10 and up. I also work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. My framework in working with individuals, couples and families is through a relational lens that incorporates brain science, attachment theory and mindsight. I see each (individual, couple dyad and family) as a magnificent portrait that comes to therapy when their life patterns are stuck in rigidity or chaos.
For those who struggle with decision-regret and anxiety around making the perfect choice, picking a therapist on this website is work in itself - if you're here reading this and that's you, I commend you as your therapy has already begun. Anxious and seemingly uncontrollable thoughts, "imposter syndrome", endless struggles to be perfect, only to be met with guilt and regret; all uncomfortable things that we humans try to avoid and control, yet all of that avoiding and controlling just doesn't seem to do any good. You're here to learn better ways to manage these experiences, and that's where I can help.
For those who struggle with decision-regret and anxiety around making the perfect choice, picking a therapist on this website is work in itself - if you're here reading this and that's you, I commend you as your therapy has already begun. Anxious and seemingly uncontrollable thoughts, "imposter syndrome", endless struggles to be perfect, only to be met with guilt and regret; all uncomfortable things that we humans try to avoid and control, yet all of that avoiding and controlling just doesn't seem to do any good. You're here to learn better ways to manage these experiences, and that's where I can help.
Janine Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Seeking therapy is a brave choice and a valuable step in the healing process. If you are pursing therapy for support through a difficult time or transition, for healing childhood wounds, if you are feeling emotional pain or hurt, having trouble navigating a difficult relationship, and/or seeking deeper self-exploration, betterment and growth, I commend you. This is a courageous first step.
Seeking therapy is a brave choice and a valuable step in the healing process. If you are pursing therapy for support through a difficult time or transition, for healing childhood wounds, if you are feeling emotional pain or hurt, having trouble navigating a difficult relationship, and/or seeking deeper self-exploration, betterment and growth, I commend you. This is a courageous first step.
My intention is to create a compassionate, curious, and collaborative space for you to receive emotional, mental and spiritual support. Together, we can holistically acknowledge core roots of pain and consciously move towards shifting old cycles that no longer serve your highest self. My passion is to remind you of your innate wisdom and with humility, empower you to be the narrator of your life. I commit to encourage and challenge you to liberate your authentic voice and remember your birthright to joy. I understand each person is a unique being and pride myself on individualizing care to meet your present needs.
My intention is to create a compassionate, curious, and collaborative space for you to receive emotional, mental and spiritual support. Together, we can holistically acknowledge core roots of pain and consciously move towards shifting old cycles that no longer serve your highest self. My passion is to remind you of your innate wisdom and with humility, empower you to be the narrator of your life. I commit to encourage and challenge you to liberate your authentic voice and remember your birthright to joy. I understand each person is a unique being and pride myself on individualizing care to meet your present needs.
Emily A. Weatherby Latta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Life can be so unfair and being human is incredibly difficult, yet there is also so much beauty in life to experience as well! It can be exhausting to feel like you have to put on a front and be filtered in order to do life while suffering. Learning to find a way to hold and make sense of these contradictions can be a painful, confusing and complicated process! We often view things as being “either/or” when much of life is actually "both/and." My desire is to create a safe place for you to JUST BE…unfiltered…to help process, and receive rest for your soul and mind in order to heal and live life as your best authentic self.
Life can be so unfair and being human is incredibly difficult, yet there is also so much beauty in life to experience as well! It can be exhausting to feel like you have to put on a front and be filtered in order to do life while suffering. Learning to find a way to hold and make sense of these contradictions can be a painful, confusing and complicated process! We often view things as being “either/or” when much of life is actually "both/and." My desire is to create a safe place for you to JUST BE…unfiltered…to help process, and receive rest for your soul and mind in order to heal and live life as your best authentic self.
Jacqueline King
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in psychological assessment. Whether you would benefit from accommodations at school or work, need testing for private school admission/gifted placement, require an evaluation for employment or a medical procedure, are facing legal problems due to mental health issues, are interested in clarifying a diagnosis, or simply desire more insight into yourself and your strengths and weakness, I can help you obtain the answers you need. I am one of several psychologists at CCES, a specialized practice committed to providing the most up-to-date, comprehensive and objective psychological evaluations. Types of evaluations include:
I specialize in psychological assessment. Whether you would benefit from accommodations at school or work, need testing for private school admission/gifted placement, require an evaluation for employment or a medical procedure, are facing legal problems due to mental health issues, are interested in clarifying a diagnosis, or simply desire more insight into yourself and your strengths and weakness, I can help you obtain the answers you need. I am one of several psychologists at CCES, a specialized practice committed to providing the most up-to-date, comprehensive and objective psychological evaluations. Types of evaluations include:
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering evidence-based treatment for anxiety and related disorders, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, trauma and other stress related disorders, mood disorders, well as psychosis. My frame of work is based on CBT, including mindfulness based approach, as well as DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to enhance distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), which is a values-based CBT focusing on willingness, commitment, and valued-action towards a meaningful, fulfilling, and vital life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering evidence-based treatment for anxiety and related disorders, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, trauma and other stress related disorders, mood disorders, well as psychosis. My frame of work is based on CBT, including mindfulness based approach, as well as DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to enhance distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), which is a values-based CBT focusing on willingness, commitment, and valued-action towards a meaningful, fulfilling, and vital life.
See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo
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How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
500+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
78% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Coping Skills |
66% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
52% | Aetna |
37% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
34% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in San Luis Obispo?
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.