Photo of Daniel Zacarias Messiter, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Daniel Zacarias Messiter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
 He specializes in teen issues, grief, depression and anxiety.
Emotions are a river, and sometimes the current can feel overwhelming. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for people to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, and finding new insight and resolutions to the difficulties in your life.
 He specializes in teen issues, grief, depression and anxiety.
Emotions are a river, and sometimes the current can feel overwhelming. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for people to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, and finding new insight and resolutions to the difficulties in your life.
(805) 516-0921 View (805) 516-0921
Photo of undefined - David C. Lichti, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David C. Lichti, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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.
(805) 250-4605 View (805) 250-4605
Photo of Ron Huxley, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ron Huxley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Looking for faith-based therapy on anxiety and trauma issues? I have 30 years of experience and integrate traditional mental health tools with Christian Inner Healing principles that will bring you the transformation you desire. Schedule an appointment now or learn more about me at RonHuxley.com
Looking for faith-based therapy on anxiety and trauma issues? I have 30 years of experience and integrate traditional mental health tools with Christian Inner Healing principles that will bring you the transformation you desire. Schedule an appointment now or learn more about me at RonHuxley.com
(805) 709-2023 View (805) 709-2023
Photo of Bobby Tehrani, PsyD, Psychologist
Bobby Tehrani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
My primary focus in private practice is evaluation and assessment for a variety of psychological conditions, such as ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities and Personality Disorders. The second focus I have is treatment. I have an integrative approach to therapy in which I use multiple modalities that fit my clients’ individual needs. Some of the modalities I use are interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also view other factors that can affect the client, such as cultural, medical, and environmental factors.
My primary focus in private practice is evaluation and assessment for a variety of psychological conditions, such as ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities and Personality Disorders. The second focus I have is treatment. I have an integrative approach to therapy in which I use multiple modalities that fit my clients’ individual needs. Some of the modalities I use are interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also view other factors that can affect the client, such as cultural, medical, and environmental factors.
(805) 409-8239 View (805) 409-8239
Photo of Tyler Sullivan Hartford, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tyler Sullivan Hartford
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Few of us make it through childhood without having experienced trauma of one form or another. Often times, the adaptations that we make in order to best survive early life challenges, lead to patterns of belief and action which get in the way of us finding freedom, happiness, and fulfillment as adolescents and adults. Every person deserves an opportunity to grow to their greatest potential. Therapy is a facilitated process of increasing awareness of obstacles to growth and supporting transformation.
Few of us make it through childhood without having experienced trauma of one form or another. Often times, the adaptations that we make in order to best survive early life challenges, lead to patterns of belief and action which get in the way of us finding freedom, happiness, and fulfillment as adolescents and adults. Every person deserves an opportunity to grow to their greatest potential. Therapy is a facilitated process of increasing awareness of obstacles to growth and supporting transformation.
(805) 351-4959 View (805) 351-4959
Photo of Matthew Dean, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew Dean
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you or a loved one going through a major life transition? Have you experienced trauma or serious hardship? Are you ready to come into a better version of yourself? As a holistic psychologist, I work with the mind, body, and spirit. This approach comes from the recognition that everything is interconnected because working with the whole person allows for the deepest level of healing. I am compassionate, intuitive, and direct in my approach.
Are you or a loved one going through a major life transition? Have you experienced trauma or serious hardship? Are you ready to come into a better version of yourself? As a holistic psychologist, I work with the mind, body, and spirit. This approach comes from the recognition that everything is interconnected because working with the whole person allows for the deepest level of healing. I am compassionate, intuitive, and direct in my approach.
(805) 243-1684 View (805) 243-1684
Photo of Bret Brown, LMFT, CYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bret Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CYT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I believe in the fundamental, basic goodness of all humans; when living from a place of depth there can be a gentleness, ease, and gratitude toward ourselves, life, and everything we do. Nature teaches us that stress and healing are cyclical. That they are an integral part of our experience. Yet sometimes we get stuck and life can feel heavy, overwhelming and dark. During these times, we might need others to support us. To guide us in finding new ways of relating to ourselves as well as these stressful and contracted states. Psychotherapy can offer that help.
I believe in the fundamental, basic goodness of all humans; when living from a place of depth there can be a gentleness, ease, and gratitude toward ourselves, life, and everything we do. Nature teaches us that stress and healing are cyclical. That they are an integral part of our experience. Yet sometimes we get stuck and life can feel heavy, overwhelming and dark. During these times, we might need others to support us. To guide us in finding new ways of relating to ourselves as well as these stressful and contracted states. Psychotherapy can offer that help.
(805) 429-8352 View (805) 429-8352
Photo of Neil Giannini, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Neil Giannini
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Our developing years can often be filled with confusion, fear, and other big emotions. Whether I’m working with children or the inner child, speaking with someone who can present a different vantage point and offer tools of healing from a non-judgmental and supportive place can be what we need to achieve wholeness. From coping and managing stressors, self-esteem and confidence building, social and relationship concerns, or self-discovery, I'm dedicated to supporting the growth and development of children, teens and young adults.
Our developing years can often be filled with confusion, fear, and other big emotions. Whether I’m working with children or the inner child, speaking with someone who can present a different vantage point and offer tools of healing from a non-judgmental and supportive place can be what we need to achieve wholeness. From coping and managing stressors, self-esteem and confidence building, social and relationship concerns, or self-discovery, I'm dedicated to supporting the growth and development of children, teens and young adults.
(805) 723-2565 View (805) 723-2565

Online Therapists

Photo of Daniel Lee Spach, MA, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Lee Spach
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
As your therapist, I strive to empower you to overcome personal challenges, activate your inner resources, develop a deeper level of trust in your self and your inherent potential, and reclaim ownership of your life and purpose. I have an affinity for working with clients seeking to transform their lives and enhance their relationships with themselves, others, and the natural world. Improved emotional intelligence, mindful self-awareness, communication skills, trauma and grief processing---will support you in developing self-compassion, eliminating personal obstacles, coping with your daily life, and finding a more balanced, attuned, and connected way of being.
As your therapist, I strive to empower you to overcome personal challenges, activate your inner resources, develop a deeper level of trust in your self and your inherent potential, and reclaim ownership of your life and purpose. I have an affinity for working with clients seeking to transform their lives and enhance their relationships with themselves, others, and the natural world. Improved emotional intelligence, mindful self-awareness, communication skills, trauma and grief processing---will support you in developing self-compassion, eliminating personal obstacles, coping with your daily life, and finding a more balanced, attuned, and connected way of being.
(805) 232-7885 View (805) 232-7885
Photo of Craig Bessermin, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Craig Bessermin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Carpinteria, CA 93014
Anxiety, Grief, Depression. Do these powerful emotions keep you from focusing and making positive life choices? As a therapist, I can help you move beyond their grip and see through the distressing patterns they generate. A positive change can occur because each of us carries the power to make a difference in our lives. By working together, through an individuation process that is nurturing, encouraging and uniquely yours, we can explore how you will regain your ability to overcome anxiety, grief and depression and make life affirming decisions.
Anxiety, Grief, Depression. Do these powerful emotions keep you from focusing and making positive life choices? As a therapist, I can help you move beyond their grip and see through the distressing patterns they generate. A positive change can occur because each of us carries the power to make a difference in our lives. By working together, through an individuation process that is nurturing, encouraging and uniquely yours, we can explore how you will regain your ability to overcome anxiety, grief and depression and make life affirming decisions.
(805) 608-4282 View (805) 608-4282
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey W Cheney, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jeffrey W Cheney
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Areas of expertise include: Crisis Management, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman Communication Skills, CBT therapy to reduce anger and address addictive behaviors, Love & Logic Parenting, ADHD testing, and extensive experience working with loss/trauma.
You're hurt and angry and thinking, 'Why do we argue about the same things over and over again I am so tired of fighting! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally, and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
Areas of expertise include: Crisis Management, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman Communication Skills, CBT therapy to reduce anger and address addictive behaviors, Love & Logic Parenting, ADHD testing, and extensive experience working with loss/trauma.
You're hurt and angry and thinking, 'Why do we argue about the same things over and over again I am so tired of fighting! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally, and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
(661) 731-3925 View (661) 731-3925
Photo of undefined - Hosford Counseling & Psychological Services Clinic, PhD, Psychologist
Hosford Counseling & Psychological Services Clinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93106
Our Trauma Recovery and Resilience center helps those who have been impacted by trauma, violence, loss and other adversities.
The Hosford Clinic is a university-based community clinic that provides affordable mental health services to people in the Santa Barbara area (including Isla Vista, Goleta and Carpinteria). We offer counseling and treatment services for individuals, couples, adolescents, children, and families. These services are evidence based, culturally-responsive and low-cost. We provide a safe space for you to talk privately about your worries and concerns and can help by: *asking questions that help you see your problem in new ways; *teaching you effective ways to cope; *coaching you in ways to improve your work, school, and home life.
Our Trauma Recovery and Resilience center helps those who have been impacted by trauma, violence, loss and other adversities.
The Hosford Clinic is a university-based community clinic that provides affordable mental health services to people in the Santa Barbara area (including Isla Vista, Goleta and Carpinteria). We offer counseling and treatment services for individuals, couples, adolescents, children, and families. These services are evidence based, culturally-responsive and low-cost. We provide a safe space for you to talk privately about your worries and concerns and can help by: *asking questions that help you see your problem in new ways; *teaching you effective ways to cope; *coaching you in ways to improve your work, school, and home life.
(805) 351-4714 View (805) 351-4714
Photo of Randy Cruz, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Randy Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I hold a genuine passion for helping adults who are struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, trauma symptoms, anger management, as well as those who are experiencing difficulties adjusting to significant life changes.
Hello, i'm Randy. Despite being a therapist, I believe that no matter how many years of work experience a therapist has, and no matter how many credentials/degrees one has, all of that goes out the window if they don't have the ability to click and level with their clients. Initiating therapy services may feel like a leap of faith; as one would have to initiate a process in which they will be meeting with a therapist who is a complete stranger to them in the beginning. So congratulations on taking the first step for seeking treatment!
I hold a genuine passion for helping adults who are struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, trauma symptoms, anger management, as well as those who are experiencing difficulties adjusting to significant life changes.
Hello, i'm Randy. Despite being a therapist, I believe that no matter how many years of work experience a therapist has, and no matter how many credentials/degrees one has, all of that goes out the window if they don't have the ability to click and level with their clients. Initiating therapy services may feel like a leap of faith; as one would have to initiate a process in which they will be meeting with a therapist who is a complete stranger to them in the beginning. So congratulations on taking the first step for seeking treatment!
(661) 760-2889 View (661) 760-2889
Photo of Jonathan W. Thompson II, LMFT, APCC, CCTP, CSAM, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonathan W. Thompson II
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC, CCTP, CSAM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
Do you believe the events of 2020 and beyond have shaped our current collective experience? I believe so and if you do as well maybe this is a time to start the work around enhancing mood, being less stressed, and improving interpersonal relationships. Therapy can be the first step in identifying goals and taking care of needs that may have been neglected during the pandemic and possibly throughout your life. Are you living your best possible life? If so, maybe there are a few small things that are requiring some minor adjustments and if not lets start on this journey together to the first day to the best days of your life.
Do you believe the events of 2020 and beyond have shaped our current collective experience? I believe so and if you do as well maybe this is a time to start the work around enhancing mood, being less stressed, and improving interpersonal relationships. Therapy can be the first step in identifying goals and taking care of needs that may have been neglected during the pandemic and possibly throughout your life. Are you living your best possible life? If so, maybe there are a few small things that are requiring some minor adjustments and if not lets start on this journey together to the first day to the best days of your life.
(805) 243-2203 View (805) 243-2203
Photo of Ronald Lloyd Iverson, PhD, Psychologist
Ronald Lloyd Iverson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Waitlist for new clients
It is an honor to accompany individuals into the psyche where our deepest wounds are sometimes hidden. Healing energies can often be found in those depths, stimulating growth toward a more whole, authentic and satisfying existence. Sometimes the pain is on the surface, and symptom relief is necessary to allow the individual to return to a more effective functioning level. This can be accomplished through a combination of cognitive approaches (i.e., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) and body-centered approaches (i.e., focusing, embodied dream work, mindfulness).
It is an honor to accompany individuals into the psyche where our deepest wounds are sometimes hidden. Healing energies can often be found in those depths, stimulating growth toward a more whole, authentic and satisfying existence. Sometimes the pain is on the surface, and symptom relief is necessary to allow the individual to return to a more effective functioning level. This can be accomplished through a combination of cognitive approaches (i.e., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) and body-centered approaches (i.e., focusing, embodied dream work, mindfulness).
(805) 633-4465 View (805) 633-4465
Photo of Dahkotahv Beckham, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dahkotahv Beckham
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
As an openly transgender therapist, I know it can be difficult to find the right person to confide in. Wanting to be loved and accepted doesn’t make you needy, or extra, or selfish, or weak. It makes you human. To me, you are not just some random psychology textbook or theory. In our work together, my focus is to build goals and a relationship where you feel comfortable exploring what you think, feel, want, and need. My style as a therapist is warm, relaxed, and conversational. I use playfulness, imagery, art, metaphors, curiosity, creativity, self-compassion, and humor when appropriate to support the therapeutic process.
As an openly transgender therapist, I know it can be difficult to find the right person to confide in. Wanting to be loved and accepted doesn’t make you needy, or extra, or selfish, or weak. It makes you human. To me, you are not just some random psychology textbook or theory. In our work together, my focus is to build goals and a relationship where you feel comfortable exploring what you think, feel, want, and need. My style as a therapist is warm, relaxed, and conversational. I use playfulness, imagery, art, metaphors, curiosity, creativity, self-compassion, and humor when appropriate to support the therapeutic process.
(805) 243-1189 View (805) 243-1189
Photo of Maxwel Blake Shaft, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maxwel Blake Shaft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Max Shaft and my passion is working with clients who may be feeling stuck, discouraged, or powerless but want to feel confident, free from limiting beliefs, and proud of who they are so that they can live up to their fullest potential.
Hi, my name is Max Shaft and my passion is working with clients who may be feeling stuck, discouraged, or powerless but want to feel confident, free from limiting beliefs, and proud of who they are so that they can live up to their fullest potential.
(805) 622-2676 View (805) 622-2676
Photo of James Earl Holland Jr, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Earl Holland Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I SEE YOU! YES YOU! Great job on taking your first step! Have you ever felt anger, sadness, anxiety, been through trauma, suffered depression, addicted to something, annoyed with people or, just stuck in your everyday life? Well it’s time for you! Life throws us many obstacles and challenges that we overcome. We have all made mistakes, struggled with life and wondered if we made the right decisions. Sometimes we need advice, an ear to listen or just someone to tell us “Great Job”! I am here to work with you on whatever goal/issue that you want to focus on. I am a firm believer that we are the doctors of our own mind, body and soul.
I SEE YOU! YES YOU! Great job on taking your first step! Have you ever felt anger, sadness, anxiety, been through trauma, suffered depression, addicted to something, annoyed with people or, just stuck in your everyday life? Well it’s time for you! Life throws us many obstacles and challenges that we overcome. We have all made mistakes, struggled with life and wondered if we made the right decisions. Sometimes we need advice, an ear to listen or just someone to tell us “Great Job”! I am here to work with you on whatever goal/issue that you want to focus on. I am a firm believer that we are the doctors of our own mind, body and soul.
(661) 459-5828 View (661) 459-5828
Photo of Mariano Requena, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mariano Requena
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Mariano Requena, LMFT offers a full menu of psychological services including psychotherapy, relaxation techniques and tracking symptoms provided to patients of all ages on different modalities, individual, couple and family sessions. MR takes great pride in his psychological practice. He holds a Licentiate of Psychology from Argentina -1980-, Master of Arts in Psychology from GEG, Miami Beach, FL. 2002, and is board certified/Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from the Board of Behavioral Sciences - BBS-, since 2021. He has 38 years of mental health experience of all ages through all sorts of situations/issues.
Mariano Requena, LMFT offers a full menu of psychological services including psychotherapy, relaxation techniques and tracking symptoms provided to patients of all ages on different modalities, individual, couple and family sessions. MR takes great pride in his psychological practice. He holds a Licentiate of Psychology from Argentina -1980-, Master of Arts in Psychology from GEG, Miami Beach, FL. 2002, and is board certified/Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from the Board of Behavioral Sciences - BBS-, since 2021. He has 38 years of mental health experience of all ages through all sorts of situations/issues.
(805) 600-5239 View (805) 600-5239
Photo of David Barks, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
David Barks
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Goleta, CA 93111
I help my clients experiencing difficulties in their emotions, relationships, and other areas of their lives, navigate their experiences to gain a deeper awareness of their strengths and needs. I aim to help you in this discovery that can bring about meaning and a new sense of freedom in life. Many of my clients have experienced issues in their family and are seeking help prioritizing their emotional health and boundaries. We all experience traumas or difficulties in life, whether they be developmental childhood trauma, relational issues, or other struggles. Your emotional needs and values deserve attention and validation.
I help my clients experiencing difficulties in their emotions, relationships, and other areas of their lives, navigate their experiences to gain a deeper awareness of their strengths and needs. I aim to help you in this discovery that can bring about meaning and a new sense of freedom in life. Many of my clients have experienced issues in their family and are seeking help prioritizing their emotional health and boundaries. We all experience traumas or difficulties in life, whether they be developmental childhood trauma, relational issues, or other struggles. Your emotional needs and values deserve attention and validation.
(805) 521-9177 View (805) 521-9177

See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo

Grief Therapists

How long does therapy take for grief?

There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?

Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?

Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?

Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.