Adoption Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA

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Photo of Rachel B Aarons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Rachel B Aarons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in helping people move out of stuck places, heal past trauma, and change destructive behavior patterns. I am a certified EMDR therapist and use the Early Trauma Protocol for early abuse, neglect and adoption . I work with the unconscious mind to bring about deep lasting change using one of the fastest processing methods available today. We will work on the level of both the conscious AND the unconscious mind so that the changes you make will be solid and long-lasting. Together we can make your life what you want it to be.
(805) 667-0783
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Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Susan Butler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Santa Barbara, CA
Susan Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-MFT, LMFT, LPC
Verified
5 Endorsed
Verified
5 Endorsed
My focus is on post graduate supervision, helping women with self-esteem issues, couple relationship issues, couples and families working and living internationally, and adoption related issues.
My passion is to work with couples: pre-marital, couple's with children, empty nesters, and couples entering retirement. We go through so many transitions in our lifetime and each transition brings stresses and issues of it's own. I am a level-3 trained Gottman Therapist and use many modalities as well designed to fit the needs of each couple and individual. I approach my work through a systems perspective. I integrate genograms, Sand Tray therapy, Art therapy, and other interventions to help clients to fine relief from their struggles.
(503) 967-0236
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Santa Barbara, CA 93109
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Photo of Dre McGee Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dre McGee Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
I understand that the first step in seeking help can be overwhelming or even scary. I have a great respect for those who seek to improve their quality of life. My life's work is dedicated to help facilitate that process and help collaborate to create clarity. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples. I work and have experience with a wide variety of situations and life issues; depression, anxiety, transitions, burnout, relationship dynamics, adoption , and more. Specialties of mine include premarital counseling, young adult/college age concerns & transitions, EMDR, grief & polyam couples.
(805) 290-1533
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Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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Photo of Alyson Huneycutt Brander, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Alyson Huneycutt Brander
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT, MA
Verified
Verified
Life presents us with many challenges. Do you want a compassionate space to pursue growth and healing? Are you seeking support for your child or teen?
(805) 779-3638
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Santa Barbara, CA 93111
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Photo of Andrea Guerrero Robles, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Andrea Guerrero Robles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
Verified
I am a bilingual clinician who has experience in supporting individuals, families, and couples through life challenges, introspection, and relational problems. My approach to treatment is integrative and solution-focused. Additionally, I help clients reach their goals through empowerment and autonomy.
(415) 429-4133
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Office is near:
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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Photo of Julieta Serrato, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Julieta Serrato
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
My passion is to support clients through empowerment in order for them to reach their goals. I work with adolescents, teens and women through short and long term therapy. My approach is to meet the client where they are at and find the best path that can positively propel them into the direction they would like to go in
(916) 621-6560
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Santa Barbara, CA 93108
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Photo of Katrina A Pesl, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Katrina A Pesl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
7 Endorsed
Verified
7 Endorsed
Realizing there are times that are too overwhelming to handle on your own is scary. My approach to psychotherapy is to create a warm, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that supports children, families and adults through whatever life circumstance they are struggling with. I encompass a gentle yet direct approach with my clients, and ensure every unique individual diversity is honored and respected. I draw upon therapeutic modalities that help the individual re-establish a relationship with their lost inner strengths and opening new perspectives that foster more self love and compassion.
(559) 296-7231
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Santa Barbara, CA 93111
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Photo of Dr. Jean Stultz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dr. Jean Stultz
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified
Verified
Somatic therapy is a form of therapy that integrates the mind and body. When talk therapy is not enough, somatic approaches offer an integrated lens that allows the wisdom of the body to be expressed and explored. Dr. Jean creates a safe, therapeutic container from which each client can begin to develop a greater coherency of their daily life experiences and an understand of how their bodily experiences are interwoven. See more on my personal webpage: DrJeanTherapy.com
(805) 360-6570
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Santa Barbara, CA 93105
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Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Oksana Yakushko, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Oksana Yakushko
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
I offer psychotherapy and psychoanalysis (an intensive form of psychotherapy) to individuals seeking to not only discover solutions for their life concerns but also to gain a greater understanding of their inner lives and shift long-standing patterns in their relationships and career. My work is suited for individuals seeking to grow their creative aspirations, develop satisfying relationships, and face life's losses.
(805) 360-5526
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Santa Barbara, CA 93105
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Nancy R Belknap, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Santa Barbara, CA
Nancy R Belknap
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CAS-CAD, CCAPP, ACRPS
Verified
Verified
Nancy's counseling work focuses on adults, seniors, families and couples who struggle with addictive disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief or depression. Nancy's 25 years of practice and experience provide you the opportunity to develop and bring into focus your very best self. Her proficiency and specialties are in providing tools and skills to support recovery from addictions, grief & loss, trauma, and the relational challenges that so often accompany these life challenges, with the intent and hope to facilitate the recognition of your own strengths and your ability to participate, fully, in your own life and those of your loved ones.
(805) 434-6217
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Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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Photo of Stephanie Pawlowicz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Stephanie Pawlowicz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified
Verified
A person comes to therapy when their present ways of being in relationship, or in the world, no longer seem to hold the meaning they once did. My aim is to support you in creating a new foundation of hope, purpose, and meaning in your life. I help people seek wholeness through the integration of mind, body, and soul, thus expanding their current level of understanding, and in so doing, creating the capacity to live more meaningfully.
(805) 324-6675
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Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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Photo of Danielle Dwan, Registered Psychological Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Danielle Dwan
Registered Psychological Associate, MPH
Verified
Verified
Juggling the multiple roles and relationships that society calls us into can be quite the challenge. However, understanding why and how we suffer can give us insight into our deeply held longings. Therefore, our symptoms have the potential to guide us toward our most authentic path. I specialize in working with those in "quarter-life" (roughly 18-40) as they grapple with identity issues, relationships, finding their place in the world, and balancing a life that includes both meaning and stability. I provide a safe and openhearted experience for my clients where all aspects of the self are welcomed with warmth and curiosity.
(805) 514-1428
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Santa Barbara, CA 93105
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Maria (Mari) Hernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Maria (Mari) Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
Although I have a short waitlist at this time, please feel free to reach out as openings can happen at any time. My services are 100% virtual at this time and I can assure you I feel just as connected to my tele-health clients as with in-person sessions. Through a Psychodynamic approach that incorporates Cognitive Behavioral techniques, a Solution-Focused approach & Life Coaching skills, I offer support and guidance as you deal with stressors, changes or challenges that have arisen, as well as on-going issues you may be experiencing. I have worked successfully with clients of all ethnicities & socio-economic levels.
(805) 243-3302
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Santa Barbara, CA 93101
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Jessica Roy, Registered Psychological Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Jessica Roy
Registered Psychological Associate
Verified
Verified
I work with individuals who are interested in being supported as they navigate the varied complexities and challenges of life: anxiety, depression, identity concerns, grief and loss, parenthood, relationship issues – I view therapeutic work as an invitation to turn towards the areas of our lives that are calling to us. Sometimes this means the challenging, confusing, painful, and mysterious parts of life. Other times it may mean exploring our connection to sense of self, our desires, creativity, and vitality. Therapy helps us to consider where we would like to grow, change, and heal.
(805) 250-4330
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Santa Barbara, CA 93101
& Online
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Susan H Lang, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Susan H Lang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I work with families and individuals who wish to develop more effective parenting skills; who are facing difficult transitions such as divorce, remarriage and the blending of two families; and with families who have children with learning differences or special needs.
(805) 556-4251
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Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Ryan Smith, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Ryan Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
Verified
We all have the capacity to not only overcome adversity, but to flourish through it. Counseling can assist you in overcoming your challenges by helping you to understand yourself, your strengths, and the things that fill your life with a sense of meaning and purpose.
(805) 855-0867
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Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Jacquelyn Meissner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Jacquelyn Meissner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
Verified
Life can get very complicated and challenging sometimes. My commitment to you is to provide a supportive place for us to collaboratively explore the challenges you are experiencing and the areas of your life you wish to change. If you are struggling to come to terms with your past or feel as if something is preventing you from living the life you want I invite you to explore this from a place of curiosity without judgment. As a bilingual and bicultural therapist I strive to support individuals, couples and families who are experiencing difficult life events.
(805) 719-7308
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Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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Photo of Litsa Bradford, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Litsa Bradford, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
Verified
Do you see your own issues, but can't seem to think or "will" yourself into more productive behavior? Perhaps you have a wonderful mate and family, but you are stuck in the same old arguments and frustrations, and you know your family's communication could be better. Maybe you feel angry, or sad, and you just don't know why. Perhaps you are hoping to come to terms with something very unfortunate that has happened to you, either recently or long ago. If you want to feel better about yourself and others, you have come to the right place.
(626) 709-3064
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Santa Barbara, CA 93101
& Online
Photo of Irina Dashevsky-Kerdman, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Irina Dashevsky-Kerdman
Psychologist, PhD, BCN
Verified
Verified
In my practice I blend together the art and science of psychotherapy with a strong focus on global change. My intention is to help you thrive. I use a comprehensive approach with a strong mind-body focus and integrate psychoanalysis with neuroscience. This helps to interpret properly and work more efficiently toward transforming maladaptive mechanisms that stifle your life. Often I use Neurofeedback, Biofeedback, and Photobiomodulation and work directly and noninvasively with the brain and the nervous system. This helps you self-regulate and embody change quicker, with less distress. In most cases the results are permanent.
(805) 585-5906
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Santa Barbara, CA 93150
& Online
Photo of Elizabeth Wolfson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Elizabeth Wolfson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified
Verified
When choosing a therapist, you want to look for someone with experience, training, and presence attuned to your particular circumstance. As a seasoned psychotherapist, scholar, and consultant with substantial training, I understand there is no set formula for finding solutions distinct to you and your situation. My holistic approach includes attention to your emotional, spiritual, and psychological health from a mind, body, spirit, perspective with attention to your unique goals. There is no substitute for working with someone with experience and whom you can trust when it comes to enhancing the quality of your life experience.
(661) 247-0168
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Santa Barbara, CA 93109
& Online

Adoption Therapists

Does my adopted child need therapy?

Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioral or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.

When should adoptive parents seek therapy?

Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioral, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.

Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?

Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.

What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?

A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.