Therapists in Santa Cruz County, CA

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Photo of Catarina Ahlvik-Garrison, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD
Catarina Ahlvik-Garrison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD
1 Endorsed
Scotts Valley, CA 95066
Waitlist for new clients
I meet all my clients with empathy, compassion, and curiosity in order to support an authentic expression of feelings and needs. The path towards authentic expression is unique to each individual depending on their background, their experience with therapy and their specific therapeutic goals. As a somatic psychotherapist I welcome both goals/ challenges that are cognitively known as well as the unknown, that might just express itself as temporary or chronic tension or pain in the body. My psychotherapy practice is informed by twenty years of meditation, mindfulness and mindful self-compassion practice and teaching.
I meet all my clients with empathy, compassion, and curiosity in order to support an authentic expression of feelings and needs. The path towards authentic expression is unique to each individual depending on their background, their experience with therapy and their specific therapeutic goals. As a somatic psychotherapist I welcome both goals/ challenges that are cognitively known as well as the unknown, that might just express itself as temporary or chronic tension or pain in the body. My psychotherapy practice is informed by twenty years of meditation, mindfulness and mindful self-compassion practice and teaching.
(831) 282-6083 View (831) 282-6083
Photo of Jolene Odile Jensen, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Jolene Odile Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Online Only
Hi. My name is Jolene Jensen. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA. I am from New Mexico and have over 20 years of experience in the mental health profession, serving a diverse range of clients. I specialize in individual adults with trauma, life transitions, chronic illness/pain, infertility issues, relational challenges and supporting the GLBT+ community. I also serve college age population who are underserved by the University.
Hi. My name is Jolene Jensen. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA. I am from New Mexico and have over 20 years of experience in the mental health profession, serving a diverse range of clients. I specialize in individual adults with trauma, life transitions, chronic illness/pain, infertility issues, relational challenges and supporting the GLBT+ community. I also serve college age population who are underserved by the University.
(831) 661-8920 View (831) 661-8920
Photo of Kristin Falzett, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kristin Falzett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Capitola, CA 95010
All of us have those moments in life where we finally "get" something, those times when everything finally makes sense. As a therapist it is a pivotal moment in the therapeutic process, as a parent it can be very rewarding to see this occur for your child, and as an individual, it can be the difference between getting stuck in a bad place and moving forward in your life. I work with individuals, children and couples who are facing life's stressors and are looking for the tools to improve the quality of their lives.
All of us have those moments in life where we finally "get" something, those times when everything finally makes sense. As a therapist it is a pivotal moment in the therapeutic process, as a parent it can be very rewarding to see this occur for your child, and as an individual, it can be the difference between getting stuck in a bad place and moving forward in your life. I work with individuals, children and couples who are facing life's stressors and are looking for the tools to improve the quality of their lives.
(831) 789-2657 View (831) 789-2657
Mark Kalemos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCII
Soquel, CA 95073
People seek therapy for a variety of reasons. Life is challenging! These challenges beckon, often demand, our attention to change, self examination, and deeper understanding. Distress, discomfort and general lack of life satisfaction can be signatures of this beckoning. It is not always clear as to what or how to respond. My practice is built on a holistic, client centered, problem solving approach in identifying, and effectively managing current life challenges and healing old wounds. Skillful, compassionate support for navigating your experience of achieving wellbeing and life satisfaction is available here.
People seek therapy for a variety of reasons. Life is challenging! These challenges beckon, often demand, our attention to change, self examination, and deeper understanding. Distress, discomfort and general lack of life satisfaction can be signatures of this beckoning. It is not always clear as to what or how to respond. My practice is built on a holistic, client centered, problem solving approach in identifying, and effectively managing current life challenges and healing old wounds. Skillful, compassionate support for navigating your experience of achieving wellbeing and life satisfaction is available here.
(831) 269-5095 View (831) 269-5095
Photo of Shannon M Healer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shannon M Healer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Santa Cruz, CA 95065
Hello and welcome! You have taken the first step toward becoming a better version of yourself. It's not easy to reach out for help, yet here you are. I'm glad you landed here. I am ready to listen with an open heart and mind to help guide you on your journey. I offer tools that we can practice in the office together, and ones that you can take with you to help you navigate in the world.
Hello and welcome! You have taken the first step toward becoming a better version of yourself. It's not easy to reach out for help, yet here you are. I'm glad you landed here. I am ready to listen with an open heart and mind to help guide you on your journey. I offer tools that we can practice in the office together, and ones that you can take with you to help you navigate in the world.
(831) 401-4234 View (831) 401-4234
Photo of Michelle L Bakalarski, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Michelle L Bakalarski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
Hi there. Amid life's challenges, it takes courage to seek help, and I commend you for taking that brave first step. Together, we will embark on a path of healing and growth, creating a safe haven where you can freely express yourself without fear of judgment. I believe in your inherent wisdom and expertise in your own life. Through our collaborative approach, we will unlock the answers that already reside within you. Guided by a holistic perspective, we will integrate the mind, body, and soul to foster true healing and lasting change. Welcome to a transformative journey toward well-being and self-discovery.
Hi there. Amid life's challenges, it takes courage to seek help, and I commend you for taking that brave first step. Together, we will embark on a path of healing and growth, creating a safe haven where you can freely express yourself without fear of judgment. I believe in your inherent wisdom and expertise in your own life. Through our collaborative approach, we will unlock the answers that already reside within you. Guided by a holistic perspective, we will integrate the mind, body, and soul to foster true healing and lasting change. Welcome to a transformative journey toward well-being and self-discovery.
(831) 346-5372 View (831) 346-5372
Photo of Erica Feinberg, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Erica Feinberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Our struggles and stories we tell about ourselves can be entry points to where our patterns, thoughts, values, actions, attitudes, reactions, and emotions originate. Our struggles can stem from: our families, our childhood, our communities, our cultures, and more. My role is to help my clients explore the stories and struggles that continue to make them feel stuck, and that prevent them from living the lives they are seeking. By learning about ourselves, we can find more agency, choice, and satisfaction. We can discover new ways to relate to ourselves and others.
Our struggles and stories we tell about ourselves can be entry points to where our patterns, thoughts, values, actions, attitudes, reactions, and emotions originate. Our struggles can stem from: our families, our childhood, our communities, our cultures, and more. My role is to help my clients explore the stories and struggles that continue to make them feel stuck, and that prevent them from living the lives they are seeking. By learning about ourselves, we can find more agency, choice, and satisfaction. We can discover new ways to relate to ourselves and others.
(831) 576-6259 View (831) 576-6259
Photo of Reyna Kerzic, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Reyna Kerzic
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Are you struggling with your kids? Feeling frustrated? Worn down? Letting the caregiver guilt creep in? Being a caregiver can be exhausting! And if you’re a caregiver of a child with developmental disabilities, it’s even easier to become depleted. You are not alone. Your experience is valid, and it CAN improve. I want to help! I am a trauma-informed, Mexicana, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with over 20 years of experience providing meaningful support to youth and families.
Are you struggling with your kids? Feeling frustrated? Worn down? Letting the caregiver guilt creep in? Being a caregiver can be exhausting! And if you’re a caregiver of a child with developmental disabilities, it’s even easier to become depleted. You are not alone. Your experience is valid, and it CAN improve. I want to help! I am a trauma-informed, Mexicana, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with over 20 years of experience providing meaningful support to youth and families.
(831) 432-3180 View (831) 432-3180
Kristin Baron
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Waitlist for new clients
"Stuck." At some point in our lives, we all feel it. I help people link their desire for things to be different to the places they feel stuck, healthfully and effectively. You don't need to know how to change, we start with where you are. I like the Chinese proverb, "Acceptance and change are brothers, but acceptance is the older brother." By helping you learn to first accept where you are (even if now it seems impossible), suffering is naturally reduced and there is more energy and room for growth. You get to like yourself now AND change.
"Stuck." At some point in our lives, we all feel it. I help people link their desire for things to be different to the places they feel stuck, healthfully and effectively. You don't need to know how to change, we start with where you are. I like the Chinese proverb, "Acceptance and change are brothers, but acceptance is the older brother." By helping you learn to first accept where you are (even if now it seems impossible), suffering is naturally reduced and there is more energy and room for growth. You get to like yourself now AND change.
(831) 709-4932 View (831) 709-4932
Photo of Connor Moss, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Connor Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
6 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
If you’re searching for a therapist then you probably have reached a point in your life where you don’t feel you can do it alone anymore. Maybe you are struggling with overwhelming emotions, crippling addictions, relationship issues, or maybe your whole life feels unreal and you are trying to find a way to inhabit yourself with aliveness and authenticity for the first time in your life. Therapy is a place to slow down the fast paced movement of your life and psyche and really consider the different dynamics at play in your life.
If you’re searching for a therapist then you probably have reached a point in your life where you don’t feel you can do it alone anymore. Maybe you are struggling with overwhelming emotions, crippling addictions, relationship issues, or maybe your whole life feels unreal and you are trying to find a way to inhabit yourself with aliveness and authenticity for the first time in your life. Therapy is a place to slow down the fast paced movement of your life and psyche and really consider the different dynamics at play in your life.
(831) 204-0131 View (831) 204-0131
Photo of Reina M. Michelle, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Reina M. Michelle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
Welcome! Life sometimes feels too heavy to handle. I can help you navigate thru it. I specialize in working with people 18-45 yrs who have relationship problems and use CBT, Attachment based therapy, many other methods to help. I teach people communication skills with the Gottman Method and am certified in DBT which is used in the treatment of people with anxiety, depression, bipolar, mood disorders, and alcohol & drug dependence. I give homework assignments between visits to practice new skills. With this model I have successfully helped people to work through difficult times in order to live happier lives with family and friends.
Welcome! Life sometimes feels too heavy to handle. I can help you navigate thru it. I specialize in working with people 18-45 yrs who have relationship problems and use CBT, Attachment based therapy, many other methods to help. I teach people communication skills with the Gottman Method and am certified in DBT which is used in the treatment of people with anxiety, depression, bipolar, mood disorders, and alcohol & drug dependence. I give homework assignments between visits to practice new skills. With this model I have successfully helped people to work through difficult times in order to live happier lives with family and friends.
(831) 282-5411 View (831) 282-5411
Photo of Kaleo Kalani Kaluhiwa, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kaleo Kalani Kaluhiwa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Are you stuck in emotional pain, numbed out, or in an unhappy relationship? We all learn patterns of relating to ourselves, others, and the world that may no longer work. This can show up as relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief, emptiness, confusion, or a lack of direction and meaning. Instead, you want more joy, ease and satisfying relationships, with greater ability and confidence to ride the waves of life. Through courageous connection, healing and behavioral change, we nurture your powerful, true Self from which you are able to live your best life and contribute your unique gifts.
Are you stuck in emotional pain, numbed out, or in an unhappy relationship? We all learn patterns of relating to ourselves, others, and the world that may no longer work. This can show up as relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief, emptiness, confusion, or a lack of direction and meaning. Instead, you want more joy, ease and satisfying relationships, with greater ability and confidence to ride the waves of life. Through courageous connection, healing and behavioral change, we nurture your powerful, true Self from which you are able to live your best life and contribute your unique gifts.
(831) 612-1969 View (831) 612-1969
Photo of Rebecca Schultheis, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ADHD-CC
Rebecca Schultheis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ADHD-CC
2 Endorsed
Scotts Valley, CA 95066
I enjoy working with individuals, teens & children who experience anxiety, trauma, depression, and I specialize in neurodiversity. I also enjoy supporting parents of neurodivergent kids as well as adult’s late diagnosis of neurodivergence. I have found EMDR to be highly effective in the treatment of the narratives we have about ourself that hold us back. I've been doing couples work for 15 years using the evidence-based research of John Gottman PhD which I find to be highly effective. Its tools allow for comprehensive & practical use outside of therapy that help improve communication, closeness, & strengthen & repair relationships.
I enjoy working with individuals, teens & children who experience anxiety, trauma, depression, and I specialize in neurodiversity. I also enjoy supporting parents of neurodivergent kids as well as adult’s late diagnosis of neurodivergence. I have found EMDR to be highly effective in the treatment of the narratives we have about ourself that hold us back. I've been doing couples work for 15 years using the evidence-based research of John Gottman PhD which I find to be highly effective. Its tools allow for comprehensive & practical use outside of therapy that help improve communication, closeness, & strengthen & repair relationships.
(831) 250-6962 View (831) 250-6962
Photo of Dr. Charlotte Nolan-Reyes, Psychological Associate, PhD
Dr. Charlotte Nolan-Reyes
Psychological Associate, PhD
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Are you struggling or feeling dissatisfied with your current relationships, career or social life? Wondering if these situations (or you?) can possibly feel better ? Do feel that you have made a lot of efforts but they either aren't working or people don't deem to recognize your efforts? Or maybe it's even worse and something bad has happened or you simply and you no longer feel like trying anymore and or not sure if you know what you want anymore....
Are you struggling or feeling dissatisfied with your current relationships, career or social life? Wondering if these situations (or you?) can possibly feel better ? Do feel that you have made a lot of efforts but they either aren't working or people don't deem to recognize your efforts? Or maybe it's even worse and something bad has happened or you simply and you no longer feel like trying anymore and or not sure if you know what you want anymore....
(831) 387-6692 View (831) 387-6692
Photo of Hasanna Fletcher, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hasanna Fletcher
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Twenty-two years ago I cured my own chronic back, neck, shoulder and hip pain using Dr. John Sarno's mindbody approach. Since then I've helped many of my clients avoid unnecessary surgeries and treatments and overcome a broach range of chronic pain conditions. Emotionally induced pain disorders are so epidemic, it is very possible that your pain is not due to a physical cause. But I want to be clear: I'm not saying that it's all in your head! As I know personally, this is real pain. The issue is understanding what causes it and giving you the power to end it.
Twenty-two years ago I cured my own chronic back, neck, shoulder and hip pain using Dr. John Sarno's mindbody approach. Since then I've helped many of my clients avoid unnecessary surgeries and treatments and overcome a broach range of chronic pain conditions. Emotionally induced pain disorders are so epidemic, it is very possible that your pain is not due to a physical cause. But I want to be clear: I'm not saying that it's all in your head! As I know personally, this is real pain. The issue is understanding what causes it and giving you the power to end it.
(831) 272-4949 View (831) 272-4949
Photo of Rebecca Zulim, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Rebecca Zulim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
Feeling anxious or worried? Too busy for therapy during the work week? I'm available for Monday, Thursday, and Friday morning in-person appointments as well as on Sundays. I provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges, reduce stress levels, and lead richer, fuller lives. I am an interactive, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapist. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues.
Feeling anxious or worried? Too busy for therapy during the work week? I'm available for Monday, Thursday, and Friday morning in-person appointments as well as on Sundays. I provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges, reduce stress levels, and lead richer, fuller lives. I am an interactive, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapist. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues.
(831) 245-3983 View (831) 245-3983
Photo of Gia Maramba, Psychologist, PhD
Gia Maramba
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Even in moments when what we were born with (i.e., nature), how we were raised (i.e., nurture), or our capacity to act in our best interests (i.e., abilities) may seem to come up short in dealing with life's challenges, each of us can compassionately challenge ourselves to get to where we want to be. A psychotherapist can be a partner in the journey to understanding and accepting what needs to be done, and taking the necessary steps for change to happen.
Even in moments when what we were born with (i.e., nature), how we were raised (i.e., nurture), or our capacity to act in our best interests (i.e., abilities) may seem to come up short in dealing with life's challenges, each of us can compassionately challenge ourselves to get to where we want to be. A psychotherapist can be a partner in the journey to understanding and accepting what needs to be done, and taking the necessary steps for change to happen.
(650) 231-4631 View (650) 231-4631
Photo of Anya Bates, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Anya Bates
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Trauma Informed and Expressive Arts Therapist - addressing anxiety, depression, exhaustion, overwhelmed, sadness, agitation, numbness, and dissociation. Feeling overwhelmed and unable to rest is difficult to experience day in and day out. I know how hard it is to make that call & ask for help. Hope, resilience, joy, & a life worth living is possible. Give yourself permission to slow down, feel balanced, & be in the present moment.
Trauma Informed and Expressive Arts Therapist - addressing anxiety, depression, exhaustion, overwhelmed, sadness, agitation, numbness, and dissociation. Feeling overwhelmed and unable to rest is difficult to experience day in and day out. I know how hard it is to make that call & ask for help. Hope, resilience, joy, & a life worth living is possible. Give yourself permission to slow down, feel balanced, & be in the present moment.
(831) 282-5382 View (831) 282-5382
Photo of Canon J Western, Marriage & Family Therapist
Canon J Western
Marriage & Family Therapist
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Not accepting new clients
I am not currently taking new clients. May you find the right therapist for your needs.
I am not currently taking new clients. May you find the right therapist for your needs.
(831) 337-4586 View (831) 337-4586
Photo of Janer Muelle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Janer Muelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My name is Janer, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working in the acute medical setting. My approach is client-focused on the goals you would like to achieve in our time together. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, interpersonal relationships, and changes in life events. We will work together to develop goals on how to navigate life challenges you're experiencing and encourage empowerment and self-reflection through the process. I utilize CBT, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing interchangeably.
My name is Janer, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working in the acute medical setting. My approach is client-focused on the goals you would like to achieve in our time together. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, interpersonal relationships, and changes in life events. We will work together to develop goals on how to navigate life challenges you're experiencing and encourage empowerment and self-reflection through the process. I utilize CBT, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing interchangeably.
(831) 888-0822 View (831) 888-0822

See more therapy options for Santa Cruz County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Santa Cruz County, CA

800+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Santa Cruz County, CA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress
67% Grief

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

53% Aetna
42% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
41% Anthem

How Therapists in Santa Cruz County, CA see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
17% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Santa Cruz County?

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

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.

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.

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.