Photo of Danielle Atencio, Pre-Licensed Professional in 93401, CA
Danielle Atencio
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in helping individuals dealing with depressive disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use issues, family conflict and life changes.
“Look beside you, and I’ll be there;” this is my credo, both as an individual and as a therapist. Life can be difficult; there are always challenges and struggles and in many instances, it is the connection and support that one person gives another that makes the difference. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach to therapy. We will focus processing through life challenges and build skills to identify your own personal strengths and unique goals for treatment. I will support you through difficult and/or uncomfortable emotions to learn effective coping and interpersonal skills that will help you throughout your life.
I specialize in helping individuals dealing with depressive disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use issues, family conflict and life changes.
“Look beside you, and I’ll be there;” this is my credo, both as an individual and as a therapist. Life can be difficult; there are always challenges and struggles and in many instances, it is the connection and support that one person gives another that makes the difference. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach to therapy. We will focus processing through life challenges and build skills to identify your own personal strengths and unique goals for treatment. I will support you through difficult and/or uncomfortable emotions to learn effective coping and interpersonal skills that will help you throughout your life.
(805) 303-8665 View (805) 303-8665
Photo of Marcia Bronstein Lcsw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93401, CA
Marcia Bronstein Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Are you or a family member feeling anxious, sad, grief, parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship problems, life changes Are you feeling stressed or overwhelmed with life changes, school, college, work or family? You are not alone I can help. I create a safe space for children to express themselves through play, art, and social emotional activities to learn healthy ways to express big emotions while learning coping skills. Parenting can be difficult, I offer parenting support and consultation. My room is a safe place to explore your needs, to be heard and understood, and for families to talk.
Are you or a family member feeling anxious, sad, grief, parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship problems, life changes Are you feeling stressed or overwhelmed with life changes, school, college, work or family? You are not alone I can help. I create a safe space for children to express themselves through play, art, and social emotional activities to learn healthy ways to express big emotions while learning coping skills. Parenting can be difficult, I offer parenting support and consultation. My room is a safe place to explore your needs, to be heard and understood, and for families to talk.
(805) 317-4493 View (805) 317-4493
Photo of Gabriel Solla, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 93401, CA
Gabriel Solla
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gabriel is a Central Coast native equipped with thirteen years in the field, caring experience includes providing in-home supportive care, long-term residential crisis recovery, and intensive outpatient treatment. Deeply knowledgeable, he understands the complexities of how mental health impacts the individual, family, and more.
Gabriel is a Central Coast native equipped with thirteen years in the field, caring experience includes providing in-home supportive care, long-term residential crisis recovery, and intensive outpatient treatment. Deeply knowledgeable, he understands the complexities of how mental health impacts the individual, family, and more.
(805) 856-6497 View (805) 856-6497
Photo of Amy Liston, Psychologist in 93401, CA
Amy Liston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 33 years of practice. I currently provide individual psychotherapy to college students and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/bereavement, family issues, peer issues, relationship issues and/or life transitions. I offer a personalized therapy experience in a safe and inclusive space that honors your uniqueness as an individual. My approach is strength-based and client-centered with a humanistic/existential orientation.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 33 years of practice. I currently provide individual psychotherapy to college students and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/bereavement, family issues, peer issues, relationship issues and/or life transitions. I offer a personalized therapy experience in a safe and inclusive space that honors your uniqueness as an individual. My approach is strength-based and client-centered with a humanistic/existential orientation.
(805) 334-8522 View (805) 334-8522
Photo of Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Psychologist in 93401, CA
Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Psychologist, PhD, MEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
If you’re a parent or caregiver looking for mental health treatment for your child or teen, we’re here to help. The CCAMH Treatment Center specializes in evidence-based treatments that have been extensively researched and shown to be effective. We will do a full assessment and evaluation to determine the best treatment to address the young person's specific condition. We use evidence-based treatments for anxiety disorders and OCD, depression and mood disorders, attention deficit and behavior disorders and trauma. We work with the entire family and provide support and tools for parents including monthly virtual parent-drop in groups.
If you’re a parent or caregiver looking for mental health treatment for your child or teen, we’re here to help. The CCAMH Treatment Center specializes in evidence-based treatments that have been extensively researched and shown to be effective. We will do a full assessment and evaluation to determine the best treatment to address the young person's specific condition. We use evidence-based treatments for anxiety disorders and OCD, depression and mood disorders, attention deficit and behavior disorders and trauma. We work with the entire family and provide support and tools for parents including monthly virtual parent-drop in groups.
(805) 307-3328 View (805) 307-3328
Photo of Pacific Emotional Wellness, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Pacific Emotional Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AMFT, MA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Our therapists have experience working with individuals and couples who are impacted by trauma, cancer, grief/loss, family dynamics/relationships, postpartum emotions and motherhood/parenting, anxiety, depression, etc.
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, Julie Jennings, Debbie Whitney, Cassidy Pierce, Téa Main, Griff Jennings, and Gabriel Solla. 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.
Our therapists have experience working with individuals and couples who are impacted by trauma, cancer, grief/loss, family dynamics/relationships, postpartum emotions and motherhood/parenting, anxiety, depression, etc.
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, Julie Jennings, Debbie Whitney, Cassidy Pierce, Téa Main, Griff Jennings, and Gabriel Solla. 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.
(805) 519-8468 View (805) 519-8468
Photo of Terri J Clarke, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Terri J Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Each of you bring neurobiological, temperamental, patterns of reactivity and family history differences to the relationship.
Failing to get help, many divorced people regret that they gave up too soon. As a marriage specialist for over two decades, you can trust that you are in the care of a competent advocate for your marriage. Every marriage faces the power struggle -it's supposed to happen. Too many quit their marriage at this crucial time. Not giving yourselves the opportunity to work through this painful stage could be a tragedy because this very stage carries the seeds of true character growth and healing. An affair, dishonesty, conflict, or stress can rob you of the feelings of attunement.
Each of you bring neurobiological, temperamental, patterns of reactivity and family history differences to the relationship.
Failing to get help, many divorced people regret that they gave up too soon. As a marriage specialist for over two decades, you can trust that you are in the care of a competent advocate for your marriage. Every marriage faces the power struggle -it's supposed to happen. Too many quit their marriage at this crucial time. Not giving yourselves the opportunity to work through this painful stage could be a tragedy because this very stage carries the seeds of true character growth and healing. An affair, dishonesty, conflict, or stress can rob you of the feelings of attunement.
(805) 980-7946 View (805) 980-7946
Photo of Monique Hickmon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 93401, CA
Monique Hickmon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Monique has a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, hopeless or down? Now more than ever, people are questioning and exploring how they view themselves, others and the world. Therapy can help explore these difficult issues helping you find new solutions and perspective. Monique provides a calm, nurturing and safe environment while challenging you to reach your greatest potential. She genuinely listens and gives each person individualized therapy tailored to their specific needs and experiences. .
Monique has a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, hopeless or down? Now more than ever, people are questioning and exploring how they view themselves, others and the world. Therapy can help explore these difficult issues helping you find new solutions and perspective. Monique provides a calm, nurturing and safe environment while challenging you to reach your greatest potential. She genuinely listens and gives each person individualized therapy tailored to their specific needs and experiences. .
(805) 924-7808 View (805) 924-7808
Photo of David C. Lichti, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
David C. Lichti, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
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 Julie Messer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Julie Messer
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Sometimes friends/family have a biased opinion or pass judgements leaving you hurt and confused.
Since you found me on this site I would venture to guess something is awry in your life...am I right? Whether you are struggling with relationships, tackling your own personal demons, or just have absolutely no idea why you don't feel like your normal self anymore we can work together to figure it out and discover solutions that work for you.
Sometimes friends/family have a biased opinion or pass judgements leaving you hurt and confused.
Since you found me on this site I would venture to guess something is awry in your life...am I right? Whether you are struggling with relationships, tackling your own personal demons, or just have absolutely no idea why you don't feel like your normal self anymore we can work together to figure it out and discover solutions that work for you.
(805) 978-5080 View (805) 978-5080
Photo of Anthony Paul Martello, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 93401, CA
Anthony Paul Martello
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Are you afraid, confused, or struggling with your relationships? I work with client(s) dealing with interpersonal issues and communication challenges. It may be a husband and wife re-defining their roles with life changes, or an individual considering a career change. The problem often reveals itself at the surface when arguing and verbal conflict ensue, but the source of the problem needs a deeper adjustment, such as adjusting roles or providing more support for a family member. Regardless, clear communication usually allows the individual, couple, or family to achieve the goal of collaboration and compromise.
Are you afraid, confused, or struggling with your relationships? I work with client(s) dealing with interpersonal issues and communication challenges. It may be a husband and wife re-defining their roles with life changes, or an individual considering a career change. The problem often reveals itself at the surface when arguing and verbal conflict ensue, but the source of the problem needs a deeper adjustment, such as adjusting roles or providing more support for a family member. Regardless, clear communication usually allows the individual, couple, or family to achieve the goal of collaboration and compromise.
(805) 608-4102 View (805) 608-4102
Photo of Aleksandra Marinovic, Psychologist in 93401, CA
Aleksandra Marinovic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your journey of healing & self-discovery. I have over 14 yrs. of clinical experience in the mental health field working primarily with adults & college-age students struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, family/relationship problems, trauma, life-transitions, personal growth, & self-acceptance. I was born and raised in Europe & am open to also working with clients who are from a wide range of countries & are experiencing difficulties in adjusting to life in the U.S. I am warm, caring, non-judgmental, & able to provide you a safe space to address today's stressors.
Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your journey of healing & self-discovery. I have over 14 yrs. of clinical experience in the mental health field working primarily with adults & college-age students struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, family/relationship problems, trauma, life-transitions, personal growth, & self-acceptance. I was born and raised in Europe & am open to also working with clients who are from a wide range of countries & are experiencing difficulties in adjusting to life in the U.S. I am warm, caring, non-judgmental, & able to provide you a safe space to address today's stressors.
(858) 434-8137 View (858) 434-8137
Photo of Trinity Berguia, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Trinity Berguia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Trinity works primarily with women who are navigating early adulthood. This often includes adjusting to college, life after college, marriage, motherhood, and breaking toxic family cycles. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe haven for you to explore your deepest inner wounds, and develop a sense of peace so that you may have healthy, secure relationships.
Trinity works primarily with women who are navigating early adulthood. This often includes adjusting to college, life after college, marriage, motherhood, and breaking toxic family cycles. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe haven for you to explore your deepest inner wounds, and develop a sense of peace so that you may have healthy, secure relationships.
(805) 723-3283 View (805) 723-3283
Photo of Heidi M Lewin-Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Heidi M Lewin-Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RD
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Recovering from an Eating Disorder is a challenging feat. But it can be a journey of self discovery, renewed strength,and the most important gift you give to yourself. I have been in practice in SLO since 1984, first as a Registered Dietitian, and then as a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I specialize in treating anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and compulsive exercise, for women, men and teens. I have assisted hundreds of individuals to fully recover and go on to lead happy balanced lives. Having recovered myself, I know the pain of disordered eating and the freedom of transcending it.
Recovering from an Eating Disorder is a challenging feat. But it can be a journey of self discovery, renewed strength,and the most important gift you give to yourself. I have been in practice in SLO since 1984, first as a Registered Dietitian, and then as a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I specialize in treating anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and compulsive exercise, for women, men and teens. I have assisted hundreds of individuals to fully recover and go on to lead happy balanced lives. Having recovered myself, I know the pain of disordered eating and the freedom of transcending it.
(805) 468-4908 View (805) 468-4908
Photo of Shelly Staley, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Shelly Staley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
I like to involve the caregivers in therapy to foster positive outcomes and strengthen family relationships.
I want to help you find relief from the noise in your head. Your anxiety, depression and/or trauma is an integral part of your story, but doesn’t define you and doesn't need to control your life any more. Together, we will highlight your innate resiliencies and empower you to build up your inner strength and confidence to live your life in the present, while honoring your past and feeling hopeful about the future. In addition to providing trauma-informed, client-centered therapy for adults, I also have a passion for working with kids and their parents.
I like to involve the caregivers in therapy to foster positive outcomes and strengthen family relationships.
I want to help you find relief from the noise in your head. Your anxiety, depression and/or trauma is an integral part of your story, but doesn’t define you and doesn't need to control your life any more. Together, we will highlight your innate resiliencies and empower you to build up your inner strength and confidence to live your life in the present, while honoring your past and feeling hopeful about the future. In addition to providing trauma-informed, client-centered therapy for adults, I also have a passion for working with kids and their parents.
(805) 429-4522 View (805) 429-4522
Photo of Julie Simpson Jennings, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 93401, CA
Julie Simpson Jennings
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Outside the office, I'm inspired by nature, music, writing, and time with friends and family.
I provide personalized therapy to adolescents, adults, and couples seeking assistance with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also serve clients ready to focus on healthy communication and relationships. As an adoptee, I'm especially equipped to share adoption-related support. Caring and empathetic, I prioritize your trust and safety. After 20+ years raising a family and working in public relations, I was driven to pursue a role in marriage and family therapy to serve others. Beyond earning a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology, I provided therapeutic services to clients in a Southern California community center.
Outside the office, I'm inspired by nature, music, writing, and time with friends and family.
I provide personalized therapy to adolescents, adults, and couples seeking assistance with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also serve clients ready to focus on healthy communication and relationships. As an adoptee, I'm especially equipped to share adoption-related support. Caring and empathetic, I prioritize your trust and safety. After 20+ years raising a family and working in public relations, I was driven to pursue a role in marriage and family therapy to serve others. Beyond earning a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology, I provided therapeutic services to clients in a Southern California community center.
(805) 723-2910 View (805) 723-2910
Photo of Clarissa Kugler, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Clarissa Kugler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, it is my privilege to offer a safe and confidential space where you can explore your unique challenges and work towards finding balance, healing and happiness. I offer both individual, family and couples therapy. My style is person centered, compassionate and strengths based.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, it is my privilege to offer a safe and confidential space where you can explore your unique challenges and work towards finding balance, healing and happiness. I offer both individual, family and couples therapy. My style is person centered, compassionate and strengths based.
(805) 918-6328 View (805) 918-6328
Photo of Anne Appel, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Anne Appel, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Over the past 30+ years its been my privilege to assist individuals and couples work through obstacles that have prevented them from experiencing meaningful and peaceful lives and relationships. My clients are coping with the everyday stress of marriage and family concerns, parenting, aging, health issues, career and financial challenges, loss or other critical and stressful situations. With those stressors often come depression, anxiety and a whole host of other symptoms.
Over the past 30+ years its been my privilege to assist individuals and couples work through obstacles that have prevented them from experiencing meaningful and peaceful lives and relationships. My clients are coping with the everyday stress of marriage and family concerns, parenting, aging, health issues, career and financial challenges, loss or other critical and stressful situations. With those stressors often come depression, anxiety and a whole host of other symptoms.
(805) 541-2020 View (805) 541-2020
Photo of Christina Dee, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93401, CA
Christina Dee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
I have many years of experience supporting others heal through a variety of issues including emotional injuries, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, phase of life transitions and initiations, existential crisis', fear and panic, family of origin and attachment issues, guilt, co-dependency, spiritual emergency and individual and vicarious trauma.
Connecting with yourself can bring a greater calm and balance to your life. I provide a warm presence to help you nourish, strengthen and restore yourself to emotional, physical and spiritual wellness. Whether you wish you heal a broken heart, process grief and loss, resolve a work challenge or discover ways to fine-tune your beliefs and attitudes, I am ready to journey by your side as a source of support, guidance and insight.
I have many years of experience supporting others heal through a variety of issues including emotional injuries, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, phase of life transitions and initiations, existential crisis', fear and panic, family of origin and attachment issues, guilt, co-dependency, spiritual emergency and individual and vicarious trauma.
Connecting with yourself can bring a greater calm and balance to your life. I provide a warm presence to help you nourish, strengthen and restore yourself to emotional, physical and spiritual wellness. Whether you wish you heal a broken heart, process grief and loss, resolve a work challenge or discover ways to fine-tune your beliefs and attitudes, I am ready to journey by your side as a source of support, guidance and insight.
(805) 316-7104 View (805) 316-7104
Photo of Daniel Zacarias Messiter, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 93401, CA
Daniel Zacarias Messiter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Daniel is a graduate of Cal Poly’s Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy program.
Life is like a river of emotions, and sometimes the current can become unpredictable and overwhelming. Navigating this river can be exhausting, and when we try to block the flow, pressure builds, and builds and until it feels like there is too much to face alone. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for his clients 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, to finding new insight and resolution to the difficulties in your life.
Daniel is a graduate of Cal Poly’s Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy program.
Life is like a river of emotions, and sometimes the current can become unpredictable and overwhelming. Navigating this river can be exhausting, and when we try to block the flow, pressure builds, and builds and until it feels like there is too much to face alone. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for his clients 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, to finding new insight and resolution to the difficulties in your life.
(805) 516-0921 View (805) 516-0921
Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.