Gestalt Therapists in 93108
I offer traditional psychotherapy, gestalt/somatic experiencing, and I'm certified in EMDR therapy.
If you are facing a difficult transition in your relationship, depression, addiction, trauma, or simply wanting to increase your life's potential, contact me with questions concerning psychotherapy. Addressing the presenting problem, we will identify past memories, present behavior and emotions, and their impact on living a creative life. By engaging your imagination, we gain access to your hidden potential, hindered by negative belief patterns. Together we will transform your life's most difficult challenges and develop the courage to create opportunities to live more passionately.
I offer traditional psychotherapy, gestalt/somatic experiencing, and I'm certified in EMDR therapy.
If you are facing a difficult transition in your relationship, depression, addiction, trauma, or simply wanting to increase your life's potential, contact me with questions concerning psychotherapy. Addressing the presenting problem, we will identify past memories, present behavior and emotions, and their impact on living a creative life. By engaging your imagination, we gain access to your hidden potential, hindered by negative belief patterns. Together we will transform your life's most difficult challenges and develop the courage to create opportunities to live more passionately.
Jeneane Nicodemus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108 (Online Only)
Through Mindfulness, Somatic practice, Gestalt and EMDR I aim to help clients attune to their needs more readily by helping them focus on body awareness, breath, and their inner narrative.
Most clients come to therapy when other things they've tried are no longer working. Whether it's the frustration of work and career, difficult familial connections, friendships or intimate relationships that feel less than satisfying. Issues around speaking up, feeling heard, respected emotionally are often some of the goals dear to our hearts, but also seem so out of reach. Most of us want to feel heard and as though we matter. Our futures are full of hope and opportunity, but getting there can also seem daunting. What is keeping you from achieving your beautiful life?
Through Mindfulness, Somatic practice, Gestalt and EMDR I aim to help clients attune to their needs more readily by helping them focus on body awareness, breath, and their inner narrative.
Most clients come to therapy when other things they've tried are no longer working. Whether it's the frustration of work and career, difficult familial connections, friendships or intimate relationships that feel less than satisfying. Issues around speaking up, feeling heard, respected emotionally are often some of the goals dear to our hearts, but also seem so out of reach. Most of us want to feel heard and as though we matter. Our futures are full of hope and opportunity, but getting there can also seem daunting. What is keeping you from achieving your beautiful life?
My training includes: Level 3 Attachment Focused EMDR, Hakomi Body/Mind Psychotherapy, Gestalt Play Therapy.
"Over the past 20 years I have supported clients in overcoming challenges and empowering their authentic selves. Through counseling, coaching, and group work, I've helped them activate their inner resources and realize their inherent potential. I believe growth is served by identifying and integrating core material which obstructs access to essence, passion, and life purpose. Enhancing self-awareness, employing mindfulness and nonviolence, I help clients listen to their Body's Intelligence ©, connect to inner wisdom, and take courageous action.
My training includes: Level 3 Attachment Focused EMDR, Hakomi Body/Mind Psychotherapy, Gestalt Play Therapy.
"Over the past 20 years I have supported clients in overcoming challenges and empowering their authentic selves. Through counseling, coaching, and group work, I've helped them activate their inner resources and realize their inherent potential. I believe growth is served by identifying and integrating core material which obstructs access to essence, passion, and life purpose. Enhancing self-awareness, employing mindfulness and nonviolence, I help clients listen to their Body's Intelligence ©, connect to inner wisdom, and take courageous action.
Dr. Nelly Nassar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108 (Online Only)
I appreciate the courage it takes for someone to seek therapy and ask for help. Even though it can be an uncomfortable process at the beginning, psychotherapy can be an extremely rewarding experience. I try my best to provide you with a very safe and supportive environment and to work collaboratively with you on raising your awareness about your process and helping you improve your quality of life. I am certified in Gestalt Therapy by the Gestalt Associates Training Los Angeles (GATLA) so I integrate gestalt therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in my work with you.
I appreciate the courage it takes for someone to seek therapy and ask for help. Even though it can be an uncomfortable process at the beginning, psychotherapy can be an extremely rewarding experience. I try my best to provide you with a very safe and supportive environment and to work collaboratively with you on raising your awareness about your process and helping you improve your quality of life. I am certified in Gestalt Therapy by the Gestalt Associates Training Los Angeles (GATLA) so I integrate gestalt therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in my work with you.
You’ve been trying to figure out where it all went wrong. “Was it my fault? Was it hers? Does it matter?” You had a loving marriage and a happy family. But things have changed. Those warm memories…the laughs, the hugs…they've been replaced with a disappearing pile of ashes. You want so desperately to turn back the clock, but you know that’s impossible. As you cry yourself to sleep again, all you can think about is the heartbroken look in your children’s eyes. “How will I explain to them what’s going on?” It’s agony to feel this way, and you’re not sure how much longer you can go on like this. You know something needs to change.
You’ve been trying to figure out where it all went wrong. “Was it my fault? Was it hers? Does it matter?” You had a loving marriage and a happy family. But things have changed. Those warm memories…the laughs, the hugs…they've been replaced with a disappearing pile of ashes. You want so desperately to turn back the clock, but you know that’s impossible. As you cry yourself to sleep again, all you can think about is the heartbroken look in your children’s eyes. “How will I explain to them what’s going on?” It’s agony to feel this way, and you’re not sure how much longer you can go on like this. You know something needs to change.
Kristine Gore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108 (Online Only)
The gift of therapy is priceless and highly transformative. I am walking proof of the impact and have lived through tremendous challenges related to grief & loss, high conflict relationships, health related battles, career changes, intergenerational trauma, being 1st generation, raising young adults and lived experiences in different parts of the country. My therapeutic journey was led by a skilled therapist and through that learning an inherent calling to help others arose. I work with individuals with a focus on life transitions. I meet clients where they are and provide a guiding hand with the client's lead.
The gift of therapy is priceless and highly transformative. I am walking proof of the impact and have lived through tremendous challenges related to grief & loss, high conflict relationships, health related battles, career changes, intergenerational trauma, being 1st generation, raising young adults and lived experiences in different parts of the country. My therapeutic journey was led by a skilled therapist and through that learning an inherent calling to help others arose. I work with individuals with a focus on life transitions. I meet clients where they are and provide a guiding hand with the client's lead.
Ally Misanko
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
Are you frequently worrying about things you can’t control? Do you tend to talk negatively to yourself or feel like you aren’t enough? Are you concerned about relationship issues? Being a human today is hard and people come to therapy for many different reasons. It can be challenging to manage all the aspects of personal, professional, and family life, leaving self-care and wellness on the back burner. I am committed to helping individuals and couples improve communication, feel better, and live well. I value the importance of building a trusting and collaborative relationship and know that finding the right therapist can be hard.
Are you frequently worrying about things you can’t control? Do you tend to talk negatively to yourself or feel like you aren’t enough? Are you concerned about relationship issues? Being a human today is hard and people come to therapy for many different reasons. It can be challenging to manage all the aspects of personal, professional, and family life, leaving self-care and wellness on the back burner. I am committed to helping individuals and couples improve communication, feel better, and live well. I value the importance of building a trusting and collaborative relationship and know that finding the right therapist can be hard.
My name is Joshua Pelfrey, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been in the counseling field for more than 15 years as both an addiction counselor and clinical social worker. I help individuals and couples with addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, and more. I specialize in motivational interviewing, addiction counseling, and anger management. I consider myself an ally in the therapeutic process with the goal of helping my clients unlock their potential.
My name is Joshua Pelfrey, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been in the counseling field for more than 15 years as both an addiction counselor and clinical social worker. I help individuals and couples with addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, and more. I specialize in motivational interviewing, addiction counseling, and anger management. I consider myself an ally in the therapeutic process with the goal of helping my clients unlock their potential.
My roots as a therapist and healer have seeded over the past thirty-five years, bringing substance and depth to my one-on-one sessions with couples and individuals. During this time, I have maintained a private practice, which has always consisted of process-oriented consciousness work -- a means by which to enter safely and deeply into the inner landscape of the psyche for positive and real world change. My results-oriented approach to psychology is derived from the commitment to a conscious process and the intrapsychic relationship one can access when choosing to turn toward--and look at--oneself.
My roots as a therapist and healer have seeded over the past thirty-five years, bringing substance and depth to my one-on-one sessions with couples and individuals. During this time, I have maintained a private practice, which has always consisted of process-oriented consciousness work -- a means by which to enter safely and deeply into the inner landscape of the psyche for positive and real world change. My results-oriented approach to psychology is derived from the commitment to a conscious process and the intrapsychic relationship one can access when choosing to turn toward--and look at--oneself.
Danielle Birrittella
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Montecito, CA 93108
My role as a psychotherapist is to accompany people on their courageous journeys of healing, discovery, and self-expression. I enjoy working with individuals who are curious and inspired to take their inner work seriously. I believe that the narratives we tell about ourselves hold tremendous power and that, through our work together, we can become more conscious of how these stories shape our lives in order to find opportunities for new understanding and meaning making. As a depth psychotherapist, I have reverence for the wisdom of psyche, the unconscious, to help guide us to explore parts of ourselves in order to become more whole.
My role as a psychotherapist is to accompany people on their courageous journeys of healing, discovery, and self-expression. I enjoy working with individuals who are curious and inspired to take their inner work seriously. I believe that the narratives we tell about ourselves hold tremendous power and that, through our work together, we can become more conscious of how these stories shape our lives in order to find opportunities for new understanding and meaning making. As a depth psychotherapist, I have reverence for the wisdom of psyche, the unconscious, to help guide us to explore parts of ourselves in order to become more whole.
Katie Boucher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108 (Online Only)
Everyone has the capacity to change what's not working. My goal is to help you get to know all parts of yourself and understand that you are already in possession of a vast amount of resources for self-understanding, acceptance, and change. By showing appreciation for all parts of yourself, while focusing on your strengths and potentials, we will work to increase balance and well-being in your life.
Everyone has the capacity to change what's not working. My goal is to help you get to know all parts of yourself and understand that you are already in possession of a vast amount of resources for self-understanding, acceptance, and change. By showing appreciation for all parts of yourself, while focusing on your strengths and potentials, we will work to increase balance and well-being in your life.
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Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montecito, CA 93108
Taking steps to create a more fulfilling life may be one of the most profound actions one can undertake. I believe that walking this path requires developing a curious and accepting relationship with oneself as well as being witnessed and supported by another - be they a therapist, partner, friend or family member. Once on this path, one can heal limiting beliefs, hurtful behaviors, and unhealthy relationships, and move toward a life of fulfillment, purpose and ease.
Taking steps to create a more fulfilling life may be one of the most profound actions one can undertake. I believe that walking this path requires developing a curious and accepting relationship with oneself as well as being witnessed and supported by another - be they a therapist, partner, friend or family member. Once on this path, one can heal limiting beliefs, hurtful behaviors, and unhealthy relationships, and move toward a life of fulfillment, purpose and ease.
Each of us passes through struggles that are difficult to cope with. In working together to form a therapeutic relationship we can become healthier and more able to react more skillfully to the challenges that present themselves. My work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families is based off a strong clinical foundation and woven together with compassion, respect and caring. By resolving some of our issues we can become balanced and find improved overall health (mentally, physically, spiritually, financially, emotionally).
Each of us passes through struggles that are difficult to cope with. In working together to form a therapeutic relationship we can become healthier and more able to react more skillfully to the challenges that present themselves. My work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families is based off a strong clinical foundation and woven together with compassion, respect and caring. By resolving some of our issues we can become balanced and find improved overall health (mentally, physically, spiritually, financially, emotionally).
Karen Tyrrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Montecito, CA 93108
Waitlist for new clients
I use an evidence-based integrative treatment approach, based on strength-based therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and trauma-based therapy (EMDR). I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents, ages 14 and up.
I use an evidence-based integrative treatment approach, based on strength-based therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and trauma-based therapy (EMDR). I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents, ages 14 and up.
Ryan George
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Montecito, CA 93108
Welcome! I help people with a variety of problems, from depression and anxiety to trauma and recovery. I can help you. I am a depth therapist (seeing causes, rather than only symptoms) and a somatic therapist (integrating a healthy mind and body), and I've found that more important than my background is a non-judgmental attitude, attention to your personal needs, and the quality of a collaborative therapy relationship. I'm on your side. My clients gain crucial insights, learn essential coping skills and dramatically improve their relationships, outlook, and prospects for the future. Their lives become much more vital and satisfying.
Welcome! I help people with a variety of problems, from depression and anxiety to trauma and recovery. I can help you. I am a depth therapist (seeing causes, rather than only symptoms) and a somatic therapist (integrating a healthy mind and body), and I've found that more important than my background is a non-judgmental attitude, attention to your personal needs, and the quality of a collaborative therapy relationship. I'm on your side. My clients gain crucial insights, learn essential coping skills and dramatically improve their relationships, outlook, and prospects for the future. Their lives become much more vital and satisfying.
Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMC, ACC
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93108 (Online Only)
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
Lindsey Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108 (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed by the pain & confusion of a relationship that should have brought you joy? Maybe you've endured the trauma of a crime, the gaslighting of narcissistic abuse, or the deep wounds of betrayal. Maybe you are struggling with divorce or memories of childhood trauma. Even though anxiety & depression are normal responses to such circumstances, there is still hope that things can be different. Together, we can navigate these turbulent emotions & find a path toward healing, strength, & renewal. Getting help today will allow you to live a life filled with peace & meaningful connections.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the pain & confusion of a relationship that should have brought you joy? Maybe you've endured the trauma of a crime, the gaslighting of narcissistic abuse, or the deep wounds of betrayal. Maybe you are struggling with divorce or memories of childhood trauma. Even though anxiety & depression are normal responses to such circumstances, there is still hope that things can be different. Together, we can navigate these turbulent emotions & find a path toward healing, strength, & renewal. Getting help today will allow you to live a life filled with peace & meaningful connections.
Sierra Boatwright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montecito, CA 93108
As the founder of Santa Barbara Ecotherapy, I recognize that "therapy as usual" doesn't work for everyone. Perhaps you've said, "Nature is my therapy." AND, you need something more. Something like real therapy, in nature. Nature therapy. Welcome! You found it. Let's get to work on self-mastery, insight and clarity, self-honoring choices, healthy boundaries infused with compassion, active inner wisdom, and engagement with Wisdom greater than ourselves to get you the life you desire. Yes, you, too, can move through the world well-rooted yet free-flowing, safe in your right to create a thriving, purposeful life.
As the founder of Santa Barbara Ecotherapy, I recognize that "therapy as usual" doesn't work for everyone. Perhaps you've said, "Nature is my therapy." AND, you need something more. Something like real therapy, in nature. Nature therapy. Welcome! You found it. Let's get to work on self-mastery, insight and clarity, self-honoring choices, healthy boundaries infused with compassion, active inner wisdom, and engagement with Wisdom greater than ourselves to get you the life you desire. Yes, you, too, can move through the world well-rooted yet free-flowing, safe in your right to create a thriving, purposeful life.
You’ve tried so many different ways to cope with the anxiety, the depression, the kid’s problems, your partners issues and still, you have nothing to show for it at this time. You’ve talked to the pediatrician and your primary caregiver and now you're contemplating whether you should take those antidepressants and look for another therapist since the last one didn't seem to understand what things are truly like for you. What you need is an expert who truly knows that it takes to love yourself, to be who you were meant to be. I am confident and guarantee that we can get you to where you want to be.
You’ve tried so many different ways to cope with the anxiety, the depression, the kid’s problems, your partners issues and still, you have nothing to show for it at this time. You’ve talked to the pediatrician and your primary caregiver and now you're contemplating whether you should take those antidepressants and look for another therapist since the last one didn't seem to understand what things are truly like for you. What you need is an expert who truly knows that it takes to love yourself, to be who you were meant to be. I am confident and guarantee that we can get you to where you want to be.
Julie Michelle Roman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montecito, CA 93108
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or feeling overwhelmed? Feeling stuck or unsatisfied in your relationships, work, or social life? Are you overly critical of yourself or facing challenges in a major life transition? Perhaps you're seeking a deeper understanding of yourself or worried about your child or teen's happiness amidst school and peer pressures. If any of these resonate with you, it might be the right time to consider psychotherapy. I'm here to support you or your child through this journey of growth and healing.
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or feeling overwhelmed? Feeling stuck or unsatisfied in your relationships, work, or social life? Are you overly critical of yourself or facing challenges in a major life transition? Perhaps you're seeking a deeper understanding of yourself or worried about your child or teen's happiness amidst school and peer pressures. If any of these resonate with you, it might be the right time to consider psychotherapy. I'm here to support you or your child through this journey of growth and healing.
See more therapy options for 93108
Gestalt Therapists
What is gestalt therapy?
Gestalt therapy is based on the idea that to address unresolved negative feelings, emotions must be not only discussed but also actively expressed in the present moment. The term is from a German word meaning “whole,” and gestalt therapists believe that people should be considered whole entities made up of mind, body, and emotions. Gestalt sessions are rooted in the notion that a client’s total self must be discovered, explored, and confronted, so that they can take greater responsibility for themselves and their behavior, learn to satisfy their own needs while still respecting the needs of others, and reconnect with feelings they might otherwise deny.
How does gestalt therapy work?
Gestalt therapy sessions do not just involve talking with a therapist. Clients may take part in role-playing, re-enactment, or artistic exercises like drawing and painting, with the goal of becoming more aware of negative thought patterns that limit happiness. One common gestalt exercise is “the empty chair,” in which a client sits across from an empty chair representing a partner, relative, boss, or a part of themselves—and, with the therapist’s encouragement, improvises a dialog with it. The intention is to bring the emotions raised by past conflicts into the present and work through them in the moment.
How long does gestalt therapy last?
As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for gestalt therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. New patients should understand that it may take some time to become comfortable with gestalt exercises but once they do, they should expect sessions to extend for a number of months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions.
Does gestalt therapy work?
Gestalt therapy has generally been found to be as effective as other forms of talk therapy in helping people living with anxiety, depression, phobias, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders, as well as helping individuals reduce conflict in relationships. Gestalt techniques, on their own or in combination with other therapies, can also be effective in managing physical ailments including ulcerative colitis, migraines, and back spasms. It should be noted that some people may have trouble adapting to gestalt therapy’s lack of formal structure or to a therapist’s close observations of their body language and emotions; others may struggle to commit to techniques that feel unnatural, like the empty chair exercise.