Photo of Ellen Morgan Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Ellen Morgan Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
(805) 303-5480 View (805) 303-5480
Photo of Daniel Zacarias Messiter, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo, CA
Daniel Zacarias Messiter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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
Photo of Terri J Clarke, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Terri J Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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.
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 Denise C Williamson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Denise C Williamson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
With over 10 years' experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been dedicated towards helping individual adults resolve their issues.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or having relationship problems? Or, perhaps you just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life? Together we can focus on your healing, replacing any negative patterns, and promoting a more positive future. You deserve support and guidance towards achieving your dreams. I invite you to visit my website at www.brighterlifestyle.com.
With over 10 years' experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been dedicated towards helping individual adults resolve their issues.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or having relationship problems? Or, perhaps you just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life? Together we can focus on your healing, replacing any negative patterns, and promoting a more positive future. You deserve support and guidance towards achieving your dreams. I invite you to visit my website at www.brighterlifestyle.com.
(805) 322-3648 View (805) 322-3648
Photo of Dr. Nicole Lee Dolan, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Dr. Nicole Lee Dolan
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
We can help with: marriage and relationship issues, healing heartbreak, attachment work, childbirth/postpartum/parenting, loss, grief and neurodiversity.
Bridging the gap between Psychology & Spirituality, I am in service to those whose trauma histories are causing issues in their daily lives and specifically in their relationships. We are meant for connection. Trauma disrupts that. It also causes negative energy patterns that imprint on our lives and impact our wellbeing as well as our ability to create the life that we truly desire. If I am unable to see you personally, I will match you with one of my highly skilled associate clinicians. Dr. Dolan
We can help with: marriage and relationship issues, healing heartbreak, attachment work, childbirth/postpartum/parenting, loss, grief and neurodiversity.
Bridging the gap between Psychology & Spirituality, I am in service to those whose trauma histories are causing issues in their daily lives and specifically in their relationships. We are meant for connection. Trauma disrupts that. It also causes negative energy patterns that imprint on our lives and impact our wellbeing as well as our ability to create the life that we truly desire. If I am unable to see you personally, I will match you with one of my highly skilled associate clinicians. Dr. Dolan
(805) 465-6146 View (805) 465-6146
Photo of Adriana Gutierrez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Adriana Gutierrez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Hi! I am Adriana Gutierrez, Licensed Marriage and family therapist who is passionate about bringing therapy services through an integrative and holistic approach. I want to join you in supporting the work towards finding balance from day-to-day stressors to addressing life-altering events that challenge our sense of self. In my years of experience, I have trained and treated from parent-infant dynamics to children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families. I have extensive training and experience in trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Hi! I am Adriana Gutierrez, Licensed Marriage and family therapist who is passionate about bringing therapy services through an integrative and holistic approach. I want to join you in supporting the work towards finding balance from day-to-day stressors to addressing life-altering events that challenge our sense of self. In my years of experience, I have trained and treated from parent-infant dynamics to children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families. I have extensive training and experience in trauma, anxiety, and depression.
(714) 497-2160 View (714) 497-2160
Photo of Michael W Regier, PhD, Couple Therapist California, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Michael W Regier, PhD, Couple Therapist California
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Do you need help with communication? Does your partner lack empathy and emotion? Does he/she not listen? Have you been hurt by an affair? I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist, an expert in Couple & Marriage Therapy, betrayal trauma, emotional communication and divorce prevention. I help individuals and couples recover from the trauma of an affair and learn how to prevent future infidelity. I help couples in conflict understand and escape their patterns of arguing, re-build trust, and meet each other's emotional needs. I help couples in new relationships build the foundations for healthy relationship.
Do you need help with communication? Does your partner lack empathy and emotion? Does he/she not listen? Have you been hurt by an affair? I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist, an expert in Couple & Marriage Therapy, betrayal trauma, emotional communication and divorce prevention. I help individuals and couples recover from the trauma of an affair and learn how to prevent future infidelity. I help couples in conflict understand and escape their patterns of arguing, re-build trust, and meet each other's emotional needs. I help couples in new relationships build the foundations for healthy relationship.
(805) 242-4604 View (805) 242-4604
Photo of Denise Bila Seastrunk in San Luis Obispo, CA
Denise Bila Seastrunk
RN, CNS, PhD, CTP
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am experienced in individual, group, and marital therapy.
I treat clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors and transitions. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are experiencing all types of issues. Dealing with parenting and adolescence can be challenging, but these are the types of challenges I embrace. Whatever your issues or goals are in therapy, I can provide an integrated way of helping you due to my educational background and varied life experiences.
I am experienced in individual, group, and marital therapy.
I treat clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors and transitions. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are experiencing all types of issues. Dealing with parenting and adolescence can be challenging, but these are the types of challenges I embrace. Whatever your issues or goals are in therapy, I can provide an integrated way of helping you due to my educational background and varied life experiences.
(805) 244-6785 View (805) 244-6785
Photo of Elizabeth Long, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Elizabeth Long
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in helping clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. Together, we will work towards developing coping strategies, improving communication skills, and fostering self-awareness. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your relationship, or your family, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and live a more fulfilling life. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in helping clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. Together, we will work towards developing coping strategies, improving communication skills, and fostering self-awareness. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your relationship, or your family, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and live a more fulfilling life. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
(805) 618-2871 View (805) 618-2871
Photo of Joshua Javedanfar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Joshua Javedanfar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Hello, and welcome! I'm Josh Javedanfar, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I'm here to support you on your journey toward improved mental well-being. With a compassionate and personalized approach, I strive to create a safe space for exploration, healing, and growth. I tailor all my therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs. I work with and have had experience working with individuals, families, and couples of diverse backgrounds and ages who may be facing a wide range of mental health concerns.
Hello, and welcome! I'm Josh Javedanfar, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I'm here to support you on your journey toward improved mental well-being. With a compassionate and personalized approach, I strive to create a safe space for exploration, healing, and growth. I tailor all my therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs. I work with and have had experience working with individuals, families, and couples of diverse backgrounds and ages who may be facing a wide range of mental health concerns.
(657) 571-4636 View (657) 571-4636
Photo of Christian Counseling with Stephanie, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Christian Counseling with Stephanie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am a Christian and enjoy working with individuals on practical coping skills and life balance from a spiritual perspective, as well as assisting with issues related to marital conflict, spiritual growth, etc.
Ever feel like all you do in therapy is talk about problems, but never get to the really important part of making concrete changes? I know many individuals have expressed these concerns to me. So, you may ask, "How can I change that?" Enter Evidence-Based Practice! Research shows us how to do it! It shows us what works and what doesn’t work. I can take those findings and translate them into the changes you are seeking to make in your life. It takes the guesswork out of getting from Point A to Point B. You’ll spend less time in therapy as your goals will be focused and tracked so we know we are moving in the right direction.
I am a Christian and enjoy working with individuals on practical coping skills and life balance from a spiritual perspective, as well as assisting with issues related to marital conflict, spiritual growth, etc.
Ever feel like all you do in therapy is talk about problems, but never get to the really important part of making concrete changes? I know many individuals have expressed these concerns to me. So, you may ask, "How can I change that?" Enter Evidence-Based Practice! Research shows us how to do it! It shows us what works and what doesn’t work. I can take those findings and translate them into the changes you are seeking to make in your life. It takes the guesswork out of getting from Point A to Point B. You’ll spend less time in therapy as your goals will be focused and tracked so we know we are moving in the right direction.
(661) 402-6526 View (661) 402-6526
Photo of Megan Mar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Megan Mar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Life can be challenging sometimes! I know how hard it can be to reach out for support and I commend you for being here as this is often the first step toward healing! As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I believe in working collaboratively with you, walking along side you through whatever circumstances or difficulties you may be facing. My therapeutic treatment includes helping you identify your goals, individual strengths, and specific techniques you can utilize to navigate through life’s difficulties. It is my goal that you find empowerment, hope and healing as we walk this journey together.
Accepting New Clients! Life can be challenging sometimes! I know how hard it can be to reach out for support and I commend you for being here as this is often the first step toward healing! As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I believe in working collaboratively with you, walking along side you through whatever circumstances or difficulties you may be facing. My therapeutic treatment includes helping you identify your goals, individual strengths, and specific techniques you can utilize to navigate through life’s difficulties. It is my goal that you find empowerment, hope and healing as we walk this journey together.
(818) 699-0210 View (818) 699-0210
Photo of Emily A. Weatherby Latta, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Emily A. Weatherby Latta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Life can be so unfair and being human is incredibly difficult, yet there is also so much beauty in life to experience as well! It can be exhausting to feel like you have to put on a front and be filtered in order to do life while suffering. Learning to find a way to hold and make sense of these contradictions can be a painful, confusing and complicated process! We often view things as being “either/or” when much of life is actually "both/and." My desire is to create a safe place for you to JUST BE…unfiltered…to help process, and receive rest for your soul and mind in order to heal and live life as your best authentic self.
Life can be so unfair and being human is incredibly difficult, yet there is also so much beauty in life to experience as well! It can be exhausting to feel like you have to put on a front and be filtered in order to do life while suffering. Learning to find a way to hold and make sense of these contradictions can be a painful, confusing and complicated process! We often view things as being “either/or” when much of life is actually "both/and." My desire is to create a safe place for you to JUST BE…unfiltered…to help process, and receive rest for your soul and mind in order to heal and live life as your best authentic self.
(805) 316-1544 View (805) 316-1544
Photo of Berthena Parrish, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Berthena Parrish
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
For over 30 years I have had the honor of working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. My goal is to offer genuine compassion and understanding. Together we will look and what is not working for you right now and what change you hope for. Together we explore your needs and collaboratively come up with a plan for your therapy. I will support you in setting personal goals, developing healthy coping skills and learning effective communication.
For over 30 years I have had the honor of working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. My goal is to offer genuine compassion and understanding. Together we will look and what is not working for you right now and what change you hope for. Together we explore your needs and collaboratively come up with a plan for your therapy. I will support you in setting personal goals, developing healthy coping skills and learning effective communication.
(805) 244-5843 View (805) 244-5843
Photo of Krissy Shippey, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Krissy Shippey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
As a therapist, I am passionate about walking alongside folks as they reveal their truths and vulnerabilities to themselves. I believe, and have witnessed that people are capable of long standing change with knowledge, support, and connection, and that therapy is a great place for that. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, feel safe, gain confidence, and live a more joyful and purposeful life. I use cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques, while never ignoring the human element and connection where the real change happens.
As a therapist, I am passionate about walking alongside folks as they reveal their truths and vulnerabilities to themselves. I believe, and have witnessed that people are capable of long standing change with knowledge, support, and connection, and that therapy is a great place for that. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, feel safe, gain confidence, and live a more joyful and purposeful life. I use cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques, while never ignoring the human element and connection where the real change happens.
(805) 316-7071 View (805) 316-7071
Photo of Hannah Morrison, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo, CA
Hannah Morrison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
As a therapist, I am passionate about creating a safe space to explore a deeper understanding of yourself, others and the world . With empathy and trust, I will walk alongside you as you navigate feelings of anxiety, sadness, fear, self-criticism, doubt and shame. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, gain confidence and self-compassion, advocate for your needs, and live a life that you deem meaningful and authentic to you.
As a therapist, I am passionate about creating a safe space to explore a deeper understanding of yourself, others and the world . With empathy and trust, I will walk alongside you as you navigate feelings of anxiety, sadness, fear, self-criticism, doubt and shame. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, gain confidence and self-compassion, advocate for your needs, and live a life that you deem meaningful and authentic to you.
(805) 723-2431 View (805) 723-2431
Photo of Kristin Stringfellow, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Kristin Stringfellow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
As a therapist at Mindful Heart Counseling Center, I work with couples and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life-transitions. Coping with what’s happening in your life can be overwhelming and I’m here to help you find relief and learn skills to build resilience. I strive to help my clients live mindfully and find peace in the present moment. I approach therapy from a mindfulness-based perspective, from which we focus on gathering a better understanding of our thoughts and behaviors by exploring our emotions without judgement.
As a therapist at Mindful Heart Counseling Center, I work with couples and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life-transitions. Coping with what’s happening in your life can be overwhelming and I’m here to help you find relief and learn skills to build resilience. I strive to help my clients live mindfully and find peace in the present moment. I approach therapy from a mindfulness-based perspective, from which we focus on gathering a better understanding of our thoughts and behaviors by exploring our emotions without judgement.
(805) 243-0785 View (805) 243-0785
Photo of Tom Buckley, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in San Luis Obispo, CA
Tom Buckley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCIII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Tom Buckley is the Executive Director of Aspire Counseling San Luis Obispo. Aspire SLO provides Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Services for Teens and Adults in an intensive outpatient setting. Do you or a loved one struggle with depression, anxiety, self harm, substances abuse, addiction issues, etc.? If so, call Aspire SLO at 805-329-5595 to speak with a counselor. To schedule an appointment 24/7 call 888-585-7373. Ask about or free weekly family support group!
Tom Buckley is the Executive Director of Aspire Counseling San Luis Obispo. Aspire SLO provides Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Services for Teens and Adults in an intensive outpatient setting. Do you or a loved one struggle with depression, anxiety, self harm, substances abuse, addiction issues, etc.? If so, call Aspire SLO at 805-329-5595 to speak with a counselor. To schedule an appointment 24/7 call 888-585-7373. Ask about or free weekly family support group!
(805) 549-5989 View (805) 549-5989
Photo of Christina Dee, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Christina Dee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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.
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 Monique Nelson Sigler, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Monique Nelson Sigler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
My passion is serving those in SLO community and promoting meaningful change and healing in the individuals I treat. I imagine you are here because something in your life has caused you pain or suffering. Achieving emotional and mental wellness is hard and uncomfortable work, but it does not have to happen alone. I honor the vulnerability and courage it takes to begin therapy. My goal is to help you discover a life of balance, authenticity, and happiness. Everyone can benefit from therapy— from children to adults.
My passion is serving those in SLO community and promoting meaningful change and healing in the individuals I treat. I imagine you are here because something in your life has caused you pain or suffering. Achieving emotional and mental wellness is hard and uncomfortable work, but it does not have to happen alone. I honor the vulnerability and courage it takes to begin therapy. My goal is to help you discover a life of balance, authenticity, and happiness. Everyone can benefit from therapy— from children to adults.
(805) 429-1170 View (805) 429-1170

See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo

Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.