Photo of Marina Mendes, Counselor in San Luis Obispo, CA
Marina Mendes
Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
My approach draws from mindfulness philosophy, somatic practices, psychodynamic theory, parts work, and solution-focused approaches as needed.
Hi there - You are whole. You are worthy. You are welcome here. Therapy is a sacred space to hold all of life and the Self with deep reverence & compassion. Sometimes life feels overwhelming, scary, and messy. You don't have to walk through the fire alone. I work with young adults to explore their infinite complexities in support of coming home to the authentic Self. The therapeutic container is a place where all of you is welcome, witnessed, and accepted — just as you are.
My approach draws from mindfulness philosophy, somatic practices, psychodynamic theory, parts work, and solution-focused approaches as needed.
Hi there - You are whole. You are worthy. You are welcome here. Therapy is a sacred space to hold all of life and the Self with deep reverence & compassion. Sometimes life feels overwhelming, scary, and messy. You don't have to walk through the fire alone. I work with young adults to explore their infinite complexities in support of coming home to the authentic Self. The therapeutic container is a place where all of you is welcome, witnessed, and accepted — just as you are.
(929) 305-1694 View (929) 305-1694
Photo of Amanda Turull, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Amanda Turull
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
I specialize in experiential therapy using methods of somatic therapy, mindfulness, expressive arts, role play, parts work (IFS), visualization and meditation.
Sitting with oneself, whether in individual, couple or family therapy, is not easy and I see my clients as courageous and hopeful for taking this step. Sometimes therapy is healing and transformational, other times it is simply a space to take some deep breaths. Either way, my practice is always client-centered and compassion-based, being present with you in whatever space you are in. My hope in working with me is that you develop a sense of self-compassion and a strength-based lens to view yourself and your relationships through.
I specialize in experiential therapy using methods of somatic therapy, mindfulness, expressive arts, role play, parts work (IFS), visualization and meditation.
Sitting with oneself, whether in individual, couple or family therapy, is not easy and I see my clients as courageous and hopeful for taking this step. Sometimes therapy is healing and transformational, other times it is simply a space to take some deep breaths. Either way, my practice is always client-centered and compassion-based, being present with you in whatever space you are in. My hope in working with me is that you develop a sense of self-compassion and a strength-based lens to view yourself and your relationships through.
(619) 603-0238 View (619) 603-0238
Photo of Cynthia Sailers, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Cynthia Sailers
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93407  (Online Only)
I utilize multiple modalities (CBT, Mindfulness, Solution-focused, and Psychodynamic Therapies).
People come to therapy for many different reasons. Often it is to break life-long defeating patterns, or because they are unhappy about their current situation. Do you continue to do things that you told yourself that you were not going to? Do you find yourself obsessing on negative thoughts or have urges to act on them? I provide supportive and non-shaming treatment for persons struggling with sexual behavior problems, compulsive eating, addiction, and other impulse control disorders. We will also focus on any associated symptoms such as anxiety, depression, weight gain, thoughts of self-harm, or feelings of being out of control.
I utilize multiple modalities (CBT, Mindfulness, Solution-focused, and Psychodynamic Therapies).
People come to therapy for many different reasons. Often it is to break life-long defeating patterns, or because they are unhappy about their current situation. Do you continue to do things that you told yourself that you were not going to? Do you find yourself obsessing on negative thoughts or have urges to act on them? I provide supportive and non-shaming treatment for persons struggling with sexual behavior problems, compulsive eating, addiction, and other impulse control disorders. We will also focus on any associated symptoms such as anxiety, depression, weight gain, thoughts of self-harm, or feelings of being out of control.
(805) 219-7165 View (805) 219-7165
Photo of Catherine G Currie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Catherine G Currie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
We will talk about self-care including exercise, mindfulness, sleeping, eating and finding joy in life.
I'm glad your curiosity about finding a therapist has led you here. My experience in mental health work includes Gestalt, CBT, psycho-dynamic, humanistic, client-centered, mindfulness based and self-acceptance training. Please call with specific questions. We may be a good fit if you are open to exploring your inner-space, learning new ways of thinking and new coping strategies, and connecting with your own personal wisdom while addressing life's inevitable challenges. I've been doing psychotherapy for 30 years and, in addition to seeing my private clients, I have supervised MFT and MSW interns in clinic settings.
We will talk about self-care including exercise, mindfulness, sleeping, eating and finding joy in life.
I'm glad your curiosity about finding a therapist has led you here. My experience in mental health work includes Gestalt, CBT, psycho-dynamic, humanistic, client-centered, mindfulness based and self-acceptance training. Please call with specific questions. We may be a good fit if you are open to exploring your inner-space, learning new ways of thinking and new coping strategies, and connecting with your own personal wisdom while addressing life's inevitable challenges. I've been doing psychotherapy for 30 years and, in addition to seeing my private clients, I have supervised MFT and MSW interns in clinic settings.
(805) 322-8995 View (805) 322-8995
Photo of Ioana B Cebulla, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Ioana B Cebulla
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering evidence-based treatment for anxiety and related disorders, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, trauma and other stress related disorders, mood disorders, well as psychosis. My frame of work is based on CBT, including mindfulness based approach, as well as DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to enhance distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), which is a values-based CBT focusing on willingness, commitment, and valued-action towards a meaningful, fulfilling, and vital life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering evidence-based treatment for anxiety and related disorders, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, trauma and other stress related disorders, mood disorders, well as psychosis. My frame of work is based on CBT, including mindfulness based approach, as well as DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to enhance distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), which is a values-based CBT focusing on willingness, commitment, and valued-action towards a meaningful, fulfilling, and vital life.
(805) 521-4331 View (805) 521-4331
Photo of Kris Roudebush, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Kris Roudebush
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Greetings! I'm Kris and I love facilitating therapeutic work with individuals and couples who are looking to explore, enhance, and heal various aspects of our complicated lives. My practice addresses life challenges using a holistic perspective, blending various treatment approaches. Primary approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, existential, mindfulness, and trauma focused. I am a Sex Therapist, and specialize in working with: clients with sexual traumas and PTSD, queer, trans and nonbinary folx, and those experiencing sexual difficulties, whether personally or in their relationship.
Greetings! I'm Kris and I love facilitating therapeutic work with individuals and couples who are looking to explore, enhance, and heal various aspects of our complicated lives. My practice addresses life challenges using a holistic perspective, blending various treatment approaches. Primary approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, existential, mindfulness, and trauma focused. I am a Sex Therapist, and specialize in working with: clients with sexual traumas and PTSD, queer, trans and nonbinary folx, and those experiencing sexual difficulties, whether personally or in their relationship.
(805) 973-0901 View (805) 973-0901
Photo of Melinda Marcelluskincaid, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Melinda Marcelluskincaid
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I utilize somatic and art therapies, relaxation & mindfulness practices, depth perspective, as well as practical applications and approaches.
Do you seek more balance, understanding, connection and freedom in your relationships with yourself and others? I create a safe and supportive environment to help you through difficulties to become more positive and live with presence in acceptance and peace. Whether we work to create boundaries, increase self-esteem, decrease destructive patterns, or move through painful life experiences, together we will process what you are going through in order to obtain clarity, solutions, and personal growth. My hope is that we can find contentment in our present moment & live fully in that moment each day.
I utilize somatic and art therapies, relaxation & mindfulness practices, depth perspective, as well as practical applications and approaches.
Do you seek more balance, understanding, connection and freedom in your relationships with yourself and others? I create a safe and supportive environment to help you through difficulties to become more positive and live with presence in acceptance and peace. Whether we work to create boundaries, increase self-esteem, decrease destructive patterns, or move through painful life experiences, together we will process what you are going through in order to obtain clarity, solutions, and personal growth. My hope is that we can find contentment in our present moment & live fully in that moment each day.
(805) 367-5102 View (805) 367-5102
Photo of Melissa Wheelock, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Melissa Wheelock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am trained in CBT and DBT, specializing in additional elements of self acceptance and mindfulness.
If you find yourself on this site looking for a therapist, then the answer is yes! It is the right time for you to focus on healing for yourself! I specialize in working with people who are looking for help healing anxiety, depression, body image and relationship challenges. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself, and my background in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness and the well known trauma treatment called EMDR gives me a unique perspective about the challenges all humans face. I offer online and in person therapy and I can't wait to hear from you!
I am trained in CBT and DBT, specializing in additional elements of self acceptance and mindfulness.
If you find yourself on this site looking for a therapist, then the answer is yes! It is the right time for you to focus on healing for yourself! I specialize in working with people who are looking for help healing anxiety, depression, body image and relationship challenges. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself, and my background in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness and the well known trauma treatment called EMDR gives me a unique perspective about the challenges all humans face. I offer online and in person therapy and I can't wait to hear from you!
(805) 398-6637 View (805) 398-6637
Photo of Rachel Quigley, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Rachel Quigley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Folks who come to work with me are from all walks of life, experiencing a variety of challenges, and are exploring who they are, their patterns, and how they’d like to improve mental health and wellbeing. As a somatically trained therapist, I incorporate information from the body, use of mindfulness, curiosity and self-awareness into the process. In over a decade of this work, I've developed a relaxed, comfortable, relational and insight-oriented approach. Whether you're seeking to heal a specific challenge, improve general wellbeing or your relationship with yourself I'm here to support in your journey. Lets learn about you!
Folks who come to work with me are from all walks of life, experiencing a variety of challenges, and are exploring who they are, their patterns, and how they’d like to improve mental health and wellbeing. As a somatically trained therapist, I incorporate information from the body, use of mindfulness, curiosity and self-awareness into the process. In over a decade of this work, I've developed a relaxed, comfortable, relational and insight-oriented approach. Whether you're seeking to heal a specific challenge, improve general wellbeing or your relationship with yourself I'm here to support in your journey. Lets learn about you!
(805) 316-7167 View (805) 316-7167
Photo of Alyn Bartick, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Alyn Bartick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
My medical background informs my use of the newest neuropsychiatric and mindfulness methods.
Now is the time to remove the barriers to the life you desire. Using a supportive, strength-based, and straightforward approach, I will guide you to the more richly experienced life you deserve. I offer solution-focused sessions that achieve results quickly. From our first meetings, you will be less stuck and more prepared to move forward. After more than twenty-five years, I continue to find immense joy in helping clients to live healthy lives filled with meaning and contentment.
My medical background informs my use of the newest neuropsychiatric and mindfulness methods.
Now is the time to remove the barriers to the life you desire. Using a supportive, strength-based, and straightforward approach, I will guide you to the more richly experienced life you deserve. I offer solution-focused sessions that achieve results quickly. From our first meetings, you will be less stuck and more prepared to move forward. After more than twenty-five years, I continue to find immense joy in helping clients to live healthy lives filled with meaning and contentment.
(805) 246-9493 View (805) 246-9493
Photo of Jennifer Woodward, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Jennifer Woodward
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty modalities are Cognitive-Behavioral because it is proven by replicable study to work and not much else does, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Jungian because the way we tell our stories is the way we live our lives, and Mindfulness, here and now.
My ideal clients are LGBTQI, gender variances, alcohol and addiction ,parents of children with problem behaviors, young adults and adults, deal with realities of love whomever that light might shine. I enjoy working with couples; you didn't get the manual with your relationship but it's not too late. I also love working with individuals on the path to spiritual awakening.
My specialty modalities are Cognitive-Behavioral because it is proven by replicable study to work and not much else does, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Jungian because the way we tell our stories is the way we live our lives, and Mindfulness, here and now.
My ideal clients are LGBTQI, gender variances, alcohol and addiction ,parents of children with problem behaviors, young adults and adults, deal with realities of love whomever that light might shine. I enjoy working with couples; you didn't get the manual with your relationship but it's not too late. I also love working with individuals on the path to spiritual awakening.
(805) 467-6526 View (805) 467-6526
Photo of Mending the Spirit, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Mending the Spirit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Waitlist for new clients
Throughout my career I have learned different therapeutic interventions, however, in my practice I mainly use the following: Mindfulness, Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
My name is Jennifer Mangum, I am a licensed therapist specializing in anxiety, depression and OCD. In addition, I am also a certified drug and alcohol counselor and have completed certification training for peripartum/postpartum issues. I work with both individuals and families struggling with any of the above areas. As part of the process, I will work with you/your family collaboratively to develop treatment goals while exploring what thoughts/behaviors/patterns are keeping you/your family stuck. I offer a 20-minute free consultation to answer any questions you may have. Contact me today so we can start the healing you deserve.
Throughout my career I have learned different therapeutic interventions, however, in my practice I mainly use the following: Mindfulness, Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
My name is Jennifer Mangum, I am a licensed therapist specializing in anxiety, depression and OCD. In addition, I am also a certified drug and alcohol counselor and have completed certification training for peripartum/postpartum issues. I work with both individuals and families struggling with any of the above areas. As part of the process, I will work with you/your family collaboratively to develop treatment goals while exploring what thoughts/behaviors/patterns are keeping you/your family stuck. I offer a 20-minute free consultation to answer any questions you may have. Contact me today so we can start the healing you deserve.
(805) 549-4889 View (805) 549-4889
Photo of Heidi M Lewin-Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Heidi M Lewin-Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate metaphor, education, CBT, mindfulness, intuition, and humor to help you move forward.
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.
I incorporate metaphor, education, CBT, mindfulness, intuition, and humor to help you move forward.
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 Jennifer Swanson, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Jennifer Swanson
Psychologist, EdD, LP, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
Building from a cognitive behavioral foundation I include movement, mindfulness and nutrition for mental wellness.
Practicing as a Licensed Psychologist in WI and as a LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) in CA. I am passionate about helping people find untapped potential for positive growth and offer a holistic approach to mental health. I specialize in movement enhanced psychotherapy, such as walking sessions. When the journey of life includes unseen bumps in the road, I offer a warm and compassionate space to explore vulnerable areas, build and refine strengths, create new perspectives and apply strategies that fit you and your lifestyle.
Building from a cognitive behavioral foundation I include movement, mindfulness and nutrition for mental wellness.
Practicing as a Licensed Psychologist in WI and as a LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) in CA. I am passionate about helping people find untapped potential for positive growth and offer a holistic approach to mental health. I specialize in movement enhanced psychotherapy, such as walking sessions. When the journey of life includes unseen bumps in the road, I offer a warm and compassionate space to explore vulnerable areas, build and refine strengths, create new perspectives and apply strategies that fit you and your lifestyle.
(805) 420-1505 View (805) 420-1505
Photo of Shanti Holistic Healing in San Luis Obispo, CA
Shanti Holistic Healing
MA
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
My intention is to create a compassionate, curious, and collaborative space for you to receive emotional, mental and spiritual support. Together, we can holistically acknowledge core roots of pain and consciously move towards shifting old cycles that no longer serve your highest self. My passion is to remind you of your innate wisdom and with humility, empower you to be the narrator of your life. I commit to encourage and challenge you to liberate your authentic voice and remember your birthright to joy. I understand each person is a unique being and pride myself on individualizing care to meet your present needs.
My intention is to create a compassionate, curious, and collaborative space for you to receive emotional, mental and spiritual support. Together, we can holistically acknowledge core roots of pain and consciously move towards shifting old cycles that no longer serve your highest self. My passion is to remind you of your innate wisdom and with humility, empower you to be the narrator of your life. I commit to encourage and challenge you to liberate your authentic voice and remember your birthright to joy. I understand each person is a unique being and pride myself on individualizing care to meet your present needs.
(805) 429-6071 View (805) 429-6071
Photo of Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Psychologist, PhD, MEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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 Ana Cabezas, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Ana Cabezas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Life is challenging. You are living in a state of multiple crises and trying to navigate relentless responsibilities each day. You have endured injustices, trauma, and personal losses. You are trying to stay afloat, but sometimes you feel like you’re drowning. As Latina who's had many of these experiences, I recognize the significant impact they have on your mental health. My focus in therapy is to explore what barriers keeps you from having the quality of life you want. I believe that people do the best they can within the context of their lives. Support is available to guide you through this process.
Life is challenging. You are living in a state of multiple crises and trying to navigate relentless responsibilities each day. You have endured injustices, trauma, and personal losses. You are trying to stay afloat, but sometimes you feel like you’re drowning. As Latina who's had many of these experiences, I recognize the significant impact they have on your mental health. My focus in therapy is to explore what barriers keeps you from having the quality of life you want. I believe that people do the best they can within the context of their lives. Support is available to guide you through this process.
(805) 500-7734 View (805) 500-7734
Photo of Summer Sessions Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in San Luis Obispo, CA
Summer Sessions Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPCC, LCSW, LCMHC, ACSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Finding a therapist can be difficult, and at Summer Sessions, we hope to cut down on the searching component of your journey. We know that the road "here," may have been difficult and we are here to support and listen. The goal of our team is to reflect our community with our own backgrounds and areas of expertise and support you. Whether experiencing a life stressor, ongoing anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma or more, you deserve support and we can help. Please see our website, www.SummerSessionsCounseling.org, for available providers and booking (www.therapyportal.com/p/summersessions/appointments/availability/)
Finding a therapist can be difficult, and at Summer Sessions, we hope to cut down on the searching component of your journey. We know that the road "here," may have been difficult and we are here to support and listen. The goal of our team is to reflect our community with our own backgrounds and areas of expertise and support you. Whether experiencing a life stressor, ongoing anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma or more, you deserve support and we can help. Please see our website, www.SummerSessionsCounseling.org, for available providers and booking (www.therapyportal.com/p/summersessions/appointments/availability/)
(805) 243-0739 View (805) 243-0739
Photo of Dr. Adare Toral, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Luis Obispo, CA
Dr. Adare Toral
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Thank you for taking an interest in my practice. I am a trauma and forensic specialist with specialties in EMDR and threat assessment. My work centers on providing care for teens and adults with trauma through evidenced based practices. I utilize various therapeutic methods including art therapy, DBT, and somatic experiencing in order to provide the best care for each individual.
Thank you for taking an interest in my practice. I am a trauma and forensic specialist with specialties in EMDR and threat assessment. My work centers on providing care for teens and adults with trauma through evidenced based practices. I utilize various therapeutic methods including art therapy, DBT, and somatic experiencing in order to provide the best care for each individual.
(805) 316-7023 View (805) 316-7023
Photo of Lauren Phelps, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Lauren Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you seeking a trustworthy ally to navigate your fears, hopes, and aspirations? Perhaps you’re struggling to break free from negative coping habits or you're exploring unconventional paths, such as consensual non-monogamous relationships or LGBTQIA2+ identities, and desire affirming support. I specialize in providing a safe, affirming space where you can explore your unique journey. Through somatic psychology techniques, we can uncover insights and transform unhelpful patterns. You deserve to be authentically seen and celebrated for your contributions to the world.
Are you seeking a trustworthy ally to navigate your fears, hopes, and aspirations? Perhaps you’re struggling to break free from negative coping habits or you're exploring unconventional paths, such as consensual non-monogamous relationships or LGBTQIA2+ identities, and desire affirming support. I specialize in providing a safe, affirming space where you can explore your unique journey. Through somatic psychology techniques, we can uncover insights and transform unhelpful patterns. You deserve to be authentically seen and celebrated for your contributions to the world.
(805) 369-1068 View (805) 369-1068

See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo

Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists

How does mindfulness-based cognitive therapy work?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy originated in the work of John Kabat-Zinn of the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He developed mindfulness-based stress reduction, which is a technique found in yoga and meditation. MBCT is a combination of this type of stress reduction and cognitive behavioral therapy; it essentially quiets emotional distress through mindfulness, utilizing proper breathing and meditation. These techniques aim to bring the individual into the present moment when in a state of distress.

When do I know if I need treatment with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

If an individual’s mind is filled with emotional distress and general negativity, the person may feel trapped. A mindfulness-based cognitive therapist can help a person change their thinking patterns as well as their behavior through calm acceptance and compassion. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.

What should I expect from mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

This therapy often takes place in group sessions. A therapist will work with the group as well as with each individual. Meditation and breathing exercises are core practices that aim to invite inquiry and discovery into a person’s troubled mental state. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviors and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more realistic way. This therapy is supportive, accepting, and warm.

Is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy effective?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with major depressive disorder have benefitted from this type of therapy; the person accepts their distressed thoughts and also moves into healthier patterns of thinking. This therapy also aims to move an individual away from automatic negative responses. This type of therapy can bring a person lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioral habits.