Therapists in San Luis Obispo County, CA

Photo of Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling , Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Our Play Therapy room is state of art.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
Our Play Therapy room is state of art.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
(805) 876-9092 View (805) 876-9092
Photo of Carla Savage-Sachs, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Carla Savage-Sachs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Osos, CA 93402
I take a creative and individual approach to every client I work with, and view the practice of counseling as sacred work. My passion is to help others develop healthier, more functional lives, heal through loss and change, and ultimately grow with confidence into the person they want to become.” I have counseled individuals, couples, and families, including children and teens, helping each client develop new coping skills and a stronger internal system of resilience to navigate the difficult terrain of: anxiety/depression · relational/work distress divorce · grief, loss and bereavement · major life transitions. I find a special joy working alongside children and adolescents, encouraging the growth and development of their unique voice, inner sense of worth, and the tools necessary to handle the many changes and disruptions that they can face, including: · anxiety and depression * self harm * self esteem *body image and eating disorders * sexual identity questioning and development.
I take a creative and individual approach to every client I work with, and view the practice of counseling as sacred work. My passion is to help others develop healthier, more functional lives, heal through loss and change, and ultimately grow with confidence into the person they want to become.” I have counseled individuals, couples, and families, including children and teens, helping each client develop new coping skills and a stronger internal system of resilience to navigate the difficult terrain of: anxiety/depression · relational/work distress divorce · grief, loss and bereavement · major life transitions. I find a special joy working alongside children and adolescents, encouraging the growth and development of their unique voice, inner sense of worth, and the tools necessary to handle the many changes and disruptions that they can face, including: · anxiety and depression * self harm * self esteem *body image and eating disorders * sexual identity questioning and development.
(805) 793-0514 View (805) 793-0514
Photo of Sacred Path Holistic Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Sacred Path Holistic Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD , MA, LMFT, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
Holistic & Affordable Therapy! At Sacred Path, our qualified therapists are looking forward to helping you access Your inner resources to heal, grow, and reclaim your life. With the right help you can heal from old wounds, release negative cycles and patterns, resolve symptoms of trauma and gain relief from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other relational issues. True healing affords us the ability to create the life that we desire. A life lived with meaning. Dr. Dolan
Holistic & Affordable Therapy! At Sacred Path, our qualified therapists are looking forward to helping you access Your inner resources to heal, grow, and reclaim your life. With the right help you can heal from old wounds, release negative cycles and patterns, resolve symptoms of trauma and gain relief from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other relational issues. True healing affords us the ability to create the life that we desire. A life lived with meaning. Dr. Dolan
(805) 232-7580 View (805) 232-7580
Photo of Bobby Tehrani, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Bobby Tehrani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
My primary focus in private practice is evaluation and assessment for a variety of psychological conditions, such as ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities and Personality Disorders. The second focus I have is treatment. I have an integrative approach to therapy in which I use multiple modalities that fit my clients’ individual needs. Some of the modalities I use are interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also view other factors that can affect the client, such as cultural, medical, and environmental factors.
My primary focus in private practice is evaluation and assessment for a variety of psychological conditions, such as ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities and Personality Disorders. The second focus I have is treatment. I have an integrative approach to therapy in which I use multiple modalities that fit my clients’ individual needs. Some of the modalities I use are interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also view other factors that can affect the client, such as cultural, medical, and environmental factors.
(805) 409-8239 View (805) 409-8239
Photo of Daniel Zacarias Messiter, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Daniel Zacarias Messiter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
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.
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 Dr. Deborah Smilovitz Foster, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Dr. Deborah Smilovitz Foster
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
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).
(805) 324-6515 View (805) 324-6515
Photo of Megan Mar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, 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 Jennifer Blume, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Jennifer Blume
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Paso Robles, CA 93447
(209) 299-7453 View (209) 299-7453
Photo of Megan Pollock, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Megan Pollock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Paso Robles, CA 93446
Not accepting new clients
For children, I offer evidence-based play therapy (yes, I have therapy games we use on telehealth!).
Do you have worries constantly spinning around in your head? Feeling on-edge? Maybe having some symptoms that don’t make sense to you or feeling a bit lost? Do you keep waking up in the middle of the night and/or way too early? Maybe just feeling stuck in life? If you are looking to better understand yourself and make some concrete improvements in your life, I can help you. I offer Virtual and Outdoor-based Therapy, including Walk & Talk Therapy. Be who you want to be today, don’t put off living life! I aim to help my patients make the most out of life now. Additionally, I conduct Emotional Support Animal (ESA) assessments.
For children, I offer evidence-based play therapy (yes, I have therapy games we use on telehealth!).
Do you have worries constantly spinning around in your head? Feeling on-edge? Maybe having some symptoms that don’t make sense to you or feeling a bit lost? Do you keep waking up in the middle of the night and/or way too early? Maybe just feeling stuck in life? If you are looking to better understand yourself and make some concrete improvements in your life, I can help you. I offer Virtual and Outdoor-based Therapy, including Walk & Talk Therapy. Be who you want to be today, don’t put off living life! I aim to help my patients make the most out of life now. Additionally, I conduct Emotional Support Animal (ESA) assessments.
(805) 723-3211 View (805) 723-3211

Online Therapists

Photo of Shannon L S Aguirre, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Shannon L S Aguirre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Maria, CA 93454
I enjoy helping people navigate life's trials. Everyone is unique and I respect their personal struggles. I have discovered in my 24 years of experience, that fine tuning healthy communication can be a reliable way to begin helping the healing process. Communication skills may seem simple, and they can be, but the adverse affect of miscommunication is profound. My skills can provide you the techniques for problem solving difficult or emotional situations.
I enjoy helping people navigate life's trials. Everyone is unique and I respect their personal struggles. I have discovered in my 24 years of experience, that fine tuning healthy communication can be a reliable way to begin helping the healing process. Communication skills may seem simple, and they can be, but the adverse affect of miscommunication is profound. My skills can provide you the techniques for problem solving difficult or emotional situations.
(805) 623-0946 View (805) 623-0946
Photo of Marcia Neville Licensed Marriage Family Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Marcia Neville Licensed Marriage Family Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Montecito, CA 93108
CURRENTLY CONDUCTING PHONE SESSIONS, TELE-THERAPY. I possess an unconditional positive regard for my clients, as I easily see the goodness and gift that each person brings. I desire to assist people to reach their highest potential and identify their purpose. I am invigorated by the work I do and strive to be part of creating more fulfilling, happier lives! I enjoy witnessing others become the best version of themselves, passionate about their interests, communicating better, finding solutions and setting goals!
CURRENTLY CONDUCTING PHONE SESSIONS, TELE-THERAPY. I possess an unconditional positive regard for my clients, as I easily see the goodness and gift that each person brings. I desire to assist people to reach their highest potential and identify their purpose. I am invigorated by the work I do and strive to be part of creating more fulfilling, happier lives! I enjoy witnessing others become the best version of themselves, passionate about their interests, communicating better, finding solutions and setting goals!
(805) 804-3850 View (805) 804-3850
Photo of Jean Densmore John, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Jean Densmore John
Psychologist, PhD, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93110  (Online Only)
Are you longing for joy, passion, creativity and a sense of wholeness? Do you want to be energetically free from physical and/or emotional pain? Do you want to recover fully from an eating disorder or disordered eating that is affecting the quality of your life? Do you want to lose or gain weight? Do you want to be more creatively expressed? Does anxiety and fear hold you back from developing meaningful relationships? Perhaps you are suffering from infertility? Feelings of loss and longing? Feeling stuck? I would love to work with you, to help you move from inside out.
Are you longing for joy, passion, creativity and a sense of wholeness? Do you want to be energetically free from physical and/or emotional pain? Do you want to recover fully from an eating disorder or disordered eating that is affecting the quality of your life? Do you want to lose or gain weight? Do you want to be more creatively expressed? Does anxiety and fear hold you back from developing meaningful relationships? Perhaps you are suffering from infertility? Feelings of loss and longing? Feeling stuck? I would love to work with you, to help you move from inside out.
(805) 468-4871 View (805) 468-4871
Photo of Ian Kaminsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Ian Kaminsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Thank you for considering beginning psychotherapy with me. My Ph.D. is in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Depth Psychology. My training has allowed me to help people resolve problems where they have been otherwise unsuccessful. I have developed many innovative and evidence-based treatments that may be of interest to you or your loved ones.
Thank you for considering beginning psychotherapy with me. My Ph.D. is in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Depth Psychology. My training has allowed me to help people resolve problems where they have been otherwise unsuccessful. I have developed many innovative and evidence-based treatments that may be of interest to you or your loved ones.
(805) 467-6827 View (805) 467-6827

See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo County

Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.