Psychobiological Approach Couple Therapy in Santa Barbara County, CA

Photo of Nina Toumanoff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Nina Toumanoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, M, A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My passion is working with couples. I am a PACT Level 2 Couples Therapist and I have received extensive training from the Couples Institute in Menlo Park. Studying with Stan Tatkin PhD and Ellyn Bader PhD have given me the extra education to help couples. My sessions are two hours. I find the extra time makes all the difference in how productive and useful each session can be.
My passion is working with couples. I am a PACT Level 2 Couples Therapist and I have received extensive training from the Couples Institute in Menlo Park. Studying with Stan Tatkin PhD and Ellyn Bader PhD have given me the extra education to help couples. My sessions are two hours. I find the extra time makes all the difference in how productive and useful each session can be.
(805) 250-4334 View (805) 250-4334
Photo of Eva Van Prooyen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Eva Van Prooyen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I'm happy to receive your email or call to answer questions you may have about therapy. I help adults, adolescents, and couples experience life more deeply; enjoy more satisfying relationships; resolve painful conflicts; and improve self-esteem, self-worth and emotional well-being.
I'm happy to receive your email or call to answer questions you may have about therapy. I help adults, adolescents, and couples experience life more deeply; enjoy more satisfying relationships; resolve painful conflicts; and improve self-esteem, self-worth and emotional well-being.
(805) 214-8637 View (805) 214-8637
Photo of Dana Bryon Staub, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Dana Bryon Staub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? Do you find yourself repeating negative patterns? Do you want to make positive changes within yourself and your relationships? I believe that therapy is a collaborative process in which we together determine what you need. Years of experience contribute to my ability to create a safe space that will encourage deep exploration into understanding your emotional concerns. Often after completing the therapeutic process, many come to discover that they have more choices in their lives and report feeling more optimistic and alive.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? Do you find yourself repeating negative patterns? Do you want to make positive changes within yourself and your relationships? I believe that therapy is a collaborative process in which we together determine what you need. Years of experience contribute to my ability to create a safe space that will encourage deep exploration into understanding your emotional concerns. Often after completing the therapeutic process, many come to discover that they have more choices in their lives and report feeling more optimistic and alive.
(424) 294-8863 View (424) 294-8863
Photo of Kongit Farrell - Premarital Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Kongit Farrell - Premarital Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Montecito, CA 93108
You’ve found your forever love and are ready to lay the foundation for a healthy, harmonious and fruitful marriage (and maybe work out a few kinks before walking down the aisle). Being the thoughtful person you are, you decided it was best to seek out an experienced professional to support you as you embark on this exciting new chapter in your lives – and I’m so happy that you found me! It’s part of my calling to help conscientious couples create the healthy and harmonious relationships that they envision so that they can love deeply, build strong families, and make the world a better place, together.
You’ve found your forever love and are ready to lay the foundation for a healthy, harmonious and fruitful marriage (and maybe work out a few kinks before walking down the aisle). Being the thoughtful person you are, you decided it was best to seek out an experienced professional to support you as you embark on this exciting new chapter in your lives – and I’m so happy that you found me! It’s part of my calling to help conscientious couples create the healthy and harmonious relationships that they envision so that they can love deeply, build strong families, and make the world a better place, together.
(310) 861-9216 View (310) 861-9216
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-1330 View (562) 268-1330
Photo of Jaclyn Woods, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Jaclyn Woods
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Carpinteria, CA 93013
Not accepting new clients
Painful feelings, experiences, losses, and transitions in your life and those around you can sometimes feel too overwhelming to walk through alone, my job as your therapist is to walk with you. Together we can create a path on your journey towards healing and wholeness. If you have felt deep sadness, then you also have the capacity to feel great joy. I am continually humbled by the human spirit and it's ability to seek integration and healing and I believe therapy can be one of the most powerful practices available to create transformations from the inside out.
Painful feelings, experiences, losses, and transitions in your life and those around you can sometimes feel too overwhelming to walk through alone, my job as your therapist is to walk with you. Together we can create a path on your journey towards healing and wholeness. If you have felt deep sadness, then you also have the capacity to feel great joy. I am continually humbled by the human spirit and it's ability to seek integration and healing and I believe therapy can be one of the most powerful practices available to create transformations from the inside out.
(805) 209-0595 View (805) 209-0595

Online Therapists

Photo of Patch McCormick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Patch McCormick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291  (Online Only)
My trainings: CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, PACT, and RLT.
I help men and couples get unstuck in their relationships. As a man you may be struggling to feel and communicate your emotions, while simultaneously living with a great deal of stress. You may avoid conflict in order to not rock the boat. Self-doubt and an inner critic keep you feeling like you don't know where you're going (personally and professionally) and like you're never enough, leading to burnout. You want to feel confident, connected, have clear purpose, and to relish that thing they call joy. If you're a couple, we will work towards similar feelings of secure functioning. I want you two to feel safe, light, and powerful.
My trainings: CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, PACT, and RLT.
I help men and couples get unstuck in their relationships. As a man you may be struggling to feel and communicate your emotions, while simultaneously living with a great deal of stress. You may avoid conflict in order to not rock the boat. Self-doubt and an inner critic keep you feeling like you don't know where you're going (personally and professionally) and like you're never enough, leading to burnout. You want to feel confident, connected, have clear purpose, and to relish that thing they call joy. If you're a couple, we will work towards similar feelings of secure functioning. I want you two to feel safe, light, and powerful.
(818) 654-4908 View (818) 654-4908
Photo of Yvonne Janette Co, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Yvonne Janette Co
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
PACT can help you diffuse conflict by understanding your partner's (and own) attachment style and physiological reactions.
I create a safe environment in which you can discover and actualize your true self. Finding and accessing your internal compass enables you to chart your own course and fulfill your potential. We will collaboratively set goals that advance your true self, minimize barriers that impede your growth, facilitate acceptance of what you cannot change, and allow for the redirection of energy towards what you can accomplish. So often life becomes about hanging on and weathering whatever storm comes next. My goal is for you to do more than survive. I want you to thrive.
PACT can help you diffuse conflict by understanding your partner's (and own) attachment style and physiological reactions.
I create a safe environment in which you can discover and actualize your true self. Finding and accessing your internal compass enables you to chart your own course and fulfill your potential. We will collaboratively set goals that advance your true self, minimize barriers that impede your growth, facilitate acceptance of what you cannot change, and allow for the redirection of energy towards what you can accomplish. So often life becomes about hanging on and weathering whatever storm comes next. My goal is for you to do more than survive. I want you to thrive.
(424) 417-6770 View (424) 417-6770
Photo of Angela M. Aiello, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Angela M. Aiello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Topanga, CA 90290
I am a trauma/addiction and Couples psychotherapist with an MFT license and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I have an engaging, active, personable style immediately putting clients at ease for a strong therapeutic bond necessary for deeper insights and behavioral change. I am trained in psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic modalities. I am a LEVEL II trained PACT (psychobiological approach to couples therapy) couple therapist as well as a facilitator for mindfulness and various relapse prevention models .
I am a trauma/addiction and Couples psychotherapist with an MFT license and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I have an engaging, active, personable style immediately putting clients at ease for a strong therapeutic bond necessary for deeper insights and behavioral change. I am trained in psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic modalities. I am a LEVEL II trained PACT (psychobiological approach to couples therapy) couple therapist as well as a facilitator for mindfulness and various relapse prevention models .
(424) 294-8910 View (424) 294-8910
Photo of Lynne Bidwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Lynne Bidwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
I help couples improve ineffective communication using PACT and Prepare/Enrich.
My passion for my work comes from helping you with your current problems and longstanding patterns in a caring, nonjudgmental, and insightful way. The joint learning, collaboration, and even humor on this journey inspires me, as we work as a team. I am an engaged, interactive, and respectful therapist, whether I am with individuals, couples, or groups. And coming from a multicultural family background, I celebrate all types of diversity and various points of view. My areas of specialty include trauma and PTSD; relationship issues and couples; creative clients; career transitions; and family members of the mentally ill.
I help couples improve ineffective communication using PACT and Prepare/Enrich.
My passion for my work comes from helping you with your current problems and longstanding patterns in a caring, nonjudgmental, and insightful way. The joint learning, collaboration, and even humor on this journey inspires me, as we work as a team. I am an engaged, interactive, and respectful therapist, whether I am with individuals, couples, or groups. And coming from a multicultural family background, I celebrate all types of diversity and various points of view. My areas of specialty include trauma and PTSD; relationship issues and couples; creative clients; career transitions; and family members of the mentally ill.
(323) 302-4798 View (323) 302-4798
Photo of Michael Shiffman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Michael Shiffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Our past presents itself in the present moment. I treat my clients, not apply a model or theory on them. Whether it is anxiety, panic, pain, addictions, trauma, loss or grief - we explore together what gets in the way of living a life worth living. I integrate Somatic Experiencing, NARM, EMDR, PACT, Mindfulness practices and Voice Dialogue into a multidimensional approach to discover how to help you realize a satisfying life, the life you want to live.
Our past presents itself in the present moment. I treat my clients, not apply a model or theory on them. Whether it is anxiety, panic, pain, addictions, trauma, loss or grief - we explore together what gets in the way of living a life worth living. I integrate Somatic Experiencing, NARM, EMDR, PACT, Mindfulness practices and Voice Dialogue into a multidimensional approach to discover how to help you realize a satisfying life, the life you want to live.
(424) 258-5432 View (424) 258-5432
Photo of Vera C. Eck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Vera C. Eck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
While curating from the recent developments in the field of neuroscience, I utilize a variety of modalities to help people re-connect with themselves and others. As a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I specialize in helping couples re-build safety, improve communication, and decrease tension. I am also incorporating techniques from PACT Therapy: A Psycho-biological Approach to Couple's Therapy, which guides couples towards a more secure functioning relationship. Please feel free to call for a free consultation.
While curating from the recent developments in the field of neuroscience, I utilize a variety of modalities to help people re-connect with themselves and others. As a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I specialize in helping couples re-build safety, improve communication, and decrease tension. I am also incorporating techniques from PACT Therapy: A Psycho-biological Approach to Couple's Therapy, which guides couples towards a more secure functioning relationship. Please feel free to call for a free consultation.
(424) 243-5974 View (424) 243-5974
Photo of Joe Stiteler, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara County, CA
Joe Stiteler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Welcome to a dedicated space for relational growth and connection. As a couples therapist, my passion lies in nurturing the bonds that bind partners. Committed to the art of couples work, I continuously invest in training and education to offer you the most effective and up-to-date therapeutic approaches. Your relationship is a unique journey, and I am devoted to providing a safe, empathetic space where both partners can explore, understand, and strengthen their connection.
Welcome to a dedicated space for relational growth and connection. As a couples therapist, my passion lies in nurturing the bonds that bind partners. Committed to the art of couples work, I continuously invest in training and education to offer you the most effective and up-to-date therapeutic approaches. Your relationship is a unique journey, and I am devoted to providing a safe, empathetic space where both partners can explore, understand, and strengthen their connection.
(310) 361-3008 View (310) 361-3008
Photo of Lauren Dummit, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Lauren Dummit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
(310) 895-9316 View (310) 895-9316
Photo of Rashel Keshmiri, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Rashel Keshmiri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Thank you for considering therapy with me. I am looking forward in meeting you. You will find me to be flexible and sensitive. I enjoy helping individuals in achieving personal growth; in a caring & safe environment. Whether you are suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief/loss, sexual dysfunction, we can work together to resolve your issue and minimize your suffering. Your natural state of being is a gift and is what I work with in psychotherapy to bring out your hidden potentials to surface.
Thank you for considering therapy with me. I am looking forward in meeting you. You will find me to be flexible and sensitive. I enjoy helping individuals in achieving personal growth; in a caring & safe environment. Whether you are suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief/loss, sexual dysfunction, we can work together to resolve your issue and minimize your suffering. Your natural state of being is a gift and is what I work with in psychotherapy to bring out your hidden potentials to surface.
(310) 494-7019 View (310) 494-7019
Photo of Matthew Shapiro, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara County, CA
Matthew Shapiro
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you having the dawning realization that you aren’t living life as fully as you could be? Are you experiencing troubled relationships, a narrowing sense of possibility, or wounded self-esteem? Or maybe you simply have the gnawing sense that it’s time for a change, but no idea how to make it happen. If so, this is a great time to step into therapy. I use a collaborative, depth-oriented approach to help individuals and couples overcome obstacles, build on their strengths, and move through a variety of challenges.
Are you having the dawning realization that you aren’t living life as fully as you could be? Are you experiencing troubled relationships, a narrowing sense of possibility, or wounded self-esteem? Or maybe you simply have the gnawing sense that it’s time for a change, but no idea how to make it happen. If so, this is a great time to step into therapy. I use a collaborative, depth-oriented approach to help individuals and couples overcome obstacles, build on their strengths, and move through a variety of challenges.
(323) 443-7338 View (323) 443-7338
Photo of Ja'ire Hattley, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara County, CA
Ja'ire Hattley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Are you drowning in anxiety, lost in the maze of depression, facing challenges of ADHD or life transitions, or struggling in your relationships? Life can be overwhelming, but you're not alone. Imagine having a compassionate partner by your side, guiding you toward newfound clarity, unwavering resilience, and profound fulfillment. In my practice, I bring a wealth of experience to help you discover your authentic self, nurture stronger relationships, heal from these struggles & hardships, and provide sex therapy and Ketamine-Assisted therapy. Let's navigate this path together, shaping a future filled with hope, connection, and growth.
Are you drowning in anxiety, lost in the maze of depression, facing challenges of ADHD or life transitions, or struggling in your relationships? Life can be overwhelming, but you're not alone. Imagine having a compassionate partner by your side, guiding you toward newfound clarity, unwavering resilience, and profound fulfillment. In my practice, I bring a wealth of experience to help you discover your authentic self, nurture stronger relationships, heal from these struggles & hardships, and provide sex therapy and Ketamine-Assisted therapy. Let's navigate this path together, shaping a future filled with hope, connection, and growth.
(323) 784-9972 View (323) 784-9972
Photo of Jesse Ryan Bashem, Psychologist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Jesse Ryan Bashem
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Moorpark, CA 93021  (Online Only)
I work best with patient's who are interested in becoming more self-aware, are inherently motivated for treatment (i.e., not forced), curious about exploring new ways of thinking about their thinking & experiencing emotions, and understanding the intricacies of the machinery operating in their head. I tend to take a technically integrative therapeutic approach, formulating a personalized treatment plan and fostering action - I reject a one-size-fits-all philosophy or provider passivity. Those in need of interpersonal validation through an emotionally corrective relationship will likely find my brand of therapy suits them well!
I work best with patient's who are interested in becoming more self-aware, are inherently motivated for treatment (i.e., not forced), curious about exploring new ways of thinking about their thinking & experiencing emotions, and understanding the intricacies of the machinery operating in their head. I tend to take a technically integrative therapeutic approach, formulating a personalized treatment plan and fostering action - I reject a one-size-fits-all philosophy or provider passivity. Those in need of interpersonal validation through an emotionally corrective relationship will likely find my brand of therapy suits them well!
(805) 301-1662 View (805) 301-1662
Photo of Tasha Eddy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Tasha Eddy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults whom are struggling with an array of mental health needs and relational impairments related to trauma, anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, addiction, anger/aggression, interpersonal conflict, life transitions, self-esteem, and motivation. I am committed to providing my clients with a safe space to explore their inner experience(s) and the impact it has on their current functioning and overall well-being.
I specialize in working with adults whom are struggling with an array of mental health needs and relational impairments related to trauma, anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, addiction, anger/aggression, interpersonal conflict, life transitions, self-esteem, and motivation. I am committed to providing my clients with a safe space to explore their inner experience(s) and the impact it has on their current functioning and overall well-being.
(424) 404-6667 View (424) 404-6667
Photo of Julia M Schwab, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara County, CA
Julia M Schwab
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
As a therapist who welcomes and affirms the LGBTQIA+ community, my specialization lies in working with the transgender, gender non-conforming, gender queer individuals, as well as those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, or questioning. Starting therapy might evoke apprehension, but rest assured, I am warm, empathetic, and fully engaged to support you during life's most challenging moments. Together, we will explore the obstacles and patterns that might be hindering your desired life, pushing beyond limits to attain a more enriching and fulfilling life.
As a therapist who welcomes and affirms the LGBTQIA+ community, my specialization lies in working with the transgender, gender non-conforming, gender queer individuals, as well as those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, or questioning. Starting therapy might evoke apprehension, but rest assured, I am warm, empathetic, and fully engaged to support you during life's most challenging moments. Together, we will explore the obstacles and patterns that might be hindering your desired life, pushing beyond limits to attain a more enriching and fulfilling life.
(818) 696-4514 View (818) 696-4514

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Psychobiological Approach Couple Therapy

How does the psychobiological approach to couples therapy work?

The psychobiological approach to couples therapy combines research in three domains—attachment theory, developmental neuroscience, and arousal regulation—to address relationship challenges. Couples learn about their underlying emotional and physiological responses to different situations so as to identify these responses and then shift them with the help of practice exercises in sessions.

Is the psychobiological approach to couples therapy evidence-based?

While some research has been conducted by its creator, there is little peer-reviewed research to support the efficacy of the psychobiological approach to couples therapy. It’s not as evidence-based as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, or acceptance and commitment therapy.

How long does the psychobiological approach to couples therapy last?

The psychobiological approach to couples therapy is a relatively short-term therapy, typically less than 12 sessions. However, individual sessions can be much longer. A typical couples therapy session lasts 45 minutes, while these sessions often last for two to three hours, and sometimes three to six hours. Some couples may opt to attend two or three sessions per week.

What are the limitations of the psychobiological approach to couples therapy?

A limitation of the psychobiological approach to couples therapy is that the evidence is much more limited than it is for other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or acceptance and commitment therapy. Additionally, the psychobiological approach to couples therapy only applies to couples in relationships, so keep in mind that it cannot treat mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.