Santa Barbara
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Sarah Alkayali
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC

Sarah Alkayali

Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC

Verified by Psychology Today Verified by Psychology Today
11 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
(310) 361-2721
Let's Connect (310) 361-2721
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Bilingual EMDR therapist, helping individuals heal from trauma, PTSD, and life’s challenges. I work with those navigating the complex layers of trauma, and emotional struggles, offering a safe space. As a Gottman Method Couples Therapist, I also support couples in building stronger, more connected relationships. Growing up in Iraq and immigrating to the U.S. at 17 has given me a deep understanding of trauma, the importance of secure relationships, and resilience. This lived experience informs my work with individuals and couples, allowing me to approach therapy with empathy, cultural awareness, and relational insight.
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy, besides EMDR, my approach involves integrating IFS/Parts Work, which helps clients connect with different parts of themselves, leading to greater self-awareness and insights. I create a safe, compassionate space for individuals to explore their emotions, navigate life’s challenges, and foster lasting transformation.
I know how challenging it can be to face the complexities of your inner world. It takes strength and courage; I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Together, we’ll create a compassionate space to explore your emotions, make sense of your experiences, and begin healing. If you’re ready, reach out for a free consultation!
Call or Sarah Alkayali now for a free 15 minute consultation - (310) 361-2721

My Practice at a Glance

Available online only

Shoreline Counseling Center

Santa Barbara, CA 93109

(310) 361-2721

West Hollywood, CA 90069

I offer telehealth therapy throughout CA; looking forward to connecting!
I specialize in Trauma and PTSD, Relationship Issues and Anxiety 
$150 Per Session, I accept insurance 
I see individuals, couples and families  
Let's Connect (310) 361-2721
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC

My Practice at a Glance

Available online only

Shoreline Counseling Center

Santa Barbara, CA 93109

(310) 361-2721

West Hollywood, CA 90069

I offer telehealth therapy throughout CA; looking forward to connecting!
I specialize in Trauma and PTSD, Relationship Issues and Anxiety 
$150 Per Session, I accept insurance 
I see individuals, couples and families  

Finances

Fees

  • Individual Sessions $150
  • Couple Sessions $150
  • Sliding scale: apply if you may be eligible

Payment Methods

American Express, Cash, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, Zelle

Insurance

  • Aetna
  • Blue Shield
  • Magellan
  • Optum
  • Oscar Health
  • Oxford
  • Sutter
  • United Medical Resources (UMR)
  • UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
  • Out of Network
"
I am able to bill several insurance companies working with a professional biller and clinical supervisor. I can also provide a superbill as an out-of-network provider if I do not accept your insurance. Please reach out with any questions, and I am happy to help answering them.
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Sarah Alkayali
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (310) 361-2721
"
I am able to bill several insurance companies working with a professional biller and clinical supervisor. I can also provide a superbill as an out-of-network provider if I do not accept your insurance. Please reach out with any questions, and I am happy to help answering them.
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Sarah Alkayali
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (310) 361-2721

Qualifications

  • Verified by Psychology Today Prelicense by State of California / 144213 Supervised by Holly Whitmore (California / 112417) Sarah Alkayali

    • Education and Years In Practice

  • Attended Pepperdine University , MA Clinical Psych, Marriage and Family Therapy, Graduated 2023

    • Additional Credentials

  • Membership with California Association of Marriage & Family Therapists 10059022 / 2024
  • Degree/Diploma from The University of Texas Permian Basin Bachelor of Arts in Psychology / 2019
"
I completed my clinical practicum at a community mental health org, focusing on trauma work and crisis management. I later trained in EMDR, Flash, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy. While in private practice, I also counseled kids at MBUSD, providing support in schools.
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Sarah Alkayali
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (310) 361-2721
"
I completed my clinical practicum at a community mental health org, focusing on trauma work and crisis management. I later trained in EMDR, Flash, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy. While in private practice, I also counseled kids at MBUSD, providing support in schools.
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Sarah Alkayali
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (310) 361-2721

Specialties and Expertise

Top Specialties

  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Relationship Issues
  • Anxiety

Expertise

  • Codependency
  • Coping Skills
  • Family Conflict
  • Geriatric and Seniors
  • Grief
  • Infertility
  • Infidelity
  • Life Transitions
  • Marital and Premarital
  • Parenting
  • Peer Relationships
  • Racial Identity
  • Self Esteem
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Sleep or Insomnia
  • Spirituality
  • Stress
  • Veterans
  • Women's Issues
"
I work with clients who are dealing with trauma and PTSD, navigating life transitions, or facing relationship issues. During our initial sessions, we'll explore these challenges in depth and develop a plan to address them. We'll focus on strategies that empower you to manage your feelings and make positive changes. Our goal is to help you find a path that leads to greater stability and well-being.
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Sarah Alkayali
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (310) 361-2721
"
I work with clients who are dealing with trauma and PTSD, navigating life transitions, or facing relationship issues. During our initial sessions, we'll explore these challenges in depth and develop a plan to address them. We'll focus on strategies that empower you to manage your feelings and make positive changes. Our goal is to help you find a path that leads to greater stability and well-being.
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Sarah Alkayali
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (310) 361-2721

11 Endorsements

Holly Whitmore
Holly Whitmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
I cannot recommend Sarah enough. Her care and true commitment to being of service to her clients is unparalleled. Trained in EMDR and IFS, she is particularly skilled in working with trauma. She puts in the extra time to ensure clients always benefit.
Nicola Loretto
Nicola Loretto
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, RCC
Sarah is a dedicated and insightful therapist with expertise in trauma-informed care and multicultural counseling. She fosters a safe, welcoming environment where clients can heal and grow. It's a privilege to work alongside her!
Tamar Solomon
Tamar Solomon
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Sarah is a compassionate and skilled therapist. Her kindness and warmth make her an approachable and empathetic listener. Her ability to connect on a personal level combined with her professional expertise ensures that her clients feel truly supported.
Misty Goldenberg
Misty Goldenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Sarah is a skilled and compassionate therapist who provides culturally sensitive therapy. Her approach is person-centered, humanistic, psychodynamic, trauma-informed, and attachment-based. She is an empathetic clinician trained in EMDR.
Carollyn McKinstry
Carollyn McKinstry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
I recommend Sarah as a compassionate and skilled therapist. Her deep understanding of trauma, combined with a gentle and empowering approach, creates a safe space for client to heal and grow. She offers warmth, empathy and insightful guidance.
Erica Booker
Erica Booker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah offers a unique blend of warmth, deep insight, and professionalism in her work. She creates a safe, welcoming space where clients feel truly seen and supported. I wholeheartedly recommend her as a therapist.
Emily Chen
Emily Chen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Sarah is a warm, grounded, and skilled therapist. She creates a safe space for healing and growth, blending compassion with exceptional clinical insight. Clients are in excellent hands with her consistently thoughtful, trauma-informed approach.
Dina Abdelaal
Dina Abdelaal
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Sarah is an empathetic therapist passionate about providing culturally attuned care in order to help clients through difficult challenges. She offers a safe and compassionate space for clients to build awareness and reconnect with different parts of self.
Clara Mackinlay, Somatic Trauma Therapy
Clara Mackinlay, Somatic Trauma Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, SEP-T, RYT, MA
Sarah is a compassionate and skilled trauma therapist who brings deep empathy and cultural insight to her work. Her training, humility, and genuine curiosity set her apart, creating a safe, empowering space for healing and connection to occur.
Brianna Jones
Brianna Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MA, LPC
Sarah is a kind, compassionate, and dedicated therapist who creates a safe, supportive space for healing. Her expertise in trauma work shines through her empathy, insight, and commitment to helping clients grow, heal, and rediscover their strength.
Julia Cruz Anguiano
Julia Cruz Anguiano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sarah offers a well rounded approach to treatment. Her thoughtful process and holistic approach allows patients to be truly seen. Sarah has great depth in trauma informed care. She is always looking into ways to support her clients. Highly recommend her!

Client Focus

Age

Preteen , 
Teen , 
Adults , 
Elders (65+)

Participants

Individuals , 
Couples , 
Family

I also speak

Arabic

Age

Preteen , 
Teen , 
Adults , 
Elders (65+)

Participants

Individuals , 
Couples , 
Family

I also speak

Arabic

Treatment Approach

Types of Therapy

  • Attachment-based
  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
  • Culturally Sensitive
  • EMDR
  • Family / Marital
  • Family Systems
  • Flash EMDR
  • Gottman Method
  • Humanistic
  • Internal Family Systems (IFS)
  • Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
  • Multicultural
  • Psychodynamic
  • Trauma Focused
"
I use trauma-focused modalities like EMDR and IFS/parts work, along with attachment-based, psychodynamic, and mindfulness approaches. Your comfort and sense of trust matter to me. You can expect a warm, supportive space to share openly, make sense of your experiences, and build tools to manage stress, strengthen relationships, and feel more emotionally grounded.
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Sarah Alkayali
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (310) 361-2721
"
I use trauma-focused modalities like EMDR and IFS/parts work, along with attachment-based, psychodynamic, and mindfulness approaches. Your comfort and sense of trust matter to me. You can expect a warm, supportive space to share openly, make sense of your experiences, and build tools to manage stress, strengthen relationships, and feel more emotionally grounded.
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Sarah Alkayali
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (310) 361-2721

Location

Primary Location

Shoreline Counseling Center

Santa Barbara, CA 93109

(310) 361-2721

Email me

My website

Additional Location

West Hollywood, CA 90069

(310) 361-2721

Nearby Areas

Cities

Counties

Zips

Neighborhoods

"
I offer telehealth therapy throughout CA; looking forward to connecting!
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Sarah Alkayali
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Call for a free consultation now - (310) 361-2721
"
I offer telehealth therapy throughout CA; looking forward to connecting!
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Sarah Alkayali
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Call for a free consultation now - (310) 361-2721