Photo of Dr. Deborah Smilovitz Foster, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dr. Deborah Smilovitz Foster
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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 Ian Kaminsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, 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
Photo of Robert Shafer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Robert Shafer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Insightful, caring psychotherapy for couples and individuals Working with clients from Montecito, Santa Barbara and surrounding communities, Dr Shafer, PhD brings sensitivity and humor to his psychodyamic work with individuals and couples. Dr Shafer (Bob) has been in practice for more than 40 Years. Nonjudgmental, open to a variety of perspectives and personalities, he specializes in providing compassionate support to those trying to make better sense of life's challenges.
Insightful, caring psychotherapy for couples and individuals Working with clients from Montecito, Santa Barbara and surrounding communities, Dr Shafer, PhD brings sensitivity and humor to his psychodyamic work with individuals and couples. Dr Shafer (Bob) has been in practice for more than 40 Years. Nonjudgmental, open to a variety of perspectives and personalities, he specializes in providing compassionate support to those trying to make better sense of life's challenges.
(805) 793-0500 View (805) 793-0500
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(805) 232-7458 View (805) 232-7458
Photo of Diana Marie Hill, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Diana Marie Hill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
My goal as a psychologist is to help you live a more meaningful, vital and fulfilling life. I provide compassionate and effective therapy that will help you learn new skills and launch you in the direction you want to be moving in your life. Foundational to my approach is a collaborative partnership, where positive transformations evolve in a warm, safe environment. I have worked extensively with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, eating concerns and unhealthy habits. I also work well individuals who are going through major life transitions, relationship problems or want to revitalize their lives.
My goal as a psychologist is to help you live a more meaningful, vital and fulfilling life. I provide compassionate and effective therapy that will help you learn new skills and launch you in the direction you want to be moving in your life. Foundational to my approach is a collaborative partnership, where positive transformations evolve in a warm, safe environment. I have worked extensively with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, eating concerns and unhealthy habits. I also work well individuals who are going through major life transitions, relationship problems or want to revitalize their lives.
(805) 214-6658 View (805) 214-6658
Photo of Kristine Freck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Kristine Freck
Marriage & Family Therapist, Freck Kristine, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 35 years of experience as a therapist and educator in the Santa Barbara area. I work with: individuals, couples and families, teens - elderly. My clients are struggling with ADDICTION (alcoholism, drugs, {pre and post-inpatient addiction assistance}, weight, sex et.al), MENTAL HEALTH (depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, identity, sexual orientation, couples and family issues et.al), and/or SPIRITUAL JOURNEY challenges in their current lives.
I have over 35 years of experience as a therapist and educator in the Santa Barbara area. I work with: individuals, couples and families, teens - elderly. My clients are struggling with ADDICTION (alcoholism, drugs, {pre and post-inpatient addiction assistance}, weight, sex et.al), MENTAL HEALTH (depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, identity, sexual orientation, couples and family issues et.al), and/or SPIRITUAL JOURNEY challenges in their current lives.
(805) 919-8631 View (805) 919-8631
Photo of Jean Densmore John, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, 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 Rachel B Aarons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Rachel B Aarons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I specialize in helping people move out of stuck places, heal past trauma, and change destructive behavior patterns. I am a certified EMDR therapist and use the Early Trauma Protocol for early abuse, neglect and adoption. I work with the unconscious mind to bring about deep lasting change using one of the fastest processing methods available today. We will work on the level of both the conscious AND the unconscious mind so that the changes you make will be solid and long-lasting. Together we can make your life what you want it to be.
I specialize in helping people move out of stuck places, heal past trauma, and change destructive behavior patterns. I am a certified EMDR therapist and use the Early Trauma Protocol for early abuse, neglect and adoption. I work with the unconscious mind to bring about deep lasting change using one of the fastest processing methods available today. We will work on the level of both the conscious AND the unconscious mind so that the changes you make will be solid and long-lasting. Together we can make your life what you want it to be.
(805) 667-0783 View (805) 667-0783
New Beginnings Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
We offer confidential psychological counseling and assessment services to individuals, couples and families in the greater Santa Barbara area. Experienced counselors are here to help clients explore life transitions, relationship issues and a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, abuse, compulsive behaviors, substance use, job loss and stress, aging, isolation and anger management. Many clients experience a 15% reduction in overall distress after only eight sessions. Counselors are ready and able to serve you. We will match your needs with the education and experience of our clinicians to find the best person to assist you.
We offer confidential psychological counseling and assessment services to individuals, couples and families in the greater Santa Barbara area. Experienced counselors are here to help clients explore life transitions, relationship issues and a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, abuse, compulsive behaviors, substance use, job loss and stress, aging, isolation and anger management. Many clients experience a 15% reduction in overall distress after only eight sessions. Counselors are ready and able to serve you. We will match your needs with the education and experience of our clinicians to find the best person to assist you.
(805) 669-9352 x206 View (805) 669-9352 x206
Photo of Maria Stave, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Maria Stave
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93117
If you are facing difficulty in life (as we all have) I believe in getting the support and care you deserve. I have extensive knowledge in anxiety/depression, relationship issues, addiction/recovery, couples work and Alzheimer's disease / dementia. I also love working with children and teens (and even have two of my own)! I look at the issues we face in a whole-person approach and believe in exploring all aspects of a client's health including mindfulness, nutrition, and exercise.
If you are facing difficulty in life (as we all have) I believe in getting the support and care you deserve. I have extensive knowledge in anxiety/depression, relationship issues, addiction/recovery, couples work and Alzheimer's disease / dementia. I also love working with children and teens (and even have two of my own)! I look at the issues we face in a whole-person approach and believe in exploring all aspects of a client's health including mindfulness, nutrition, and exercise.
(805) 214-6674 View (805) 214-6674
Photo of Kathryn LePage, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Kathryn LePage
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
If you are facing a difficult transition in your relationship, depression, addiction, trauma, or simply wanting to increase your life's potential, contact me with questions concerning psychotherapy. Addressing the presenting problem, we will identify past memories, present behavior and emotions, and their impact on living a creative life. By engaging your imagination, we gain access to your hidden potential, hindered by negative belief patterns. Together we will transform your life's most difficult challenges and develop the courage to create opportunities to live more passionately.
If you are facing a difficult transition in your relationship, depression, addiction, trauma, or simply wanting to increase your life's potential, contact me with questions concerning psychotherapy. Addressing the presenting problem, we will identify past memories, present behavior and emotions, and their impact on living a creative life. By engaging your imagination, we gain access to your hidden potential, hindered by negative belief patterns. Together we will transform your life's most difficult challenges and develop the courage to create opportunities to live more passionately.
(805) 409-8549 View (805) 409-8549
Photo of Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling , Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93106
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.
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 Vonda Schaefer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Vonda Schaefer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, HolNut
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93150
By combining Nutrition/Neurotransmitter balancing with Psychotherapy my approach is a perfect combination for those struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, weight loss, substance abuse and ADD. Supporting brain chemistry while doing therapy makes therapy a solution rather than a band-aid. I use an integrative approach with clients rather than a tunnel-vision approach. If our body and brain are not healthy, our relationships cannot be either.
By combining Nutrition/Neurotransmitter balancing with Psychotherapy my approach is a perfect combination for those struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, weight loss, substance abuse and ADD. Supporting brain chemistry while doing therapy makes therapy a solution rather than a band-aid. I use an integrative approach with clients rather than a tunnel-vision approach. If our body and brain are not healthy, our relationships cannot be either.
(805) 283-6528 View (805) 283-6528
Photo of Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMC, ACC
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93108  (Online Only)
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
(805) 283-6695 View (805) 283-6695
Photo of Heidi Jahr, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Heidi Jahr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Hello, I'm Heidi: I'm a dually Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist in Colorado and California. After 25 years serving in the medical profession as a nurse, I've become attuned to people's physical, emotional and spiritual health. Today, I provide online therapy, specializing in healing from trauma, anxiety and depression. I've learned mental health is a balance between our biological, psychological, social and spiritual wellbeing.
Hello, I'm Heidi: I'm a dually Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist in Colorado and California. After 25 years serving in the medical profession as a nurse, I've become attuned to people's physical, emotional and spiritual health. Today, I provide online therapy, specializing in healing from trauma, anxiety and depression. I've learned mental health is a balance between our biological, psychological, social and spiritual wellbeing.
(720) 864-1090 View (720) 864-1090
Photo of Rhea Harris-Junge, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Rhea Harris-Junge
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Three guiding principles underscore my work with people and my own growth. Essentially, we are constantly in a state of potential for change and doing the best we can in life. In addition, I view negative thoughts and feelings that develop into anxiety, depression, and low self-worth as learned responses that serve a purpose; to cope with or protect against pain. And most importantly, happiness is a choice we can make once we have the skills to respond (instead of just react) to life's challenges.
Three guiding principles underscore my work with people and my own growth. Essentially, we are constantly in a state of potential for change and doing the best we can in life. In addition, I view negative thoughts and feelings that develop into anxiety, depression, and low self-worth as learned responses that serve a purpose; to cope with or protect against pain. And most importantly, happiness is a choice we can make once we have the skills to respond (instead of just react) to life's challenges.
(626) 581-6911 View (626) 581-6911
Photo of Michelle Taylor, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Santa Barbara, CA
Michelle Taylor
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Accepting new clients/couples NOW- Online Video Therapy - Couples and individuals! I am a direct, tell-it-how-it-is therapist. I don't want you to be in therapy forever... we get straight to the root, do the work, get the skills you need and you become your own therapist. 8-10 sessions is the goal. If you're not ready to do the work, I'm not the therapist for you. But, if you're ready to step into courage and out of comfort, I'm ready to charge the storm with you. Couples like my straightforward approach, giving you the proven communication skills for healthier relationships. Do the hard, courageous thing and email me.
Accepting new clients/couples NOW- Online Video Therapy - Couples and individuals! I am a direct, tell-it-how-it-is therapist. I don't want you to be in therapy forever... we get straight to the root, do the work, get the skills you need and you become your own therapist. 8-10 sessions is the goal. If you're not ready to do the work, I'm not the therapist for you. But, if you're ready to step into courage and out of comfort, I'm ready to charge the storm with you. Couples like my straightforward approach, giving you the proven communication skills for healthier relationships. Do the hard, courageous thing and email me.
(562) 317-7556 View (562) 317-7556
Photo of Patrisha Hodgman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Patrisha Hodgman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93108  (Online Only)
I am a TeleHealth Practitioner offering HIPAA secure video sessions. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship issues. Our mental and emotional well-being impacts our physical health and the quality of our lives. I can help you to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress, gain healing from the pain and confusion of trauma and grief, and face new challenges while adjusting to a new normal. As an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist, I can offer this powerful, evidence-based treatment for trauma. Further, I am a climate aware therapist offering help with eco-anxiety.
I am a TeleHealth Practitioner offering HIPAA secure video sessions. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship issues. Our mental and emotional well-being impacts our physical health and the quality of our lives. I can help you to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress, gain healing from the pain and confusion of trauma and grief, and face new challenges while adjusting to a new normal. As an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist, I can offer this powerful, evidence-based treatment for trauma. Further, I am a climate aware therapist offering help with eco-anxiety.
(661) 426-8927 View (661) 426-8927
Photo of Kimberly A Fouche', Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Kimberly A Fouche'
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93102  (Online Only)
The changes in the world today can be unbalancing and having a guide to help one find ways to re-balance is important to one's well-being. I Have had life experience in dealing with trauma which guided me to become engaged in the study of psychology. I saw the need for more understanding of the mind and the human experience. Anxiety and depression affect the whole person: psycho-spiritually, physically, mentally, and physiologically. The signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression will manifest at every level. Imagine working together to find your own therapeutic tune to your life song…
The changes in the world today can be unbalancing and having a guide to help one find ways to re-balance is important to one's well-being. I Have had life experience in dealing with trauma which guided me to become engaged in the study of psychology. I saw the need for more understanding of the mind and the human experience. Anxiety and depression affect the whole person: psycho-spiritually, physically, mentally, and physiologically. The signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression will manifest at every level. Imagine working together to find your own therapeutic tune to your life song…
(805) 742-4577 View (805) 742-4577
Photo of Honeycutt Wellness, Inc, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Honeycutt Wellness, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SAP, EAP
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
As a private practitioner, I provide psychotherapy with focus on family relationships, women's issues, substance use and addiction concerns. I work with young to senior adults using a person-centered approach. The primary focus will be on your own special brand of culture and individuality. I will help guide you into being the best version of you.
As a private practitioner, I provide psychotherapy with focus on family relationships, women's issues, substance use and addiction concerns. I work with young to senior adults using a person-centered approach. The primary focus will be on your own special brand of culture and individuality. I will help guide you into being the best version of you.
(562) 414-6476 View (562) 414-6476

See more therapy options for Santa Barbara

Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.