Photo of Dahkotahv Beckham, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Dahkotahv Beckham
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
As an openly transgender therapist, I know it can be difficult to find the right person to confide in. Wanting to be loved and accepted doesn’t make you needy, or extra, or selfish, or weak. It makes you human. To me, you are not just some random psychology textbook or theory. In our work together, my focus is to build goals and a relationship where you feel comfortable exploring what you think, feel, want, and need. My style as a therapist is warm, relaxed, and conversational. I use playfulness, imagery, art, metaphors, curiosity, creativity, self-compassion, and humor when appropriate to support the therapeutic process.
As an openly transgender therapist, I know it can be difficult to find the right person to confide in. Wanting to be loved and accepted doesn’t make you needy, or extra, or selfish, or weak. It makes you human. To me, you are not just some random psychology textbook or theory. In our work together, my focus is to build goals and a relationship where you feel comfortable exploring what you think, feel, want, and need. My style as a therapist is warm, relaxed, and conversational. I use playfulness, imagery, art, metaphors, curiosity, creativity, self-compassion, and humor when appropriate to support the therapeutic process.
(805) 243-1189 View (805) 243-1189
Photo of Jenn Kennedy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Jenn Kennedy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I also have significant experience in working with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender clients and their families on a variety of issues including coming out, building identity, strengthening intimate relationships and finding community.
I work with individuals and couples in the areas of sex, relationships, sex addiction, and life transitions (divorce, empty nest, retirement). Relationships with others (partner, boss, siblings, friends, clients) are a central source of meaning and sometimes difficulty for us. I can work with you around relationship issues, including commitment, communication, sexuality, infidelity and healthy conflict. I'm also offering groups for women wanting to unlock their sexual satisfaction.
I also have significant experience in working with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender clients and their families on a variety of issues including coming out, building identity, strengthening intimate relationships and finding community.
I work with individuals and couples in the areas of sex, relationships, sex addiction, and life transitions (divorce, empty nest, retirement). Relationships with others (partner, boss, siblings, friends, clients) are a central source of meaning and sometimes difficulty for us. I can work with you around relationship issues, including commitment, communication, sexuality, infidelity and healthy conflict. I'm also offering groups for women wanting to unlock their sexual satisfaction.
(805) 214-6910 View (805) 214-6910
Photo of Bren J Fraser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Bren J Fraser
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
LGBTQ: I have extensive experience working with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender clients and their families.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, families and young adults. I believe that one of the most powerful aspects of the therapy process is the relationship between the therapist and client, the therapeutic relationship. our work together needs to be collaborative so that you feel both supported and safe. To achieve this I will adjust my style in order to best fit your needs and help you reach your counseling goals. I invite and encourage you to ask questions about your session. I honor your inquisitiveness about your own process.
LGBTQ: I have extensive experience working with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender clients and their families.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, families and young adults. I believe that one of the most powerful aspects of the therapy process is the relationship between the therapist and client, the therapeutic relationship. our work together needs to be collaborative so that you feel both supported and safe. To achieve this I will adjust my style in order to best fit your needs and help you reach your counseling goals. I invite and encourage you to ask questions about your session. I honor your inquisitiveness about your own process.
(805) 266-7660 View (805) 266-7660
Photo of Jill T Rubin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Jill T Rubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
I work with adults and adolescents and particularly enjoy working with gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender clients.
I specialize in healing relationships with self and other, whether they are painful, confusing, or just plain unsatisfying. If you're "going through the motions," you've lost yourself, your anxious mind is driving you crazy, or if you can't decide whether to stay in that relationship or leave. I'll help you learn to manage those difficult emotions and confusing situations so that you can move through those life transitions and issues with a greater sense of confidence and ease.
I work with adults and adolescents and particularly enjoy working with gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender clients.
I specialize in healing relationships with self and other, whether they are painful, confusing, or just plain unsatisfying. If you're "going through the motions," you've lost yourself, your anxious mind is driving you crazy, or if you can't decide whether to stay in that relationship or leave. I'll help you learn to manage those difficult emotions and confusing situations so that you can move through those life transitions and issues with a greater sense of confidence and ease.
(805) 623-4177 View (805) 623-4177
Photo of Heather Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Heather Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Do you feel anxious, frustrated, or overwhelmed living within this CIS gendered binary restrictive patriarchal society? You do not have to continue to feel this way. I can help you expand your breadth of coping tools, communication techniques, and other skills that could help bring relief.
Do you feel anxious, frustrated, or overwhelmed living within this CIS gendered binary restrictive patriarchal society? You do not have to continue to feel this way. I can help you expand your breadth of coping tools, communication techniques, and other skills that could help bring relief.
(805) 243-1509 View (805) 243-1509
Photo of Nayelhi (Nelly) Ramirez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Nayelhi (Nelly) Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Hello, hello! My name is Nayelhi Ramirez (she/they/ella) and I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I provide therapy via telehealth and in person (in Goleta, CA) with a specialization in Latinx and LGBTQIA2S+ Mental Health. As a queer Latinx, I strive to make therapy accessible by advocating for YOUR health and insight. This includes support with relationships, communication, building emotional intelligence, promoting body neutrality, wrangling anxiety, and growing up meaningfully in a world impacted by systemic and cultural influences.
Hello, hello! My name is Nayelhi Ramirez (she/they/ella) and I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I provide therapy via telehealth and in person (in Goleta, CA) with a specialization in Latinx and LGBTQIA2S+ Mental Health. As a queer Latinx, I strive to make therapy accessible by advocating for YOUR health and insight. This includes support with relationships, communication, building emotional intelligence, promoting body neutrality, wrangling anxiety, and growing up meaningfully in a world impacted by systemic and cultural influences.
(805) 514-1463 View (805) 514-1463
Photo of Bridges Therapy Group of CA, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Bridges Therapy Group of CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
(805) 429-6467 View (805) 429-6467
Photo of Find Your Center, A Therapy Collective , Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Find Your Center, A Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
We are here to help you heal and grow. We are genuine, real people who believe that actual, loving feedback is more useful than simply listening and repeating. That is why we partner concrete take-home skills with open, active listening. Our style incorporates humor and play. We tailor every single session to your unique needs. We want to be by your side, to listen, support, and challenge you every step of the way. You do not have do this alone. Together, we will discover untapped purpose, passion, clarity, and courage.
We are here to help you heal and grow. We are genuine, real people who believe that actual, loving feedback is more useful than simply listening and repeating. That is why we partner concrete take-home skills with open, active listening. Our style incorporates humor and play. We tailor every single session to your unique needs. We want to be by your side, to listen, support, and challenge you every step of the way. You do not have do this alone. Together, we will discover untapped purpose, passion, clarity, and courage.
(805) 424-5986 View (805) 424-5986
Photo of Sophia Willis-Conger, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Sophia Willis-Conger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I am honored to be part of your healing and growth journey. I work with adults of all ages and couples to build on strengths, improve communication, and develop tools to persevere through challenges. My approach is built on the therapeutic relationship we create together and the unconditional positive regard I hold for my clients. I will help you cultivate greater self-compassion, awareness, and understanding. I love laughing with my clients, cheering them on in their journey, and helping them develop the necessary skills and insight to accomplish their goals.
I am honored to be part of your healing and growth journey. I work with adults of all ages and couples to build on strengths, improve communication, and develop tools to persevere through challenges. My approach is built on the therapeutic relationship we create together and the unconditional positive regard I hold for my clients. I will help you cultivate greater self-compassion, awareness, and understanding. I love laughing with my clients, cheering them on in their journey, and helping them develop the necessary skills and insight to accomplish their goals.
(805) 716-6690 View (805) 716-6690
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 Mckenzie Amundson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Mckenzie Amundson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Whoever you are, whether it be struggling with relationship issues, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, all the way to trying to come to terms with a more persistent diagnosis, I cannot wait to meet you exactly where you are at. I invite you to reach out to me in this time, as hard as that may be. Because this truly is the hardest part. And know that if we are not a good fit, I can direct you to other therapists that can hopefully be exactly what you need.
Whoever you are, whether it be struggling with relationship issues, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, all the way to trying to come to terms with a more persistent diagnosis, I cannot wait to meet you exactly where you are at. I invite you to reach out to me in this time, as hard as that may be. Because this truly is the hardest part. And know that if we are not a good fit, I can direct you to other therapists that can hopefully be exactly what you need.
(805) 209-2318 View (805) 209-2318
Photo of Sierra Boatwright, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Sierra Boatwright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93102
As the founder of Santa Barbara Ecotherapy, I recognize that "therapy as usual" doesn't work for everyone. Perhaps you've said, "Nature is my therapy." AND, you need something more. Something like real therapy, in nature. Nature therapy. Welcome! You found it. Let's get to work on self-mastery, insight and clarity, self-honoring choices, healthy boundaries infused with compassion, active inner wisdom, and engagement with Wisdom greater than ourselves to get you the life you desire. Yes, you, too, can move through the world well-rooted yet free-flowing, safe in your right to create a thriving, purposeful life.
As the founder of Santa Barbara Ecotherapy, I recognize that "therapy as usual" doesn't work for everyone. Perhaps you've said, "Nature is my therapy." AND, you need something more. Something like real therapy, in nature. Nature therapy. Welcome! You found it. Let's get to work on self-mastery, insight and clarity, self-honoring choices, healthy boundaries infused with compassion, active inner wisdom, and engagement with Wisdom greater than ourselves to get you the life you desire. Yes, you, too, can move through the world well-rooted yet free-flowing, safe in your right to create a thriving, purposeful life.
(805) 301-9824 View (805) 301-9824
Photo of Litsa Bradford, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Litsa Bradford, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Do you see your own issues, but can't seem to think or "will" yourself into more productive behavior? Perhaps you have a wonderful mate and family, but you are stuck in the same old arguments and frustrations, and you know your family's communication could be better. Maybe you feel angry, or sad, and you just don't know why. Perhaps you are hoping to come to terms with something very unfortunate that has happened to you, either recently or long ago. If you want to feel better about yourself and others, you have come to the right place.
Do you see your own issues, but can't seem to think or "will" yourself into more productive behavior? Perhaps you have a wonderful mate and family, but you are stuck in the same old arguments and frustrations, and you know your family's communication could be better. Maybe you feel angry, or sad, and you just don't know why. Perhaps you are hoping to come to terms with something very unfortunate that has happened to you, either recently or long ago. If you want to feel better about yourself and others, you have come to the right place.
(626) 709-3064 View (626) 709-3064
Photo of Brionna Ottē, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Brionna Ottē
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
Are YOU a stressed-out high achiever with a seemingly great career path and an I-can-power-through-this attitude? You’ve convinced yourself that other people have it worse, but you’re struggling to carry the weight of everything by yourself. You’re having difficulty adjusting to the things life keeps throwing at you. You try not to let these life changes and problems affect your work and relationships, but you've noticed they affect your self-esteem, motivation, energy, and ability to focus.
Are YOU a stressed-out high achiever with a seemingly great career path and an I-can-power-through-this attitude? You’ve convinced yourself that other people have it worse, but you’re struggling to carry the weight of everything by yourself. You’re having difficulty adjusting to the things life keeps throwing at you. You try not to let these life changes and problems affect your work and relationships, but you've noticed they affect your self-esteem, motivation, energy, and ability to focus.
(805) 519-8307 View (805) 519-8307
Photo of Orian Lathrop, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Orian Lathrop
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
My goal is to provide a professional, non-judgmental, space that is warm and genuine so that you can do this important work and get real relief from your symptoms or issues that you are currently facing. My specialties include but are not limited to; anxiety, eating disorders, body image, depression, relationship issues, spiritual exploration, and coping with life changes. I am also trained in attachment focused EMDR. Please feel free to contact me for a time for a free 15 minute consultation over the phone to see if I would be the right therapist for you. I accept medi-cal/Cen-cal and can provide a super-bill for other insurance.
My goal is to provide a professional, non-judgmental, space that is warm and genuine so that you can do this important work and get real relief from your symptoms or issues that you are currently facing. My specialties include but are not limited to; anxiety, eating disorders, body image, depression, relationship issues, spiritual exploration, and coping with life changes. I am also trained in attachment focused EMDR. Please feel free to contact me for a time for a free 15 minute consultation over the phone to see if I would be the right therapist for you. I accept medi-cal/Cen-cal and can provide a super-bill for other insurance.
(805) 491-9437 View (805) 491-9437
Photo of Couples Therapy Institute, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Couples Therapy Institute
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Do you want to be happier, more satisfied, or feel better? As a therapist with over 25 years experience, I have supported clients in healing through change and personal growth. I offer a safe, confidential environment to explore emotional patterns that may be preventing clients from living up to their fullest potential. CERTIFIED FIRST RESPONDER COUNSELOR-Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM). CERTIFIED GOTTMAN COUPLES THERAPIST. Experienced Rover Therapist at the Art & Science of Love Workshops facilitated by Doctors John and Julie Gottman. COMPREHENSIVE COUPLES ASSESSMENTS - ONLINE THERAPY AVAILABLE.
Do you want to be happier, more satisfied, or feel better? As a therapist with over 25 years experience, I have supported clients in healing through change and personal growth. I offer a safe, confidential environment to explore emotional patterns that may be preventing clients from living up to their fullest potential. CERTIFIED FIRST RESPONDER COUNSELOR-Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM). CERTIFIED GOTTMAN COUPLES THERAPIST. Experienced Rover Therapist at the Art & Science of Love Workshops facilitated by Doctors John and Julie Gottman. COMPREHENSIVE COUPLES ASSESSMENTS - ONLINE THERAPY AVAILABLE.
(805) 883-6199 View (805) 883-6199
Photo of Olivia Greenwald, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Santa Barbara, CA
Olivia Greenwald
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108  (Online Only)
Are you feeling isolated, overwhelmed or worn down? Do you find your relationships stuck in the same patterns time and time again? As the expert of your own life, I believe that you hold the answers you're looking for, but may need some help drawing them to the surface. In our work together, we will move through difficult feelings and limiting beliefs that could be holding you back from the life you want. Taking the first step towards change takes courage, and I would be honored to walk with you!
Are you feeling isolated, overwhelmed or worn down? Do you find your relationships stuck in the same patterns time and time again? As the expert of your own life, I believe that you hold the answers you're looking for, but may need some help drawing them to the surface. In our work together, we will move through difficult feelings and limiting beliefs that could be holding you back from the life you want. Taking the first step towards change takes courage, and I would be honored to walk with you!
(760) 437-2861 View (760) 437-2861
Photo of Cecilia Pinhel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Cecilia Pinhel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My experience has been working with adolescents and adults struggling with mental health issues as well as substance use/abuse. I work with several therapeutic approaches depending on the client's diagnosis and needs. I am also working towards EMDR certification which allow me to work with clients diagnosed with PTSD and childhood traumas.
My experience has been working with adolescents and adults struggling with mental health issues as well as substance use/abuse. I work with several therapeutic approaches depending on the client's diagnosis and needs. I am also working towards EMDR certification which allow me to work with clients diagnosed with PTSD and childhood traumas.
(805) 515-3341 View (805) 515-3341
Photo of Alex Goodman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Santa Barbara, CA
Alex Goodman
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Does anxiety seem to be ruling your life? Have you been feeling down, overwhelmed, or lost? Perhaps things seem to be going from bad to worse or nowhere at all. You deserve better. Starting therapy can be scary, I know, but won’t it be just as challenging to let everything continue? Stop pushing away your needs and not taking care of yourself. It’s time to make a change and I know how to help you through this. With me you will find what you truly seek – a compassionate space where understanding meets transformation.
Does anxiety seem to be ruling your life? Have you been feeling down, overwhelmed, or lost? Perhaps things seem to be going from bad to worse or nowhere at all. You deserve better. Starting therapy can be scary, I know, but won’t it be just as challenging to let everything continue? Stop pushing away your needs and not taking care of yourself. It’s time to make a change and I know how to help you through this. With me you will find what you truly seek – a compassionate space where understanding meets transformation.
(805) 491-9207 View (805) 491-9207
Photo of Dr. Debra Sherk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dr. Debra Sherk
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93111  (Online Only)
Welcome. It seems that more and more people are seeking the support and guidance that psychotherapy provides. The most common issues among those seeking my services include: Experiencing high levels of stress or anxiety; Difficulty with relationships at home, school, or work; Persistent feelings of loneliness, sadness, or depression; Confusion around spirituality, identity, or vocation; Feeling overwhelmed with life's demands or life transitions. Through a collaborative and trusting therapeutic relationship, I have helped a diverse range of individuals achieve increased stability and balance, more fulfilling relationships, as well as personal growth and transformation.
Welcome. It seems that more and more people are seeking the support and guidance that psychotherapy provides. The most common issues among those seeking my services include: Experiencing high levels of stress or anxiety; Difficulty with relationships at home, school, or work; Persistent feelings of loneliness, sadness, or depression; Confusion around spirituality, identity, or vocation; Feeling overwhelmed with life's demands or life transitions. Through a collaborative and trusting therapeutic relationship, I have helped a diverse range of individuals achieve increased stability and balance, more fulfilling relationships, as well as personal growth and transformation.
(805) 585-5969 View (805) 585-5969

See more therapy options for Santa Barbara

Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.