Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA
L. O. Aranye Fradenburg Joy
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I've been an educator for over 20 years, at Dartmouth College and UC Santa Barbara, where I met many young adults facing stress, anxiety, and depression. Their experience inspired me to start clinical training in 2005 at the New Center for Psychoanalysis in LA, where I have also been a faculty member. My approach to psychoanalysis is interdisciplinary; I'm affiliated with the Neuroscience Institute at UCSB and was a clinical member of THRIVE Infant-Family Program in LA. My current research focuses on the links between biology, sociality, psychology and the environment. I specialize in infant-family therapy, adults, and seniors.
I've been an educator for over 20 years, at Dartmouth College and UC Santa Barbara, where I met many young adults facing stress, anxiety, and depression. Their experience inspired me to start clinical training in 2005 at the New Center for Psychoanalysis in LA, where I have also been a faculty member. My approach to psychoanalysis is interdisciplinary; I'm affiliated with the Neuroscience Institute at UCSB and was a clinical member of THRIVE Infant-Family Program in LA. My current research focuses on the links between biology, sociality, psychology and the environment. I specialize in infant-family therapy, adults, and seniors.
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).
Clinton Doyle Hollister
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93109 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Whenever people come to see me, I am always impressed by their courage. No matter what the problems are, most everyone enters therapy from a confused and vulnerable space. To do so takes courage. In knowing this, I work to honor their vulnerability and courage. I know that by providing a grounded, attentive, and focused presence to those I work with, trust will occur between us, and we can all be more free to address whatever the pain may be. Without this foundation of trust, I will not be able to effectively help at all.
Whenever people come to see me, I am always impressed by their courage. No matter what the problems are, most everyone enters therapy from a confused and vulnerable space. To do so takes courage. In knowing this, I work to honor their vulnerability and courage. I know that by providing a grounded, attentive, and focused presence to those I work with, trust will occur between us, and we can all be more free to address whatever the pain may be. Without this foundation of trust, I will not be able to effectively help at all.
Andria Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Our quality of life is determined by the quality of our relationships. Whatever your goals may be, change is an inside job, and I'm here to be both a witness and a resource in that complex process. When we can let go of shame and judgments around emotions, we allow space to cultivate more curiosity, compassion, acceptance, resiliency, and joy. When we utilize mistakes as informational gifts we can strengthen and clarify the authentic self. I would like to help you meet this self.
Our quality of life is determined by the quality of our relationships. Whatever your goals may be, change is an inside job, and I'm here to be both a witness and a resource in that complex process. When we can let go of shame and judgments around emotions, we allow space to cultivate more curiosity, compassion, acceptance, resiliency, and joy. When we utilize mistakes as informational gifts we can strengthen and clarify the authentic self. I would like to help you meet this self.
Riley Ellis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Waitlist for new clients
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, stress, or family changes that are making every day life feel difficult or hard to manage? Do you notice your child struggling and you are unsure how to emotionally support them? Have you tried to solve the problems on your own and nothing seems to be working? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then I'm glad you're here. Seeking help for your child, family struggles, or parenting issues can be difficult. I'm here to help.
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, stress, or family changes that are making every day life feel difficult or hard to manage? Do you notice your child struggling and you are unsure how to emotionally support them? Have you tried to solve the problems on your own and nothing seems to be working? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then I'm glad you're here. Seeking help for your child, family struggles, or parenting issues can be difficult. I'm here to help.
Romi Cumes Somatic Therapy, P.C.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I understand that you may be seeking a recalibration, an awakening, or a new way forward. As a somatic psychotherapist and intuitive healer, my intention is to support individuals to get in touch with the lived experience of the body, especially as it pertains to body-mind-spirit healing, personal development, and relational growth. My approach is theoretically holistic, supporting clients to identify, explore, and transform stuck patterns, so they become more capable of living happy, balanced lives. Learn more about my practice by visiting RomiCumes.com. (Please note: Anthem patients will be referred to our skilled Associate MFTs)
I understand that you may be seeking a recalibration, an awakening, or a new way forward. As a somatic psychotherapist and intuitive healer, my intention is to support individuals to get in touch with the lived experience of the body, especially as it pertains to body-mind-spirit healing, personal development, and relational growth. My approach is theoretically holistic, supporting clients to identify, explore, and transform stuck patterns, so they become more capable of living happy, balanced lives. Learn more about my practice by visiting RomiCumes.com. (Please note: Anthem patients will be referred to our skilled Associate MFTs)
Cindy Mayer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Balancing the demands of life, relationships, career, family, and the changes in the world around us can be challenging. Having someone who can provide a space to be heard, as well as paths to becoming our best selves as we balance these demands can be life-changing. My approach is to understand the needs of each client and provide a welcoming space where they feel safe and heard, while utilizing evidence-based psychotherapy practices to make changes that support greater happiness and life satisfaction for clients.
Balancing the demands of life, relationships, career, family, and the changes in the world around us can be challenging. Having someone who can provide a space to be heard, as well as paths to becoming our best selves as we balance these demands can be life-changing. My approach is to understand the needs of each client and provide a welcoming space where they feel safe and heard, while utilizing evidence-based psychotherapy practices to make changes that support greater happiness and life satisfaction for clients.
Michelle Trudeau LeBeau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Waitlist for new clients
Finding the right therapist is important. I approach therapy in a warm and relational way, and believe confidentiality and non-judgmental responses are crucial to creating a safe and trusting space. I know it can be hard to open up and start the process, so I make sure my client's feel comfortable to talk about the hard things and share about themselves authentically. Many of the situations I help people with involve experiencing depression or anxiety, processing recent or past trauma, important life or identity transitions, adolescent struggles, relationship concerns, and wanting personal growth and healing.
Finding the right therapist is important. I approach therapy in a warm and relational way, and believe confidentiality and non-judgmental responses are crucial to creating a safe and trusting space. I know it can be hard to open up and start the process, so I make sure my client's feel comfortable to talk about the hard things and share about themselves authentically. Many of the situations I help people with involve experiencing depression or anxiety, processing recent or past trauma, important life or identity transitions, adolescent struggles, relationship concerns, and wanting personal growth and healing.
Meredith Linden
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
At times we encounter situations that may affect our ability to manage daily tasks. We can also have experiences that have created symptoms over time. I understand healing is not a straight line and though you may have goals, things can get in the way of reaching them. Clients I see experience PTSD, life transition issues, anxiety and overwhelm, and depression. I offer a safe, receptive and inclusive space for clients to explore the innate wisdom of body, mind, and soul and work through the experiences that feel the most challenging.
At times we encounter situations that may affect our ability to manage daily tasks. We can also have experiences that have created symptoms over time. I understand healing is not a straight line and though you may have goals, things can get in the way of reaching them. Clients I see experience PTSD, life transition issues, anxiety and overwhelm, and depression. I offer a safe, receptive and inclusive space for clients to explore the innate wisdom of body, mind, and soul and work through the experiences that feel the most challenging.
Ali Fleming
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I specialize in therapy with teens and young adults. If we work together, we’ll come up with a treatment plan that taps into the why and how that’s keeping you stuck, and then learn new skills to support you moving forward in your life and relationships. My style is personal, collaborative, and caring, and I believe our relationship is fundamental to supporting your positive transformation.
I specialize in therapy with teens and young adults. If we work together, we’ll come up with a treatment plan that taps into the why and how that’s keeping you stuck, and then learn new skills to support you moving forward in your life and relationships. My style is personal, collaborative, and caring, and I believe our relationship is fundamental to supporting your positive transformation.
Jose Rojo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I endeavor to create a non-judgmental and collaborative environment so that we may safely explore your lived experiences. My approach is founded in deep listening and an equally deep exploration of your thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Together we will understand what is at the root of your suffering while also building upon your strengths. By gaining a better understanding of yourself we will be in the best position to help you break free of self-limiting patterns and make conscious choices.
I endeavor to create a non-judgmental and collaborative environment so that we may safely explore your lived experiences. My approach is founded in deep listening and an equally deep exploration of your thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Together we will understand what is at the root of your suffering while also building upon your strengths. By gaining a better understanding of yourself we will be in the best position to help you break free of self-limiting patterns and make conscious choices.
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Christine Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My practice serves those who want to change negative life patterns and relationships. Also, those who want to reduce anxiety, depression and addictive self-destructive behaviors. My clients and I work to find solutions to create a peaceful satisfying life experience.
My practice serves those who want to change negative life patterns and relationships. Also, those who want to reduce anxiety, depression and addictive self-destructive behaviors. My clients and I work to find solutions to create a peaceful satisfying life experience.
Julie Newell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105 (Online Only)
I believe the therapeutic process is a collaborative way to discover healthy coping mechanisms, reduce stress, and increase personal happiness and well-being. Confidentiality, respect, and compassion are inherent to my process. I have over a decade of experience treating adolescents, adult individuals, couples & families. By integrating various therapeutic approaches such as Strength’s-Based Strategic, Solution-Focused & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I am able to provide well-rounded, evidence-based support to promote positive change.
I believe the therapeutic process is a collaborative way to discover healthy coping mechanisms, reduce stress, and increase personal happiness and well-being. Confidentiality, respect, and compassion are inherent to my process. I have over a decade of experience treating adolescents, adult individuals, couples & families. By integrating various therapeutic approaches such as Strength’s-Based Strategic, Solution-Focused & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I am able to provide well-rounded, evidence-based support to promote positive change.
James Alexander Fortman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
I specialize in neuropsychological evaluations and work with patients with ADHD, learning disabilities, memory impairment, dementia, traumatic brain injury, stroke, brain tumors, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and other neurological disorders.
I specialize in neuropsychological evaluations and work with patients with ADHD, learning disabilities, memory impairment, dementia, traumatic brain injury, stroke, brain tumors, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and other neurological disorders.
Michael Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
On paper, everything looks good. You have a good job, you’re in a relationship and you live somewhere great. You did all the things you were told would make you happy and for some reason, you are feeling off, disconnected or empty. You may be asking yourself, “what’s the point” or “is this all there is?” You are wanting more, but aren’t entirely sure what that is. You may be drinking, relying on substances or food to deal with these feelings. You’re wanting to make a change and it’s the time do it. This has probably been the case for some time. Well, nothing changes if nothing changes.
On paper, everything looks good. You have a good job, you’re in a relationship and you live somewhere great. You did all the things you were told would make you happy and for some reason, you are feeling off, disconnected or empty. You may be asking yourself, “what’s the point” or “is this all there is?” You are wanting more, but aren’t entirely sure what that is. You may be drinking, relying on substances or food to deal with these feelings. You’re wanting to make a change and it’s the time do it. This has probably been the case for some time. Well, nothing changes if nothing changes.
Jenn Kennedy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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 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.
Cara Behan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
As a therapist, my goal is to help you live a happier and more fulfilling life. It can be difficult to know if you are on the right path, have healthy relationships, and are satisfied with your life's direction. How do you feel about where you are headed? I can support your self discovery in a compassionate and understanding way. I work towards identifying one's strengths and empowering clients struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship problems and life transitions. I specialize in working with young women, new moms and couples navigating the transition to motherhood and parenthood.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you live a happier and more fulfilling life. It can be difficult to know if you are on the right path, have healthy relationships, and are satisfied with your life's direction. How do you feel about where you are headed? I can support your self discovery in a compassionate and understanding way. I work towards identifying one's strengths and empowering clients struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship problems and life transitions. I specialize in working with young women, new moms and couples navigating the transition to motherhood and parenthood.
Sara Murdoch
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Therapy is a collaborative and supportive process…an invitation to deepen your understanding of who you truly are. As your therapist, I will walk with you on a journey of self-discovery and healing, helping you work through what is holding you back. I don’t believe that you are a diagnosis but a whole person who may be struggling with some overwhelming challenges. Connecting with you as an individual and listening deeply to your story helps me to see your unique potential. I guide individuals through diverse life challenges like relationship issues, academic challenges, career transitions, empty nesting, and divorce.
Therapy is a collaborative and supportive process…an invitation to deepen your understanding of who you truly are. As your therapist, I will walk with you on a journey of self-discovery and healing, helping you work through what is holding you back. I don’t believe that you are a diagnosis but a whole person who may be struggling with some overwhelming challenges. Connecting with you as an individual and listening deeply to your story helps me to see your unique potential. I guide individuals through diverse life challenges like relationship issues, academic challenges, career transitions, empty nesting, and divorce.
Chris Minerd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93103 (Online Only)
I'm a therapist who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy and respect, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where my clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while actively working towards active solutions . Using evidence-based techniques and a collaborative approach, I help my clients develop practical skills to manage stress, and create balance in their personal and professional lives.
I'm a therapist who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy and respect, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where my clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while actively working towards active solutions . Using evidence-based techniques and a collaborative approach, I help my clients develop practical skills to manage stress, and create balance in their personal and professional lives.
Rio Richards - Grief Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Deep down, you fear you’ll never be as happy or as free as you were before you lost them. That you’re not as good without them. That the best is behind you now. That your family won’t recover, your relationships will never be the same, and that a part of you died when they died. You might worry that if you share how you’re really feeling, others will think you’re being “too dramatic” or not grateful enough. Does this sound like you?
Deep down, you fear you’ll never be as happy or as free as you were before you lost them. That you’re not as good without them. That the best is behind you now. That your family won’t recover, your relationships will never be the same, and that a part of you died when they died. You might worry that if you share how you’re really feeling, others will think you’re being “too dramatic” or not grateful enough. Does this sound like you?
See more therapy options for Santa Barbara
Nearby Searches for Santa Barbara
- Buellton
- Carpinteria
- Goleta
- Isla Vista
- Los Olivos
- Montecito
- Oak View
- Ojai
- Santa Ynez
- Solvang
- Summerland
- Ventura
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA
900+
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
75% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Self Esteem |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Coping Skills |
61% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
63% | Aetna |
52% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
51% | Other |
How Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA see their clients
68% | In Person and Online | |
32% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Santa Barbara?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.