Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA
Claudia D Crawford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
As a Marriage and Family therapist, I work with couples & individuals:
*With couples,I focus our work within a developmental framework to achieve empathic communication and differentiation leading to deepened emotional intimacy;
*With those experiencing life transitions, we explore the impact on us as individuals & on our relationships;
*In navigating depression, life style choices, anxiety, and other struggles I provide the opportunity to challenge & ability to realize your potential
*Teaching communication skills, the focus is to make the accompanying shift from looking outside ourselves for explanation to taking responsibility for Self.
*I offer DBT for individuals/groups to develop the ability to regulate emotions.
As a Marriage and Family therapist, I work with couples & individuals:
*With couples,I focus our work within a developmental framework to achieve empathic communication and differentiation leading to deepened emotional intimacy;
*With those experiencing life transitions, we explore the impact on us as individuals & on our relationships;
*In navigating depression, life style choices, anxiety, and other struggles I provide the opportunity to challenge & ability to realize your potential
*Teaching communication skills, the focus is to make the accompanying shift from looking outside ourselves for explanation to taking responsibility for Self.
*I offer DBT for individuals/groups to develop the ability to regulate emotions.
Liz LaCasto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93110
Thank you for taking this time to see if I might be a good match for you. I believe strongly that the match, the relationship, the energy between us is of vital importance in the work. I strive to be your companion on a journey of discovery, reconciling, and healing. In as much as I am your mirror, I am your compassionate facilitator to enable your inner guide to emerge and shine through. My approach is supportive, direct, and rooted in a firm belief that every journey is unique and special.
Thank you for taking this time to see if I might be a good match for you. I believe strongly that the match, the relationship, the energy between us is of vital importance in the work. I strive to be your companion on a journey of discovery, reconciling, and healing. In as much as I am your mirror, I am your compassionate facilitator to enable your inner guide to emerge and shine through. My approach is supportive, direct, and rooted in a firm belief that every journey is unique and special.
Parisa Bazaei
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93111 (Online Only)
I want to commend you for taking this first step in seeking support. I know how much courage it requires, and I hold you with the utmost respect and compassion. My work is focused on helping individuals from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and depression find freedom and create the lives they deserve. As a queer woman with a chronic illness, I am also passionate about supporting those in the LGBTQIA+, chronic illness, and disability communities.
I want to commend you for taking this first step in seeking support. I know how much courage it requires, and I hold you with the utmost respect and compassion. My work is focused on helping individuals from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and depression find freedom and create the lives they deserve. As a queer woman with a chronic illness, I am also passionate about supporting those in the LGBTQIA+, chronic illness, and disability communities.
Dr. Sharleen O'Brien
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
I work primarily with adults who seek therapy to improve their relationships, navigate life changes, and understand difficult patterns to generate more peace, joy, and authenticity. I’m able to support you with a range of concerns, including insomnia using CBT-I, new parents, work related challenges, career growth and menopause. In addition, I work with individuals to clarify their future goals, desired life path, and create new habits for wellbeing.
I work primarily with adults who seek therapy to improve their relationships, navigate life changes, and understand difficult patterns to generate more peace, joy, and authenticity. I’m able to support you with a range of concerns, including insomnia using CBT-I, new parents, work related challenges, career growth and menopause. In addition, I work with individuals to clarify their future goals, desired life path, and create new habits for wellbeing.
Jacquelyn Meissner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Life can get very complicated and challenging sometimes. My commitment to you is to provide a supportive place for us to collaboratively explore the challenges you are experiencing and the areas of your life you wish to change. If you are struggling to come to terms with your past or feel as if something is preventing you from living the life you want I invite you to explore this from a place of curiosity without judgment. As a bilingual and multicultural therapist I strive to support individuals and couples who are experiencing difficult life events.
Life can get very complicated and challenging sometimes. My commitment to you is to provide a supportive place for us to collaboratively explore the challenges you are experiencing and the areas of your life you wish to change. If you are struggling to come to terms with your past or feel as if something is preventing you from living the life you want I invite you to explore this from a place of curiosity without judgment. As a bilingual and multicultural therapist I strive to support individuals and couples who are experiencing difficult life events.
Sherrie Anne Mondello
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Are you and your partner feeling lost in the depths of disconnection, struggling to rediscover your bond? From communication breakdowns to the ache of missing intimacy and the weight of balancing the mental load, it’s easy to feel adrift in a relationship that once felt like home. But you’re not alone. Seeking help is the first step towards finding your way back to healthy relating. Together, we can navigate the complexities of rebuilding love, trust, and connection while honoring individuality. I understand the loneliness and pain of feeling stuck and heartbroken while trying to share a life together, and I am here to help.
Are you and your partner feeling lost in the depths of disconnection, struggling to rediscover your bond? From communication breakdowns to the ache of missing intimacy and the weight of balancing the mental load, it’s easy to feel adrift in a relationship that once felt like home. But you’re not alone. Seeking help is the first step towards finding your way back to healthy relating. Together, we can navigate the complexities of rebuilding love, trust, and connection while honoring individuality. I understand the loneliness and pain of feeling stuck and heartbroken while trying to share a life together, and I am here to help.
Katherine Rowan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
A strong therapeutic alliance can help a client cultivate the changes they need and want. Whether you are currently in hard times and/or needing to process your past, working together we can explore ways to help you live the life you want. My top priority is for clients to feel heard and validated. I meet clients where they are in their journey to healing.
A strong therapeutic alliance can help a client cultivate the changes they need and want. Whether you are currently in hard times and/or needing to process your past, working together we can explore ways to help you live the life you want. My top priority is for clients to feel heard and validated. I meet clients where they are in their journey to healing.
Dr. Dara Goldyne - Therapy For Young Adults With Anxiety
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Welcome to Mesa Psychotherapy. Are you a college student, young professional, or new parent who is tired of feeling anxious? Maybe your life looks good from the outside but inside you're overwhelmed and on edge. Your mind is spinning about everything you need to accomplish today or about events that may happen in the future. You're always worrying. Your chest is tight, your jaw is clenched, and your body feels uneasy all the time. You find yourself getting angry and impatient with the people you love most. Your persistent thoughts bully you and tell you you're not good enough. You’re struggling to hold it all together.
Welcome to Mesa Psychotherapy. Are you a college student, young professional, or new parent who is tired of feeling anxious? Maybe your life looks good from the outside but inside you're overwhelmed and on edge. Your mind is spinning about everything you need to accomplish today or about events that may happen in the future. You're always worrying. Your chest is tight, your jaw is clenched, and your body feels uneasy all the time. You find yourself getting angry and impatient with the people you love most. Your persistent thoughts bully you and tell you you're not good enough. You’re struggling to hold it all together.
Jack May
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAMF, CSAT
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108 (Online Only)
My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that each individual possesses the strength to overcome their challenges. In my practice, I blend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, solution-focused strategies, and emotionally focused therapy (EFT) to support those dealing with sex addiction and anger management in a non-judgmental environment. Emphasizing empathy, integrity, and professionalism, I offer guidance and hope. I'm committed to navigating personal challenges and fostering resilience and well-being with you. Together, we'll pursue healing, self-discovery, and a fulfilling life, ensuring you feel supported.
My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that each individual possesses the strength to overcome their challenges. In my practice, I blend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, solution-focused strategies, and emotionally focused therapy (EFT) to support those dealing with sex addiction and anger management in a non-judgmental environment. Emphasizing empathy, integrity, and professionalism, I offer guidance and hope. I'm committed to navigating personal challenges and fostering resilience and well-being with you. Together, we'll pursue healing, self-discovery, and a fulfilling life, ensuring you feel supported.
Gregory P Young II
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
You know you function well, but there is something missing. Maybe you feel solid in the tasks of daily living, but you want more. There is a drive inside seeking more depth of connection in relationships or more satisfaction at work. Perhaps you know yourself to be caring and kind, but are having difficulties with your partner, child, or close friendships. You are looking to thrive and some support and clarity is all you need to get there.
You know you function well, but there is something missing. Maybe you feel solid in the tasks of daily living, but you want more. There is a drive inside seeking more depth of connection in relationships or more satisfaction at work. Perhaps you know yourself to be caring and kind, but are having difficulties with your partner, child, or close friendships. You are looking to thrive and some support and clarity is all you need to get there.
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.
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Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, 88035
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Have you ever felt too overwhelmed to deal with your problems? Are you stuck in the past or thinking too much about the “what if’s” of the future? Do you want to improve your relationships?
Have you ever felt too overwhelmed to deal with your problems? Are you stuck in the past or thinking too much about the “what if’s” of the future? Do you want to improve your relationships?
Madelyn Swed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Do you feel distant and disconnected from your partner? Have you been fighting more? Is your relationship missing warmth, trust, compassion, and intimacy? Are you getting stuck in the same frustrating pattern? Do you long to find and establish a loving relationship and secure connection? Have you been anxious, sad, and overwhelmed a lot lately? If you answered yes to these questions it's time to get help. Life brings us many challenges that are sometimes too much to handle alone. You don't have to struggle on your own. Get the help you need to overcome these difficulties and turn them into opportunities for healing and happiness.
Do you feel distant and disconnected from your partner? Have you been fighting more? Is your relationship missing warmth, trust, compassion, and intimacy? Are you getting stuck in the same frustrating pattern? Do you long to find and establish a loving relationship and secure connection? Have you been anxious, sad, and overwhelmed a lot lately? If you answered yes to these questions it's time to get help. Life brings us many challenges that are sometimes too much to handle alone. You don't have to struggle on your own. Get the help you need to overcome these difficulties and turn them into opportunities for healing and happiness.
Joshua Pelfrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
My name is Joshua Pelfrey, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been in the counseling field for more than 15 years as both an addiction counselor and clinical social worker. I help individuals and couples with addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, and more. I specialize in motivational interviewing, addiction counseling, and anger management. I consider myself an ally in the therapeutic process with the goal of helping my clients unlock their potential.
My name is Joshua Pelfrey, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been in the counseling field for more than 15 years as both an addiction counselor and clinical social worker. I help individuals and couples with addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, and more. I specialize in motivational interviewing, addiction counseling, and anger management. I consider myself an ally in the therapeutic process with the goal of helping my clients unlock their potential.
Shakeh Galstian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93106 (Online Only)
Inviting a therapist into your inner world takes courage and I'm so glad you're here! Whether this is your first time thinking about therapy or not, the process may seem intimidating. My goal is to establish a safe space for you and to build a trusting relationship between us. In doing so, we lay the groundwork needed to explore daily stressors and deeply rooted past traumas and experiences. I am committed to a client-centered, solution-focused approach that’s grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Inviting a therapist into your inner world takes courage and I'm so glad you're here! Whether this is your first time thinking about therapy or not, the process may seem intimidating. My goal is to establish a safe space for you and to build a trusting relationship between us. In doing so, we lay the groundwork needed to explore daily stressors and deeply rooted past traumas and experiences. I am committed to a client-centered, solution-focused approach that’s grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Anne L Lickus Cravens
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Specializations: Assisting adolescents, adults, and couples of any gender and background navigating anxiety, depression, the lasting effects of trauma, and relational issues. Empowering and guiding women through varied challenges and life transitions.
Specializations: Assisting adolescents, adults, and couples of any gender and background navigating anxiety, depression, the lasting effects of trauma, and relational issues. Empowering and guiding women through varied challenges and life transitions.
Erika Feely
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (Online Only)
100% Online telehealth. Are you longing for clarity and ease? Most of our psychological pain and suffering, our inhibitions and limitations in achieving a satisfying life, are the result of primitive anxieties that we have carried within ourselves since the very time we were, indeed, really helpless. Through our work together, you'll learn the tools to understand the meaning underneath your emotions and move beyond feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Using both talk therapy and somatic (body-based) tools, our time together will be a place for you to heal, grow, and explore your inner world in a compassionate and non-judgmental space.
100% Online telehealth. Are you longing for clarity and ease? Most of our psychological pain and suffering, our inhibitions and limitations in achieving a satisfying life, are the result of primitive anxieties that we have carried within ourselves since the very time we were, indeed, really helpless. Through our work together, you'll learn the tools to understand the meaning underneath your emotions and move beyond feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Using both talk therapy and somatic (body-based) tools, our time together will be a place for you to heal, grow, and explore your inner world in a compassionate and non-judgmental space.
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.
Theo Aaron Grondahl
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Hi! Welcome. My first wish is to co-create a space with you in which you feel as safe and free to be yourself as possible. If you identify as being neurodivergent, nonconforming in any number of ways, having trauma (from childhood or particular events), feeling shame, carrying grief or anxiety, struggling with addiction, being part of a marginalized group, or experiencing a particularly difficult journey of any kind, you are wholeheartedly welcome. I want to hear and understand you, exactly as you are. I want to learn what helps you feel safe and comfortable. And I want to support you to experience the changes you most wish for.
Hi! Welcome. My first wish is to co-create a space with you in which you feel as safe and free to be yourself as possible. If you identify as being neurodivergent, nonconforming in any number of ways, having trauma (from childhood or particular events), feeling shame, carrying grief or anxiety, struggling with addiction, being part of a marginalized group, or experiencing a particularly difficult journey of any kind, you are wholeheartedly welcome. I want to hear and understand you, exactly as you are. I want to learn what helps you feel safe and comfortable. And I want to support you to experience the changes you most wish for.
Laurel O'Connor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
There are times in our lives when we are presented with challenging circumstances. These experiences can be enormously difficult yet they also provide an opportunity for tremendous growth. The guidance and support of a trusted professional can be vital in regaining a sense of balance and ability to move forward in a positive way. What I have come to understand from my own life and education is that our suffering is often caused by losing connection to ourselves and others. With care and curiosity we can rebuild this sense of connection and foster the change necessary to create a healthy and meaningful life.
There are times in our lives when we are presented with challenging circumstances. These experiences can be enormously difficult yet they also provide an opportunity for tremendous growth. The guidance and support of a trusted professional can be vital in regaining a sense of balance and ability to move forward in a positive way. What I have come to understand from my own life and education is that our suffering is often caused by losing connection to ourselves and others. With care and curiosity we can rebuild this sense of connection and foster the change necessary to create a healthy and meaningful life.
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 |
62% | 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
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | 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.