Photo of Stuart S Light, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Stuart S Light
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My primary focus in therapy is on the problems that develop in intimate relationships. In today's world the interactions within the couple relationship are impacted by rapidly changing societal patterns and many conflicting demands and pressures. Partners also bring their own family and psychological histories that cause problems in relating that are often subtle and confusing. I use a non-judgmental, compassionate approach to help intimate partners, married, considering marriage, or contemplating separation or divorce, work through their problems and find a path forward to the happiest present, and future possible.
My primary focus in therapy is on the problems that develop in intimate relationships. In today's world the interactions within the couple relationship are impacted by rapidly changing societal patterns and many conflicting demands and pressures. Partners also bring their own family and psychological histories that cause problems in relating that are often subtle and confusing. I use a non-judgmental, compassionate approach to help intimate partners, married, considering marriage, or contemplating separation or divorce, work through their problems and find a path forward to the happiest present, and future possible.
(805) 263-4704 View (805) 263-4704
Photo of Anna Selena Cho, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Anna Selena Cho
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Dr. Anna Selena Cho, was born in Los Angeles and has personal experience living bi-culturally. Dr. Cho was traditionally trained in visual arts in her early developmental years and eventually obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, and her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Cho has developed programs with organizations wanting to further expand their learning standards towards socio-emotional integration.
Dr. Anna Selena Cho, was born in Los Angeles and has personal experience living bi-culturally. Dr. Cho was traditionally trained in visual arts in her early developmental years and eventually obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, and her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Cho has developed programs with organizations wanting to further expand their learning standards towards socio-emotional integration.
(310) 340-2835 View (310) 340-2835
Photo of Aspira Counseling, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Santa Barbara, CA
Aspira Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CAS, M-RAS, SUDCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Consulting to family members, businesses will be the new focus when it comes to drug and alcohol services, filling a need to support those concerned about a loved one or in need of information for the workplace.
Welcome! My name is Debbie, I founded Aspira Counseling to provide integrative services that require sensitivity, discretion, resourcefulness and creativity! In a fast changing world and time adaptation can be challenging, Aspira Counseling is constantly evolving too. With 20+ years of experience in drug and alcohol counseling, and almost 15 years experience in anger management, coparenting and domestic violence, the focus is shifting to serve families rather than individuals alone.
Consulting to family members, businesses will be the new focus when it comes to drug and alcohol services, filling a need to support those concerned about a loved one or in need of information for the workplace.
Welcome! My name is Debbie, I founded Aspira Counseling to provide integrative services that require sensitivity, discretion, resourcefulness and creativity! In a fast changing world and time adaptation can be challenging, Aspira Counseling is constantly evolving too. With 20+ years of experience in drug and alcohol counseling, and almost 15 years experience in anger management, coparenting and domestic violence, the focus is shifting to serve families rather than individuals alone.
(805) 434-6087 View (805) 434-6087
Photo of Andria Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
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.
(805) 257-0746 View (805) 257-0746
Photo of Jesse Jacob, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Jesse Jacob
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I work with adults who would like to live more fully and freely through a brave exploration of their inner world. My work includes tending to depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. Sometimes it’s difficult to stay connected to who we are or even what we want with all that life demands of us. Juggling caring for ourselves and others can feel overwhelming. I am here to help you strengthen your relationships, including your relationship with yourself. Psychodynamic and Jungian perspectives are a focus of mine, as well as offering sand tray therapy. Boundaries with one's self and others are fundamental to my work.
I work with adults who would like to live more fully and freely through a brave exploration of their inner world. My work includes tending to depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. Sometimes it’s difficult to stay connected to who we are or even what we want with all that life demands of us. Juggling caring for ourselves and others can feel overwhelming. I am here to help you strengthen your relationships, including your relationship with yourself. Psychodynamic and Jungian perspectives are a focus of mine, as well as offering sand tray therapy. Boundaries with one's self and others are fundamental to my work.
(805) 699-6104 View (805) 699-6104
Photo of Alix Robinson, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Alix Robinson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Feeling stuck? It's amazing the difference a therapeutic hour can make. I understand that it takes courage to make the decision to start therapy and I consider it an honor to help you take that first step. My approach to therapy is scientifically informed while still responsive to your unique needs. I believe that there is no problem greater than your capacity and I want to help you find solutions to become the best version of yourself.
Feeling stuck? It's amazing the difference a therapeutic hour can make. I understand that it takes courage to make the decision to start therapy and I consider it an honor to help you take that first step. My approach to therapy is scientifically informed while still responsive to your unique needs. I believe that there is no problem greater than your capacity and I want to help you find solutions to become the best version of yourself.
(805) 549-5176 x1 View (805) 549-5176 x1
Photo of Joanna Lynn Engelman, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Santa Barbara, CA
Joanna Lynn Engelman
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Do you wish that aspects of your life looked differently? My work focuses on helping individuals shift unsuccessful patterns in order to achieve a desired goal. I work with people who are struggling with self esteem issues, communicating in relationships, social anxiety, depression, anxiety, and mood instability. I offer my clients a safe and confidential atmosphere to comfortably express their feelings and speak freely. The therapeutic relationship is a healing one, a place where the client can be open and honest and receive unconditional support from the therapist.
Do you wish that aspects of your life looked differently? My work focuses on helping individuals shift unsuccessful patterns in order to achieve a desired goal. I work with people who are struggling with self esteem issues, communicating in relationships, social anxiety, depression, anxiety, and mood instability. I offer my clients a safe and confidential atmosphere to comfortably express their feelings and speak freely. The therapeutic relationship is a healing one, a place where the client can be open and honest and receive unconditional support from the therapist.
(805) 669-9299 View (805) 669-9299
Photo of Dr. Douglas D Johnson, Psychological Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Dr. Douglas D Johnson
Psychological Associate, PsyD, MA, MAOM
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
Have you been struggling with an alcohol or substance use disorder? Are you looking for someone who understands the struggles you are facing based on personal experience? My doctoral dissertation on substance abuse has provided me with broad knowledge of evidenced based strategies used to treat addiction. I have experience supporting my clients that seek help in the following areas, relationships, spirituality, stress, depression, and anxiety. The use of inspiration and humor are common in session. Please contact me to schedule a free consultation. I'm looking forward to hearing about how I may be of assistance to you.
Have you been struggling with an alcohol or substance use disorder? Are you looking for someone who understands the struggles you are facing based on personal experience? My doctoral dissertation on substance abuse has provided me with broad knowledge of evidenced based strategies used to treat addiction. I have experience supporting my clients that seek help in the following areas, relationships, spirituality, stress, depression, and anxiety. The use of inspiration and humor are common in session. Please contact me to schedule a free consultation. I'm looking forward to hearing about how I may be of assistance to you.
(805) 386-9279 View (805) 386-9279
Photo of Charmaine Curtis Jacobs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Charmaine Curtis Jacobs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, 123172
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Changing old habits and building emotional resilience makes sense at any age. I base my theoretical approach on the widely researched neuropsychological findings of Attachment Theory. Underlying successful treatment is the richness of the therapeutic relationship. I use evidence based methods including CBT, Mindfulness and brief psychotherapy.
Changing old habits and building emotional resilience makes sense at any age. I base my theoretical approach on the widely researched neuropsychological findings of Attachment Theory. Underlying successful treatment is the richness of the therapeutic relationship. I use evidence based methods including CBT, Mindfulness and brief psychotherapy.
(805) 232-7676 View (805) 232-7676
Photo of Dr. Michael A Vogel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dr. Michael A Vogel
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Waitlist for new clients
It is ...."The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are" C.G. Jung. Life is about relationship and they can sometimes be complicated to navigate. If you are experiencing personal conflict, trauma, or have experienced significant changes in your life; I am available to help you through challenges. I have a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology and currently finishing my Doctorate in Depth-Psychology at PGI. My emphasis is Psychoanalysis/Jungian Psychology, and I am a practitioner of EMDR. In addition I hold a board certification as a PTSD-Clinician and certified in Psychological First-Aid (PFA).
It is ...."The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are" C.G. Jung. Life is about relationship and they can sometimes be complicated to navigate. If you are experiencing personal conflict, trauma, or have experienced significant changes in your life; I am available to help you through challenges. I have a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology and currently finishing my Doctorate in Depth-Psychology at PGI. My emphasis is Psychoanalysis/Jungian Psychology, and I am a practitioner of EMDR. In addition I hold a board certification as a PTSD-Clinician and certified in Psychological First-Aid (PFA).
(805) 728-1619 View (805) 728-1619
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 Tamara Cummings, Licensed Educational Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Tamara Cummings
Licensed Educational Psychologist, MA, EdS, LEP
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
In my practice, I employ therapeutic models like Solution Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, and more. With specialized training in child psychology, learning, and development, I apply research-based strategies to address educational and developmental challenges. My focus is on overcoming obstacles related to student learning and behavior. This involves crafting personalized plans such as BIPs and IEPs, conducting FBAs, assessing progress, and offering counseling to students and families. My services aim to support students academically, emotionally, and socially by integrating mental health with learning and behavior.
In my practice, I employ therapeutic models like Solution Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, and more. With specialized training in child psychology, learning, and development, I apply research-based strategies to address educational and developmental challenges. My focus is on overcoming obstacles related to student learning and behavior. This involves crafting personalized plans such as BIPs and IEPs, conducting FBAs, assessing progress, and offering counseling to students and families. My services aim to support students academically, emotionally, and socially by integrating mental health with learning and behavior.
(805) 334-8905 View (805) 334-8905
Photo of Maxwel Blake Shaft, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Maxwel Blake Shaft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Max Shaft and my passion is working with clients who may be feeling stuck, discouraged, or powerless but want to feel confident, free from limiting beliefs, and proud of who they are so that they can live up to their fullest potential.
Hi, my name is Max Shaft and my passion is working with clients who may be feeling stuck, discouraged, or powerless but want to feel confident, free from limiting beliefs, and proud of who they are so that they can live up to their fullest potential.
(805) 622-2676 View (805) 622-2676
Photo of Sonya Parrott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Sonya Parrott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Whether you are struggling to navigate everyday stressors, looking for guidance to change unhelpful patterns or behaviors, or you seek relief from the impact that trauma, depression, anxiety, or addiction have on your life, I am here to help. As a Therapist, one of the most important lessons I have learned is that we become stronger when we “learn to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations.” We all face roadblocks that impact our decisions, our choices, and our abilities to overcome difficult situations.
Whether you are struggling to navigate everyday stressors, looking for guidance to change unhelpful patterns or behaviors, or you seek relief from the impact that trauma, depression, anxiety, or addiction have on your life, I am here to help. As a Therapist, one of the most important lessons I have learned is that we become stronger when we “learn to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations.” We all face roadblocks that impact our decisions, our choices, and our abilities to overcome difficult situations.
(951) 409-7585 View (951) 409-7585
Photo of Toni Wellen in Santa Barbara, CA
Toni Wellen
MA
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
There are crisis moments in everyone's life when we feel overwhelmed and lack solutions to problems. Together we search for answers to questions that may appear overwhelming, enabling you to feel positive in the face of life transitions. Toni has a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology. She recently relinquished her license, however continues using skills expanded over time. Together you will solve concerns such as anxiety, stress, depression, addictions, and anger management. Toni employs a practical approach focusing on empathy and mutual respect. Her method focuses on cognitive behavioral therapy, humanism, and mindfulness.
There are crisis moments in everyone's life when we feel overwhelmed and lack solutions to problems. Together we search for answers to questions that may appear overwhelming, enabling you to feel positive in the face of life transitions. Toni has a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology. She recently relinquished her license, however continues using skills expanded over time. Together you will solve concerns such as anxiety, stress, depression, addictions, and anger management. Toni employs a practical approach focusing on empathy and mutual respect. Her method focuses on cognitive behavioral therapy, humanism, and mindfulness.
(805) 467-7148 View (805) 467-7148
Photo of Tricia Parido, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Santa Barbara, CA
Tricia Parido
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, IMAC, CATCIII, NCPLC, BS Psyc, NCIP
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93103  (Online Only)
Craving freedom from relentless internal battles? It's time to envision a journey of self-discovery with a certified recovery specialist. Tired of the drain from habits like drinking, dieting, and the emotional struggle? Longing for liberation from trauma, substance abuse, and anxiety with the guidance of an addiction coach? Life's too short for anything less. Beyond societal norms, your struggles delve into control needs, eating disorders, and abandonment issues—find support from a mental health coach ready to assist. It's more than chemical—it's reclaiming control, overcoming trauma, and embracing holistic well-being.
Craving freedom from relentless internal battles? It's time to envision a journey of self-discovery with a certified recovery specialist. Tired of the drain from habits like drinking, dieting, and the emotional struggle? Longing for liberation from trauma, substance abuse, and anxiety with the guidance of an addiction coach? Life's too short for anything less. Beyond societal norms, your struggles delve into control needs, eating disorders, and abandonment issues—find support from a mental health coach ready to assist. It's more than chemical—it's reclaiming control, overcoming trauma, and embracing holistic well-being.
(805) 870-9781 View (805) 870-9781
Photo of Summer Sessions Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Santa Barbara, CA
Summer Sessions Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPCC, LCSW, LCMHC, ACSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Finding a therapist can be difficult, and at Summer Sessions, we hope to cut down on the searching component of your journey. We know that the road "here," may have been difficult and we are here to support and listen. The goal of our team is to reflect our community with our own backgrounds and areas of expertise and support you. Whether experiencing a life stressor, ongoing anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma or more, you deserve support and we can help. Please see our website, www.SummerSessionsCounseling.org, for available providers and booking (www.therapyportal.com/p/summersessions/appointments/availability/)
Finding a therapist can be difficult, and at Summer Sessions, we hope to cut down on the searching component of your journey. We know that the road "here," may have been difficult and we are here to support and listen. The goal of our team is to reflect our community with our own backgrounds and areas of expertise and support you. Whether experiencing a life stressor, ongoing anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma or more, you deserve support and we can help. Please see our website, www.SummerSessionsCounseling.org, for available providers and booking (www.therapyportal.com/p/summersessions/appointments/availability/)
(805) 243-0739 View (805) 243-0739
Photo of DEZ Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
DEZ Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Douglas was educated in Great Britain and brings a wealth of professional experience from careers in Corporate America and Europe.
Douglas was educated in Great Britain and brings a wealth of professional experience from careers in Corporate America and Europe.
(415) 853-9884 View (415) 853-9884
Photo of The Mindful Lemon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
The Mindful Lemon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
(831) 276-0279 View (831) 276-0279
Photo of Ronald Norman, Counselor in Santa Barbara, CA
Ronald Norman
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93117
My name is Keith Norman, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in El Sobrante, CA. I enjoy working with premarital couples most using Cognitive Behavior Therapy. In therapy, we explore thoughts, emotions, and actions while pursuing our treatment goals. Clients that are a good match are consistent in attendance, self-aware of their mental, emotional, and spiritual self, and willing to discuss their life experiences. I am most confident in helping couples develop strong relationships and work through relational challenges.
My name is Keith Norman, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in El Sobrante, CA. I enjoy working with premarital couples most using Cognitive Behavior Therapy. In therapy, we explore thoughts, emotions, and actions while pursuing our treatment goals. Clients that are a good match are consistent in attendance, self-aware of their mental, emotional, and spiritual self, and willing to discuss their life experiences. I am most confident in helping couples develop strong relationships and work through relational challenges.
(805) 301-5654 View (805) 301-5654

See more therapy options for Santa Barbara

Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.