Photo of Kimberly Prendergast, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Kimberly Prendergast
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Kimberly Prendergast, MA, LMFT has been assisting children, adolescents and families in crisis for over 20 years. She strongly believes in the power of hope and principles of recovery for the treatment of mental illness and substance use disorders. Her experience includes providing support to those navigating the criminal justice and educational systems as well as treatment within an inpatient psychiatric unit and in various outpatient and community settings. Kimberly has therapeutic interests in the areas of mindfulness, parenting and family issues, child and adolescent development, and clinical areas of anxiety, depression, substance abuse and trauma.
Kimberly Prendergast, MA, LMFT has been assisting children, adolescents and families in crisis for over 20 years. She strongly believes in the power of hope and principles of recovery for the treatment of mental illness and substance use disorders. Her experience includes providing support to those navigating the criminal justice and educational systems as well as treatment within an inpatient psychiatric unit and in various outpatient and community settings. Kimberly has therapeutic interests in the areas of mindfulness, parenting and family issues, child and adolescent development, and clinical areas of anxiety, depression, substance abuse and trauma.
(805) 419-2038 View (805) 419-2038
Photo of Kasey Curtis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Kasey Curtis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
Specialty areas include EMDR, mindfulness, somatic- mind/body connection.
I'm licensed in CA and WA. Sometimes, despite best intentions and attempts, making change is not successful. It can be hard to get to where you want to go: less depression or anxiety, better relationships with others and yourself, with food, your body. Maybe the past keeps intruding upon the present, even though it seems like it should be resolved by now. Maybe you don’t feel quite like the best version of yourself and you don’t know why. I'm here to help you get reconnected to yourself, find the inner wisdom that I know exists within you. I don't know all the answers, but I know how to help you find your own answers.
Specialty areas include EMDR, mindfulness, somatic- mind/body connection.
I'm licensed in CA and WA. Sometimes, despite best intentions and attempts, making change is not successful. It can be hard to get to where you want to go: less depression or anxiety, better relationships with others and yourself, with food, your body. Maybe the past keeps intruding upon the present, even though it seems like it should be resolved by now. Maybe you don’t feel quite like the best version of yourself and you don’t know why. I'm here to help you get reconnected to yourself, find the inner wisdom that I know exists within you. I don't know all the answers, but I know how to help you find your own answers.
(805) 856-6458 View (805) 856-6458
Photo of Emily Fleck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Emily Fleck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
I also use mindfulness as a tool for coping with anxiety.
There are many reasons people seek therapy. Most likely, you're here because you're feeling out of balance in some aspect of your life. You may be looking for better ways to cope with depression or anxiety, change patterns that lead to unhealthy behaviors or relationships, or heal from a difficult or traumatic experience. Therapy can help you gain insight about yourself, increase your sense of confidence, or help you explore a new life path with courage and intention. My hope is to provide support, tools, and encouragement to help you find greater balance, authenticity, and overall well-being.
I also use mindfulness as a tool for coping with anxiety.
There are many reasons people seek therapy. Most likely, you're here because you're feeling out of balance in some aspect of your life. You may be looking for better ways to cope with depression or anxiety, change patterns that lead to unhealthy behaviors or relationships, or heal from a difficult or traumatic experience. Therapy can help you gain insight about yourself, increase your sense of confidence, or help you explore a new life path with courage and intention. My hope is to provide support, tools, and encouragement to help you find greater balance, authenticity, and overall well-being.
(805) 856-6736 View (805) 856-6736
Photo of Kimberly Wulfert PhD, Psychologist in Ventura, CA
Kimberly Wulfert PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
I believe: our mind & body are completely intertwined; the possibilities within every human being are limitless; and you are not your symptoms. I do not believe in limits set by a diagnosis or label for you to identify yourself by, instead I help you find your true nature, your Self, & peace within the midst of difficulty, change, loss, and the holidays! I've been a psychologist for over 30 years, yet the way I help people today is entirely different now. I use mindfulness brain-based talk therapy, and visualizations, for an integrated approach to emotional/physical/mental wellness. We focus on your current self and life as a whole.
I believe: our mind & body are completely intertwined; the possibilities within every human being are limitless; and you are not your symptoms. I do not believe in limits set by a diagnosis or label for you to identify yourself by, instead I help you find your true nature, your Self, & peace within the midst of difficulty, change, loss, and the holidays! I've been a psychologist for over 30 years, yet the way I help people today is entirely different now. I use mindfulness brain-based talk therapy, and visualizations, for an integrated approach to emotional/physical/mental wellness. We focus on your current self and life as a whole.
(805) 491-4509 View (805) 491-4509
Photo of Christopher Harriott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Christopher Harriott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Trained in several evidenced based practices, providing mental health trainings to several mental health organizations and serving as a former professor at Phillips Graduate University, I specialize in trauma (post and acute), depression, anxiety, grief counseling, LGBTQAI+ populations, and mindfulness practices.
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to join you on your journey towards healing. I am a New York City native currently licensed in California and licensed to provided telehealth therapy in the state for the state of Florida. I am a Board of Behavioral Sciences Approved Clinical Supervisor, an American Association of Marriage and Family Therapist approved Clinical Supervisor and Clinical Fellow. I have over 14 years of clinical experience as an outpatient therapist with Department of Mental Health contracted agencies, nonprofit organizations and owner of private practice, The Healing Chariot (No Insurance/No Sliding Scale Fee).
Trained in several evidenced based practices, providing mental health trainings to several mental health organizations and serving as a former professor at Phillips Graduate University, I specialize in trauma (post and acute), depression, anxiety, grief counseling, LGBTQAI+ populations, and mindfulness practices.
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to join you on your journey towards healing. I am a New York City native currently licensed in California and licensed to provided telehealth therapy in the state for the state of Florida. I am a Board of Behavioral Sciences Approved Clinical Supervisor, an American Association of Marriage and Family Therapist approved Clinical Supervisor and Clinical Fellow. I have over 14 years of clinical experience as an outpatient therapist with Department of Mental Health contracted agencies, nonprofit organizations and owner of private practice, The Healing Chariot (No Insurance/No Sliding Scale Fee).
(424) 404-6536 View (424) 404-6536
Photo of Stephanie Flournoy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ventura, CA
Stephanie Flournoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001  (Online Only)
I utilize mindfulness-based practices to support your ability to be present, feel grounded and connected to your mind and body, and build acceptance and self-compassion.
I strongly believe that relationships have the power to heal and transform, and this guides my approach as a therapist. I honor the uniqueness of each individual and draw on my professional training to create an experience tailored to your specific needs in therapy. Working collaboratively, we will engage in meaningful exploration of the issues impacting your well-being in order to achieve the change you want. I see my role as empowering you with new insight and skills and stronger connections to yourself and others so that you can live well and be resilient in responding to the challenges of life.
I utilize mindfulness-based practices to support your ability to be present, feel grounded and connected to your mind and body, and build acceptance and self-compassion.
I strongly believe that relationships have the power to heal and transform, and this guides my approach as a therapist. I honor the uniqueness of each individual and draw on my professional training to create an experience tailored to your specific needs in therapy. Working collaboratively, we will engage in meaningful exploration of the issues impacting your well-being in order to achieve the change you want. I see my role as empowering you with new insight and skills and stronger connections to yourself and others so that you can live well and be resilient in responding to the challenges of life.
(805) 856-6763 View (805) 856-6763
Photo of Linda J Bronzan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Linda J Bronzan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Waitlist for new clients
I offer cognitive-based, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapies that aim to enhance awareness of the mind-body connection.
Sometimes we can’t share how we really feel, even with the people we're closest to. Maybe you worry about burdening others or hope things will just get better. Perhaps you avoid your feelings or overthink them to exhaustion. Whatever it is, you don’t have to face it alone. Having experienced my own struggles in life has inspired my passion to help others. As a therapist, I've seen firsthand how depression, anxiety, and trauma can leave you feeling isolated and out of control. I want to be a beacon of hope. I want to help you tap into your inner strength, regain your confidence, and help you make lasting positive changes.
I offer cognitive-based, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapies that aim to enhance awareness of the mind-body connection.
Sometimes we can’t share how we really feel, even with the people we're closest to. Maybe you worry about burdening others or hope things will just get better. Perhaps you avoid your feelings or overthink them to exhaustion. Whatever it is, you don’t have to face it alone. Having experienced my own struggles in life has inspired my passion to help others. As a therapist, I've seen firsthand how depression, anxiety, and trauma can leave you feeling isolated and out of control. I want to be a beacon of hope. I want to help you tap into your inner strength, regain your confidence, and help you make lasting positive changes.
(805) 500-0962 View (805) 500-0962
Photo of Fabiola Uribe-Nava, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Fabiola Uribe-Nava
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
I utilize art, mindfulness, and make an attempt to emphasize the client’s strengths in order to bring healing.
Are you feeling unmotivated, anxious, and overwhelmed with past events that continue to interrupt your daily functioning? Are you feeling stuck in the past? Are you searching for peace, motivation, and have the desire to improve the quality of your life? Know that seeking support is a sign of bravery and is the first step towards improving your situation.
I utilize art, mindfulness, and make an attempt to emphasize the client’s strengths in order to bring healing.
Are you feeling unmotivated, anxious, and overwhelmed with past events that continue to interrupt your daily functioning? Are you feeling stuck in the past? Are you searching for peace, motivation, and have the desire to improve the quality of your life? Know that seeking support is a sign of bravery and is the first step towards improving your situation.
(805) 219-7912 View (805) 219-7912
Photo of Laura Crutchfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Laura Crutchfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Mindfulness, empowerment, self awareness, intention, balance, harmony and unreasonable joy - what are these concepts and how do you apply them to yourself and others to have a life that you love? In a safe and supportive environment uncover conscious and unconscious patterns that help or hinder you and your relationships. Together we explore the human condition, how there is a natural yearning to understand what it is all about and come closer to living your life based on your helping and healing truths. All this can cultivate the best within yourself and those around you.
Mindfulness, empowerment, self awareness, intention, balance, harmony and unreasonable joy - what are these concepts and how do you apply them to yourself and others to have a life that you love? In a safe and supportive environment uncover conscious and unconscious patterns that help or hinder you and your relationships. Together we explore the human condition, how there is a natural yearning to understand what it is all about and come closer to living your life based on your helping and healing truths. All this can cultivate the best within yourself and those around you.
(805) 467-7121 View (805) 467-7121
Photo of Circle of Love Counseling Center, Pastoral Counselor in Ventura, CA
Circle of Love Counseling Center
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, BCPC
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Working as a Counselor and Chaplain for 12 years has prepared me to meet my clients where they are and walk along side with them in mourning and rejoicing. My motivation for helping is rooted in compassion for those who are in need of healing. It is important to build relationships with clients to assure them they are in a non judgmental environment where it is safe to have a voice to share their challenges. I specialize in using Mindfulness Techniques to help decrease stress, anxiety, and depression. This will allow each client to focus on one's awareness on the present and meet their goals in a healthy and stress free atmosphere.
Working as a Counselor and Chaplain for 12 years has prepared me to meet my clients where they are and walk along side with them in mourning and rejoicing. My motivation for helping is rooted in compassion for those who are in need of healing. It is important to build relationships with clients to assure them they are in a non judgmental environment where it is safe to have a voice to share their challenges. I specialize in using Mindfulness Techniques to help decrease stress, anxiety, and depression. This will allow each client to focus on one's awareness on the present and meet their goals in a healthy and stress free atmosphere.
(805) 232-7876 View (805) 232-7876
Photo of Carol Clancy, Psychologist in Ventura, CA
Carol Clancy
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
There are times in everyone's life when anxiety and depression can feel overwhelming. You don't have to suffer, therapy can help. I have an eclectic orientation that is informed by mindfulness techniques, attachment theory and CBT to help clients work through and heal from bouts of depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I have found that these evidence-based techniques, when used in a collaborative, empathic working relationship can help restore a sense of wellness and empowerment, and improve your quality of life. I have been a therapist for over 20 years.
There are times in everyone's life when anxiety and depression can feel overwhelming. You don't have to suffer, therapy can help. I have an eclectic orientation that is informed by mindfulness techniques, attachment theory and CBT to help clients work through and heal from bouts of depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I have found that these evidence-based techniques, when used in a collaborative, empathic working relationship can help restore a sense of wellness and empowerment, and improve your quality of life. I have been a therapist for over 20 years.
(650) 562-6030 View (650) 562-6030
Photo of Shirah Bale, Psychologist in Ventura, CA
Shirah Bale
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist with experience working with a range of individuals in primary care clinics, medical hospitals, and community counseling centers. My style is warm, interactive, and empathetic. Integrating principles of self-compassion, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy, I hope to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself by collaboratively exploring your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as they relate to the relationship to yourself others and the world.
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist with experience working with a range of individuals in primary care clinics, medical hospitals, and community counseling centers. My style is warm, interactive, and empathetic. Integrating principles of self-compassion, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy, I hope to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself by collaboratively exploring your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as they relate to the relationship to yourself others and the world.
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Photo of Adilene Amaro Chavez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Adilene Amaro Chavez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, and trauma. I'm here to help you overcome challenges and empower you to achieve your goals. My approach is tailored to you. I offer personalized sessions that incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, trauma-informed approaches, and mindfulness-based practices.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, and trauma. I'm here to help you overcome challenges and empower you to achieve your goals. My approach is tailored to you. I offer personalized sessions that incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, trauma-informed approaches, and mindfulness-based practices.
(805) 622-2954 View (805) 622-2954
Photo of Destiny James, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Destiny James
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
She uses cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing and mindfulness techniques.
Destiny James is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who has been practicing since 2009. She graduated from California State University, Fresno with a Master's of Science degree in Counseling with distinction, specializing in Marriage and Family therapy. Destiny believes in working collaboratively to overcome any roadblocks on your journey. She believes that you are the expert on your life, even if it may not seem this way currently. She works with you to provide a safe place to explore strengths, resources, thoughts, feelings and patterns of behaviors to unlock your highest self and thus improving your quality of life.
She uses cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing and mindfulness techniques.
Destiny James is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who has been practicing since 2009. She graduated from California State University, Fresno with a Master's of Science degree in Counseling with distinction, specializing in Marriage and Family therapy. Destiny believes in working collaboratively to overcome any roadblocks on your journey. She believes that you are the expert on your life, even if it may not seem this way currently. She works with you to provide a safe place to explore strengths, resources, thoughts, feelings and patterns of behaviors to unlock your highest self and thus improving your quality of life.
(805) 301-5707 View (805) 301-5707
Photo of Sigrid Jensen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Sigrid Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I utilize Somatic Experiencing, relaxation, and mindfulness techniques in my practice.
I am a licensed MFT with offices in Ventura and Ojai. For the past 10 + years I have been working as a therapist with adults, couples and adolescents. I am honored to help facilitate my client’s on their journey, whatever it might be. I believe that it’s the therapeutic relationship that is ultimately healing. I meet each client where they are. Collaboratively, we establish safety and trust, so that we can walk through the psyche together. Additionally, I am passionate about working with couples and have extensive training in working with Adult Attachment relationships.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I utilize Somatic Experiencing, relaxation, and mindfulness techniques in my practice.
I am a licensed MFT with offices in Ventura and Ojai. For the past 10 + years I have been working as a therapist with adults, couples and adolescents. I am honored to help facilitate my client’s on their journey, whatever it might be. I believe that it’s the therapeutic relationship that is ultimately healing. I meet each client where they are. Collaboratively, we establish safety and trust, so that we can walk through the psyche together. Additionally, I am passionate about working with couples and have extensive training in working with Adult Attachment relationships.
(310) 740-9862 View (310) 740-9862
Photo of Raudel Flores, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Raudel Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
My therapeutic interests are in the areas of mindfulness, positive change, parenting, family issues, behavioral therapy, relationships, child and adolescent groups, sports psychology, and clinical areas of ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and Mood Disorders.
I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples and families at the most challenging times of their lives and helped them overcome some of life's most difficult circumstances for over 25 years. I continue to help individuals overcome complex emotional, behavioral and relational issues. I focus on helping restore hope, helping find joy in daily living, helping create positive change for themselves with hope that they will find a place in life where they can be happy and successful.5
My therapeutic interests are in the areas of mindfulness, positive change, parenting, family issues, behavioral therapy, relationships, child and adolescent groups, sports psychology, and clinical areas of ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and Mood Disorders.
I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples and families at the most challenging times of their lives and helped them overcome some of life's most difficult circumstances for over 25 years. I continue to help individuals overcome complex emotional, behavioral and relational issues. I focus on helping restore hope, helping find joy in daily living, helping create positive change for themselves with hope that they will find a place in life where they can be happy and successful.5
(805) 892-6333 View (805) 892-6333
Photo of Laurel Connell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Laurel Connell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
I weave my background in meditation and mindfulness together with trauma informed care, working towards creating a sense of safety within oneself.
Beginnings… Endings…. And the breaths in between… I support women through life transitions. Pregnancy and new parenthood, an experience of loss, or a profound life event. People who find me often have experienced trauma, loss or are navigating a challenging life transition. I help with integrating these experiences and moving forward. Our work together is based on a mindful and gentle approach, as we work with your mind and body. My approach is trauma informed, with a focus on nervous system regulation. The state of our nervous system directly impacts the way we think, feel and experience our life.
I weave my background in meditation and mindfulness together with trauma informed care, working towards creating a sense of safety within oneself.
Beginnings… Endings…. And the breaths in between… I support women through life transitions. Pregnancy and new parenthood, an experience of loss, or a profound life event. People who find me often have experienced trauma, loss or are navigating a challenging life transition. I help with integrating these experiences and moving forward. Our work together is based on a mindful and gentle approach, as we work with your mind and body. My approach is trauma informed, with a focus on nervous system regulation. The state of our nervous system directly impacts the way we think, feel and experience our life.
(805) 242-0054 View (805) 242-0054
Photo of Heidi Allison Dbt Therapist; New Directions Dbt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ventura, CA
Heidi Allison Dbt Therapist; New Directions Dbt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
I enjoy helping people become aware of patterns & learn mindfulness & emotion regulation skills to uncover their strengths, regulate emotions and improve healthy coping skills, relationships & quality of life.
NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS: NOT VIDEO THERAPY. DBT & CBT Specialist helping individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, difficulty managing emotions, relationship issues, BPD & personality disorders and other issues. (GOLD COAST/BEACON/MEDICAL & MEDICARE provider & private pay). We will work together to help you uncover what is bothering you & improve your coping skills. My approach is strength-based; I believe that everyone is capable of improving their lives, reducing suffering & symptoms. We all have answers within us; sometimes we need someone to guide us in finding our truth/learning coping skills.
I enjoy helping people become aware of patterns & learn mindfulness & emotion regulation skills to uncover their strengths, regulate emotions and improve healthy coping skills, relationships & quality of life.
NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS: NOT VIDEO THERAPY. DBT & CBT Specialist helping individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, difficulty managing emotions, relationship issues, BPD & personality disorders and other issues. (GOLD COAST/BEACON/MEDICAL & MEDICARE provider & private pay). We will work together to help you uncover what is bothering you & improve your coping skills. My approach is strength-based; I believe that everyone is capable of improving their lives, reducing suffering & symptoms. We all have answers within us; sometimes we need someone to guide us in finding our truth/learning coping skills.
(562) 374-7916 View (562) 374-7916
Photo of Dr. Maggie Lavey, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ventura, CA
Dr. Maggie Lavey
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PsyD, LPCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
As a trauma focused and EMDR provider I understand the impact that trauma has on one’s lived experience. It is essential to have a safe, nonjudgmental place to work through painful experiences. I use an integrative eclectic approach to provide safety, manage emotions, address unhelpful beliefs and to work to heal and release you from the painful past of your trauma. Together we formulate your desired treatment goals to empower you to see changes in your daily life. I specialize in a range of therapies and broad view of theories such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, Polyvagal theory, attachment theory, mindfulness, trauma informed yoga, mind body.
As a trauma focused and EMDR provider I understand the impact that trauma has on one’s lived experience. It is essential to have a safe, nonjudgmental place to work through painful experiences. I use an integrative eclectic approach to provide safety, manage emotions, address unhelpful beliefs and to work to heal and release you from the painful past of your trauma. Together we formulate your desired treatment goals to empower you to see changes in your daily life. I specialize in a range of therapies and broad view of theories such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, Polyvagal theory, attachment theory, mindfulness, trauma informed yoga, mind body.
(805) 321-1547 View (805) 321-1547
Photo of Shira Mehrnia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Shira Mehrnia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
My treatment approach includes an eclectic blend of mindfulness, depth psychology, EMDR, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and emotionally focused therapy (EFT).
My goal is to help my clients expand their capacity for trust and intimacy in relationships and improve their overall quality of life. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, low self esteem, relationship issues and women suffering from prepartum and postpartum depression. I have extensive experience in the treatment of eating disorders and body image issues.
My treatment approach includes an eclectic blend of mindfulness, depth psychology, EMDR, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and emotionally focused therapy (EFT).
My goal is to help my clients expand their capacity for trust and intimacy in relationships and improve their overall quality of life. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, low self esteem, relationship issues and women suffering from prepartum and postpartum depression. I have extensive experience in the treatment of eating disorders and body image issues.
(805) 954-9633 View (805) 954-9633
Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists

How does mindfulness-based cognitive therapy work?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy originated in the work of John Kabat-Zinn of the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He developed mindfulness-based stress reduction, which is a technique found in yoga and meditation. MBCT is a combination of this type of stress reduction and cognitive behavioral therapy; it essentially quiets emotional distress through mindfulness, utilizing proper breathing and meditation. These techniques aim to bring the individual into the present moment when in a state of distress.

When do I know if I need treatment with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

If an individual’s mind is filled with emotional distress and general negativity, the person may feel trapped. A mindfulness-based cognitive therapist can help a person change their thinking patterns as well as their behavior through calm acceptance and compassion. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.

What should I expect from mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

This therapy often takes place in group sessions. A therapist will work with the group as well as with each individual. Meditation and breathing exercises are core practices that aim to invite inquiry and discovery into a person’s troubled mental state. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviors and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more realistic way. This therapy is supportive, accepting, and warm.

Is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy effective?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with major depressive disorder have benefitted from this type of therapy; the person accepts their distressed thoughts and also moves into healthier patterns of thinking. This therapy also aims to move an individual away from automatic negative responses. This type of therapy can bring a person lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioral habits.