Feminist Therapists in San Luis Obispo County, CA

Photo of Dr. Jay Bettergarcia, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Dr. Jay Bettergarcia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I take an intersectional approach to understanding and valuing your various cultural identities from a multicultural, liberation-centered, anti-racist, feminist framework.
Are you exploring your gender identity or sexuality? Maybe you’re already sure of who you are and you need help taking the next step in your gender journey? The Center for Collaborative Transformations is here to help! If you’ve been thinking about you gender and you are ready to explore the next steps of your social or medical transition (what ever that looks like for you), we can work together while you process, discover, and create the most authentic version of YOU, with all your various identities. I work collaboratively with clients, families, and care teams to develop meaningful acceptance, change, growth, and healing.
I take an intersectional approach to understanding and valuing your various cultural identities from a multicultural, liberation-centered, anti-racist, feminist framework.
Are you exploring your gender identity or sexuality? Maybe you’re already sure of who you are and you need help taking the next step in your gender journey? The Center for Collaborative Transformations is here to help! If you’ve been thinking about you gender and you are ready to explore the next steps of your social or medical transition (what ever that looks like for you), we can work together while you process, discover, and create the most authentic version of YOU, with all your various identities. I work collaboratively with clients, families, and care teams to develop meaningful acceptance, change, growth, and healing.
(805) 272-7609 View (805) 272-7609
Photo of Sarah Medzyk, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Sarah Medzyk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am LGBT+ affirmative, sex + kink positive(NO CCKC members), polyamory positive, nerd friendly, and an intersectional feminist.
The difficulties of everyday life can sometimes become overwhelming. When on top of those difficulties we add the stresses of illness, anxiety, depression, our identity, our love lives and more-we can easily feel burdened to our breaking point. We just don't feel heard. Sometimes these situations can linger for months or years, making it hard to meet our obligations and live our lives in the way we would like. However, those difficulties and stresses don't need to define who we are-or where we're going. It's my goal as a therapist to help you tell your story.
I am LGBT+ affirmative, sex + kink positive(NO CCKC members), polyamory positive, nerd friendly, and an intersectional feminist.
The difficulties of everyday life can sometimes become overwhelming. When on top of those difficulties we add the stresses of illness, anxiety, depression, our identity, our love lives and more-we can easily feel burdened to our breaking point. We just don't feel heard. Sometimes these situations can linger for months or years, making it hard to meet our obligations and live our lives in the way we would like. However, those difficulties and stresses don't need to define who we are-or where we're going. It's my goal as a therapist to help you tell your story.
(805) 516-0323 View (805) 516-0323
Photo of Teryn Little, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Teryn Little
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atascadero, CA 93422  (Online Only)
I believe that we all come into this world as our original precious self. As we develop through childhood experiences, family, culture and society, we often lose touch with our true soul. Oftentimes we are hurt. Challenges and traumas can keep these hurts buried. Any issues left unacknowledged or unresolved keep demanding our attention. How do we overcome? Is it even possible to heal? According to all known laws of aviation, there is no way a bee should be able to fly. Its wings are too small to get its fat little body off the ground. The bee, of course, flies away anyway because bees don't care what humans think is impossible...
I believe that we all come into this world as our original precious self. As we develop through childhood experiences, family, culture and society, we often lose touch with our true soul. Oftentimes we are hurt. Challenges and traumas can keep these hurts buried. Any issues left unacknowledged or unresolved keep demanding our attention. How do we overcome? Is it even possible to heal? According to all known laws of aviation, there is no way a bee should be able to fly. Its wings are too small to get its fat little body off the ground. The bee, of course, flies away anyway because bees don't care what humans think is impossible...
(805) 973-0882 View (805) 973-0882
Photo of Alexis Gibson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Alexis Gibson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Osos, CA 93402
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for being here. I appreciate you taking the courageous step of looking at profiles and thinking about working with a therapist. I strive to be a partner in exploring your inner world. Together, we can be curious and warm towards aspects that have been too painful to acknowledge, invite in parts of you that have been rejected, and make insightful connections between the past and present which will allow you to live with vibrancy and self-compassion.
Thank you for being here. I appreciate you taking the courageous step of looking at profiles and thinking about working with a therapist. I strive to be a partner in exploring your inner world. Together, we can be curious and warm towards aspects that have been too painful to acknowledge, invite in parts of you that have been rejected, and make insightful connections between the past and present which will allow you to live with vibrancy and self-compassion.
(805) 678-9428 View (805) 678-9428
Photo of Leah DeRose, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Leah DeRose
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Using a combination of therapeutic techniques I am able to help support you to identify and process through areas in your life that you feel are impacted negatively. Whether you're grappling with stress, anxiety, or self-doubt, I provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions and aspirations. Drawing from evidence-based practices and my experience, I offer an approach that integrates psychological insight with practical strategies. Together, we'll identify your strengths, clarify your values, and cultivate resilience to thrive in both your personal and professional life.
Using a combination of therapeutic techniques I am able to help support you to identify and process through areas in your life that you feel are impacted negatively. Whether you're grappling with stress, anxiety, or self-doubt, I provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions and aspirations. Drawing from evidence-based practices and my experience, I offer an approach that integrates psychological insight with practical strategies. Together, we'll identify your strengths, clarify your values, and cultivate resilience to thrive in both your personal and professional life.
(805) 293-7481 View (805) 293-7481
Photo of Lesley Carol Andrews-Wise, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Lesley Carol Andrews-Wise
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Looking for more joy and meaning in life? Using an eclectic approach, I work with adults and young adults to discover their natural strengths. Part of being human includes being confronted with obstacles that hinder our wellbeing and meaning in life. I enjoy assisting people in creating ways to remove those obstacles. Even in the midst of little hope, I think we all need to be reminded of the joy and wonder in life.
Looking for more joy and meaning in life? Using an eclectic approach, I work with adults and young adults to discover their natural strengths. Part of being human includes being confronted with obstacles that hinder our wellbeing and meaning in life. I enjoy assisting people in creating ways to remove those obstacles. Even in the midst of little hope, I think we all need to be reminded of the joy and wonder in life.
(805) 244-8716 View (805) 244-8716
Photo of Karen Schneller, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Karen Schneller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
You are living a daily battle in your head about what you can eat, how much you should exercise, if you are worthy of taking up space. You are consumed by counting calories and by the negative voice inside that tells you, you’ll never be good enough or thin enough, smart enough or pretty enough. You are fed up with how the society/culture tells you how you should look and feel and behave. Your behaviors have you feeling exhausted and depleted and you wonder how you can go on another day. Others may think you have it all together on the outside, but the mental torture inside is killing you and feel like your life is shrinking.
You are living a daily battle in your head about what you can eat, how much you should exercise, if you are worthy of taking up space. You are consumed by counting calories and by the negative voice inside that tells you, you’ll never be good enough or thin enough, smart enough or pretty enough. You are fed up with how the society/culture tells you how you should look and feel and behave. Your behaviors have you feeling exhausted and depleted and you wonder how you can go on another day. Others may think you have it all together on the outside, but the mental torture inside is killing you and feel like your life is shrinking.
(805) 316-7124 View (805) 316-7124
Photo of Yumi Velazquez-Mabray, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Yumi Velazquez-Mabray
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grover Beach, CA 93433
Waitlist for new clients
I work primarily with children, teens, and adults who have suffered traumatic events. I provide an outlet without judgement, helping clients work through unresolved feelings about past childhood trauma, family conflict, and broken relationships, which can cause significant distress, affecting other parts of their lives. I will help you break away from anything that is holding you back from being the person you truly desire to be. My style is eclectic, supporting individual needs, unlocking and developing each person's potential. With children and teens, I use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist clients in overcoming negative effects of the traumatic experience.
I work primarily with children, teens, and adults who have suffered traumatic events. I provide an outlet without judgement, helping clients work through unresolved feelings about past childhood trauma, family conflict, and broken relationships, which can cause significant distress, affecting other parts of their lives. I will help you break away from anything that is holding you back from being the person you truly desire to be. My style is eclectic, supporting individual needs, unlocking and developing each person's potential. With children and teens, I use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist clients in overcoming negative effects of the traumatic experience.
(805) 429-4057 View (805) 429-4057
Photo of Summer Sessions Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Summer Sessions Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPCC, LCSW, LCMHC, ACSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
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 Kimberli Andridge, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Kimberli Andridge
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Do you need someone to support you as you navigate painful experiences, or help you find ways to cope and heal? Maybe a space to show up authentically, without fear of judgement? Perhaps you're curious about the things that leave you feeling stuck, your early family dynamics, or the impact of society on your experiences? If you'd like to have space to explore the past, while also getting practical day-to-day suggestions, I can help you navigate a variety of concerns, resulting in meaningful, long-lasting changes and a more fulfilling life.
Do you need someone to support you as you navigate painful experiences, or help you find ways to cope and heal? Maybe a space to show up authentically, without fear of judgement? Perhaps you're curious about the things that leave you feeling stuck, your early family dynamics, or the impact of society on your experiences? If you'd like to have space to explore the past, while also getting practical day-to-day suggestions, I can help you navigate a variety of concerns, resulting in meaningful, long-lasting changes and a more fulfilling life.
(805) 918-6248 View (805) 918-6248
Photo of Hannah Morrison, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Hannah Morrison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
As a therapist, I am passionate about creating a safe space to explore a deeper understanding of yourself, others and the world . With empathy and trust, I will walk alongside you as you navigate feelings of anxiety, sadness, fear, self-criticism, doubt and shame. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, gain confidence and self-compassion, advocate for your needs, and live a life that you deem meaningful and authentic to you.
As a therapist, I am passionate about creating a safe space to explore a deeper understanding of yourself, others and the world . With empathy and trust, I will walk alongside you as you navigate feelings of anxiety, sadness, fear, self-criticism, doubt and shame. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, gain confidence and self-compassion, advocate for your needs, and live a life that you deem meaningful and authentic to you.
(805) 723-2431 View (805) 723-2431
Photo of Seventh Wave Counseling-Lisa Huet, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Seventh Wave Counseling-Lisa Huet, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Life brings some challenges to all of us and sorting these out can be difficult for the most competent of individuals. My hope is to help you find the clarity you seek so you can enjoy your life to the fullest by creating an accepting environment to support your journey to a better life. I have always been curious about people and what makes us think one way or another. I have had the opportunity to serve people in this area for over 20 years at different agencies and have worked with very diverse folks. I would love the opportunity to help you discover some unexplored part of yourself that can deepen satisfaction in your life.
Life brings some challenges to all of us and sorting these out can be difficult for the most competent of individuals. My hope is to help you find the clarity you seek so you can enjoy your life to the fullest by creating an accepting environment to support your journey to a better life. I have always been curious about people and what makes us think one way or another. I have had the opportunity to serve people in this area for over 20 years at different agencies and have worked with very diverse folks. I would love the opportunity to help you discover some unexplored part of yourself that can deepen satisfaction in your life.
(805) 262-8434 View (805) 262-8434
Photo of Ellen Morgan Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Ellen Morgan Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
(805) 303-5480 View (805) 303-5480
Photo of Lynn Marie, M.A., L.M.F.T., Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Lynn Marie, M.A., L.M.F.T.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grover Beach, CA 93433  (Online Only)
Licensed since 1999, my goal is to provide you with a compassionate, supportive, and holistic approach to improving depression, anxiety, trauma, grief issues, stress and pain management. As we work together, my focus is to help you to overcome the challenges of daily life, and support you as you move up to your next level of confidence and well-being.
Licensed since 1999, my goal is to provide you with a compassionate, supportive, and holistic approach to improving depression, anxiety, trauma, grief issues, stress and pain management. As we work together, my focus is to help you to overcome the challenges of daily life, and support you as you move up to your next level of confidence and well-being.
(805) 590-2566 View (805) 590-2566
Photo of Lauren Phelps, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Lauren Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paso Robles, CA 93446
Are you seeking a trustworthy ally to navigate your fears, hopes, and aspirations? Perhaps you’re struggling to break free from negative coping habits or you're exploring unconventional paths, such as consensual non-monogamous relationships or LGBTQIA2+ identities, and desire affirming support. I specialize in providing a safe, affirming space where you can explore your unique journey. Through somatic psychology techniques, we can uncover insights and transform unhelpful patterns. You deserve to be authentically seen and celebrated for your contributions to the world.
Are you seeking a trustworthy ally to navigate your fears, hopes, and aspirations? Perhaps you’re struggling to break free from negative coping habits or you're exploring unconventional paths, such as consensual non-monogamous relationships or LGBTQIA2+ identities, and desire affirming support. I specialize in providing a safe, affirming space where you can explore your unique journey. Through somatic psychology techniques, we can uncover insights and transform unhelpful patterns. You deserve to be authentically seen and celebrated for your contributions to the world.
(805) 369-1068 View (805) 369-1068
Photo of Summer Myers, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Summer Myers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405  (Online Only)
Anxiety, shame, and chronic guilt; you don’t know how to relax, and you probably don’t sleep very well. The perfectionism is crippling, and you're exhausted. Maybe you're a people-pleaser with terrible boundaries, or a former “gifted and talented” kid, or a child of immigrants always reaching for "good enough." Your inner critic is loud. Anxious perfectionism may also show up as body tension and panic attacks; procrastination and indecision; an overwhelming to-do list; and difficulty in relationships. Perfectionists don't already do things perfectly—they feel like they HAVE to do better, but they’re ALWAYS falling short.
Anxiety, shame, and chronic guilt; you don’t know how to relax, and you probably don’t sleep very well. The perfectionism is crippling, and you're exhausted. Maybe you're a people-pleaser with terrible boundaries, or a former “gifted and talented” kid, or a child of immigrants always reaching for "good enough." Your inner critic is loud. Anxious perfectionism may also show up as body tension and panic attacks; procrastination and indecision; an overwhelming to-do list; and difficulty in relationships. Perfectionists don't already do things perfectly—they feel like they HAVE to do better, but they’re ALWAYS falling short.
(805) 303-8571 View (805) 303-8571
Photo of Katrina Foster, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Katrina Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atascadero, CA 93422  (Online Only)
What is it that you desire? Are you looking for greater self-awareness, more rewarding relationships, resolution of difficulties from your past? With gentle curiosity we can help you learn new ways to access your authentic strength, tenderness, resilience, and pleasure. Therapy is a compassionate, nonjudgemental space where we can deepen into trust and connection to explore what may be holding you back from having the life you want. I am committed to providing a safe, trauma-informed, sex-positive, body-positive, LGBTQ+ friendly, and social justice-oriented practice. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
What is it that you desire? Are you looking for greater self-awareness, more rewarding relationships, resolution of difficulties from your past? With gentle curiosity we can help you learn new ways to access your authentic strength, tenderness, resilience, and pleasure. Therapy is a compassionate, nonjudgemental space where we can deepen into trust and connection to explore what may be holding you back from having the life you want. I am committed to providing a safe, trauma-informed, sex-positive, body-positive, LGBTQ+ friendly, and social justice-oriented practice. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
(628) 227-5126 View (628) 227-5126
Photo of Lindsay Beck, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Lindsay Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
Is everyone getting pregnant around you and you've been trying for years? Are you stressed and tired going through assisted reproductive treatments? Did you have a baby and it’s not all you thought it would be? Are you struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety? Has the transition to parents been difficult on your relationship? You are NOT alone. Do you want a safe space to be validated, learn coping skills and be supported? I am here for you.
Is everyone getting pregnant around you and you've been trying for years? Are you stressed and tired going through assisted reproductive treatments? Did you have a baby and it’s not all you thought it would be? Are you struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety? Has the transition to parents been difficult on your relationship? You are NOT alone. Do you want a safe space to be validated, learn coping skills and be supported? I am here for you.
(805) 727-4135 View (805) 727-4135
Photo of Erin Lindvall, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Erin Lindvall
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, FAPA
Verified Verified
I love my work as a psychotherapist, and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients and share in their quest for personal growth. I know that the decision to start therapy is often a difficult one. I applaud your willingness and initiative. My approach aims to engage, to inspire, and to help you imagine new possibilities. My goal is to assist you in developing tools and skills that enable you to more effectively deal with life and its challenges.
I love my work as a psychotherapist, and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients and share in their quest for personal growth. I know that the decision to start therapy is often a difficult one. I applaud your willingness and initiative. My approach aims to engage, to inspire, and to help you imagine new possibilities. My goal is to assist you in developing tools and skills that enable you to more effectively deal with life and its challenges.
(805) 876-9601 View (805) 876-9601
Photo of Gabriel Solla, Associate Clinical Social Worker in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Gabriel Solla
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gabriel is a Central Coast native equipped with thirteen years in the field, caring experience includes providing in-home supportive care, long-term residential crisis recovery, and intensive outpatient treatment. Deeply knowledgeable, he understands the complexities of how mental health impacts the individual, family, and more.
Gabriel is a Central Coast native equipped with thirteen years in the field, caring experience includes providing in-home supportive care, long-term residential crisis recovery, and intensive outpatient treatment. Deeply knowledgeable, he understands the complexities of how mental health impacts the individual, family, and more.
(805) 856-6497 View (805) 856-6497

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Feminist Therapists

How does feminist therapy work?

Feminist therapy sessions are not only personal but often cultural or political in nature, as the approach is based on the belief that people are affected by, and often struggle with, cultural and societal norms and biases, and need to move beyond those external pressures or stressors to tap their own confidence and engage more fully in their own identity. Sessions may therefore include discussions of sexism, diversity, and gender issues and talk of steps toward greater empowerment for patients who believe they have been silenced and seek to raise their voices.

What are examples of feminist therapy techniques?

Along with traditional talk therapy and analysis, a feminist therapist may employ techniques such as role-playing and assertiveness training to help clients build their self-esteem so that they feel they can act freely, and not based on cultural expectations or gender roles dictated by others. A feminist therapist may also engage in bibliotherapy, offering suggested readings on gender identity or social power inequities as they work toward viewing mental-health concerns through a broad cultural lens before focusing on how they affect the individual. Somatic therapy techniques, with an emphasis on body awareness, self-compassion, and mindfulness practices are also often part of feminist therapist practice.

How long does feminist therapy last?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for feminist therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. It may take some time to become comfortable discussing personal issues, but once a client feels they can do so, they could expect therapy to last for a number of months, typically including at least 12 sessions.

Does feminist therapy work?

As a relatively recent therapeutic technique, there is not yet a body of evidence proving the efficacy of feminist therapy. However, the approach is based on proven core principles of talk therapy, with a particular emphasis on developing a therapeutic relationship based on equality and authentic connection between therapist and client and discovering and building on clients’ personal strengths to help them gain a greater sense of personal power and agency.