Photo of Shennie Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, CA
Shennie Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I have extensive experience working with with issues ranging from general anxiety to addiction, to exploring and identifying sexuality and gender and the LGBTQ+ community.
Welcome to my profile, I am glad you're here! I would be honored to provide a safe place for you to work towards healing and transformation. Your experience in therapy will be tailored to your needs, as we all experience life differently. As we work together to discover a deeper understanding of you and your patterns, you will be seen, heard, understood and supported. My approach is client-centered and strengths-based, fostering an environment where you can be open, honest and vulnerable. This can influence your relationship with self and others, creating change and growth in a positive direction.
I have extensive experience working with with issues ranging from general anxiety to addiction, to exploring and identifying sexuality and gender and the LGBTQ+ community.
Welcome to my profile, I am glad you're here! I would be honored to provide a safe place for you to work towards healing and transformation. Your experience in therapy will be tailored to your needs, as we all experience life differently. As we work together to discover a deeper understanding of you and your patterns, you will be seen, heard, understood and supported. My approach is client-centered and strengths-based, fostering an environment where you can be open, honest and vulnerable. This can influence your relationship with self and others, creating change and growth in a positive direction.
(805) 219-7304 View (805) 219-7304
Photo of Kirsty Evelyn Kenny, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, CA
Kirsty Evelyn Kenny
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Keeping the busy client's needs in mind, I offer evening and weekend time slots - through teletherapy and in-person. I work with clients who are looking for long term treatment, in addition to client's who are interested in short term, solution focused care. Each client's treatment is personalized, using the modalities that work best for them. Each client has unique needs, and so, each client receives unique care and treatment.
Keeping the busy client's needs in mind, I offer evening and weekend time slots - through teletherapy and in-person. I work with clients who are looking for long term treatment, in addition to client's who are interested in short term, solution focused care. Each client's treatment is personalized, using the modalities that work best for them. Each client has unique needs, and so, each client receives unique care and treatment.
(805) 900-4216 View (805) 900-4216
Photo of Jenaii Gold Ph.D., MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, CA
Jenaii Gold Ph.D., MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My work as a therapist is to meet each individual in her own process with understanding and compassion. My background is in family systems, Jungian psychology, art, and Buddhist practice. I specialize in treating clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, and/or trauma and those who may have suffered for some time without relief. Depth therapy often includes work with dreams, EMDR, art, and sand tray. I enjoy working with people from diverse cultures and orientations. As a supervisor for 25 years, I also enjoy working with interns on their way to licensure. Buddhist mindfulness practice informs my life and work.
My work as a therapist is to meet each individual in her own process with understanding and compassion. My background is in family systems, Jungian psychology, art, and Buddhist practice. I specialize in treating clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, and/or trauma and those who may have suffered for some time without relief. Depth therapy often includes work with dreams, EMDR, art, and sand tray. I enjoy working with people from diverse cultures and orientations. As a supervisor for 25 years, I also enjoy working with interns on their way to licensure. Buddhist mindfulness practice informs my life and work.
(707) 927-1372 View (707) 927-1372
Photo of Daniel Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, CA
Daniel Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, APCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I've spent my career as a therapist helping children, adults, and couples deal with difficult emotions, relationships, and trauma. I practice trauma informed care even when trauma isn't the focus. In my office you will find radical acceptance, compassion, and a fellow traveler on your journey. I understand that starting therapy can be difficult, especially the first time, so I take the time to build a caring relationship. Therapy wont be sterile or rushed or cookie cutter. You can expect to reduce suffering, strengthen your authentic self, challenge beliefs, foster resiliency, and create more space for curiosity and compassion.
I've spent my career as a therapist helping children, adults, and couples deal with difficult emotions, relationships, and trauma. I practice trauma informed care even when trauma isn't the focus. In my office you will find radical acceptance, compassion, and a fellow traveler on your journey. I understand that starting therapy can be difficult, especially the first time, so I take the time to build a caring relationship. Therapy wont be sterile or rushed or cookie cutter. You can expect to reduce suffering, strengthen your authentic self, challenge beliefs, foster resiliency, and create more space for curiosity and compassion.
(805) 324-6623 View (805) 324-6623
Photo of Jenny Ziesenhenne, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 93101, CA
Jenny Ziesenhenne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Welcome, I’m happy you’re here! I work with children and individuals of all ages suffering with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, eco-anxiety/grief, anger, relationship issues, isolation, and life transitions. I offer a safe environment to explore emotions and express your authentic self, with the intention to improve your relationship with yourself, your loved ones, and your extended systems. We’ll be a good match if you want a warm, gentle, accepting presence to guide you through the process of therapy.
Welcome, I’m happy you’re here! I work with children and individuals of all ages suffering with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, eco-anxiety/grief, anger, relationship issues, isolation, and life transitions. I offer a safe environment to explore emotions and express your authentic self, with the intention to improve your relationship with yourself, your loved ones, and your extended systems. We’ll be a good match if you want a warm, gentle, accepting presence to guide you through the process of therapy.
(805) 790-8567 View (805) 790-8567
Photo of Symbria Coultas, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in 93101, CA
Symbria Coultas
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages and backgrounds, creating a treatment plan that is unique to you or your family. I incorporate a variety of evidence-based modalities and psychodynamic approaches to strengthen emotional regulation, build interpersonal skills, and address the impact of traumatic encounters. Through the therapeutic process, we will begin to establish safety and trust, explore unconscious beliefs, and enhance self-awareness and compassion. I have over 10 years of experience working in mental health and am passionate about the human experience and emotional well-being.
I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages and backgrounds, creating a treatment plan that is unique to you or your family. I incorporate a variety of evidence-based modalities and psychodynamic approaches to strengthen emotional regulation, build interpersonal skills, and address the impact of traumatic encounters. Through the therapeutic process, we will begin to establish safety and trust, explore unconscious beliefs, and enhance self-awareness and compassion. I have over 10 years of experience working in mental health and am passionate about the human experience and emotional well-being.
(805) 600-5283 View (805) 600-5283
Photo of Marisol Murillo, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, CA
Marisol Murillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
It is my privilege to support folks in their healing, growth and attaining their desired changes. In my 13 yrs in practice, I developed an eclectic approach in which I try to get clients their progress as early as possible, customizing a variety of methods. During sessions, I give my full attention, compassion, skills-teaching, and honest feedback. I customize sessions for what they need (consider their upbringing, values, goals & ability). I work with clients of a wide range of cultural, political, religious, or spiritual backgrounds/value systems. Focus is on clients feeling more self-empowered, at peace & self-satisfied.
It is my privilege to support folks in their healing, growth and attaining their desired changes. In my 13 yrs in practice, I developed an eclectic approach in which I try to get clients their progress as early as possible, customizing a variety of methods. During sessions, I give my full attention, compassion, skills-teaching, and honest feedback. I customize sessions for what they need (consider their upbringing, values, goals & ability). I work with clients of a wide range of cultural, political, religious, or spiritual backgrounds/value systems. Focus is on clients feeling more self-empowered, at peace & self-satisfied.
(805) 222-6185 View (805) 222-6185
Photo of Ryan George, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, CA
Ryan George
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Welcome! I help people with a variety of problems, from depression and anxiety to trauma and recovery. I can help you. I am a depth therapist (seeing causes, rather than only symptoms) and a somatic therapist (integrating a healthy mind and body), and I've found that more important than my background is a non-judgmental attitude, attention to your personal needs, and the quality of a collaborative therapy relationship. I'm on your side. My clients gain crucial insights, learn essential coping skills and dramatically improve their relationships, outlook, and prospects for the future. Their lives become much more vital and satisfying.
Welcome! I help people with a variety of problems, from depression and anxiety to trauma and recovery. I can help you. I am a depth therapist (seeing causes, rather than only symptoms) and a somatic therapist (integrating a healthy mind and body), and I've found that more important than my background is a non-judgmental attitude, attention to your personal needs, and the quality of a collaborative therapy relationship. I'm on your side. My clients gain crucial insights, learn essential coping skills and dramatically improve their relationships, outlook, and prospects for the future. Their lives become much more vital and satisfying.
(805) 395-4533 View (805) 395-4533
Photo of Denise Jaimes-Villanueva, Psychologist in 93101, CA
Denise Jaimes-Villanueva
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I am a bilingual and bicultural psychologist and it is an honor to support those that are on the path of healing and growth. I specialize in working with people of all ages that suffer from anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, and intimate partner violence. I also work with children and their caregivers to strengthen their attachment. In therapy I introduce the concepts of how being connected to our cultural traditions, values and ancestors can lead to a happier life. “Sana”, means “heal” in Spanish. It is my hope to help individuals, couples, and families heal through learning how to live more peaceful and fulfilling lives.
I am a bilingual and bicultural psychologist and it is an honor to support those that are on the path of healing and growth. I specialize in working with people of all ages that suffer from anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, and intimate partner violence. I also work with children and their caregivers to strengthen their attachment. In therapy I introduce the concepts of how being connected to our cultural traditions, values and ancestors can lead to a happier life. “Sana”, means “heal” in Spanish. It is my hope to help individuals, couples, and families heal through learning how to live more peaceful and fulfilling lives.
(805) 212-5064 View (805) 212-5064
Photo of Kady Fleckenstein, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 93101, CA
Kady Fleckenstein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Now accepting CA couples, families, adults, teens and children (13+) for in-person and telehealth sessions! Have you tried therapy before and felt you kept walking away without tangible tools for change? Are you new to therapy and unsure where to start? Whether your problems feel small or insurmountable, therapy is an excellent way to learn new ways to face any obstacle. Sometimes we're not sure what exactly is wrong but that we just want things to change. In my practice, I provide an honest, compassionate approach that empowers you to become your best self. If you are looking for change and growth, you're in the right place!
Now accepting CA couples, families, adults, teens and children (13+) for in-person and telehealth sessions! Have you tried therapy before and felt you kept walking away without tangible tools for change? Are you new to therapy and unsure where to start? Whether your problems feel small or insurmountable, therapy is an excellent way to learn new ways to face any obstacle. Sometimes we're not sure what exactly is wrong but that we just want things to change. In my practice, I provide an honest, compassionate approach that empowers you to become your best self. If you are looking for change and growth, you're in the right place!
(805) 303-5383 View (805) 303-5383
Photo of Marilyn J Meyer (Formerly Owen), Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, CA
Marilyn J Meyer (Formerly Owen)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Many of my clients are those who tend to give too much, disconnect from their own needs and desires, feel depressed and anxious, and/or experience chronic pain. They are often highly sensitive and imaginative, helpers and healers, with literary, artistic, or philosophical leanings. They are all seeking to heal inner conflicts and relationship problems rooted in early attachment wounds or traumatic experiences. Most importantly, my clients have come to recognize it's time to do their inner work in order to create the outer life they want, and they continue to grow and deepen into their innate wisdom long after therapy has ended.
Many of my clients are those who tend to give too much, disconnect from their own needs and desires, feel depressed and anxious, and/or experience chronic pain. They are often highly sensitive and imaginative, helpers and healers, with literary, artistic, or philosophical leanings. They are all seeking to heal inner conflicts and relationship problems rooted in early attachment wounds or traumatic experiences. Most importantly, my clients have come to recognize it's time to do their inner work in order to create the outer life they want, and they continue to grow and deepen into their innate wisdom long after therapy has ended.
(805) 413-4895 View (805) 413-4895
Photo of Dr. Debra Sherk, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, CA
Dr. Debra Sherk
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (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.
(805) 585-5969 View (805) 585-5969
Photo of The Mindful Lemon, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, 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 Crystal C Ramirez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, CA
Crystal C Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Whether you're struggling with work, relationships or life changes our time together can alleviate confusion and suffering. You may be struggling with trauma triggers, family of origin patterns, or social and cultural pressures. Sometimes life is simply uncertain and overwhelming. You can create a life of intention and authenticity moving beyond unconscious reactions to insight and meaning. You will be in a safe place to honestly tend to your feelings and needs. I work holistically and respect you as a whole person who is uniquely coping with what has happened to you.
Whether you're struggling with work, relationships or life changes our time together can alleviate confusion and suffering. You may be struggling with trauma triggers, family of origin patterns, or social and cultural pressures. Sometimes life is simply uncertain and overwhelming. You can create a life of intention and authenticity moving beyond unconscious reactions to insight and meaning. You will be in a safe place to honestly tend to your feelings and needs. I work holistically and respect you as a whole person who is uniquely coping with what has happened to you.
(805) 243-2057 View (805) 243-2057
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93101, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-1330 View (562) 268-1330
Photo of Katrina A Pesl, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, CA
Katrina A Pesl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Realizing there are times that are too overwhelming to handle on your own is scary. My approach to psychotherapy is to create a warm, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that supports children, families and adults through whatever life circumstance they are struggling with. I encompass a gentle yet direct approach with my clients, and ensure every unique individual diversity is honored and respected. I draw upon therapeutic modalities that help the individual re-establish a relationship with their lost inner strengths and opening new perspectives that foster more self love and compassion.
Realizing there are times that are too overwhelming to handle on your own is scary. My approach to psychotherapy is to create a warm, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that supports children, families and adults through whatever life circumstance they are struggling with. I encompass a gentle yet direct approach with my clients, and ensure every unique individual diversity is honored and respected. I draw upon therapeutic modalities that help the individual re-establish a relationship with their lost inner strengths and opening new perspectives that foster more self love and compassion.
(559) 296-7231 View (559) 296-7231
Photo of Nikki Thibault, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, CA
Nikki Thibault
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Not accepting new clients
I am dedicated to helping children, adolescents and adults improve their quality of life. My background in education and child development has led me into the field of therapy, and I am inspired to help support children, as well as adults as they navigate through life challenges. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship and a deeper understanding of oneself can lead to improvements in relationships and overall better mental health. I have experience working with, but not limited to, relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and identity development.
I am dedicated to helping children, adolescents and adults improve their quality of life. My background in education and child development has led me into the field of therapy, and I am inspired to help support children, as well as adults as they navigate through life challenges. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship and a deeper understanding of oneself can lead to improvements in relationships and overall better mental health. I have experience working with, but not limited to, relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and identity development.
(805) 262-5027 View (805) 262-5027
LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.