Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA
Rachel Finch Sulka
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
If you are browsing this site, you are likely looking for a safe, competent person to help you sort through a difficult issue. I am a warm, highly experienced therapist with specialties in the areas of eating disorders, codependency, addiction, attachment trauma, and spiritual abuse. I understand the complexity and depth of disordered eating and body-related issues. Also, if you suspect you may have a parent or significant figure in your life with a personality disorder, I can help you heal the attachment trauma and empower your true self. I also work with those navigating relationship with church and spirituality.
If you are browsing this site, you are likely looking for a safe, competent person to help you sort through a difficult issue. I am a warm, highly experienced therapist with specialties in the areas of eating disorders, codependency, addiction, attachment trauma, and spiritual abuse. I understand the complexity and depth of disordered eating and body-related issues. Also, if you suspect you may have a parent or significant figure in your life with a personality disorder, I can help you heal the attachment trauma and empower your true self. I also work with those navigating relationship with church and spirituality.
Welcome to my practice! I am a licensed clinical psychologist and consultant. I specialize in using science based information and strategies to help my clients change their mindsets, increase self-worth, and overcome negative coping mechanisms. Areas of specialty include anxiety, eating disorders, addiction, and empowering clients on how to use their mind to change their brain, so that they may reach their potential. My approach is strongly influence by Interpersonal Neurobiology, Psychodynamic Theory, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I also offer EMDR, an evidence based therapy for trauma.
Welcome to my practice! I am a licensed clinical psychologist and consultant. I specialize in using science based information and strategies to help my clients change their mindsets, increase self-worth, and overcome negative coping mechanisms. Areas of specialty include anxiety, eating disorders, addiction, and empowering clients on how to use their mind to change their brain, so that they may reach their potential. My approach is strongly influence by Interpersonal Neurobiology, Psychodynamic Theory, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I also offer EMDR, an evidence based therapy for trauma.
Imagine being listened to with complete attention, without interruption or judgment in a confidential, supportive environment. I am both practical and holistic in my commitment to focus short-term on a specific problem or, to work over time to find what is lacking in your life that causes suffering. Through exploring and making transitions in relationships, career, creativity, sexuality and spirituality including dreams, we will solve or get beyond obstacles and grieve losses together, and relate them to the present. I can help guide the process in a compassionate and timely fashion, mediate any pain and give your future hope.
Imagine being listened to with complete attention, without interruption or judgment in a confidential, supportive environment. I am both practical and holistic in my commitment to focus short-term on a specific problem or, to work over time to find what is lacking in your life that causes suffering. Through exploring and making transitions in relationships, career, creativity, sexuality and spirituality including dreams, we will solve or get beyond obstacles and grieve losses together, and relate them to the present. I can help guide the process in a compassionate and timely fashion, mediate any pain and give your future hope.
Brionna Ottē
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (Online Only)
Do you feel like doubt, old patterns, and worry keep you stuck? Do you tend to feel anxious, depressed, numb, or stressed out, but you put those feelings to the side because you have responsibilities? You’re used to powering through things but also SO tired of feeling the way you do. You want more tools to deal with what life has thrown at you so you can become unstuck.
Do you feel like doubt, old patterns, and worry keep you stuck? Do you tend to feel anxious, depressed, numb, or stressed out, but you put those feelings to the side because you have responsibilities? You’re used to powering through things but also SO tired of feeling the way you do. You want more tools to deal with what life has thrown at you so you can become unstuck.
I am trained in Family Therapy and although not always the case, therapy often moves faster when you are willing to include other family members as a part of therapy at some point. It helps me understand you in the broader context of the people that are important to you or have influence in your life. I have been married for 34 years and have three adult children so my personal experience often informs me, along with my training and the expertise I have gathered being a part of The Family Therapy Institute.
I am trained in Family Therapy and although not always the case, therapy often moves faster when you are willing to include other family members as a part of therapy at some point. It helps me understand you in the broader context of the people that are important to you or have influence in your life. I have been married for 34 years and have three adult children so my personal experience often informs me, along with my training and the expertise I have gathered being a part of The Family Therapy Institute.
Theresa Leone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I am a collaborative therapist who works with clients to identify their priorities and goals. We will work together to create a plan to achieve what is most important to you whether it be seeking deeper connections in relationships, more fulfilling professional pursuits, or simply being more confident and experiencing feelings of greater well-being.
I am a collaborative therapist who works with clients to identify their priorities and goals. We will work together to create a plan to achieve what is most important to you whether it be seeking deeper connections in relationships, more fulfilling professional pursuits, or simply being more confident and experiencing feelings of greater well-being.
Brandon Kyle Guresky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
In 2020, I opened a private practice. I was blessed it grew to full capacity but dealt with sadness of turning people away due to no space. Frequently people shared their difficulties with finding therapy. I am tired of people and families, who are suffering emotionally not getting the help they need. So, I put together a group of several skilled clinicians. We operate by providing a therapy environment that is confidential and emotionally safe. We’re dedicated to making people feel comfortable and understood when discussing the most sensitive issues. Our goal is to ensure support that is empathetic and non-judgmental.
In 2020, I opened a private practice. I was blessed it grew to full capacity but dealt with sadness of turning people away due to no space. Frequently people shared their difficulties with finding therapy. I am tired of people and families, who are suffering emotionally not getting the help they need. So, I put together a group of several skilled clinicians. We operate by providing a therapy environment that is confidential and emotionally safe. We’re dedicated to making people feel comfortable and understood when discussing the most sensitive issues. Our goal is to ensure support that is empathetic and non-judgmental.
People seek me out when feeling dissatisfied with their life in some way, and together we work on creative & effective ways to: identify & manage emotions; be more present; feel more calm & joyful; increase self-compassion & self-esteem; build healthier relationships; move towards goals & dreams; and connect with their authentic self. Maybe you've never tried therapy and want to check it out, or you've "done therapy" in the past, but seek a different approach or are tired of "just talking." Trained in art therapy, EMDR, dreamwork, mindfulness, somatic awareness & more, I offer unique, affirming & integrative therapy experiences.
People seek me out when feeling dissatisfied with their life in some way, and together we work on creative & effective ways to: identify & manage emotions; be more present; feel more calm & joyful; increase self-compassion & self-esteem; build healthier relationships; move towards goals & dreams; and connect with their authentic self. Maybe you've never tried therapy and want to check it out, or you've "done therapy" in the past, but seek a different approach or are tired of "just talking." Trained in art therapy, EMDR, dreamwork, mindfulness, somatic awareness & more, I offer unique, affirming & integrative therapy experiences.
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.
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.
Jolene Guilliams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Somatic Psychotherapy. Somatic simply means "relating to the body" and in therapy this means that I have been uniquely trained to integrate the wisdom from our biology into treatment. Our bodies relate information that, should we choose to listen, can support our overall mental health. This way of working can have profound effects on anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, and disordered eating. The clients that receive maximum benefit from my approach have an open mind about how the body influences thoughts, not just how thoughts influence the body.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Somatic Psychotherapy. Somatic simply means "relating to the body" and in therapy this means that I have been uniquely trained to integrate the wisdom from our biology into treatment. Our bodies relate information that, should we choose to listen, can support our overall mental health. This way of working can have profound effects on anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, and disordered eating. The clients that receive maximum benefit from my approach have an open mind about how the body influences thoughts, not just how thoughts influence the body.
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Jared Roehrig
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I help people relate to self, family members, and others in healthier ways. Together we will discover new insights into symptoms, unhelpful patterns, and memories that keep you from embracing your creative life. I come from a background in education and creative writing and specialize in partnering with the unconscious to understand your unique challenges and gifts. I appreciate wherever you are coming from on this stage of your life journey, and will provide a non-judgmental place to explore it all. I treat therapy as a sacred space, where every part of you belongs. Let's discover who you are.
I help people relate to self, family members, and others in healthier ways. Together we will discover new insights into symptoms, unhelpful patterns, and memories that keep you from embracing your creative life. I come from a background in education and creative writing and specialize in partnering with the unconscious to understand your unique challenges and gifts. I appreciate wherever you are coming from on this stage of your life journey, and will provide a non-judgmental place to explore it all. I treat therapy as a sacred space, where every part of you belongs. Let's discover who you are.
Over the past 30+ years, I have had the honor of treating people of all ages from all walks of life. I am a licensed psychologist with experience treating various types of depression, mood difficulties, anxiety, stress, OCD, as well as relationship or couple-related conflict. My approach draws from cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic therapies supported by research, and is tailored to meet the specific needs of the individual. I also offer Gottman Method Couples Therapy for those who want to improve their relationship. Recently retired from UCSB, I offer therapy to students who have the UC SHIP insurance at no cost to them.
Over the past 30+ years, I have had the honor of treating people of all ages from all walks of life. I am a licensed psychologist with experience treating various types of depression, mood difficulties, anxiety, stress, OCD, as well as relationship or couple-related conflict. My approach draws from cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic therapies supported by research, and is tailored to meet the specific needs of the individual. I also offer Gottman Method Couples Therapy for those who want to improve their relationship. Recently retired from UCSB, I offer therapy to students who have the UC SHIP insurance at no cost to them.
My name is Dr. Amanda Carter, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in the testing and evaluation of children and teens. I offer comprehensive evaluations which provide families a holistic picture of their child and how their symptoms, learning, development, and emotions all connect. I want you to leave the evaluation process feeling like your child was really seen and that you have a deeper understanding of how their mind works.
My name is Dr. Amanda Carter, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in the testing and evaluation of children and teens. I offer comprehensive evaluations which provide families a holistic picture of their child and how their symptoms, learning, development, and emotions all connect. I want you to leave the evaluation process feeling like your child was really seen and that you have a deeper understanding of how their mind works.
From birth through death, each stage of life is dynamic and valuable. Through these stages, we sometimes encounter challenges beyond our own capacity and we need to reach out for help. I believe in healing. I believe we all have the capacity to recover and learn deeply about ourselves through our most challenging experiences. I enjoy working with people of all ages and in all life stages.
From birth through death, each stage of life is dynamic and valuable. Through these stages, we sometimes encounter challenges beyond our own capacity and we need to reach out for help. I believe in healing. I believe we all have the capacity to recover and learn deeply about ourselves through our most challenging experiences. I enjoy working with people of all ages and in all life stages.
Addiction is more than just a struggle with substances; it's a profound battle that affects every aspect of an individual's life. It can strain relationships, disrupt careers, and take a toll on your health, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and stuck in a cycle of pain. I understand how hard it can be to break free, especially when the weight of shame or fear of judgment feels heavy. But you don’t have to go through this alone—it’s okay to ask for help. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths and equip you with new tools to regain control and move forward.
Addiction is more than just a struggle with substances; it's a profound battle that affects every aspect of an individual's life. It can strain relationships, disrupt careers, and take a toll on your health, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and stuck in a cycle of pain. I understand how hard it can be to break free, especially when the weight of shame or fear of judgment feels heavy. But you don’t have to go through this alone—it’s okay to ask for help. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths and equip you with new tools to regain control and move forward.
Change happens all the time, big and small. Sometimes it's unexpected , and sometimes you make it happen. It can be challenging, exciting, and worth living for; at the same time, it can be scary and upsetting. Losing everyday predictability can lead to uncomfortable feelings. And yet, we're always growing and moving from one set of challenges to another; from child to adult to parent; from family life to an empty nest or being alone; from one job to another, or from active career to retirement; from being single to being committed to another, or from commitment to independence.
Change happens all the time, big and small. Sometimes it's unexpected , and sometimes you make it happen. It can be challenging, exciting, and worth living for; at the same time, it can be scary and upsetting. Losing everyday predictability can lead to uncomfortable feelings. And yet, we're always growing and moving from one set of challenges to another; from child to adult to parent; from family life to an empty nest or being alone; from one job to another, or from active career to retirement; from being single to being committed to another, or from commitment to independence.
Sherrie Anne Mondello
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Hello and welcome to my practice! I'm glad that you're here. I’m Sherrie Mondello, an associate marriage and family therapist specializing in couples therapy and adult ADHD. If you and your partner are facing relationship challenges or find yourselves in frustrating arguments despite caring deeply for each other, I’m here to help. Most of my clients come to me seeking help with communication. But relational wellness is more than just learning new skills; it’s about understanding why we don’t use them, especially in the midst of a conflict cycle. By exploring why we sometimes choose harshness or avoidance over respect and kindness,
Hello and welcome to my practice! I'm glad that you're here. I’m Sherrie Mondello, an associate marriage and family therapist specializing in couples therapy and adult ADHD. If you and your partner are facing relationship challenges or find yourselves in frustrating arguments despite caring deeply for each other, I’m here to help. Most of my clients come to me seeking help with communication. But relational wellness is more than just learning new skills; it’s about understanding why we don’t use them, especially in the midst of a conflict cycle. By exploring why we sometimes choose harshness or avoidance over respect and kindness,
Madeleine Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I believe that the strength of our relationships shapes how fulfilling our lives are. I specialize in working with couples who are facing transitions and/or conflict in their relationship and individuals who struggle with relationships and their sense of self. Together, we will work towards deeper understanding and freedom from negative and/or destructive repetitions that impact your life and relationships.
I believe that the strength of our relationships shapes how fulfilling our lives are. I specialize in working with couples who are facing transitions and/or conflict in their relationship and individuals who struggle with relationships and their sense of self. Together, we will work towards deeper understanding and freedom from negative and/or destructive repetitions that impact your life and relationships.
My clients present with mild-severe anxiety/depression, most often caused by trauma, grief/loss, emotional pain from attachment trauma experienced in childhood, due to various family dysfunctions. Most feel isolated, lonely and confused in their struggles, often ashamed that they cannot cope and too fearful to ask for help. Reaching out is a courageous step, and my clients seek to find relief from overwhelming emotions, to tell their story, be heard, seen, validated and understood from their perspective. In our sessions they improve awareness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation and coping through insight and renewed clarity.
My clients present with mild-severe anxiety/depression, most often caused by trauma, grief/loss, emotional pain from attachment trauma experienced in childhood, due to various family dysfunctions. Most feel isolated, lonely and confused in their struggles, often ashamed that they cannot cope and too fearful to ask for help. Reaching out is a courageous step, and my clients seek to find relief from overwhelming emotions, to tell their story, be heard, seen, validated and understood from their perspective. In our sessions they improve awareness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation and coping through insight and renewed clarity.
See more therapy options for Santa Barbara
Nearby Searches for Santa Barbara
- Buellton
- Carpinteria
- Goleta
- Isla Vista
- Los Olivos
- Montecito
- Oak View
- Ojai
- Santa Ynez
- Solvang
- Summerland
- Ventura
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA
900+
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
76% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Self Esteem |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Coping Skills |
63% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
65% | Aetna |
50% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
49% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Santa Barbara?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.