Photo of Daniel Zacarias Messiter, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Daniel Zacarias Messiter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Daniel is a graduate of Cal Poly’s Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy program.
Emotions are a river, and sometimes the current can feel overwhelming. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for people to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, and finding new insight and resolutions to the difficulties in your life.
Daniel is a graduate of Cal Poly’s Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy program.
Emotions are a river, and sometimes the current can feel overwhelming. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for people to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, and finding new insight and resolutions to the difficulties in your life.
(805) 516-0921 View (805) 516-0921
Photo of Denise Bila Seastrunk, RN, CNS, PhD, CTP
Denise Bila Seastrunk
RN, CNS, PhD, CTP
Verified Verified
I am experienced in individual, group, and marital therapy.
I treat clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors and transitions. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are experiencing all types of issues. Dealing with parenting and adolescence can be challenging, but these are the types of challenges I embrace. Whatever your issues or goals are in therapy, I can provide an integrated way of helping you due to my educational background and varied life experiences.
I am experienced in individual, group, and marital therapy.
I treat clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors and transitions. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are experiencing all types of issues. Dealing with parenting and adolescence can be challenging, but these are the types of challenges I embrace. Whatever your issues or goals are in therapy, I can provide an integrated way of helping you due to my educational background and varied life experiences.
(805) 244-6785 View (805) 244-6785
Photo of Bobby Tehrani, PsyD, Psychologist
Bobby Tehrani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
My primary focus in private practice is evaluation and assessment for a variety of psychological conditions, such as ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities and Personality Disorders. The second focus I have is treatment. I have an integrative approach to therapy in which I use multiple modalities that fit my clients’ individual needs. Some of the modalities I use are interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also view other factors that can affect the client, such as cultural, medical, and environmental factors.
My primary focus in private practice is evaluation and assessment for a variety of psychological conditions, such as ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities and Personality Disorders. The second focus I have is treatment. I have an integrative approach to therapy in which I use multiple modalities that fit my clients’ individual needs. Some of the modalities I use are interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also view other factors that can affect the client, such as cultural, medical, and environmental factors.
(805) 409-8239 View (805) 409-8239
Photo of Kelly Bell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
I do what I call "Nail on the head" therapy...if you want to put a nail in the wall, you get out a hammer, figure out where the stud is, and WHACK it on the head...you don't beat around it, you don't use your shoe, not if you want it to stay! Given this philosophy, I provide straightforward usable tools that will help YOU create the changes YOU most want to create...and I try to do so in a fairly short term manner. Check out my blog at: CreativeSolutionsCounseling.wordpress.com and see if my style of therapy is right for you...then give me a call and lets get starting on creating that changes that can really improve your life!
I do what I call "Nail on the head" therapy...if you want to put a nail in the wall, you get out a hammer, figure out where the stud is, and WHACK it on the head...you don't beat around it, you don't use your shoe, not if you want it to stay! Given this philosophy, I provide straightforward usable tools that will help YOU create the changes YOU most want to create...and I try to do so in a fairly short term manner. Check out my blog at: CreativeSolutionsCounseling.wordpress.com and see if my style of therapy is right for you...then give me a call and lets get starting on creating that changes that can really improve your life!
(805) 209-1046 View (805) 209-1046
Photo of Erin Elfant, PhD, Psychologist
Erin Elfant
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
If you are struggling with an eating disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety/phobia, depression/ bipolar, chronic pain/ medical condition, sleep disturbance, or dual diagnosis/ substance abuse, you will find that my treatment framework allows you make considerable progress in symptom reduction each week. To bolster our in-person psychotherapy sessions, I provide email exchange throughout the week (at no additional cost) to help you make further progress toward your treatment goals. You will find me to be very accessible, knowledgeable, compassionate, and effective at addressing your specific therapy needs, and you will make important life changes more quickly than imagined.
If you are struggling with an eating disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety/phobia, depression/ bipolar, chronic pain/ medical condition, sleep disturbance, or dual diagnosis/ substance abuse, you will find that my treatment framework allows you make considerable progress in symptom reduction each week. To bolster our in-person psychotherapy sessions, I provide email exchange throughout the week (at no additional cost) to help you make further progress toward your treatment goals. You will find me to be very accessible, knowledgeable, compassionate, and effective at addressing your specific therapy needs, and you will make important life changes more quickly than imagined.
(805) 467-7274 View (805) 467-7274
Photo of Tom Buckley, CADCIII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Tom Buckley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCIII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tom Buckley is the Executive Director of Aspire Counseling San Luis Obispo. Aspire SLO provides Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Services for Teens and Adults in an intensive outpatient setting. Do you or a loved one struggle with depression, anxiety, self harm, substances abuse, addiction issues, etc.? If so, call Aspire SLO at 805-329-5595 to speak with a counselor. To schedule an appointment 24/7 call 888-585-7373. Ask about or free weekly family support group!
Tom Buckley is the Executive Director of Aspire Counseling San Luis Obispo. Aspire SLO provides Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Services for Teens and Adults in an intensive outpatient setting. Do you or a loved one struggle with depression, anxiety, self harm, substances abuse, addiction issues, etc.? If so, call Aspire SLO at 805-329-5595 to speak with a counselor. To schedule an appointment 24/7 call 888-585-7373. Ask about or free weekly family support group!
(805) 549-5989 View (805) 549-5989
Photo of Dr. Nicole Dolan - Sacred Path Holistic Therapy, PhD , MA, LMFT, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sacred Path Holistic Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD , MA, LMFT, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
We are now open for new clients :) Holistic & Affordable Therapy! At Sacred Path, our qualified therapists are looking forward to helping you access Your inner resources to heal, grow, and reclaim your life. With the right help you can heal from old wounds, release negative cycles and patterns, resolve symptoms of trauma and gain relief from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other relational issues. True healing affords us the ability to create the life that we desire. A life lived with meaning. Dr. Dolan
We are now open for new clients :) Holistic & Affordable Therapy! At Sacred Path, our qualified therapists are looking forward to helping you access Your inner resources to heal, grow, and reclaim your life. With the right help you can heal from old wounds, release negative cycles and patterns, resolve symptoms of trauma and gain relief from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other relational issues. True healing affords us the ability to create the life that we desire. A life lived with meaning. Dr. Dolan
(805) 232-7580 View (805) 232-7580
Photo of Deborah Smilovitz Foster - Dr. Deborah Smilovitz Foster, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Deborah Smilovitz Foster
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Each of us passes through struggles that are difficult to cope with. In working together to form a therapeutic relationship we can become healthier and more able to react more skillfully to the challenges that present themselves. My work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families is based off a strong clinical foundation and woven together with compassion, respect and caring. By resolving some of our issues we can become balanced and find improved overall health (mentally, physically, spiritually, financially, emotionally).
Each of us passes through struggles that are difficult to cope with. In working together to form a therapeutic relationship we can become healthier and more able to react more skillfully to the challenges that present themselves. My work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families is based off a strong clinical foundation and woven together with compassion, respect and caring. By resolving some of our issues we can become balanced and find improved overall health (mentally, physically, spiritually, financially, emotionally).
(805) 324-6515 View (805) 324-6515
Photo of Halley Marie Moore, PhD, Psychologist
Halley Marie Moore
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Need PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING to finally discover what is happening? Would you like to finally resolve issues within yourself/family/family business effectively and permanently? My style/approach is unique; my background lends itself well to families with small and large businesses who are trying to keep ownership a positive dynamic. Consultation in my office does not feel like another "thing to get done." If you put in effort, you'll find that our work together will be life-changing. Time is never wasted; I will listen to you while giving you the feedback you are longing for. You'll find that you grow and get stronger by the minute.
Need PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING to finally discover what is happening? Would you like to finally resolve issues within yourself/family/family business effectively and permanently? My style/approach is unique; my background lends itself well to families with small and large businesses who are trying to keep ownership a positive dynamic. Consultation in my office does not feel like another "thing to get done." If you put in effort, you'll find that our work together will be life-changing. Time is never wasted; I will listen to you while giving you the feedback you are longing for. You'll find that you grow and get stronger by the minute.
(805) 319-7957 View (805) 319-7957
Photo of Denise Dritsas, PsyD, Psychologist
Denise Dritsas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
I believe in the human capacity to heal, accept, love, and grow from our life experiences. Our most treasured beliefs and relationships help us through the pain and difficult times in life. I believe there is no point so low from which we cannot only recover, but gain wisdom and strength as well. Therefore, I focus my treatment style on emotional and character growth, rather than simple symptom reduction.
I believe in the human capacity to heal, accept, love, and grow from our life experiences. Our most treasured beliefs and relationships help us through the pain and difficult times in life. I believe there is no point so low from which we cannot only recover, but gain wisdom and strength as well. Therefore, I focus my treatment style on emotional and character growth, rather than simple symptom reduction.
(559) 529-5789 View (559) 529-5789
Photo of Cyndy Smith, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cyndy Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Caseload is currently full. There are times when you may find life is too messy, too painful and you feel too alone with all of it. Therapy provides a time and place to share your inner struggles, fears and anxieties while receiving support, insight, perspective and new coping skills. The process allows you to heal and move forward with a stronger sense of who you've been, who you are now and who you are becoming.
Caseload is currently full. There are times when you may find life is too messy, too painful and you feel too alone with all of it. Therapy provides a time and place to share your inner struggles, fears and anxieties while receiving support, insight, perspective and new coping skills. The process allows you to heal and move forward with a stronger sense of who you've been, who you are now and who you are becoming.
(805) 633-4985 View (805) 633-4985
Photo of Dr. Holli Stewart - Dr Holli Stewart  & Associates in Counseling , MS , MA, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
(805) 876-9092 View (805) 876-9092
Photo of Megan Krause, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Krause
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a therapist who cares deeply about meeting each client where they are, taking time to honor their story and find ways towards healing and clarity. By using “Walk and Talk” therapy we are able to break free from the confines of a traditional therapy office, inviting movement to be included in the therapy process. During a session we can walk side by side, allowing the physical activity to help release endorphins and the natural surroundings provide a calming and grounding effect. My goal is for you to feel supported, challenged and encouraged in our work together.
I am a therapist who cares deeply about meeting each client where they are, taking time to honor their story and find ways towards healing and clarity. By using “Walk and Talk” therapy we are able to break free from the confines of a traditional therapy office, inviting movement to be included in the therapy process. During a session we can walk side by side, allowing the physical activity to help release endorphins and the natural surroundings provide a calming and grounding effect. My goal is for you to feel supported, challenged and encouraged in our work together.
(805) 793-1309 View (805) 793-1309
Photo of Pamela Kremza Andersen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pamela Kremza Andersen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
I am dedicated to hearing your story and helping you remove any roadblocks to your wellness. I have been helping people heal from eating disorders and body image issues since 2004. I have worked at both the Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization (PHP) levels of care. My extensive experience in this specialty allows me to understand the root causes of your struggles and not just treat the symptom. I work in treating the whole person in a compassionate way. I also have extensive training in trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and abuse.
I am dedicated to hearing your story and helping you remove any roadblocks to your wellness. I have been helping people heal from eating disorders and body image issues since 2004. I have worked at both the Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization (PHP) levels of care. My extensive experience in this specialty allows me to understand the root causes of your struggles and not just treat the symptom. I work in treating the whole person in a compassionate way. I also have extensive training in trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and abuse.
(805) 790-8784 View (805) 790-8784
Photo of Dr. Audrey Miller, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Audrey Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with over 10 years of experience who approaches therapy with warmth, compassion, and creativity. I help adults, couples, and teens identify maladaptive patterns that hinder living life in more authentic and purposeful ways. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and strength-based at its core, and therapeutic techniques used in therapy stem from an integrative, mind-body approach. I’m well-versed in utilizing a broad range of empirically-informed interventions and psychological assessments to treat the myriad complexities that come with our collectively shared human experiences.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 10 years of experience who approaches therapy with warmth, compassion, and creativity. I help adults, couples, and teens identify maladaptive patterns that hinder living life in more authentic and purposeful ways. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and strength-based at its core, and therapeutic techniques used in therapy stem from an integrative, mind-body approach. I’m well-versed in utilizing a broad range of empirically-informed interventions and psychological assessments to treat the myriad complexities that come with our collectively shared human experiences.
(805) 429-6086 View (805) 429-6086
Photo of Katty Richardson - Katty (Coffron) Richardson, PhD, LMFT, LPCC, PhD, LPCC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katty (Coffron) Richardson, PhD, LMFT, LPCC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Not accepting new clients
Both life and relationships can be challenging and it is easy to feel confused or hopeless as to how to make things better. You may be struggling with individual issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Or possibly you are dealing with relationship troubles. You may be longing for love and instead feeling disconnected, alone, and hurt. There are answers and options! I have invested in mastering well-researched, scientifically-proven approaches to individual/couples counseling that will help you get back on track! You can call or text me at 805-975-8399. I offer Teletherapy and I can bill any PPO plan for you.
Both life and relationships can be challenging and it is easy to feel confused or hopeless as to how to make things better. You may be struggling with individual issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Or possibly you are dealing with relationship troubles. You may be longing for love and instead feeling disconnected, alone, and hurt. There are answers and options! I have invested in mastering well-researched, scientifically-proven approaches to individual/couples counseling that will help you get back on track! You can call or text me at 805-975-8399. I offer Teletherapy and I can bill any PPO plan for you.
(805) 975-8399 View (805) 975-8399
Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.