Anxiety Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA

Photo of Ella Danielle Marie Lauser, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ella Danielle Marie Lauser
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I help deeply caring teens & adults find relief from being overwhelmed by unrealistic pressures & expectations, anxiety, trauma, & lack of confidence.
Have you ever felt like no one truly understands what you’re going through? Are you seeking to change how you feel and see yourself and are unsure how to move forward? Do you worry about burdening your friends or family with your struggles and feel you are holding so much on your own? Becoming the adult you want to be is hard when you constantly compare yourself to what others have achieved. We are not meant to navigate all of these growing pains alone. I can help you through first loves and first jobs while figuring out who you are, separate from who you thought or were told you should be, while also learning how to enjoy the good.
I help deeply caring teens & adults find relief from being overwhelmed by unrealistic pressures & expectations, anxiety, trauma, & lack of confidence.
Have you ever felt like no one truly understands what you’re going through? Are you seeking to change how you feel and see yourself and are unsure how to move forward? Do you worry about burdening your friends or family with your struggles and feel you are holding so much on your own? Becoming the adult you want to be is hard when you constantly compare yourself to what others have achieved. We are not meant to navigate all of these growing pains alone. I can help you through first loves and first jobs while figuring out who you are, separate from who you thought or were told you should be, while also learning how to enjoy the good.
(805) 837-1597 View (805) 837-1597
Photo of Laniece Clausell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laniece Clausell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Laniece Clausell is a LCSW, who has been practicing since 2010. She graduated from CSU, Fresno with a degree in Social Work and a focus on Education. Laniece believes in Accepting where the person is and starting from there. She also believes that every person should have a safe space to talk about hard things. Her main areas of focus include Anxiety/Depression and Trauma.
Laniece Clausell is a LCSW, who has been practicing since 2010. She graduated from CSU, Fresno with a degree in Social Work and a focus on Education. Laniece believes in Accepting where the person is and starting from there. She also believes that every person should have a safe space to talk about hard things. Her main areas of focus include Anxiety/Depression and Trauma.
(805) 303-2735 View (805) 303-2735
Photo of Darren M Del Castillo, PhD, Psychologist
Darren M Del Castillo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I know that finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. I am helpful for creative and often resilient individuals who, despite their best efforts, are suffering. It may be anxiety, depression, struggles in a relationship, or just feeling "off" that brings you to therapy. I bring a thoughtful presence blended with extensive experience. I enjoy working with clients who are curious, self-aware, and motivated for in-depth work on their concerns. I have worked effectively with graduate students, young and middle age professionals, and individuals searching for more meaning in how they live their lives.
I know that finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. I am helpful for creative and often resilient individuals who, despite their best efforts, are suffering. It may be anxiety, depression, struggles in a relationship, or just feeling "off" that brings you to therapy. I bring a thoughtful presence blended with extensive experience. I enjoy working with clients who are curious, self-aware, and motivated for in-depth work on their concerns. I have worked effectively with graduate students, young and middle age professionals, and individuals searching for more meaning in how they live their lives.
(805) 250-4448 View (805) 250-4448
Photo of Mia Serge, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mia Serge
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I have a Psychology degree from University of California, Santa Barbara and a Master of Psychology degree from Antioch University. I have tremendous experience working with the youth. A major focus in my work has been surrounded upon improving mental health through developing coping skills, anxiety management and helping to aid growth within the family system. I am incredibly passionate about the therapy process which comes with empowering others.
I have a Psychology degree from University of California, Santa Barbara and a Master of Psychology degree from Antioch University. I have tremendous experience working with the youth. A major focus in my work has been surrounded upon improving mental health through developing coping skills, anxiety management and helping to aid growth within the family system. I am incredibly passionate about the therapy process which comes with empowering others.
(805) 823-2534 View (805) 823-2534
Photo of Leslie Stuart, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Stuart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My clients include those experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, codependency, destructive relationship patterns, challenging life transitions and gender issues.
Life isn’t always for the faint of heart. It can feel frustrating, overwhelming and lonely. In my practice I strive to create a safe space where you can unwind and share who you are and what you are struggling with all while feeling heard, accepted and valued. My approach is warm, compassionate, and curious. I love my work and I am genuinely interested in getting to know you, how you see the world and how we can work together to achieve your desired goal.
My clients include those experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, codependency, destructive relationship patterns, challenging life transitions and gender issues.
Life isn’t always for the faint of heart. It can feel frustrating, overwhelming and lonely. In my practice I strive to create a safe space where you can unwind and share who you are and what you are struggling with all while feeling heard, accepted and valued. My approach is warm, compassionate, and curious. I love my work and I am genuinely interested in getting to know you, how you see the world and how we can work together to achieve your desired goal.
(805) 970-4611 View (805) 970-4611
Photo of Shennie Smith, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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 Bonnie Dooms, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bonnie Dooms
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Everyone can use a little help at times. We often experience difficult emotions, such as anxiety, depression and anger that are hard to handle and interfere with relationships and quality of life. With 15 years of experience in practice, I will help you alleviate these unwanted symptoms, improve functioning and improve your relationships. I work with adults and couples who are having struggles in their personal lives. I also specialize in working with those who have experienced sexual trauma.
Everyone can use a little help at times. We often experience difficult emotions, such as anxiety, depression and anger that are hard to handle and interfere with relationships and quality of life. With 15 years of experience in practice, I will help you alleviate these unwanted symptoms, improve functioning and improve your relationships. I work with adults and couples who are having struggles in their personal lives. I also specialize in working with those who have experienced sexual trauma.
(805) 590-7764 View (805) 590-7764
Photo of Mckenzie Amundson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mckenzie Amundson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Whoever you are, whether it be struggling with relationship issues, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, all the way to trying to come to terms with a more persistent diagnosis, I cannot wait to meet you exactly where you are at. I invite you to reach out to me in this time, as hard as that may be. Because this truly is the hardest part. And know that if we are not a good fit, I can direct you to other therapists that can hopefully be exactly what you need.
Whoever you are, whether it be struggling with relationship issues, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, all the way to trying to come to terms with a more persistent diagnosis, I cannot wait to meet you exactly where you are at. I invite you to reach out to me in this time, as hard as that may be. Because this truly is the hardest part. And know that if we are not a good fit, I can direct you to other therapists that can hopefully be exactly what you need.
(805) 209-2318 View (805) 209-2318
Photo of Allycia Souza, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allycia Souza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My counseling style is compassionate, reflective, and rooted in radical self acceptance. My focus is on helping you accept the parts of yourself that are hard to tolerate and be at peace with. I have been a psychotherapist for 13 years and I am licensed in the state of California. I have worked with people from various backgrounds that grapple with differing issues, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain/illness, childhood abuse and trauma, relationship issues, parenting problems, grief, domestic violence and life transitions.
My counseling style is compassionate, reflective, and rooted in radical self acceptance. My focus is on helping you accept the parts of yourself that are hard to tolerate and be at peace with. I have been a psychotherapist for 13 years and I am licensed in the state of California. I have worked with people from various backgrounds that grapple with differing issues, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain/illness, childhood abuse and trauma, relationship issues, parenting problems, grief, domestic violence and life transitions.
(510) 674-1117 View (510) 674-1117
Photo of Brandi Davis, MA, LMFT, CPT, CPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brandi Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CPT, CPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
If you have been struggling with trauma, anxiety, life stress, substance abuse, communication, or relationship conflict and feel that this is limiting your life, I want to help you to feel better.
Hi, I'm Brandi. I am the Owner and Clinical Director of BLC, Inc. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: for those struggling with trauma, generalized anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, and relationships. Additionally, I work with couples to build Effective Communication Skills for a more sustainable and expansive connection and bond, working to de-escalate conflict while building awareness around foundational principles to lean on for long term success. My approach to therapy integrates several empirically supported treatment models in an effort to help clients meet their goals and ultimately improve their lives.
If you have been struggling with trauma, anxiety, life stress, substance abuse, communication, or relationship conflict and feel that this is limiting your life, I want to help you to feel better.
Hi, I'm Brandi. I am the Owner and Clinical Director of BLC, Inc. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: for those struggling with trauma, generalized anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, and relationships. Additionally, I work with couples to build Effective Communication Skills for a more sustainable and expansive connection and bond, working to de-escalate conflict while building awareness around foundational principles to lean on for long term success. My approach to therapy integrates several empirically supported treatment models in an effort to help clients meet their goals and ultimately improve their lives.
(310) 340-1029 View (310) 340-1029
Photo of Ana M Perez, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ana M Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93103  (Online Only)
Would you like more joy in living, to feel calm, centered and connected to others? Do you find yourself repeating negative patterns in relationships? Allow me to support you in taking that first step. I specialize in overcoming complex trauma: phobias, PTSD, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation and reactivity. I use a method I developed for healing trauma and patterns at the core in 4 steps, Somatic Clearing. I can help you cope with stress, burdens, grief & loss and life transitions. I am compassionate and believe that you have all the resources within to achieve a brighter future.
Would you like more joy in living, to feel calm, centered and connected to others? Do you find yourself repeating negative patterns in relationships? Allow me to support you in taking that first step. I specialize in overcoming complex trauma: phobias, PTSD, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation and reactivity. I use a method I developed for healing trauma and patterns at the core in 4 steps, Somatic Clearing. I can help you cope with stress, burdens, grief & loss and life transitions. I am compassionate and believe that you have all the resources within to achieve a brighter future.
(805) 380-3798 View (805) 380-3798
Photo of Summer Myers, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Summer Myers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93105  (Online Only)
Anxious perfectionism shows up as shame, self-criticism, stress, and chronic guilt & self-punishment. No matter what you do, you're always falling short. It's exhausting, but you don't really know how to relax. You probably don't sleep so well. Maybe you're first-generation, or the sibling who had to keep it all together, or a grown-up "gifted & talented" kid. Anxious perfectionism may also show up as body tension, severe procrastination & indecision, & difficulty with boundaries and people-pleasing. Perfectionism isn't just a cute word for people with high standards: it impacts everything we do in ways we don't consciously realize.
Anxious perfectionism shows up as shame, self-criticism, stress, and chronic guilt & self-punishment. No matter what you do, you're always falling short. It's exhausting, but you don't really know how to relax. You probably don't sleep so well. Maybe you're first-generation, or the sibling who had to keep it all together, or a grown-up "gifted & talented" kid. Anxious perfectionism may also show up as body tension, severe procrastination & indecision, & difficulty with boundaries and people-pleasing. Perfectionism isn't just a cute word for people with high standards: it impacts everything we do in ways we don't consciously realize.
(805) 429-4608 View (805) 429-4608
Photo of Stephanie Richards, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Stephanie Richards
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
I believe that every person has the potential to grow, heal, and live a happier and more fulfilling life. I am passionate about helping my clients understand themselves better, find ways to improve their relationships, and nurture their own personal fulfillment and happiness. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families who are struggling with a range of challenges including: life transitions (both big and small), uncertainty, low self-esteem, relationship complications, anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms.
I believe that every person has the potential to grow, heal, and live a happier and more fulfilling life. I am passionate about helping my clients understand themselves better, find ways to improve their relationships, and nurture their own personal fulfillment and happiness. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families who are struggling with a range of challenges including: life transitions (both big and small), uncertainty, low self-esteem, relationship complications, anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms.
(805) 429-8504 View (805) 429-8504
Photo of Frankee DeGraw, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Frankee DeGraw
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Loss is tough. Anxiety can feel overwhelming. Self-esteem can waver. Relationships can be tricky. I get it, and I'm here to help you through it all. If you're here, it means you've bravely decided to tackle life's mysteries head-on. In our sessions together, we'll navigate these challenges with a blend of empathy, humor, and heart. Picture therapy with me as a judgment-free and relaxed zone where you can freely express your thoughts and emotions without fear. Whether you're grappling with loss, wrestling with anxiety, navigating relationship dynamics, or simply seeking clarity, I am here to help.
Loss is tough. Anxiety can feel overwhelming. Self-esteem can waver. Relationships can be tricky. I get it, and I'm here to help you through it all. If you're here, it means you've bravely decided to tackle life's mysteries head-on. In our sessions together, we'll navigate these challenges with a blend of empathy, humor, and heart. Picture therapy with me as a judgment-free and relaxed zone where you can freely express your thoughts and emotions without fear. Whether you're grappling with loss, wrestling with anxiety, navigating relationship dynamics, or simply seeking clarity, I am here to help.
(805) 549-5839 View (805) 549-5839
Photo of Dahkotahv Beckham, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dahkotahv Beckham
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, teens, young adults, adults, and families (including foster care).
As an openly transgender therapist, I know it can be difficult to find the right person to confide in. Wanting to be loved and accepted doesn’t make you needy, or extra, or selfish, or weak. It makes you human. To me, you are not just some random psychology textbook or theory. In our work together, my focus is to build goals and a relationship where you feel comfortable exploring what you think, feel, want, and need. My style as a therapist is warm, relaxed, and conversational. I use playfulness, imagery, art, metaphors, curiosity, creativity, self-compassion, and humor when appropriate to support the therapeutic process.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, teens, young adults, adults, and families (including foster care).
As an openly transgender therapist, I know it can be difficult to find the right person to confide in. Wanting to be loved and accepted doesn’t make you needy, or extra, or selfish, or weak. It makes you human. To me, you are not just some random psychology textbook or theory. In our work together, my focus is to build goals and a relationship where you feel comfortable exploring what you think, feel, want, and need. My style as a therapist is warm, relaxed, and conversational. I use playfulness, imagery, art, metaphors, curiosity, creativity, self-compassion, and humor when appropriate to support the therapeutic process.
(805) 243-1189 View (805) 243-1189
Photo of Madeleine Saxe, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Madeleine Saxe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a safe space to feel supported and understood? I can help. I treat depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse issues, self-esteem issues, and relationship issues in adolescents, adults and families. Through professional and personal experience with therapy, I have learned that feeling understood, supported and safe can be some of the most valuable parts of the healing process. In my practice I meet my clients where they are in the moment, and together with the client, I work to help them reach their unique goals for therapy. My approach is direct, compassionate and genuine.
Are you looking for a safe space to feel supported and understood? I can help. I treat depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse issues, self-esteem issues, and relationship issues in adolescents, adults and families. Through professional and personal experience with therapy, I have learned that feeling understood, supported and safe can be some of the most valuable parts of the healing process. In my practice I meet my clients where they are in the moment, and together with the client, I work to help them reach their unique goals for therapy. My approach is direct, compassionate and genuine.
(805) 386-9741 View (805) 386-9741
Photo of Adina L McGarr-Knabke, PsyD, Psychologist
Adina L McGarr-Knabke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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.
(818) 921-6950 View (818) 921-6950
Photo of Ivan Chan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ivan Chan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
If you are in the grips of anxiety, troubled relationships, grief, or other issues that threaten to overwhelm your ability to function or be happy in your life, I look forward to working with you in a safe and non-judgmental way. I use a collaborative approach and actively seek your feedback to provide you with therapy that matches your needs and respects your goals.
If you are in the grips of anxiety, troubled relationships, grief, or other issues that threaten to overwhelm your ability to function or be happy in your life, I look forward to working with you in a safe and non-judgmental way. I use a collaborative approach and actively seek your feedback to provide you with therapy that matches your needs and respects your goals.
(805) 623-4364 View (805) 623-4364
Photo of Jesus Leyva, PhD, Psychologist
Jesus Leyva
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
Leyva served multicultural clients presenting with a variety of concerns, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, addiction, stress, and relational issues.
Dr. Jesus Leyva is a clinical psychologist who is licensed in the state of California. Dr. Leyva provides psychological testing and psychotherapy services via Telehealth.
Leyva served multicultural clients presenting with a variety of concerns, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, addiction, stress, and relational issues.
Dr. Jesus Leyva is a clinical psychologist who is licensed in the state of California. Dr. Leyva provides psychological testing and psychotherapy services via Telehealth.
(805) 273-8173 View (805) 273-8173
Photo of Diana Marie Hill, PhD, Psychologist
Diana Marie Hill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
My goal as a psychologist is to help you live a more meaningful, vital and fulfilling life. I provide compassionate and effective therapy that will help you learn new skills and launch you in the direction you want to be moving in your life. Foundational to my approach is a collaborative partnership, where positive transformations evolve in a warm, safe environment. I have worked extensively with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, eating concerns and unhealthy habits. I also work well individuals who are going through major life transitions, relationship problems or want to revitalize their lives.
My goal as a psychologist is to help you live a more meaningful, vital and fulfilling life. I provide compassionate and effective therapy that will help you learn new skills and launch you in the direction you want to be moving in your life. Foundational to my approach is a collaborative partnership, where positive transformations evolve in a warm, safe environment. I have worked extensively with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, eating concerns and unhealthy habits. I also work well individuals who are going through major life transitions, relationship problems or want to revitalize their lives.
(805) 214-6658 View (805) 214-6658
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Anxiety Therapists

What are the most common treatments for anxiety?

Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other popular forms of therapy are popular, depending on a patient’s experience. Exposure therapy, for instance, can be useful for people dealing with fears and phobias, or who have experienced traumatic events. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy may be useful for patients who need help with emotion regulation. Anxiolytic medications, like benzodiazepines, can also help with calming a person enough to focus on the skills they’ve learned, and physical exercise has been shown to help symptoms of anxiety across the board.

How long does therapy for anxiety take to work?

The amount of time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. Anti-depressant medications typically take two to four weeks before a benefit is felt. Anti-anxiety medications are felt typically within 20-30 minutes. Medications are best used to offer a patient a better headspace in which to work on techniques learned in therapy. Exercise, improved sleep habits, and meditation are effective, but takes weeks or months to show results.

When should I seek treatment for anxiety?

Everyone feels anxious at times, but when anxiety causes disruption to your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Such disruption can be mental, physical, or both: having fear dominate your thoughts, avoiding situations or objects that bring on feelings of anxiety, or experiencing shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or panic attacks. When these symptoms are recurrent and distressing, it may be time to talk to someone.

How effective is treatment for anxiety?

Treatment for anxiety has been shown to be moderately to highly effective, according to a large body of psychology studies and analyses. For some people, treatment using CBT or exposure therapy alone is effective. Others respond best to a combination of medication and therapy.