Couples Counseling Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
I specialize in emotional distress (anxiety, depression), relationship/sexual concerns, chronic health/pain, young adults, and family concerns.
My clients seek a safe, non-judgmental, space where they can show up authentically, receive support navigating painful experiences, find ways to cope and manage distress, and to have an objective "sounding board." Often clients hope to process the impact that their experiences have had on them while identifying ways they can create changes that will allow them to live their lives in ways that are fulfilling, meaningful, and values-driven.
I specialize in emotional distress (anxiety, depression), relationship/sexual concerns, chronic health/pain, young adults, and family concerns.
My clients seek a safe, non-judgmental, space where they can show up authentically, receive support navigating painful experiences, find ways to cope and manage distress, and to have an objective "sounding board." Often clients hope to process the impact that their experiences have had on them while identifying ways they can create changes that will allow them to live their lives in ways that are fulfilling, meaningful, and values-driven.
The Art of Healing
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
With specialties in addiction and dual diagnosis; including depression, anxiety and trauma history, I take an integrated, holistic approach to care. The therapeutic relationship is one in which optimum healing is, as a result of the reciprocal bond, between the therapist and the client. One can only be open to the experience of change and improvement in their life if they feel safe. This is the therapy space that I provide in order to help shape authentic, loving and accurate self-awareness. I provide nurturance, guidance, affirmation and compassionate reflection in order to help clients feel grounded in their own decision-making.
With specialties in addiction and dual diagnosis; including depression, anxiety and trauma history, I take an integrated, holistic approach to care. The therapeutic relationship is one in which optimum healing is, as a result of the reciprocal bond, between the therapist and the client. One can only be open to the experience of change and improvement in their life if they feel safe. This is the therapy space that I provide in order to help shape authentic, loving and accurate self-awareness. I provide nurturance, guidance, affirmation and compassionate reflection in order to help clients feel grounded in their own decision-making.
Thank you for exploring my profile. I am accepting new clients. I see clients both in person and virtually. With over 20 years of experience, my training and experience is specialized towards working with couples and families, as well as adolescent and adult men. I utilize a direct, no-nonsense approach with notable success in treating addictions, family issues, anxiety (generalized, social, panic, etc), depression, trauma, and relationship problems. I am one of the only practitioners in San Luis Obispo County who specializes in working with men and who does family therapy. Please visit my website benrealcsw.com to learn more!
Thank you for exploring my profile. I am accepting new clients. I see clients both in person and virtually. With over 20 years of experience, my training and experience is specialized towards working with couples and families, as well as adolescent and adult men. I utilize a direct, no-nonsense approach with notable success in treating addictions, family issues, anxiety (generalized, social, panic, etc), depression, trauma, and relationship problems. I am one of the only practitioners in San Luis Obispo County who specializes in working with men and who does family therapy. Please visit my website benrealcsw.com to learn more!
Desiree Troxell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I work with couples, college students and mature adults.
Welcome to wellness. You have taken the first step toward exploring your full potential. Embarking on a path of self discovery enables you to unearth your hopes for yourself, your relationships, and your future. Authenticity, communication, forgiveness, love and humor are essential to living a healthy life. Knowing yourself allows you to have healthier relationships with your family, friends and colleagues. I have experience helping people who are encountering grief, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, marital difficulties, life transitions, family conflict, relationship conflict, stress, self harm, and substance abuse.
I work with couples, college students and mature adults.
Welcome to wellness. You have taken the first step toward exploring your full potential. Embarking on a path of self discovery enables you to unearth your hopes for yourself, your relationships, and your future. Authenticity, communication, forgiveness, love and humor are essential to living a healthy life. Knowing yourself allows you to have healthier relationships with your family, friends and colleagues. I have experience helping people who are encountering grief, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, marital difficulties, life transitions, family conflict, relationship conflict, stress, self harm, and substance abuse.
Tim Schenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
And, the therapeutic relationship is a must if a client is to get better.
Many people struggle with finding their way in life. It is very hard to do it on your own. Therapy is one of many tools that people can use to create and sustain change. My practice tends to draw individuals, couples and families who need support with a variety of different challenges and conflicts.
And, the therapeutic relationship is a must if a client is to get better.
Many people struggle with finding their way in life. It is very hard to do it on your own. Therapy is one of many tools that people can use to create and sustain change. My practice tends to draw individuals, couples and families who need support with a variety of different challenges and conflicts.
Lori Maggelet Eister
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Maybe you feel stuck and want to move forward? Or are struggling with strong emotions? Or need skills for being more effective in your relationship? Or managing depression, anxiety or an addiction?.
Hello! My name is Lori and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I have worked in the counseling profession for the past 20 or so years.
Maybe you feel stuck and want to move forward? Or are struggling with strong emotions? Or need skills for being more effective in your relationship? Or managing depression, anxiety or an addiction?.
Hello! My name is Lori and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I have worked in the counseling profession for the past 20 or so years.
Beverly Collier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Beverly specializes in therapy for adults, couples, and parents working to improve relationships with adult children. A dedicated therapist motivated to help clients reach their full potential, over two decades of experience inform Beverly's compassionate approach to therapy. Her background includes work across Social Services, Child Welfare, Mental Health, private practice, mediation and a non-profit human services agency.
Beverly specializes in therapy for adults, couples, and parents working to improve relationships with adult children. A dedicated therapist motivated to help clients reach their full potential, over two decades of experience inform Beverly's compassionate approach to therapy. Her background includes work across Social Services, Child Welfare, Mental Health, private practice, mediation and a non-profit human services agency.
Jennifer Shepard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Anxiety, depression and relationship issues are common problems many are experiencing today. My primary motive as a psychotherapist is to help individuals live more meaningful and productive lives in harmony with their families and community. Through effective talk therapy individuals become more courageous, truthful and engaged in the pursuit of individual, family and social harmony.
Anxiety, depression and relationship issues are common problems many are experiencing today. My primary motive as a psychotherapist is to help individuals live more meaningful and productive lives in harmony with their families and community. Through effective talk therapy individuals become more courageous, truthful and engaged in the pursuit of individual, family and social harmony.
Nicholas Cline
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MS
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
I have found Acceptance Commitment Individual & Couple's Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy to be helpful in understanding and getting you the help you need to improve your relationship or work on mental health issues.
Offering teIe-therapy & In Person Sessions for Individuals & Couples in San Luis Obispo. Both individuals and couples experience issues and challenges that prevent them from reaching their full potential. It is my goal to explore these with you and find ways to help cope, accept or overcome these. With couples we work on better communication skills, and strengthening the bond that you have together. I work with individuals that are experiencing anxiety and depression and other issues related to mental health. Ultimately I want you to succeed, I have additional training and experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I have found Acceptance Commitment Individual & Couple's Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy to be helpful in understanding and getting you the help you need to improve your relationship or work on mental health issues.
Offering teIe-therapy & In Person Sessions for Individuals & Couples in San Luis Obispo. Both individuals and couples experience issues and challenges that prevent them from reaching their full potential. It is my goal to explore these with you and find ways to help cope, accept or overcome these. With couples we work on better communication skills, and strengthening the bond that you have together. I work with individuals that are experiencing anxiety and depression and other issues related to mental health. Ultimately I want you to succeed, I have additional training and experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Gino Memoli
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
We specialize in individuals, couples.
At Fortitude Therapy Collective, we’re not your average therapy practice – we’re here to shake things up. Specializing in personality disorders, trauma, and mood disorders, we blend wit, wisdom, and unwavering support in every session. We know that taking the first step toward healing can feel daunting, but we’re here to make sure you don't just float – you thrive. Our therapists help untangle the complexities of your mind and emotions, offering a space where every part of you exists for a reason. Together, we’ll rework those parts without rejecting the core of who you are.
We specialize in individuals, couples.
At Fortitude Therapy Collective, we’re not your average therapy practice – we’re here to shake things up. Specializing in personality disorders, trauma, and mood disorders, we blend wit, wisdom, and unwavering support in every session. We know that taking the first step toward healing can feel daunting, but we’re here to make sure you don't just float – you thrive. Our therapists help untangle the complexities of your mind and emotions, offering a space where every part of you exists for a reason. Together, we’ll rework those parts without rejecting the core of who you are.
Thais Sky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I work with adults and couples facing a wide-range of challenges, including self-worth, eating disorders, complex/acute trauma, anxiety, depression and life transitions.
We often find ourselves considering psychotherapy when the things we are doing no longer seem to be working in creating the life we want. And while it’s not uncommon to experience some anxiety, sadness, doubt, etc., (because sometimes life just is hard), when it starts to feel terribly overwhelming, you don’t have to suffer alone. Within these challenging moments, there can be meaningful potential for healing and personal growth. Psychotherapy is an excellent tool to help you understand yourself more deeply, repair your relationships (with yourself and others), and offer relief in the face of difficult emotional experiences.
I work with adults and couples facing a wide-range of challenges, including self-worth, eating disorders, complex/acute trauma, anxiety, depression and life transitions.
We often find ourselves considering psychotherapy when the things we are doing no longer seem to be working in creating the life we want. And while it’s not uncommon to experience some anxiety, sadness, doubt, etc., (because sometimes life just is hard), when it starts to feel terribly overwhelming, you don’t have to suffer alone. Within these challenging moments, there can be meaningful potential for healing and personal growth. Psychotherapy is an excellent tool to help you understand yourself more deeply, repair your relationships (with yourself and others), and offer relief in the face of difficult emotional experiences.
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Each of you bring neurobiological, temperamental, patterns of reactivity and family history differences to the relationship.
Failing to get help, many divorced people regret that they gave up too soon. As a marriage specialist for over two decades, you can trust that you are in the care of a competent advocate for your marriage. Every marriage faces the power struggle -it's supposed to happen. Too many quit their marriage at this crucial time. Not giving yourselves the opportunity to work through this painful stage could be a tragedy because this very stage carries the seeds of true character growth and healing. An affair, dishonesty, conflict, or stress can rob you of the feelings of attunement.
Each of you bring neurobiological, temperamental, patterns of reactivity and family history differences to the relationship.
Failing to get help, many divorced people regret that they gave up too soon. As a marriage specialist for over two decades, you can trust that you are in the care of a competent advocate for your marriage. Every marriage faces the power struggle -it's supposed to happen. Too many quit their marriage at this crucial time. Not giving yourselves the opportunity to work through this painful stage could be a tragedy because this very stage carries the seeds of true character growth and healing. An affair, dishonesty, conflict, or stress can rob you of the feelings of attunement.
Yolia Xiaoyin Zhong
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I have experience working with individuals and couples of diverse cultural backgrounds and ages.
I provide an emotionally safe and non-judgmental space for you to feel empowered and grow. I strive to provide my best self and therapeutic skills to assist you in finding your balance in the various aspects of your life and relationships. If you feel overwhelmed by life challenges and struggles, you are not alone. I work collaboratively with you and support you to process through the struggles you've experienced and build skills to heal and grow. My approach focuses on processing and healing by utilizing modalities that are strength-based and client-centered. For couples, I have training in and utilize the Gottman Method.
I have experience working with individuals and couples of diverse cultural backgrounds and ages.
I provide an emotionally safe and non-judgmental space for you to feel empowered and grow. I strive to provide my best self and therapeutic skills to assist you in finding your balance in the various aspects of your life and relationships. If you feel overwhelmed by life challenges and struggles, you are not alone. I work collaboratively with you and support you to process through the struggles you've experienced and build skills to heal and grow. My approach focuses on processing and healing by utilizing modalities that are strength-based and client-centered. For couples, I have training in and utilize the Gottman Method.
Deborah (Debbie) Jeanne Whitney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Collaboratively, let’s embrace the possibility of change, create a new relationship towards self-awareness and personal growth together! Curiosity is the gateway forward.
Hello! Looking for a confidence booster, a sounding board, someone to listen to your story? Experiencing coping issues, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Struggling in a relationship with others, yourself? The possibility for relief awaits discovery. Research claims that much of our pain and suffering comes from our past experiences which may influence how we think and feel about ourselves, life. Therapy can be a place to work through and shift these thoughts and help discover your true Self in the world. I believe our strongest resources for survival and living life are hiding within us, waiting to be revealed.
Collaboratively, let’s embrace the possibility of change, create a new relationship towards self-awareness and personal growth together! Curiosity is the gateway forward.
Hello! Looking for a confidence booster, a sounding board, someone to listen to your story? Experiencing coping issues, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Struggling in a relationship with others, yourself? The possibility for relief awaits discovery. Research claims that much of our pain and suffering comes from our past experiences which may influence how we think and feel about ourselves, life. Therapy can be a place to work through and shift these thoughts and help discover your true Self in the world. I believe our strongest resources for survival and living life are hiding within us, waiting to be revealed.
Alyn Bartick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
There is no need to suffer depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, grief, or loneliness alone.
Now is the time to remove the barriers to the life you desire. Using a supportive, strength-based, and straightforward approach, I will guide you to the more richly experienced life you deserve. I offer solution-focused sessions that achieve results quickly. From our first meetings, you will be less stuck and more prepared to move forward. After more than twenty-five years, I continue to find immense joy in helping clients to live healthy lives filled with meaning and contentment.
There is no need to suffer depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, grief, or loneliness alone.
Now is the time to remove the barriers to the life you desire. Using a supportive, strength-based, and straightforward approach, I will guide you to the more richly experienced life you deserve. I offer solution-focused sessions that achieve results quickly. From our first meetings, you will be less stuck and more prepared to move forward. After more than twenty-five years, I continue to find immense joy in helping clients to live healthy lives filled with meaning and contentment.
Bridget Schinnerer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Bridget offers a client-centered focus—fostering a safe and nurturing therapeutic relationship to support people in their processing.
Bridget is a compassionate therapist with a background in supporting youth, adults, and families through their most challenging moments. She is dedicated to supporting individuals in their healing journeys. Her background includes working as both a behavioral counselor and therapist. She has served survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence, bringing a deep understanding to her practice. Beyond working at an Intensive Outpatient Program, experience includes providing therapy to teens, adults, and families dealing with grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Bridget’s relational approach helps clients feel less alone.
Bridget offers a client-centered focus—fostering a safe and nurturing therapeutic relationship to support people in their processing.
Bridget is a compassionate therapist with a background in supporting youth, adults, and families through their most challenging moments. She is dedicated to supporting individuals in their healing journeys. Her background includes working as both a behavioral counselor and therapist. She has served survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence, bringing a deep understanding to her practice. Beyond working at an Intensive Outpatient Program, experience includes providing therapy to teens, adults, and families dealing with grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Bridget’s relational approach helps clients feel less alone.
Anthony Paul Martello
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
For adults, couples, and families I usually approach therapy from an existential (here and now) point of view.
Are you afraid, confused, or struggling with your relationships? I work with client(s) dealing with interpersonal issues and communication challenges. It may be a husband and wife re-defining their roles with life changes, or an individual considering a career change. The problem often reveals itself at the surface when arguing and verbal conflict ensue, but the source of the problem needs a deeper adjustment, such as adjusting roles or providing more support for a family member. Regardless, clear communication usually allows the individual, couple, or family to achieve the goal of collaboration and compromise.
For adults, couples, and families I usually approach therapy from an existential (here and now) point of view.
Are you afraid, confused, or struggling with your relationships? I work with client(s) dealing with interpersonal issues and communication challenges. It may be a husband and wife re-defining their roles with life changes, or an individual considering a career change. The problem often reveals itself at the surface when arguing and verbal conflict ensue, but the source of the problem needs a deeper adjustment, such as adjusting roles or providing more support for a family member. Regardless, clear communication usually allows the individual, couple, or family to achieve the goal of collaboration and compromise.
Adi Hendler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
I'd also love to help you work through any social/family dynamics, and establishing healthy boundaries within relationship.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California since 2014. My style of therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but I am trained in a variety of orientations and integrate which ever is best for my client. I believe in providing a holistic approach to treatment in order to ensure overall wellbeing. I have worked with a variety of clients ranging from youth to adults, and dealing with a wide range of concerns from everyday life stressors to severe mental illness. Within my Master's program at Cal Poly and through my practice, I have gained a variety of skills that I would love to pass on to you.
I'd also love to help you work through any social/family dynamics, and establishing healthy boundaries within relationship.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California since 2014. My style of therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but I am trained in a variety of orientations and integrate which ever is best for my client. I believe in providing a holistic approach to treatment in order to ensure overall wellbeing. I have worked with a variety of clients ranging from youth to adults, and dealing with a wide range of concerns from everyday life stressors to severe mental illness. Within my Master's program at Cal Poly and through my practice, I have gained a variety of skills that I would love to pass on to you.
Elizabeth Hartman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
I'm inspired to work with couples and individuals who are highly motivated and committed to growth.
My 25+ years of experience and my warm, non-judgmental approach enable me to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds. I create a safe space to express emotions and help clients get to the root of their challenges. I teach clients healthy coping strategies, communication skills, boundary-setting, breathing techniques, and mindfulness practices to increase emotional balance, navigate stressful life transitions, and improve relationships.
I'm inspired to work with couples and individuals who are highly motivated and committed to growth.
My 25+ years of experience and my warm, non-judgmental approach enable me to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds. I create a safe space to express emotions and help clients get to the root of their challenges. I teach clients healthy coping strategies, communication skills, boundary-setting, breathing techniques, and mindfulness practices to increase emotional balance, navigate stressful life transitions, and improve relationships.
Marissa E Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am trained in Trauma focused CBT and have experience with individuals and couples dealing with various issues.
Everyone can benefit from additional support and guidance, and my goal is to partner with others to reach their optimal health and well-being. I have experience working with adults and couples managing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship issues and stress. I work to understand each individual's unique needs and identify strengths to help overcome obstacles and challenges. My goal is to assist clients in alleviating the impact of various stressors and symptoms, by incorporating practical tools that can be used everyday.
I am trained in Trauma focused CBT and have experience with individuals and couples dealing with various issues.
Everyone can benefit from additional support and guidance, and my goal is to partner with others to reach their optimal health and well-being. I have experience working with adults and couples managing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship issues and stress. I work to understand each individual's unique needs and identify strengths to help overcome obstacles and challenges. My goal is to assist clients in alleviating the impact of various stressors and symptoms, by incorporating practical tools that can be used everyday.
See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo
Couples Counseling Therapists
Does couples counseling work?
Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.
When should a couple seek counseling?
Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.
How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?
The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.
How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?
The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.