Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA

I work with individuals and couples in the areas of sex, relationships, sex addiction, and life transitions (divorce, empty nest, retirement). Relationships with others (partner, employer, siblings, friends, clients) are a central source of meaning and sometimes difficulty for us. I can work with you around relationship issues, including commitment, communication, sexuality, infidelity and healthy conflict. I'm also offering groups for women and couples wanting to unlock their sexual satisfaction.

My primary focus in therapy is on the problems that develop in intimate relationships. In today's world the interactions within the couple relationship are impacted by rapidly changing societal patterns and many conflicting demands and pressures. Partners also bring their own family and psychological histories that cause problems in relating that are often subtle and confusing. I use a non-judgmental, compassionate approach to help intimate partners, married, considering marriage, or contemplating separation or divorce, work through their problems and find a path forward to the happiest present, and future possible.

As a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner I assist in finding lasting resolution of body, mind and relational distress. It's really not all in your head! Sometimes talk therapy alone is unable to address somatic memory or fixed cognitions. Together we will explore your experiences, identify patterns and resolve the symptom so that trauma can become history. Behaviors & beliefs may be symptoms not character. Life events addressed but not limited to, include: trauma, anxiety, depression, car accidents, PTSD. co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders, relationship, grief, employment issues, perfectionism, divorce and life purpose.

During these difficult times, how would your life be different if you had someone to speak with about the issues that you are struggling with NOW? What if you could have an intimate, stimulating and long-lasting love affair with your partner? Could you imagine yourself, your partner or a family member learning how to take responsibility for thinking, feeling and behaviors so that life was satisfying and successful rather than stressful and disorganized? Well...that is possible.

I've spent my career as a therapist helping children, adults, and couples deal with difficult emotions, relationships, and trauma. I practice trauma informed care even when trauma isn't the focus. In my office you will find radical acceptance, compassion, and a fellow traveler on your journey. I understand that starting therapy can be difficult, especially the first time, so I take the time to build a caring relationship. Therapy wont be sterile or rushed or cookie cutter. You can expect to reduce suffering, strengthen your authentic self, challenge beliefs, foster resiliency, and create more space for curiosity and compassion.

Imagine having a trusted guide to accompany you on your journey towards emotional liberation. As your therapist, I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can freely express yourself and explore your deepest concerns and desires. Together, we'll work to uncover the hidden patterns and habits that are no longer serving you, and empower you with the tools and insights needed to live a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Nancy's counseling work focuses on adults, seniors, families and couples who struggle with addictive disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief or depression. Nancy's 25 years of practice and experience provide you the opportunity to develop and bring into focus your very best self. Her proficiency and specialties are in providing tools and skills to support recovery from addictions, grief & loss, trauma, and the relational challenges that so often accompany these life challenges, with the intent and hope to facilitate the recognition of your own strengths and your ability to participate, fully, in your own life and those of your loved ones.

Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Licensed to practice in: California.

I enjoy working with clients struggling with the challenges of interpersonal relationships and the daily and often overwhelming realities of every day life. I typically provide the best support for clients who want to have a collaborative relationship with their therapist. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with emotional regulation, anxiety, anger, relational abuse, substance use, and life, relationship and career transitions. I provide a safe space for clients to heal and support them as needed through recognized therapeutic interventions and appropriate community and/or professional referrals.

Thank you for considering beginning psychotherapy with me. My Ph.D. is in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Depth Psychology. My training has allowed me to help people resolve problems where they have been otherwise unsuccessful. I have developed many innovative and evidence-based treatments that may be of interest to you or your loved ones.

I am a certified Ecotherapist, and CBT-I practitioner, my goal is to help you reach a balance with life and nature. You may be struggling with Insomnia, depression, anxiety, loss, negative patterns impacting daily life, or the inability to make time out in nature. My goal is to help you find balance with everyday life and nature. I hope to help you find purpose within yourself by seeing symptoms as symbols of deeper meaning. Within a safe therapeutic container of non-judgement, ecotherapy, dream analysis, narrative therapy, creativity, and direction we can increase your awareness of desires, fears, patterns, and strengths together.

My therapeutic style is creative, collaborative, and down to earth. I hold space for clients to feel safe and heard while providing them with tools to create change in their lives. As my client, I will support you in discovering your unique and meaningful connection to this world. Together, we will explore what makes you, you. My hope is that you will begin to navigate life with a sense of authenticity, empowerment, and trust.

My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that each individual possesses the strength to overcome their challenges. In my practice, I blend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, solution-focused strategies, and emotionally focused therapy (EFT) to support those dealing with sex addiction and anger management in a non-judgmental environment. Emphasizing empathy, integrity, and professionalism, I offer guidance and hope. I'm committed to navigating personal challenges and fostering resilience and well-being with you. Together, we'll pursue healing, self-discovery, and a fulfilling life, ensuring you feel supported.

Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.

Finding the right therapist can be challenging. I listen deeply to my clients and work collaboratively to facilitate change. I bring a warm and intuitive approach to complement 20+ years of clinical experience, so you can expect to feel seen and heard while you open up to the therapeutic process. I utilize EMDR, CBT & DBT modalities to transform old beliefs that no longer serve you, and treat single incident trauma as well as complex trauma from childhood. I address the impact that neurodiversity has on individuals, couples & families. Autistic & ADHD clients' benefit and thrive from having this awareness in the therapy room.

I provide a safe and caring relationship. With trust as our foundation, together we explore what is calling for clarity, change, or comfort. I help you to identify and disengage from old destructive patterns, habits, and beliefs. I also help you to find and anchor new ways of being your authentic and joyful self in the world. If we are in harmony with ourselves we are much better equipped to foster healthy relationships with others. I help you get beneath anxiety, sadness, guilt, and shame to feeling honor, respect, and love--starting with yourself.

Are you HAPPY? In my 40 years in private practice I have found that most people just want to be HAPPY. Now more than ever I am think it is important to help people reclaim their happiness in these challenging times!

"Over the past 20 years I have supported clients in overcoming challenges and empowering their authentic selves. Through counseling, coaching, and group work, I've helped them activate their inner resources and realize their inherent potential. I believe growth is served by identifying and integrating core material which obstructs access to essence, passion, and life purpose. Enhancing self-awareness, employing mindfulness and nonviolence, I help clients listen to their Body's Intelligence ©, connect to inner wisdom, and take courageous action.

Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, stress, or family changes that are making every day life feel difficult or hard to manage? Do you notice your child struggling and you are unsure how to emotionally support them? Have you tried to solve the problems on your own and nothing seems to be working? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then I'm glad you're here. Seeking help for your child, family struggles, or parenting issues can be difficult. I'm here to help.