Family Therapy in San Luis Obispo, CA
![Photo of Christine Tran, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/108ae4dc-6586-45cb-bd32-b3d01b15b2df/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Tran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Hello and welcome. I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here and seeking help. It takes plenty of courage to seek out therapy and it's okay to feel vulnerable at this moment. Whether you are a parent looking to find support for your child or someone whose wanting to start therapy, I offer empathetic support and tools to cope with life's many stressors. I work with children, teens, young adults, and families to help address challenges with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, school/behavioral issues, divorce, and family trauma. My practice honors diversity and offers non-judgmental space for you to feel safe and heard.
Hello and welcome. I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here and seeking help. It takes plenty of courage to seek out therapy and it's okay to feel vulnerable at this moment. Whether you are a parent looking to find support for your child or someone whose wanting to start therapy, I offer empathetic support and tools to cope with life's many stressors. I work with children, teens, young adults, and families to help address challenges with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, school/behavioral issues, divorce, and family trauma. My practice honors diversity and offers non-judgmental space for you to feel safe and heard.
![Photo of Debra Muse, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d3d9f72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive background in couple/family treatment as well as individual therapy and am flexible in whatever modality meets your needs best.
You don't have to solve life's difficulties and navigate personal changes alone! I will work with you in a collaborative, supportive and safe environment to help you to feel better about yourself and your life. We can identify what is not "working"/problem areas as well as what is "working"/your strengths and move toward the positive changes you would like in your self and your life!
I have extensive background in couple/family treatment as well as individual therapy and am flexible in whatever modality meets your needs best.
You don't have to solve life's difficulties and navigate personal changes alone! I will work with you in a collaborative, supportive and safe environment to help you to feel better about yourself and your life. We can identify what is not "working"/problem areas as well as what is "working"/your strengths and move toward the positive changes you would like in your self and your life!
![Photo of Gino Memoli, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f530fc21-d714-4ffb-92d2-c7e118b27752/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gino Memoli
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Whether you're navigating relationship ups and downs or dealing with family dynamics that could rival a reality TV show, we've got your back.
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.
Whether you're navigating relationship ups and downs or dealing with family dynamics that could rival a reality TV show, we've got your back.
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.
![Photo of Julia Richardson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c75dd5d4-2958-4721-a1ec-6b41c7c4ad01/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Julia Richardson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California since January 1999. My License number is MFT35516. I work with children from age 10 and up. I also work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. My framework in working with individuals, couples and families is through a relational lens that incorporates brain science, attachment theory and mindsight. I see each (individual, couple dyad and family) as a magnificent portrait that comes to therapy when their life patterns are stuck in rigidity or chaos.
My name is Julia Richardson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California since January 1999. My License number is MFT35516. I work with children from age 10 and up. I also work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. My framework in working with individuals, couples and families is through a relational lens that incorporates brain science, attachment theory and mindsight. I see each (individual, couple dyad and family) as a magnificent portrait that comes to therapy when their life patterns are stuck in rigidity or chaos.
![Photo of Clarissa Kugler, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b3b2586-7f71-47af-9142-4f999daad5a1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Clarissa Kugler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, it is my privilege to offer a safe and confidential space where you can explore your unique challenges and work towards finding balance, healing and happiness. I offer both individual, family and couples therapy. My style is person centered, compassionate and strengths based.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, it is my privilege to offer a safe and confidential space where you can explore your unique challenges and work towards finding balance, healing and happiness. I offer both individual, family and couples therapy. My style is person centered, compassionate and strengths based.
![Photo of Anthony Paul Martello, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc4fe153-423f-4ff1-8dbe-d0b2e452769b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anthony Paul Martello
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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.
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.
![Photo of David C Lichti - David C. Lichti, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dd07df9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Currently, I'm mostly using Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with my clients. When, as a child, we find ourselves traumatizing or trapped in negative circumstances, parts of our self system compensate by locking away that which at that time was too much for us to handle. Later, if we do not go back to this locked away material, the pain, confusion and injustice of what happened to us long ago, can get triggered, or, awakened, when similar such challenges arise in the present. IFS provides a safe way for that locked away material to be approached and reprocessed, allowing our core self to take back control of our lives.
Currently, I'm mostly using Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with my clients. When, as a child, we find ourselves traumatizing or trapped in negative circumstances, parts of our self system compensate by locking away that which at that time was too much for us to handle. Later, if we do not go back to this locked away material, the pain, confusion and injustice of what happened to us long ago, can get triggered, or, awakened, when similar such challenges arise in the present. IFS provides a safe way for that locked away material to be approached and reprocessed, allowing our core self to take back control of our lives.
![Photo of Jessica (Jessie) Shorts, MS, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f05167-f8e3-4855-a35b-fa60b571d0b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica (Jessie) Shorts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you hoping for change, but feel stuck and keep hitting a wall? Are you an adolescent, adult, family, or a Mother in her motherhood journey? You may benefit from a holistic approach to psychotherapy, which considers the heart (emotions), mind (thoughts), body, and soul, and how they interact with each other. You might need a gentle and compassionate approach to work through hard things (past, present, and future). If life is overwhelming and leaving you drained, you deserve to have a more life-giving and abundant life.
Are you hoping for change, but feel stuck and keep hitting a wall? Are you an adolescent, adult, family, or a Mother in her motherhood journey? You may benefit from a holistic approach to psychotherapy, which considers the heart (emotions), mind (thoughts), body, and soul, and how they interact with each other. You might need a gentle and compassionate approach to work through hard things (past, present, and future). If life is overwhelming and leaving you drained, you deserve to have a more life-giving and abundant life.
![Photo of Grace Peavy, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddb1d9c8-9a45-4d29-be81-b061d3a0e234/2/320x400.jpeg)
Grace Peavy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Grace brings experience across complex family systems, trauma, and relational issues.
Grace (licensed as Margaret Peavy), offers client-centered therapy to adults, youth, and families navigating life’s challenges. Taking the time and energy to earn your trust, she shares a relational approach to spark genuine connection in a non-judgemental space where you’re encouraged to build on your strengths. Over a decade serving youth and families of all ages in the mental health community makes Grace an impactful facilitator of personal growth.
Grace brings experience across complex family systems, trauma, and relational issues.
Grace (licensed as Margaret Peavy), offers client-centered therapy to adults, youth, and families navigating life’s challenges. Taking the time and energy to earn your trust, she shares a relational approach to spark genuine connection in a non-judgemental space where you’re encouraged to build on your strengths. Over a decade serving youth and families of all ages in the mental health community makes Grace an impactful facilitator of personal growth.
![Photo of Melinda Marcelluskincaid, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15c5f7d2-ed87-4ca1-8286-dcc235e4211e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda Marcelluskincaid
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I work interpersonally in the here & now, combining principals and practices from object relations, family systems, & experiential therapies.
Do you seek more balance, understanding, connection and freedom in your relationships with yourself and others? I create a safe and supportive environment to help you through difficulties to become more positive and live with presence in acceptance and peace. Whether we work to create boundaries, increase self-esteem, decrease destructive patterns, or move through painful life experiences, together we will process what you are going through in order to obtain clarity, solutions, and personal growth. My hope is that we can find contentment in our present moment & live fully in that moment each day.
I work interpersonally in the here & now, combining principals and practices from object relations, family systems, & experiential therapies.
Do you seek more balance, understanding, connection and freedom in your relationships with yourself and others? I create a safe and supportive environment to help you through difficulties to become more positive and live with presence in acceptance and peace. Whether we work to create boundaries, increase self-esteem, decrease destructive patterns, or move through painful life experiences, together we will process what you are going through in order to obtain clarity, solutions, and personal growth. My hope is that we can find contentment in our present moment & live fully in that moment each day.
![Photo of Kirsten Angeliyan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/112cdf24-dc79-4473-a971-e5d52e33def1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kirsten Angeliyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
I employ Humanistic, Client-Centered, Internal Family Systems, & Trauma Informed CBT approaches.
I help adults heal the wounds of childhood trauma and resolve internal conflicts that may contribute to depression, mood disorders, anxiety and co-dependency. With an emphasis on inner-work, self compassion, and healing in the here-and-now, I provide an approach to therapy that seeks to strengthen self-esteem and worthiness. I believe therapy is a space in which this work can be done safely, authentically and with reverence to the human experience.
I employ Humanistic, Client-Centered, Internal Family Systems, & Trauma Informed CBT approaches.
I help adults heal the wounds of childhood trauma and resolve internal conflicts that may contribute to depression, mood disorders, anxiety and co-dependency. With an emphasis on inner-work, self compassion, and healing in the here-and-now, I provide an approach to therapy that seeks to strengthen self-esteem and worthiness. I believe therapy is a space in which this work can be done safely, authentically and with reverence to the human experience.
15 Second Videos
Anthony Paul Martello
Lynlee April Olivera
Marina Resa
Ron Huxley
Matthew Dean
Sacred Path Holistic Therapy
Edward C. Bischof, Ph.D.
Cynthia Sea Taking New Clients!
Nicole T Zuniga
Cat Shaw
Nicole Aracely Braswell
Kelly Bell
Family Therapy Solutions, INC.
Summer Sessions Counseling
Karen Schneller
Daisy Biggers
Kai Lillie
Melissa Campe (Specializing In: Anxiety College Students Women's Issues)
Developmental Specialty Partners
The Art of Healing
Lindsey Levenson
Kristen Hess, LCSW @ Safe to Grow Psychotherapy
Hannah Morrison
Jessica Bany
Brendan Kearns
Agnes Cartry-Jacobsen
Lauren Phelps
Michael W Regier, PhD, Couple Therapist California
Tricia Parido
Nicole Lee Dolan
Stephanie Patterson
Katty (Coffron) Richardson, PhD, LMFT, LPCC
Elexia Estrada
Christel M. Reid
Rachel Van Wickle - Trauma And Mood Disorder Therapist
Rachel Brandwene
Pia Byron
Becca Gasperoni
Jacquelyn De Longe
Odette Boyd
Turning Leaves Recovery Life & Wellness Coaching
Carrie Hansen
Andrea Bey
![Photo of Lori Butterworth - Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, PhD, MEd, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8e8c4fc-6187-45c7-b635-24e9432a06c7/2/320x400.png)
Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Psychologist, PhD, MEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
If you’re a parent or caregiver looking for mental health treatment for your child or teen, we’re here to help. The CCAMH Treatment Center specializes in evidence-based treatments that have been extensively researched and shown to be effective. We will do a full assessment and evaluation to determine the best treatment to address the young person's specific condition. We use evidence-based treatments for anxiety disorders and OCD, depression and mood disorders, attention deficit and behavior disorders and trauma. We work with the entire family and provide support and tools for parents including monthly virtual parent-drop in groups.
If you’re a parent or caregiver looking for mental health treatment for your child or teen, we’re here to help. The CCAMH Treatment Center specializes in evidence-based treatments that have been extensively researched and shown to be effective. We will do a full assessment and evaluation to determine the best treatment to address the young person's specific condition. We use evidence-based treatments for anxiety disorders and OCD, depression and mood disorders, attention deficit and behavior disorders and trauma. We work with the entire family and provide support and tools for parents including monthly virtual parent-drop in groups.
![Photo of Danielle Atencio, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32d23a38-0d5a-4547-8097-79b371659813/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Atencio
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I specialize in helping individuals dealing with depressive disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use issues, family conflict and life changes.
“Look beside you, and I’ll be there;” this is my credo, both as an individual and as a therapist. Life can be difficult; there are always challenges and struggles and in many instances, it is the connection and support that one person gives another that makes the difference. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach to therapy. We will focus processing through life challenges and build skills to identify your own personal strengths and unique goals for treatment. I will support you through difficult and/or uncomfortable emotions to learn effective coping and interpersonal skills that will help you throughout your life.
I specialize in helping individuals dealing with depressive disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use issues, family conflict and life changes.
“Look beside you, and I’ll be there;” this is my credo, both as an individual and as a therapist. Life can be difficult; there are always challenges and struggles and in many instances, it is the connection and support that one person gives another that makes the difference. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach to therapy. We will focus processing through life challenges and build skills to identify your own personal strengths and unique goals for treatment. I will support you through difficult and/or uncomfortable emotions to learn effective coping and interpersonal skills that will help you throughout your life.
![Photo of Meagan Edwards, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55878e95-2118-46f4-a456-d1b30d46a98e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meagan Edwards
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
I most frequently see clients with acute or childhood trauma; family or relationship stress; coping skills or anger management needs.
Hi, I'm Meagan Edwards and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. My degree, training, and specialties are centered on repairing and enhancing relationships; both those with ourselves and others. I consider and work with individuals and families with holistic frameworks and consideration of the various systems that impact them. My style is client-centered. I utilize systems frameworks in my practice.
I most frequently see clients with acute or childhood trauma; family or relationship stress; coping skills or anger management needs.
Hi, I'm Meagan Edwards and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. My degree, training, and specialties are centered on repairing and enhancing relationships; both those with ourselves and others. I consider and work with individuals and families with holistic frameworks and consideration of the various systems that impact them. My style is client-centered. I utilize systems frameworks in my practice.
![Photo of Benjamin Rea, LCSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33eca6cd-196f-4332-8605-8e02581de3d9/2/320x400.jpeg)
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!
![Photo of Sara Anne Powers, BA, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49c0a1f3-76e3-40d2-a5cc-a7ee40bffda7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Anne Powers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BA, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I specialize in child and family therapy.
As a parent, if your child/teen is struggling, you can often feel helpless, not knowing what you can or "should" do to help them. Therapy offers a space for your child/teen to work through difficult feelings that are getting in the way of them being able to move through the developmental tasks, that allow them to grow up confident and strong. While talk therapy is a part of my practice, for most children, and even teens, play is their primary language. Your child/teen will have the safe space they need to work through their issues, in a way that feels comfortable and accessible to them, while building skills and confidence.
I specialize in child and family therapy.
As a parent, if your child/teen is struggling, you can often feel helpless, not knowing what you can or "should" do to help them. Therapy offers a space for your child/teen to work through difficult feelings that are getting in the way of them being able to move through the developmental tasks, that allow them to grow up confident and strong. While talk therapy is a part of my practice, for most children, and even teens, play is their primary language. Your child/teen will have the safe space they need to work through their issues, in a way that feels comfortable and accessible to them, while building skills and confidence.
![Photo of Terri J Clarke, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8da1bf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Denise C Williamson - Denise C Williamson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdb13b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
Denise C Williamson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
With over 10 years' experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been dedicated towards helping individual adults resolve their issues.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or having relationship problems? Or, perhaps you just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life? Together we can focus on your healing, replacing any negative patterns, and promoting a more positive future. You deserve support and guidance towards achieving your dreams. I invite you to visit my website at www.brighterlifestyle.com.
With over 10 years' experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been dedicated towards helping individual adults resolve their issues.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or having relationship problems? Or, perhaps you just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life? Together we can focus on your healing, replacing any negative patterns, and promoting a more positive future. You deserve support and guidance towards achieving your dreams. I invite you to visit my website at www.brighterlifestyle.com.
![Photo of Ellen Morgan Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5001eebe-aa3c-43f5-9686-2e91ab4135fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen Morgan Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
![Photo of Amy Liston, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69700e10-5ca8-4b88-b666-cf451e25aa76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 33 years of practice. I currently provide individual psychotherapy to adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/bereavement, family issues, peer issues, relationship issues and/or life transitions. I offer a personalized therapy experience in a safe and inclusive space that honors your uniqueness as an individual. My approach is strength-based and client-centered with a humanistic/existential orientation.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 33 years of practice. I currently provide individual psychotherapy to adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/bereavement, family issues, peer issues, relationship issues and/or life transitions. I offer a personalized therapy experience in a safe and inclusive space that honors your uniqueness as an individual. My approach is strength-based and client-centered with a humanistic/existential orientation.
See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo
Family Therapy
What do family therapists do?
A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.
How long does therapy for families take to work?
Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.
How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?
You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.
Is therapy for families effective?
Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.