Marriage Counseling Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA

Photo of Claudia D Crawford, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia D Crawford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
As a Marriage and Family therapist, I work with couples & individuals: *With couples,I focus our work within a developmental framework to achieve empathic communication and differentiation leading to deepened emotional intimacy; *With those experiencing life transitions, we explore the impact on us as individuals & on our relationships; *In navigating depression, life style choices, anxiety, and other struggles I provide the opportunity to challenge & ability to realize your potential *Teaching communication skills, the focus is to make the accompanying shift from looking outside ourselves for explanation to taking responsibility for Self. *I offer DBT for individuals/groups to develop the ability to regulate emotions.
As a Marriage and Family therapist, I work with couples & individuals: *With couples,I focus our work within a developmental framework to achieve empathic communication and differentiation leading to deepened emotional intimacy; *With those experiencing life transitions, we explore the impact on us as individuals & on our relationships; *In navigating depression, life style choices, anxiety, and other struggles I provide the opportunity to challenge & ability to realize your potential *Teaching communication skills, the focus is to make the accompanying shift from looking outside ourselves for explanation to taking responsibility for Self. *I offer DBT for individuals/groups to develop the ability to regulate emotions.
(805) 214-8975 View (805) 214-8975
Photo of Mariano Requena, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mariano Requena
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Mariano Requena, LMFT offers a full menu of psychological services including psychotherapy, relaxation techniques and tracking symptoms provided to patients of all ages on different modalities, individual, couple and family sessions. MR takes great pride in his psychological practice. He holds a Licentiate of Psychology from Argentina -1980-, Master of Arts in Psychology from GEG, Miami Beach, FL. 2002, and is board certified/Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from the Board of Behavioral Sciences - BBS-, since 2021. He has 38 years of mental health experience of all ages through all sorts of situations/issues.
Mariano Requena, LMFT offers a full menu of psychological services including psychotherapy, relaxation techniques and tracking symptoms provided to patients of all ages on different modalities, individual, couple and family sessions. MR takes great pride in his psychological practice. He holds a Licentiate of Psychology from Argentina -1980-, Master of Arts in Psychology from GEG, Miami Beach, FL. 2002, and is board certified/Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from the Board of Behavioral Sciences - BBS-, since 2021. He has 38 years of mental health experience of all ages through all sorts of situations/issues.
(805) 600-5239 View (805) 600-5239
Photo of Camila Barreto, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camila Barreto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
As a bilingual and bicultural licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), I provide teletherapy services aimed at strengthening family relationships and overcoming emotional and behavioral challenges. I follow attachment-based and somatic-based approaches to give individuals, couples, families and children developmentally appropriate and effective healing interventions to teach, support and treat a wide range of mental health difficulties. I recently hired 3 wonderful Associate Marriage and Family Therapists and Associate Clinical Socila Workers.
As a bilingual and bicultural licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), I provide teletherapy services aimed at strengthening family relationships and overcoming emotional and behavioral challenges. I follow attachment-based and somatic-based approaches to give individuals, couples, families and children developmentally appropriate and effective healing interventions to teach, support and treat a wide range of mental health difficulties. I recently hired 3 wonderful Associate Marriage and Family Therapists and Associate Clinical Socila Workers.
(805) 590-8995 View (805) 590-8995
Photo of Stephanie Pawlowicz, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Pawlowicz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Santa Barbara.
A person comes to therapy when their present ways of being in relationship, or in the world, no longer seem to hold the meaning they once did. My aim is to support you in creating a new foundation of hope, purpose, and meaning in your life. I help people seek wholeness through the integration of mind, body, and soul, thus expanding their current level of understanding, and in so doing, creating the capacity to live more meaningfully.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Santa Barbara.
A person comes to therapy when their present ways of being in relationship, or in the world, no longer seem to hold the meaning they once did. My aim is to support you in creating a new foundation of hope, purpose, and meaning in your life. I help people seek wholeness through the integration of mind, body, and soul, thus expanding their current level of understanding, and in so doing, creating the capacity to live more meaningfully.
(805) 324-6675 View (805) 324-6675
Photo of Annie Finch, MA, LMFT, EMDR, CSAT, CADC I, Marriage & Family Therapist
Annie Finch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, CSAT, CADC I
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Welcome to my practice! I’m Annie Finch, a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges with empathy and insight. My approach is grounded in creating a safe and trusting space where you can explore and heal. In our sessions, you can expect a supportive space where your concerns are heard and validated. I aim to empower you with practical strategies and deeper insights to help you overcome challenges and foster resilience. My approach is rooted in the belief that every person has the capacity for growth and change, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.
Welcome to my practice! I’m Annie Finch, a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges with empathy and insight. My approach is grounded in creating a safe and trusting space where you can explore and heal. In our sessions, you can expect a supportive space where your concerns are heard and validated. I aim to empower you with practical strategies and deeper insights to help you overcome challenges and foster resilience. My approach is rooted in the belief that every person has the capacity for growth and change, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.
(805) 519-7376 View (805) 519-7376
Photo of Eva Van Prooyen, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eva Van Prooyen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I also help people prepare for big life changes and transitions (such as marriage, the birth or adoption of a child, starting college, adjusting to a new move, career change, etc.
I'm happy to receive your email or call to answer questions you may have about therapy. I help adults, adolescents, and couples experience life more deeply; enjoy more satisfying relationships; resolve painful conflicts; and improve self-esteem, self-worth and emotional well-being.
I also help people prepare for big life changes and transitions (such as marriage, the birth or adoption of a child, starting college, adjusting to a new move, career change, etc.
I'm happy to receive your email or call to answer questions you may have about therapy. I help adults, adolescents, and couples experience life more deeply; enjoy more satisfying relationships; resolve painful conflicts; and improve self-esteem, self-worth and emotional well-being.
(805) 214-8637 View (805) 214-8637
Photo of Susan Farber - Susan Farber, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Farber, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
I specialize in depression, anxiety, drug/alcohol, traumatic brain injury, performance anxiety, dating, parenting & marital conflict, divorce counseling, sport psychology, stroke, caregiver, stress management, Tension Myositis Syndrome, and You can learn more about me at susanfarbermft.
Are you feeling defeated in your life? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues? With over 22 years of experience, I offer a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy and mind-body modalities to help you feel more empowered in your life. Together, we unwind the beliefs you hold onto that keep you stuck and limited. This allows you to make new choices in all areas of your life, enabling a state of peace, calm, and fulfillment. When you are no longer held back by a limited point of view, you are more flexible, open, and able to make positive changes.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, drug/alcohol, traumatic brain injury, performance anxiety, dating, parenting & marital conflict, divorce counseling, sport psychology, stroke, caregiver, stress management, Tension Myositis Syndrome, and You can learn more about me at susanfarbermft.
Are you feeling defeated in your life? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues? With over 22 years of experience, I offer a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy and mind-body modalities to help you feel more empowered in your life. Together, we unwind the beliefs you hold onto that keep you stuck and limited. This allows you to make new choices in all areas of your life, enabling a state of peace, calm, and fulfillment. When you are no longer held back by a limited point of view, you are more flexible, open, and able to make positive changes.
(805) 225-9344 View (805) 225-9344
Photo of Clare Corbin, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Clare Corbin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
The experience of being a parent can be discouraging; doing the same thing over and over again while seeing little change in your child is exhausting. My goal is to support you and your child in regaining a sense of competence and joy in your relationship. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who supports children and adolescence in navigating emotional and behavioral challenges. I collaborate with parents to ensure they are involved in the therapeutic process and provide strategies to support their child's progress at home.
The experience of being a parent can be discouraging; doing the same thing over and over again while seeing little change in your child is exhausting. My goal is to support you and your child in regaining a sense of competence and joy in your relationship. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who supports children and adolescence in navigating emotional and behavioral challenges. I collaborate with parents to ensure they are involved in the therapeutic process and provide strategies to support their child's progress at home.
(805) 973-0314 View (805) 973-0314
Photo of Mariah Aniasco, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mariah Aniasco
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93111  (Online Only)
Life challenges are universal. If you are having difficulties navigating through daily life stressors, adjusting to new circumstances, having trouble communicating, or just feel stuck, I am here to help. Together, we can work on facing these issues and explore approaches that may improve the outcome of these challenges. I received my Masters degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I began working as a therapist in community-based mental health, where I received great experience with families, couples, individuals, and children.
Life challenges are universal. If you are having difficulties navigating through daily life stressors, adjusting to new circumstances, having trouble communicating, or just feel stuck, I am here to help. Together, we can work on facing these issues and explore approaches that may improve the outcome of these challenges. I received my Masters degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I began working as a therapist in community-based mental health, where I received great experience with families, couples, individuals, and children.
(805) 519-8682 View (805) 519-8682
Photo of Jack May, MA, LMFT, CAMF, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jack May
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAMF, CSAT
Verified Verified
21 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108  (Online Only)
Jack May, based in Santa Barbara, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in sex addiction, financial disorders, and anger management.
Jack May's ideal client faces challenges like sex addiction, financial disorders, anger management, or relationship struggles, including couples work. They feel overwhelmed and seek a non-judgmental space to explore their difficulties. They need compassionate guidance and accountability to break unhealthy patterns, manage emotions, and improve relationships. Their goals include gaining control, achieving financial stability, and fostering deeper connections. Driven by a desire for growth, they seek a fulfilling, balanced life.
Jack May, based in Santa Barbara, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in sex addiction, financial disorders, and anger management.
Jack May's ideal client faces challenges like sex addiction, financial disorders, anger management, or relationship struggles, including couples work. They feel overwhelmed and seek a non-judgmental space to explore their difficulties. They need compassionate guidance and accountability to break unhealthy patterns, manage emotions, and improve relationships. Their goals include gaining control, achieving financial stability, and fostering deeper connections. Driven by a desire for growth, they seek a fulfilling, balanced life.
(805) 243-1170 View (805) 243-1170
Photo of Monica Dahling New, LMFT, MA, MSPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica Dahling New
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MSPT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California and a registered Psychotherapist in Colorado.
As a psychotherapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. As individuals progress through life challenges, therapy can be a vital component to navigating relationships, life stresses, and increasing self-understanding. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapy-recommended as an effective treatment for disturbing memories, stressor disorders, PTSD, trauma and verbal abuse. Contact me to learn more.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California and a registered Psychotherapist in Colorado.
As a psychotherapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. As individuals progress through life challenges, therapy can be a vital component to navigating relationships, life stresses, and increasing self-understanding. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapy-recommended as an effective treatment for disturbing memories, stressor disorders, PTSD, trauma and verbal abuse. Contact me to learn more.
(970) 404-4921 View (970) 404-4921
Photo of Karen Leah Krulevitch, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Leah Krulevitch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I have been a psychotherapist in Santa Barbara, CA since 1974. My style is varied, incorporating Gestalt therapy, active listening, inner child work, assertiveness training, and guided imagery. Licensed since 1980 as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I enjoy working with couples, regarding issues of healthy sexuality, intimacy, and communication. Individual women and men,working on their sexual self esteem, are some of my favorite clients. For over fifteen years, I have also been leading groups for Adults Molested as Children, as well as their partners. Focus on breath and body is integral to my way of working in session.
I have been a psychotherapist in Santa Barbara, CA since 1974. My style is varied, incorporating Gestalt therapy, active listening, inner child work, assertiveness training, and guided imagery. Licensed since 1980 as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I enjoy working with couples, regarding issues of healthy sexuality, intimacy, and communication. Individual women and men,working on their sexual self esteem, are some of my favorite clients. For over fifteen years, I have also been leading groups for Adults Molested as Children, as well as their partners. Focus on breath and body is integral to my way of working in session.
(805) 317-4878 View (805) 317-4878
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)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist.
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.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist.
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 Claire Blakey, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claire Blakey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and offer a safe, compassionate container to share, process and navigate some of life’s challenges and victories.
Finding a therapist can be a hard endeavor. You’re looking for someone you can open up to, trust and share in some of the most painful and most intimate parts of your life. It takes vulnerability and courage to reach out and finding someone you can trust to open up to is a big piece in if therapy will work for you. If you’re browsing psychology today, you are probably looking for a caring face and a professional you can trust to navigate this season in life with. I’d be honored to join you on this journey.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and offer a safe, compassionate container to share, process and navigate some of life’s challenges and victories.
Finding a therapist can be a hard endeavor. You’re looking for someone you can open up to, trust and share in some of the most painful and most intimate parts of your life. It takes vulnerability and courage to reach out and finding someone you can trust to open up to is a big piece in if therapy will work for you. If you’re browsing psychology today, you are probably looking for a caring face and a professional you can trust to navigate this season in life with. I’d be honored to join you on this journey.
(805) 335-6807 View (805) 335-6807
Photo of Daniel Lee Spach, MA, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Lee Spach
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
My life experiences have given me insight related to issues involving spirituality, marriage, parenting, divorce and co-parenting, dealing with infidelity, challenges to intimacy, trauma, PTSD, and depression.
As your therapist, I strive to empower you to overcome personal challenges, activate your inner resources, develop a deeper level of trust in your self and your inherent potential, and reclaim ownership of your life and purpose. I have an affinity for working with clients seeking to transform their lives and enhance their relationships with themselves, others, and the natural world. Improved emotional intelligence, mindful self-awareness, communication skills, trauma and grief processing---will support you in developing self-compassion, eliminating personal obstacles, coping with your daily life, and finding a more balanced, attuned, and connected way of being.
My life experiences have given me insight related to issues involving spirituality, marriage, parenting, divorce and co-parenting, dealing with infidelity, challenges to intimacy, trauma, PTSD, and depression.
As your therapist, I strive to empower you to overcome personal challenges, activate your inner resources, develop a deeper level of trust in your self and your inherent potential, and reclaim ownership of your life and purpose. I have an affinity for working with clients seeking to transform their lives and enhance their relationships with themselves, others, and the natural world. Improved emotional intelligence, mindful self-awareness, communication skills, trauma and grief processing---will support you in developing self-compassion, eliminating personal obstacles, coping with your daily life, and finding a more balanced, attuned, and connected way of being.
(805) 232-7885 View (805) 232-7885
Photo of Julie Newell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Newell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105  (Online Only)
I treat issues of anxiety, various mood disorders, changes in relationship/ marital status, strength building in couples, various phase of life transitions, parenting challenges, family/blended-family dynamics, adolescents struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, social isolation/bullying, behavioral issues, anger management, issues of identity & self esteem.
I believe the therapeutic process is a collaborative way to discover healthy coping mechanisms, reduce stress, and increase personal happiness and well-being. Confidentiality, respect, and compassion are inherent to my process. I have over a decade of experience treating adolescents, adult individuals, couples & families. By integrating various therapeutic approaches such as Strength’s-Based Strategic, Solution-Focused & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I am able to provide well-rounded, evidence-based support to promote positive change.
I treat issues of anxiety, various mood disorders, changes in relationship/ marital status, strength building in couples, various phase of life transitions, parenting challenges, family/blended-family dynamics, adolescents struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, social isolation/bullying, behavioral issues, anger management, issues of identity & self esteem.
I believe the therapeutic process is a collaborative way to discover healthy coping mechanisms, reduce stress, and increase personal happiness and well-being. Confidentiality, respect, and compassion are inherent to my process. I have over a decade of experience treating adolescents, adult individuals, couples & families. By integrating various therapeutic approaches such as Strength’s-Based Strategic, Solution-Focused & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I am able to provide well-rounded, evidence-based support to promote positive change.
(805) 600-2894 View (805) 600-2894
Photo of Wendy Allen, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My couples clients are very brave because they want to do what it takes to change. We practice kindness and truth, compassion and accountability.I am a relationship coach and therapist. I have been working with couples for 35 years. I now work a model, Relational Life Therapy, that is new, cutting edge, powerful and effective. I offer an intensive, brief therapy program, focusing on individual and relational attitudes and behaviors.trained to do this I use in office, ZOOM, or Skype for long-distance clients. . This program is an investment for the life of your marriage.
My couples clients are very brave because they want to do what it takes to change. We practice kindness and truth, compassion and accountability.I am a relationship coach and therapist. I have been working with couples for 35 years. I now work a model, Relational Life Therapy, that is new, cutting edge, powerful and effective. I offer an intensive, brief therapy program, focusing on individual and relational attitudes and behaviors.trained to do this I use in office, ZOOM, or Skype for long-distance clients. . This program is an investment for the life of your marriage.
(805) 246-7446 View (805) 246-7446
Photo of Gregory P Young II, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Gregory P Young II
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
My name is Greg young. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Parent Coach. Over the last 15 years I have worked my hardest to find the simplest ways to assist people moving through their struggles. I have supported countless families, couples, and individuals struggling with crisis, communication difficulties, behavioral issues, shifting toxic dynamics, to last resort interventions. Sometimes reaching out is the hardest part. I am glad you are here! Vulnerability may just be your greatest strength for making the changes you really want to see. I look forward to embarking on this adventure with you!
My name is Greg young. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Parent Coach. Over the last 15 years I have worked my hardest to find the simplest ways to assist people moving through their struggles. I have supported countless families, couples, and individuals struggling with crisis, communication difficulties, behavioral issues, shifting toxic dynamics, to last resort interventions. Sometimes reaching out is the hardest part. I am glad you are here! Vulnerability may just be your greatest strength for making the changes you really want to see. I look forward to embarking on this adventure with you!
(805) 617-1371 View (805) 617-1371
Photo of Nancy Chen Marden, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Chen Marden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Welcome! As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am committed to supporting individuals and couples on their journey towards healing, growth, and fulfillment. My practice is dedicated to the idea that the human spirit prevails in the midst of our deepest sufferings. As human beings, we all possess the innate capacity, courage, and wisdom to overcome adversities in life. With a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach, I provide a safe space for clients to realize their own potentials and empower them to prevail over obstacles, cultivate resilience, and live authentically.
Welcome! As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am committed to supporting individuals and couples on their journey towards healing, growth, and fulfillment. My practice is dedicated to the idea that the human spirit prevails in the midst of our deepest sufferings. As human beings, we all possess the innate capacity, courage, and wisdom to overcome adversities in life. With a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach, I provide a safe space for clients to realize their own potentials and empower them to prevail over obstacles, cultivate resilience, and live authentically.
(805) 870-8185 View (805) 870-8185
Photo of Stuart S Light, MA, MEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stuart S Light
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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.
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.
(805) 263-4704 View (805) 263-4704
1
...

See more therapy options for Santa Barbara

Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

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

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

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

Is marriage counseling effective?

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

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

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