The nickname of Goleta, California is “the Good Land,” and those who live there tend to agree. Right on the coast, the Pacific Ocean plays a big part in why so many people like to hang out in Goleta. The town was named after a sailing ship that wrecked at the mouth of the lagoon. In fact, Goleta is Spanish for schooner. 

What’s more, Katy Perry, the pop singer and songwriter and Danny Duffy, from the Kansas City Royals, are both from Goleta. Whether you enjoy pop music, baseball, the ocean, or whatever, when you are feeling down or lost, you may need someone to talk to. Goleta has many devoted therapists ready to help you right now. 

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Psychologist Cherri Castellon providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Cherri Castellon

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 20946, SC LISW-CP 8402
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and South Carolina. I have 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Carlos Velasco providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Carlos Velasco

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 5800
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
14 years offering treatment

Life moves fast, and major transitions whether in your career, relationships, or personal identity often bring unexpected stress, self-doubt, and anxiety. I work with adults who want to move past feeling overwhelmed and step into a more grounded, confident version of themselves. I view therapy as a dynamic partnership. My style is direct yet empathetic, providing a safe space to unpack complex challenges without judgment. Together, we will examine patterns that may no longer be serving you, strengthen communication and coping tools, and build a clear path forward. If you are ready to optimize your mental well-being, navigate a major shift, or simply gain fresh perspective, I am here to support your journey

Psychologist James Goodwin providing different types of therapy in Goleta

James Goodwin

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LMFT 2018, CA LMFT 51474
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
22 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and North Carolina with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Dr. Priscilla Sobremonte providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Dr. Priscilla Sobremonte

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 22308
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
24 years offering treatment

I served in the United States Air Force for 11 years. Graduated with MSW became a LCSW began working with severely emotionally disturbed children. Continued to work with a county mental health department with an agreement with juvenile justice. In this capacity worked with children, adolescence, families, and adolescents who were placed in juvenile hall. Worked in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation as a Psychiatric Clinical Social Worker for many years with both male and female inmates, inpatient, outpatient and special units for chronic severe mental illness. Worked at Kaiser Permanente as a therapist with children and families, and crisis intake. Work experience with Veterans Health Care as a medical social worker supervisor and program coordinator. Began private practice in 2006 utilizing a client centered approach to determine treatment plan with the client (Cognitive Behavioral, Trauma Focused, Solution Focused, Relationship and family issues). Treatment approach is based on client's needs and preferences in a collaborate manner. *****PLEASE NOTE I am note able to write letters to employers for time off and or disability verification.****** AUTHOR Therapeutic Journaling: Making Sense of My Life, put together for clients who have struggled to make sense of life experiences this is based on Narrative Journaling.

Psychologist Katherine Eldean providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Katherine Eldean

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 49558
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with depression and Bipolar Disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happy life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Mary Ann Godefroy providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Mary Ann Godefroy

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 9534, NJ LPC 37PC00433300
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years offering treatment

As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) I am committed to maintaining a personal environment that ensures my clients receive the individual attention and the services that best meet their needs. I work mainly with the individual adult population who are seeking to address a variety of issues and I provide comprehensive psychological services in a warm, supportive, and professional atmosphere. I help my clients effectively work through the problems they face in response to stress, difficult life transitions, relationship issues, emotional and behavioral difficulties as well as substance abuse and addiction. I use an integrative treatment approach to promote insight, individual growth, improved coping and interpersonal skills, and movement toward a contented and more fulfilling life. Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Psychodynamic/Insight-Oriented, Interpersonal and Motivational Interviewing Therapy Techniques are used to facilitate personal growth and treat an array of specific issues. Some of the issues worked on include but are not limited to: Depression & other Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Substance Abuse/Addictions & Major Life Transitions. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques we will help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating!

Psychologist Eric Aldaco providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Eric Aldaco

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 116682
Mental Wellness Specialties: Self esteemCoping with life changes
16 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert of your life journey and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am a Christian therapist and my approach to therapy is from a biblical perspective. I look forward in meeting you and collaboratively engaging in a strength base therapeutic model in treatment.

Psychologist Stacy Brown providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Stacy Brown

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC LPCC20476, TX LPC 69278
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsEating disordersAnger managementADHD
16 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Texas with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, eating disorders, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Yu Tsun Tseng-Brown providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Yu Tsun Tseng-Brown

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 53180
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
26 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals, couple, family through complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the nuanced challenges of depression, anxiety, marital problems, trauma, grief, and anger management. I am certified in child abuse and home violence, parenting educator, play therapy, seek safety (intervention for substance abuse and trauma), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, managing and adapting program (treatment of depression, trauma, anxiety, and disruptive behavior) and CORES (crisis intervention). I specialize in creating compassionate, culturally-responsive therapeutic spaces that honor each client's unique journey. Drawing from extensive clinical expertise, I help individuals develop resilient coping strategies and meaningful pathways toward emotional healing and personal growth. My professional commitment is centered on providing empathetic, evidence-based support that respects your individual experiences and strengths. I believe in collaborative healing, where you are the expert of your own story, and I serve as a supportive guide in your transformative process.

Psychologist Ryan Jordan providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Ryan Jordan

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 17537
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Dr. Bobbie Paul providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Dr. Bobbie Paul

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 29201
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
32 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have training and experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, depression and coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am confident we can develop the necessary tools so you can prevail over your current challenges and achieve your goals. If you wish to know more about my approach to therapy visit my website at https://www.bobbiejpaul.com.

Psychologist Eustacia Joseph providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Eustacia Joseph

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 135568, FL LCSW SW18379
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficulties
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Jo Ellen Clark providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Jo Ellen Clark

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 106161
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I have experience working as a social worker in a medical environment. I worked for over six years in our local trauma center in the Acute Rehab Unit (ARU). Through this experience I worked with individuals and families in acute crisis. Individuals dealt with immediate life changes impacting income, living arrangements, supportive relationships and possible altered physicality short and/or long term. Depression, anxiety, and dealing with interpersonal relationships were all part of the process of processing the life altering event. This experience gave me the opportunity to work with all ages, socioeconomic levels, education levels, ethnicities, cultures and back grounds while using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Systems Theory, Cultural Competency (client as expert) and an individual client focused approach to assist the client with their goals. I now work as a hospice social worker. Working with individuals and families dealing with end of life challenges, loss, grief and hopefully acceptance. Compassion, empathy, advocacy and listening are all pieces to assist individuals and families to cope with the end of life. It is not so different than working with any other client, I meet the client and families where they are. Assess one's needs and establish goals for client centered work. All the skills that are learned through my experiences are transferred to working with individuals whether it is life questions, road blocks to achieving goals or trauma to be worked through, the approach is met with companion, non judgement, support and open communication.

Psychologist Desseray Vega providing different types of therapy in Goleta

Desseray Vega

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 144666
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
16 years offering treatment

Nice to meet you! My name is Desseray Vega, and I have over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults from diverse backgrounds. I am passionate about creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey. I primarily utilize a person-centered approach, believing that each individual is the expert on their own life. I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, drawing from evidence-based techniques to help you build on your strengths, navigate life's challenges, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, stress, trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, I am here to walk alongside you with compassion, empathy, and respect. My goal is to help you gain insight, develop practical coping skills, and feel more confident in creating the life you want. I look forward to the opportunity to support you on your journey toward healing and wellness.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Goleta, California

Finding a therapist near you in Goleta, California starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In California, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In California, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in California

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in California

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in Goleta.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Goleta, California

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Goleta and the surrounding CA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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