Your life can be a great thing for everyone to enjoy. You can help people, be a good friend, and bring others up. However, to work on that, you must first learn to work on yourself. If you’re feeling down about yourself, a counselor based in Santa Barbara can help. 

Santa Barbara is known for being a town with plenty of tourism and a place where everyone comes to enjoy. People can enjoy your life, but first you should work on yourself. Speak to a counselor today and see how you can do so. 

This is Beth Deja's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Parenting issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 10

People come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Sometimes you are in crisis mode, and sometimes you just need someone to talk to for support. My goal is to help you manage distress and identify problem-solving skills. Let's work through some trauma! Originally from Michigan, I gave up cold winters for the palm trees of sunny San Diego, then backtracked somehow and am enjoying scalding summers and sunny winters in Denver. Licensed in both Colorado and California, I am empathetic, nonjudgmental, and authentic. Once I know you, I like to give it to you straight wit...

This is Rosemary Flores's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA, LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Anger management, Depression
Years of Experience: 12

Hi All! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California with 11 years of experience providing services to children, youth, adults, and families. I have great experience providing mental health therapy/services to clients enduring anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, change of life circumstances, and various forms of trauma. I earned my stripes with providing community based mental health services to low income families and the coordination of a residential facility's mental health treatment program for adolescent males on prob...

This is Jeanette Salinas's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW,CT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 30

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Thanatologist (specialist in grief and loss). I received my master’s degree and LCSW in Sacramento, California over 30 years ago. I have extensive experience working with all types of clients. My specialty is in grief and loss including pet loss, transitions, PTSD and trauma. In addition, I have experience counseling individuals with Bi-Polar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, OCD and Borderline Personality Disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and the elderly. I also provide support and...

This is Rebecca Hathorn's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 17

Hello! Welcome to Better Help. You are probably wondering how this can be helpful and/or how is is different than traditional therapy. I wondered the same thing when I was looking into it. Better Help provides a unique experience for someone who may need help but can't find the time that fits into a "normal" schedule, can't find a therapist that is a good fit or maybe someone who isn't ready to be face to face with a therapist but still wants a professional, outside perspective. My name is Rebecca Hathorn and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state ...

This is Jennifer Ziino's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MS,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Depression
Years of Experience: 12

My approach to therapy is simple. We are all human beings trying to navigate this incredibly complex human experience. As human beings, we are hard wired for connection. Unfortunately, in our society we have become increasingly isolated, and therefore experience interpersonal difficulty. I hold the belief that we all have untapped emotional resources. I see my role as a therapist, as a guide to bringing awareness to the innate goodness, and resources within all of us. I use a multidimensional approach, drawing from evidenced based practice models that match the in...

This is Cherie Felzer's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 11

Life is a journey of continually coming home to ourselves. Come home to yourself. to your soul. I have spent the last 20+ years working and playing with conscious personal growth, traversing pathways of dark and light, with 15+years of dance and movement meditation as my main spiritual practice. Throughout many years of traveling, I have learned so much from life, different cultures, and teachers of indigenous traditions, and finally, moved to the bay area in 2007 to pursue graduate studies in somatic counseling psychology, and complete licensure in Marriage a...

This is Holly Starr's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MS,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 25

Hello, I am a psychotherapist with 25 years of experience practicing in the San Francisco Bay Area. With a BA in English Literature and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, I move comfortably between live talk therapy and online written mediums. I have worked with adolescents, adults and the elderly in residential and private practice settings. I am struck by the unique challenges we all face as we transition from one developmental stage of life to the next. My early work as a suicide prevention hotline counselor and grief therapist/supervisor has laid the f...

This is Sara Griffith's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MFT,IFECMHS
Therapy Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 20

Hi, my name is Sara Griffith and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Southern California. I have over 25 years of experience working with children and families here and in the Midwest. Most of my experience has been working with individuals and families with infants and young children, either in the adjustment to parenthood, or in the challenges that come with caring for a young child. I also have experience in working with individuals who may be experiencing anxiety or depression, family problems, stress, trauma/abuse and difficulties with relatio...

This is Shellye Sledge's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): PhD,LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Depression
Years of Experience: 15

The good news for you… I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have been counseling individuals, couples, and families for many years. My education and training include a doctorate from Norfolk State University’s School of Social Work’s PhD Program, a Master of Social Work in Administration from San Diego State University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Counseling/Psychology from Christian Heritage College in El Cajon, California. My experience with diverse participants has allowed me to acquire the therapeutic and coaching skills needed to work effec...

This is Lesli Mitchell's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 7

I am an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) licensed in California with close to 10 years of experience working as therapist and close to 20 years working as a social worker. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting/ family problems, career challenges, OCD, discrimination issues and more. I believe that life is hard sometimes for all of us. There are times when we all could benefit from having someone listen in a nonjudgmental way, encourage us to explore our feelings and t...

This is Kassandra Boortz's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 3

Hello Everyone! My Name is Kassandra Boortz and I am a Marital and Family Therapist licensed in California . I earned my Masters degree from Loma Linda University, in 2013 and received my Licensure in 2018. I am passionate in bringing empowerment and insight to the world of those who struggle to move forward. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and explore negative patterns that are holding them back. My journey has led me to work successfully dealing with a wide range of issu...

This is Amy Carnes's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MS,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Addictions, Grief, Parenting issues
Years of Experience: 7

I know it can be overwhelming to take early steps toward the changes you want in life. Coping with our struggles already takes a huge amount of energy. Choosing a therapist is a big step. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where I can use my professional tools while we work on mental, emotional, and relationship issues. I will provide transparency throughout the process, so you are informed and know what to expect. I am a culturally competent Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 7 years of counseling experience. I recei...

This is Gregory Harbaugh's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Career difficulties, Depression
Years of Experience: 15

Hello and welcome! I know from experience that sometimes it takes a great deal of courage to take the step to contact a therapist. So, thank you for reading! I am a graduate of the University of Southern California (also the University of Michigan) with over fifteen years’ experience as a psychotherapist treating individuals, couples/partners, children/adolescents, families and groups. My clinical training was at Saban Community Clinic, treating a diverse array of patients with wide ranging conditions. I enjoyed the team approach at Saban, which include...

This is Dr. Michael Rocco's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 22

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been doing psychotherapy since 1999. I have worked with both individuals and couples, from a NICU setting to hospice:across the life span. My style is warm and interactive, using a variety of methods, whatever it takes to help you achieve your goals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is probably the best description of my theoretical orientation. Starting therapy is not an easy task, and my goal is to help you weather the storm, and get you to where you want to be. Take a deep breath, give me a call, and let’s g...

This is Michael  Dickman's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MS, LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 4

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California with over ten years of experience in the field of psychology. I have provided individual psychotherapy in a variety of settings and group counseling in the treatment of substance use disorders. I specialize in treating child, adolescent, and adult clients with depression, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders via Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness modalities (such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy. I believe in treatin...

This is Kimberly Brooks's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MSW,LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 15

I am a clinical social worker licensed in Illinois and California with over 15 years of experience counseling and life coaching. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, anger issues, career challenges, grief, and many other challenging issues. I have also helped many people who have experienced diverse types of traumas. My therapy style is warm and compassionate, but direct and honest. Interactive and empathetic. I will give you an opportunity to be transparent while providing safety a...

This is Christine Canaday's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MS,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 9

Hi there, my name is Chrissy. Thanks for stopping by to get to know me. It's important to choose a therapist who feels like a good fit for you. I’ve had my own meaningful experiences in personal therapy and couples counseling. When I reflect on what I appreciate most about the therapists I've connected with, they have had in common a deep respect for my inner knowing. There has been natural warmth and collaboration between us, and the therapist’s role has been like a guide and witness, helping me to find and trust the answers within myself. This is the approach th...

This is Cynthia Villacres's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

Hello, if you are coping with life changes, stress, anxiety, motivation, self-esteem and depression, I think I can help. I'm experienced at helping people cope, grow and even thrive despite often difficult circumstances. I can help you with identifying what's getting in the way of your moving toward your goals, and helping you problem-solve those barriers. I'd like to meet you!

This is Ann Laing's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Grief, Anger management, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 30

Change often brings stimulation and renewed energy. However, when change is sudden and/or painful, life can become unfamiliar and challenging. With someone to guide and ground us during these unsettling times, we can benefit, heal and even grow. I'm available to be that someone for you. I am Ann Laing, 30 years a California licensed therapist, accompanying clients towards a more purposeful and meaningful life-one that is more than just enduring. I've extensive experience with issues surrounding grief, loss, relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety, as well...

This is Kimberly Alvarez's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Santa Barbara, California (Santa Barbara, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 5

Hello, my name is Kimberly Alvarez. I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with over 5 years experience. As a therapist, my passion is to support my clients to cultivate healthy long-lasting relationships with themselves and others while remaining authentic and empathic. My belief is that through self-love, boundaries, and awareness we can remove things from our lives that no longer serve us in order to create long lasting positive change. I am a first generation Mexican American, as a bilingual provider, I aspire to dismantle the stigma associated with mental health...

Having A Hard Time Selecting A Mental Health Professional In Santa Barbara?

Finding the right therapist can feel intimidating. However, there are a few methods you can try to narrow your search for a counselor in the Santa Barbara area if you find it challenging to find therapists accepting new clients.

First, research what type of therapy you'd like to pursue before finding a therapist or psychologist. You might be interested in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, marriage and family therapy, or couples therapy. Each therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective therapists which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search, search for 'therapist near me in Santa Barbara and scroll through the options. Next, consider your goals for the gender of your therapist, the type of therapy they're most experienced with, and their specialty. Finally, choose a therapist located near you in the city of Santa Barbara or elsewhere in Santa Barbara or the state of California.

Mental health professionals working through private practice or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships and communication skills, working through life's obstacles, or changing negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a listening ear and validation. Verified Santa Barbara therapists can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

What Is The Cost Difference Between Conventional Therapy And BetterHelp? 

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Santa Barbara due to a higher cost of living.

Some therapists in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp therapists serving the city of Santa Barbara and elsewhere throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).


Did You Know BetterHelp Therapists Are Not Limited To In-Person Visits?

Online therapists, including the US-based therapists above, can work with people like you in or around Santa Barbara to offer creative forms of communication and treatment. You do not have to commute to a therapist's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, receive worksheets, and sign up for mental health webinars. Additionally, the BetterHelp app offers a journaling feature.

Suppose you're struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in behavioral health and relationships. You can also try a provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. Look through the available therapists above and consider which might work for you.

San Jose has many professionals who provide client-centered individual counseling in person and through online therapy. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with therapists all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based counseling. In Santa Barbara, therapy can be easily accessible and a click away.


How To Know If Therapy Is Right For You?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but they may struggle to provide objective guidance as a therapist can. Therapists are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A therapist may support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health or life concerns. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another benefit of therapy is having a safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A San Jose therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in Santa Barbara, CA, finding a therapist can be costly, and therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of therapists above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a therapist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby therapist close to 93130 or the surrounding zip codes, consider other available therapists through the BetterHelp therapist page.

Stay Up To Date With The Leading Online Therapy Platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and FacebookFor mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time to learn more about BetterHelp therapists and counselors to understand the services available to you clearly. If you have any questions, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online counseling, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched with a counselor within 24 to 48 hours.

Emergency Situations

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

·      National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

·      National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

·      Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

·      Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.

·      Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386 

·      SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357

·      National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)

·      Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature

·      National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) 

·      Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19

·      Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673

Zip Codes Served By BetterHelp Therapists

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Santa Barbara:

93101, 93102, 93103, 93105, 93106, 93109, 93120, 93121, 93130, 93140, 93190

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy and BetterHelp can be found below:

How Do I See A Therapist For The First Time? 

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading about the counseling process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your therapist. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and why you're attending therapy.

Should I Attend Therapy If I Feel Fine? 

If you don't feel the need to see a therapist, you don't have to. However, some people may avoid attending counseling due to preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although therapists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A therapist may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is Crying In Therapy A Breakthrough?

Crying can be a breakthrough for some individuals who struggle to express emotions. Others might find that they often cry during sessions. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Are Therapists Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A therapist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family member, or non-professional, therapists are trained to meet you where you're at. Therapy can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy each year, showing it's a popular option and may be often effective.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to protect you and them from ethical concerns. Therapists are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. Their job is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. You might consider changing therapists if you don't feel safe or respected.