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 Menachem Stulberger's avatar and link to their profile

Menachem Stulberger

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist with 9 years of experience counseling a wide range of clients. I have worked with clients on grief and loss, depression and anxiety as well as substance abuse concerns. I take a warm approach with clients and use a client centered approach to therapy. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy and approach the sessions in a collaborative manner always working together with people I am working with. I respect that you took this step to seek out a listening ear and I look forward to working together with you on this journey. I was born in New York and as a young child my family moved out to Los Angeles and I have been here ever since. Growing up I was always fascinated by the field of psychology and when I was going for my Bachelors Degree I therefore choose to major in psychology. I attended Touro College Los Angeles for my Bachelors degree and then pursued my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy through Touro University Worldwide. When working with clients I take a warm and empathetic approach and really try to hear what the client is saying. Therapy can be very rewarding but it is often challenging to talk about the difficulties that we face. In session I strive to create a supportive and safe space where we can work together mindfully and without judgement to increase wellness. Thank you for taking the time to look over my profile. I look forward to working together!

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Dr. Brenda Bridges

Offering therapy in CA
License: EdDCP,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Dr. Brenda Bridges has spent her life using her own personal and career experiences to help individuals overcome challenges and stressors. Dr. Bridges has vast experience in PTSD, Military Culture, and treating Mental Illnesses. Dr. Bridges is able to genuinely provide support and hope, especially when their life seem to be more than they can handle. As the Marines veteran, she knows how post-traumatic stress can affect every facet of one’s life as well as the lives of their loved ones. While her focus is on veteran care, she also provides services for children, teenagers, adults , couples and families who are dealing with traumatic situations of their own. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Dr. Bridges has experience in many modalities and is trained in EMDR. Dr. Bridges knows there is no single approach that works for everyone, so she continues to educate herself on emerging therapies and psychological trends to provide the most comprehensive program that works for each of her client’s individual needs. Dr. Bridges received her education at Argosy University, earning her Doctorates in Counseling Psychology. Dr. Bridges earned her Masters with Brandman University Clinical Psychology with emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy. She also holds a Bachelor’s in Social Psychology from Park University.

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Leonardo Garcia

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years of experience

Mental health clinicians assist in promoting mental health well being of others however, we also assist clients to connect themselves through their body, mind, and spirit. In observing my client’s psychological growth during their treatment is a wonderful and rewarding experience that confirms the level of strength and resilience they have. Unfortunately, starting psychotherapy treatment can be a struggle in itself. Allow me to assist you in dealing with this delicate and tedious process to overcome this difficult time in your life. My experience is made up of working with teens and their families for the past 15 years. I have experience providing individual therapy and family therapy. I provide services in both English and Spanish. I am committed to working with people from diverse ethnic backgrounds, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and religious beliefs. Working in the mental health field has been my passion since 2004. As a strength-based clinician, I have had the opportunity and privilege to assist people in the process of bringing stability and healing to their lives, by helping them to find and recognize their own inner strengths and applying it to their daily lives. I employ an in-depth therapeutic approach, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to provide short-term, and effective symptom reduction. Additionally, for longer-term treatment, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and other treatment modalities tailored to each particular client.

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Natalie Schaffer

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

Welcome! It's not always easy to reach out for support when you need it but you've already taken a huge step for yourself.  My name is Natalie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles. I have worked in various service settings including public child welfare, mental health and community-based non-profit. I have worked with folks from a variety of backgrounds with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues and those who have experienced trauma and abuse. These challenges along with everyday stressors can make life feel overwhelming. I am here to support you along the way and to remind you that all of your emotions are valid; they can be managed to help you achieve greater peace and perspective.  I would describe my approach as interactive, strength-based, and compassionate with zero judgement. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative therapy and motivational interviewing; however, I am flexible in drawing from various styles that work best for you. I also like to incorporate some mindfulness and art therapy techniques if it meets your unique needs.  I want you to get the most out of our time together and can be available in whatever manner you are most comfortable. I find that video sessions are a great way to get to know each other but I am also available to you via phone and messaging. My schedule is somewhat flexible but I have most of my availability evenings and weekends and I check messages regularly.  If you think I'm a good fit as your counselor, I would be honored to work with you! 

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This is Gabrielle Gardner's avatar and link to their profile

Gabrielle Gardner

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
5 years of experience

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Dr. Brenda Davis

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW,DSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in California, Kentucky, Idaho, and Oregon with over 30 years of experience working as a therapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, work conflicts, and day to day problem solving. My therapy style is strength based. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral considering the person in their environment. Often what is needed is a safe place to be heard. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Jennifer Stoneburner's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Stoneburner

Offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoachingADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & executive and professional coaching. 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 happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Larissa Childers

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

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, & depression. 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.

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Deanna Gale Emad

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I believe that you have already inside you all that you need to overcome, learn and grow from your challenges. I am seasoned in assisting you on your journey of self growth and awareness. I am grateful for the opportunity to support you in overcoming the areas in your life that are challenging you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am confident that it will be of great support so lets get started.

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Glenda (Esme) Ordonez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist based in California with 15 years of professional experience in the field. My practice is deeply rooted in compassion and empathy, and I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families grappling with various challenges such as trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, depression, postpartum depression, and eating disorders. I offer evidence-based interventions tailored to each client's unique needs. I employ techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), as well as humanistic and existential approaches to foster healing and personal growth. Throughout our journey together, I will be your steadfast ally, offering unwavering support, encouragement, and guidance as you navigate the twists and turns of your personal growth and transformation. Together, we will embark on a profound exploration of self-discovery, healing old wounds, embracing your true identity, and ultimately stepping into the fullest expression of who you are meant to be. I am deeply honored to be a part of your journey toward wholeness and authenticity, and I look forward to accompanying you every step of the way. With warm regards, Glenda "Esme" Ordonez, LMFT, PsyD Candidate

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How to find counseling in Santa Barbara

Finding the best therapist close by in Santa Barbara can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Santa Barbara. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Santa Barbara, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Santa Barbara or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Santa Barbara area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Santa Barbara, elsewhere in Santa Barbara, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Santa Barbara area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Santa Barbara therapist?

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. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Santa Barbara may not take health insurance, some 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 or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Santa Barbara, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Santa Barbara above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Santa Barbara helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Santa Barbara therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Santa Barbara therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

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 you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, 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 Santa Barbara 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 may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 93121 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Santa Barbara counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. 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 learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists 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 feedback and advice. A Santa Barbara licensed clinical social worker 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 mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Santa Barbara, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Santa Barbara has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

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

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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Santa Barbara.

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

Popular cities near Santa Barbara, CA

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