Therapy has many benefits, but there can be multiple barriers to finding effective mental health treatment. For one, your in-person options might be limited. Finding an open appointment with a local provider can be challenging. You may be put on a waiting list or be unable to find a time slot that fits your schedule, and if you do find an opening, the commute can make it even more time-consuming. If you’re looking for a therapist in Santa Maria, CA, consider an online platform like BetterHelp.
BetterHelp providers are experienced with various aspects of counseling psychology and use a client-centered approach to help you experience growth. If you need support overcoming domestic violence, emotional abuse, or other traumatic events of the past, or if you want to learn to focus on the present and have more self-compassion, consider working with a therapist online.
Whether you need help prioritizing self-care or learning to manage the symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, therapy can help you feel heard and give you the tools you need to live your best life. Connect with one of the Santa Maria-based counselors below to learn more.
Emily Schwimmer
Hello! Good for you reaching out for support today. You are taking a big, worthwhile step! I've been practicing for over 24 years in Sunny Southern California working with adult individuals and couples. My experience is working with mild issues and symptoms around stress, anxiety and feelings of sadness, life transitions and career issues, grief and relationship issues, focusing more on the present and moving forward. I provide a safe space to explore and process the feelings and issues you are experiencing. It's not about getting rid of your feelings but rather learning how to manage them in a more healthy way; learning how to have your thoughts and feelings work together rather than against each other! It's usually best to work through your issues rather than ignoring them or trying to push them aside. I want to help up you live a more joyful life and experience fulfilling relationships. My style would be best described as eclectic. It's based loosely on the foundation of cognitive-behavioral theories and then adapts to each person's unique needs utilizing my experience, empathy and compassion to help you move forward in life. I find that weekly phone calls are the most beneficial with the option of brief messaging in-between appointments if you like. Please do not make any appointments on the platform's calendar before we discuss it. Please note I don't work with EAP subscribers or those submitting bills to an insurance company For those subscribers that are interested, I also focus on the mind-body connection, which includes learning how to live more in the moment. Living more in the moment, rather than being stuck in the past or worried about the future, makes life all the more peaceful and joyful. Mind/body connection exercises for example, include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation (tensing and releasing different muscle groups), guided imagery and mindful walking ( a more active form of meditation). All these exercises can help achieve the body's Relaxation Response - physically relaxed and mentally alert. It's what I like to call, "Calm Energy." Research has shown that the Relaxation Response helps in the Reduction of pain, stress, anxiety, fatigue, irritability as well as reducing blood pressure and the stress hormone levels in our bodies. It's been shown to help Increase energy, motivation, productivity and improve decision-making abilities. Although we won't be working face-to-face, you can still learn and benefit from these exercises through instructive emails and/or telephone sessions.
Nelly Gregorian-DeLeon
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California. License number 97450. I am also licensed in North Carolina, license number 2548. I also hold a Marriage and Family Therapist's license in Connecticut, license number 003114. I think there are times when we all experience some difficulties and challenges in our lives that may require some additional support. Maybe because it is a period which life presents some emotional difficulty, or there is an experience of depression, anxiety, traumatic events, relationship issues, or a loss of some kind. It may also be the right time to work on one’s own personal growth. I would consider it a privilege and an honor to walk through this journey with you. I am very empathic, non-judgmental, warm, and ready to take your call whenever you are ready. I am a multilingual individual who has had the opportunity to live in different countries and work with many diverse populations. I also believe in honoring the uniqueness of each individual and his/her own story. I feel passionate about people and their own distinct narratives. I utilize a variety of theoretical approaches drawing from different theorists for the specific challenges faced by the individual/s. I have a great deal of experience working with victims, survivors, and offenders of domestic violence, victims, survivors, and offenders of sexual abuse (I have been CASOMB certified), survivors of childhood abuse, and problematic relationships with high conflicts. I offer psychotherapy for many other emotional difficulties as well as grief and loss. SPECIALITIES INCLUDE: Anxiety/Depression Self Esteem Stress Trauma and PTSD Relationship Issues Childhood Trauma Communication Skills Coping Skills Conflict Resolution Skills Parenting Challenges Divorce Life Transitions Family Conflicts Anger Management Life Coaching Grief and Bereavement MODALITIES INCLUDE: Culturally Sensitive Developmental Eclectic Existential Family / Marital Humanistic Integrative Interpersonal Jungian Narrative Person-Centered Psychodynamic Relational Strength-Based Trauma Focused Gestalt Techniques
Lisa Tran
I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Nancy Lichtenstein
I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Christie Carol Spahr
I am a LMFT in California with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with getting to know Who You are, practicing self compassion, tolerance, trust & confidence to better manage painful life experience, stress, sadness, melancholy, depression anxiety, relationship issues, existential angst, and refocusing on knowing & believing in Your Self. I work in Humanistic, Existential, Person centered, Motivational, Narrative, spoken word approaches with my clients to create an open hearted ~ open minded safe environment where thoughts, emotions & feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I Am Here with respect to support you on that Journey. I graduated from the University of Oregon, have a BA in Religious Studies ~ emphasis on Cultural, Sociological, Indigenous, and Philosophical world view.s Went back to graduate school after being in sports marketing, studying Indigenous cultures in Australia, and U.S. and received my graduate degree ~ MA in Psychology with a speciality in Marriage & Family Therapy. I have been a runner my whole life, have run Marathons around the world, I am grateful for my "lifestyle, as it taught me to Never Give Up, who I Am, realized it's amazing whats thought impossible until it's done, and simply you just can't lie to yourself through the marathon of life or 26 miles 385 yds. I love my work as a therapist & look forward to meeting you.
Loryn Hicks
I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & eating disorders. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe every individual is unique and there is no cookie cutter approach to healing. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. You are enough and never “too much” I am here to support you through your healing process.
Fern July
I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, depression, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Alana Hendrix
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in the Inland Empire area of Southern California. I have 24 years of professional work experience that includes hospital work, community mental health and faith-based settings, as well as my own private practice. I use a variety of treatment modalities including Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Narrative, and Strength-Based. I am also trained in the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), considered by many mental health professionals to be the most effective approach toward treatment trauma at this time. My approach to the therapeutic relationship is a combination of sensitivity, respect, and curiosity coupled with genuine care for the worth of each individual. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My overall goal with each of my clients is to assist them in gaining clarity in what they feel is not working in their life, discovering the path that is right for them, and learning the best way to walk in that path consistently. I believe this is the key to be able to live out your life in a way that will produce peace, satisfaction, contentment, and happiness. My style in the therapeutic relationship is one of warmth, friendliness, and compassion, along with truth and grace in your most difficult moments. There are times I might have to challenge you and there are times I may have to tell you a truth that is hard to hear. But if that should be the case, please be assured that I will handle that with kindness, sensitivity, and respect. I will also include positive suggestions for alternative, more healthy behaviors. It is no small endeavor to decide to change your life and move forward toward wholeness and happiness. It takes a great deal of hard work, courage, insight, and the willingness to change what is not working for you. But you can succeed and you don't have to walk through the process alone. As a former therapist said to me once, "Your past is not your destiny unless you want it to be." You can start right where you are and turn yourself into the person you want to become. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I look forward to our journey together!
Robin McCall
I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. In general, we will work on what I refer to as the “Six Areas of Wealth,” which are Physical, Mental, Emotional, Social, Spiritual, and Financial. These are key to living an “Amazing Life.” It is not enough to feel less depressed or anxious; the goal is to actualize your “Amazing Self.” 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.
Christopher Trujillo
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Santa Maria
Finding the best therapist close by in Santa Maria 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 with therapists in Santa Maria that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Santa Maria. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Santa Maria, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Santa Maria region and in the state of California. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Santa Maria or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Santa Maria therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Maria area offering:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Maria, elsewhere in Santa Barbara, or in the greater state of California. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Santa Maria area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Santa Maria therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Santa Maria due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Maria 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 a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this Santa Maria online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Santa Maria, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Santa Maria psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Santa Maria 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified 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.
Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
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 Maria provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Santa Maria?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Santa Maria 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
Therapists 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 Santa Maria 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 Maria 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 psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in CA, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 93458 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Santa Maria counselor?
Before seeing your Santa Maria therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Santa Maria therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Santa Maria 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 with a Santa Maria counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Maria, 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 Maria has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?
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 for Santa Maria, California
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 Santa Maria 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 to customer service 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:
- 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 for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 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
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Santa Maria:
93454, 93455, 93456, 93458