Couples therapists in Santa Barbara, CA

Chenda Dyck is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She's in the final stretch of her PhD in Marital and Family Therapy, and she finished her master's at Fresno State back in 2016.

Chenda was born in Ratanakiri, in Cambodia's northern highlands. Families there hold together through a lot, and she watched how that works long before she had any language for it. She arrived in the U.S. in 2003, sponsored by an adoptive American family. What she learned in those years is the thing she still builds her practice on — that one safe relationship can redirect an entire life.

Her work centers on Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), grounded in systemic and attachment theory and carried by a social-justice lens. Diverse, multiracial, and immigrant families are where she does her best work — families managing cultural pressure and emotional strain at once. In session and in supervision, she holds to the same standards: respect for culture, honesty about feelings, and the relationship kept at the center.

Stuck? In pain? Contemplating a life change, or just had one thrust upon you? Let's explore your options and make things easier.

I have 20+ years of experience helping demoralized adults back to high functionality. I specialize in helping develop motivational skills in those are dealing with depression, anxiety and adjustment issues (including relational and gender identity issues).

I have been practicing for 40 + years, in the Southbay, Torrance area. I am a psychologist with a Ph.D. I specialize with young children, adolescence. I also work with couples, families and am practized in depression, anxiety, psychosis, and divorce. I utalize cognitive/behavioral and psychdynamic therapies. I match my approach to the personality and needs of thebpatient.

I have experience working with children, youth, adults, families, couples but in the last few years, I have shifted my main focus to work with adults who are struggling with anxiety, trauma and depression. I’ve worked in the mental health field for 22 years and been practicing as a therapist for about 10 years. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I believe that prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Seeking help can be difficult, so congratulations on taking your first step to start therapy.

I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families to navigate the challenges related to anxiety, depression, communication, and relationship dynamics. Mental health influences every part of our lives—how we think, feel, and connect with others. When something feels off, it can ripple through our well-being and relationships. Therapy offers the space to identify what’s not working and develop tools for balance, clarity, and lasting change through an engaging and supportive process.

I have a Master's in Counseling and have practiced in the field of mental health for nearly two decades. My experience as a therapist includes extensive training and work in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, women’s issues, and spirituality. I am licensed in both California (LPCC) and Washington (LMHC), and I’m a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) through the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP). I also hold a certification in Grief (CGP). I emphasize a whole-person approach to care, considering the full spectrum of physical, emotional, social, and spiritual factors that impact your overall health and well-being.

I'm an open minded individual and welcome any topics in treatment

I have worked with a variety of clients of all ages and cultural backgrounds. My primary focus has been on individual therapy but enjoy working with couples and families as well. I bring empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness to all of my therapy sessions.

I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, confidence, and self-compassion. I work with adolescents and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, low self-worth, family conflict, and major life transitions.

My approach is both compassionate and collaborative. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and not judged. I believe that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, so I tailor my work to meet your unique needs and goals. Together, we’ll explore patterns, build healthier coping strategies, and work toward meaningful, lasting change.

I have experience supporting clients through complex family dynamics, cultural expectations, and identity development. I also work closely with individuals dealing with disordered eating and body image concerns, helping them develop a more balanced and trusting relationship with themselves.

Clients often describe me as warm, direct, and thoughtful. I will meet you with empathy while also gently challenging you when needed to help you grow.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. My goal is to walk alongside you as you build insight, resilience, and a life that feels more aligned with who you are.