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Grief counselors and therapists in Santa Barbara, CA

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Top grief and loss counseling therapists in Santa Barbara, CA

Coping with bereavement, anticipatory grief, or the loss of a loved one requires compassionate, specialized care. Headway's Santa Barbara-based network includes therapists experienced in grief counseling, meaning-making, and trauma-informed support to help you process your loss.

Ana Melendez

Ana Melendez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I take a collaborative and strengths-based approach, tailoring our work to your unique needs, goals, and experiences.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Chula Tran

Chula Tran

Therapist

Virtual • Fountain Valley, CA


I am dedicated to helping teens struggling with trauma and self-harm behavior. My experience working with Orange Unified School District, running groups from grade 6-12 for students struggling with emotional and behavioral problems has given me unique insight into not only helping teens, but also working with the families, schools, and community to provide more effective treatment. I have partnered with Western Youth Services in helping at risk teens and low income families in helping adolescents to overcome academic barriers and families cope with serious defiance and drug use.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Elianora Adamian

Elianora Adamian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use evidence-based approaches tailored to each client's unique needs and goals, helping them navigate stress, life transitions, relationship concerns, and emotional challenges while working toward meaningful, lasting change.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, PTSD
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shari Gilbert

Shari Gilbert

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I offer compassionate, supportive care where you'll feel heard, valued, and encouraged in your journey of growth and healing.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Direct, Holistic
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Tongqing Zhu

Tongqing Zhu

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


“I focus on healing the family as a whole, not just the individual with compassion and attachment-based methods...”
Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Amanda Long

Amanda Long

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


Hello! I'm Amanda Long, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to serving families through compassionate, culturally sensitive mental health care. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and have been practicing as a PMHNP since 2019, with over a decade of nursing experience beginning in 2011. My educational foundation also includes a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Illinois in Springfield, which broadened my understanding of human behavior and community dynamics. My journey in mental health has taken me through diverse settings that have shaped my comprehensive approach to care. I've worked in psychiatric emergency services at a major hospital, 23-hour crisis stabilization units, outpatient clinics, correctional facilities, and forensic mental health centers, including fitness-to-stand-trial evaluations. This varied experience has equipped me to understand mental health from multiple perspectives and meet people wherever they are in their journey, whether they're facing an acute crisis or seeking ongoing support. I specialize in medication management for individuals across the lifespan—from children and adolescents to adults and older adults. My treatment areas include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma-related conditions, psychotic disorders, and other mental health concerns. I'm experienced in both telehealth and in-person care, making quality psychiatric services accessible and convenient for your lifestyle. What drives me is the belief that everyone deserves competent, caring mental health support that honors their unique background and circumstances. I'm committed to improving the communities I serve, one individual and family at a time, through evidence-based practice combined with genuine human connection. My approach centers on partnership and creating a safe environment for healing. I look forward to supporting you and your family's wellness journey.

Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Alanna Newman

Alanna Newman

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“My approach is warm, practical, and down-to-earth. Therapy doesn't have to feel intimidating or overly clinical.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Jai Thao

Dr. Jai Thao

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I identify as an Asian American first-generation individual who migrated to the United States as a child, and this lived experience informs my culturally responsive and flexible approach.”
Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Kwang Ha

Dr. Kwang Ha

Psychologist

Virtual • Studio City, CA


“By working with me, the clients would build up the resilience they need to cope with the life challenges they are facing up to the point they can utilize them without the guidance of the therapist.”
Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jessie Licon

Jessie Licon

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi! I'm a Latino therapist (he/him) born and raised in East Los Angeles. I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology from UCLA and my Master of Social Work from California State University, Long Beach. With nearly 9 years of experience in child welfare, probation, and community mental health, I use a holistic, trauma-informed approach to support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and the effects of trauma. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and supported.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Michael Andrews

Michael Andrews

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I firmly believe that therapy only works if there is a strong therapeutic alliance between practitioner and client.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Malcolm Redmond

Malcolm Redmond

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I offer a supportive space to process challenges while helping you develop practical tools for emotional regulation and healthier communication.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Kuan-Lin Ho

Kuan-Lin Ho

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am especially passionate about supporting international, multicultural, Mandarin- and Taiwanese-speaking clients who are seeking therapy in a space where language, discourse, family dynamics, and lived experiences are deeply understood.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Melinda Fay

Melinda Fay

Therapist

Virtual • California


Melinda Fay is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a specialty in Art Therapy. I received my MA in Psychology from Phillips Graduate Institute in 2002 and I have been licensed since 2008.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michelle Dazalla

Michelle Dazalla

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My philosophy is "Aim Small to Hit Big", which means to be present in the moment and set small attainable goals for yourself to build upon your successes and celebrate accomplishments one goal at a time.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Patricia Gutierrez

Patricia Gutierrez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My practice centers on trauma and PTSD, identity and gender affirming care, and the lived experiences of women and LGBTQIA+ individuals.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Tiffani Parks

Tiffani Parks

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in a harm reduction approach, meaning I meet clients where they are and believe progress looks different for everyone.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Margarita Batten

Margarita Batten

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome! As a bilingual licensed therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges by providing emotional support and personalized coping tools. Whether you’re taking your first step into therapy or continuing a journey you’ve been on before, I’m committed to creating a safe space where all of your feelings and life experiences are welcome.

I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and work with the Spanish-speaking and LGBTQ community as well.

Grief or loss, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Holly Shannon

Holly Shannon

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“My goal isn't to "fix" you—you're not broken. Instead, I'm here to help you understand your conditions, develop effective coping strategies, and build the fulfilling life you deserve.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Jessica Terrell

Jessica Terrell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is a partnership; you are the expert on your life, and my role is to provide guidance, support, and practical tools as we work toward your goals together.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Ahila Muthaiya

Ahila Muthaiya

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Palmdale, CA


“She emphasizes that there are many other approaches that can be taken before resorting to medication adjustments.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Marisol Lopez

Marisol Lopez

Therapist

Virtual • California


Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already carrying a heavy load. One thing for sure, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

In my practice, I work extensively with college students, athletes, young adults and adults across various stages of life. I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, performance pressure, injury recovery, burnout, and complex questions around identity and self-worth.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my core mission is to support you through life's most challenging moments so you can step fully into the best version of yourself. Therapy isn't just about managing symptoms, it’s about discovering your strengths, building resilience, and creating a life that feels authentic and aligned with who you are.

Grief or loss, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Marlene Blanco

Marlene Blanco

Therapist

Virtual • Onyx, CA


“I provide a supportive, non judgmental space for you to work on reconnecting with yourself and making the changes that you want.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, LGBTQIA+
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Dr. Urania Acevedo

Dr. Urania Acevedo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy should be both compassionate and productive, and that genuine emotional growth flourishes when we balance evidence-based practices with a deeply authentic human connection.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Inna Babakhanyan

Inna Babakhanyan

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


We are not meant to carry the entirety of life’s weight alone! I believe that mental health should be very much prioritized to reach true contentment. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for healing and growth. In therapy, we will collaborate on developing the best coping skills for your symptoms and concerns. We will navigate through emotions and work to maintain balance. I aim to provide supportive comfort, as well as challenge, in order to strive for the greatest version of yourself.

I received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. With over six years experience in the field, I have utilized a variety of therapeutic approaches to assess and treat individuals struggling with stress management, adjustment, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, low self-esteem, etc.

Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Juliann Hatt

Dr. Juliann Hatt

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Rancho Santa Fe, CA


“I believe healing begins when we feel truly seen, heard, and accepted, and that's what I strive to offer every person I work with.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Christina Stelly

Christina Stelly

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


IMPORTANT: For current availability, visit https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/ or call or text us anytime at 415-968-6515—we make it super easy! Intake forms are required before your first appointment and will be emailed to you when you book online. You can text us your info or email us at [email protected]. Please be sure to send us a picture of your insurance information and photo ID!

Hi! I'm Christina Stelly, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC — a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Martinez, CA. With over 15 years of clinical experience across inpatient psychiatry, maternal health, and advanced practice, I am deeply committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to every person I serve.

I specialize in treating schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety, etc.

My academic background includes a Post-Certificate DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Illinois Chicago, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Texas Tech University, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Touro University. I also completed an intensive NP residency focused on advanced psychiatric care, crisis stabilization, and forensic psychiatry, which further strengthened my clinical expertise.

Earlier in my career, I specialized in maternal mental health, serving as a Patient Care Director for high-risk obstetric populations and contributing to perinatal mental health policy at the state and national levels. This background gives me a uniquely broad, whole-person perspective on psychiatric care across the lifespan.

My approach is grounded in trauma-informed, individualized care. I take time to fully understand your history, concerns, and goals before collaboratively building a treatment plan tailored to you. I have also served on health policy committees and presented at national nursing conferences, reflecting my commitment to psychiatric care.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Estella Lerlo

Dr. Estella Lerlo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My work focuses on helping clients understand how early relationships shape their emotional patterns and sense of self.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Infertility
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 12 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Rena Gamino

Dr. Rena Gamino

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy does not have to be about changing who you are—it can be about understanding yourself more deeply...”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Paul Tran

Paul Tran

Therapist

Virtual • California


My name is Paul Tran, and I am a Vietnamese-American Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Over the past 10 years, I have worked with various populations with diverse backgrounds and challenges including trauma, crisis, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, racial challenges, and immigration issues. My mission is to offer you a safe space for you to truly express and be seen as your whole self, and to bear witness to your growth and healing journey.

Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Rachel Navarro

Rachel Navarro

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, interactive, and strictly non-stigmatizing. I believe you are the expert of your own story, and I act as a partner in uncovering the strengths you already possess.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Blair Bishop

Blair Bishop

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“My approach is warm and collaborative. I think that humor can be incredibly healing and I incorporate it when appropriate.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Men's issues
Creative, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Deborah St John

Deborah St John

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m someone who truly listens and strives to meet each person exactly where they are. My style is adaptive, reflective, and flexible. I bring authenticity, compassion, and a good sense of humor into my work because I believe that laughter and honesty can be just as healing as insight. I was inspired to become a therapist by my own desire for the kind of support I would have wanted, and I aim to offer that same understanding and care to my clients. People often describe me as warm, genuine, and empowering. I am someone who helps them feel deeply heard and supported while encouraging growth in meaningful ways.

Grief or loss, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Miaisha James

Miaisha James

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! My name is Miaisha. Are you looking for a space where you can keep it real and get support? Then you are at the right place because I believe that everyone deserves a space where they can feel heard, understood, and supported. I am a compassionate and culturally sensitive Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use multiple treatment approaches when working with clients, one of which is client-centered, this allows you to be the driver of your journey, while I am riding in the passenger seat. Whether you're adjusting to new life roles or seeking deeper self-understanding, I’m here to support you. You deserve a therapist who sees and affirms you, helping you embrace change with confidence and resilience. Let’s work together to create meaningful, lasting change. I invite you to reach out and take the first step and know that you are not alone. Together, we’ll create a path forward that honors your unique journey.

Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Daniel Blitch

Daniel Blitch

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is a space where curiosity and honesty meet growth. My approach is both exploratory and grounded.”
Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Challenging, Inquisitive
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Alicia Zamano

Alicia Zamano

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a supportive, culturally responsive, and compassionate environment where clients feel comfortable expressing themselves in the language that feels most natural to them.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Alexander Frenkel

Alexander Frenkel

Therapist

Virtual • California


In my studies at Antioch, I have specialized in Spiritual and Depth Psychology with CBT, DBT, Humanistic-Existential, Client-Centered, Gestalt Theories, Mindfulness, and based on my past experiences have developed a passion for working with a variety of diverse population from 12 years old children and their families to elder adults. I also took courses on World Religions and Women Role in Religion at CSUN, studied in Rabbinical School (AISH Ha’Torah) in Jerusalem, with Buddhist Guru in Nepal and a Hindu Guru in India with knowledge of Vedic (Vedantic), Hindu, Jewish, Christian, and Muslim Tradition.

For over 15 years being on spiritual path and self-discovery journey, I became a Spiritual Guide, Reiki Master, and a Minister. Lead Spiritual Retreats and trainings around the world, including, India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, Ukraine. This experience prepared me to work with people from a diversity of backgrounds and cultures.

Worked with a vast variety of symptoms and problems providing needed support to my clients suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem. All of these issues and symptoms have a point to make for us to understand our selves better. Working with adolescents in Residential Treatment Centers, Transitional Youth Living Programs, adult and veterans of all ages, there is one common denominator - if you want your life to be better, we can find your individual path and you might become your own Master. We'll apply, or challenge, your believe system, to make positive changes.

I help my clients resolve their problems, learn coping skills, and set their spiritual and/or religious path. Increasing client's understanding of self and accepting life with all the pluses and minuses, learning from the past without the judgment might be a difficult goal to achieve.

Grief or loss, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Raianne Ochoa

Raianne Ochoa

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe healing looks different for everyone, so our work together is based on your unique needs, goals, and pace.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Erica Sandoval

Erica Sandoval

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have over 7 years of experience working with depression and anxiety disorders, trauma, couples, and other severe mental health concerns. My goal is to create a comfortable, safe space where you can begin your therapeutic journey with confidence and without judgment. Together, we can openly explore what you want in—and out of—life. If you don't know what that looks like yet, that's okay. We can figure it out together. Your goals may also change along the way, and therapy should have the flexibility to change with you.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Remy Preston

Remy Preston

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Therapy with me is collaborative, open-minded, and affirming. I meet you where you are, honor your pace, and support you in reaching goals that feel meaningful and realistic for your life.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

About our therapists in Santa Barbara, CA who help people navigate grief and loss

Number of therapists serving Santa Barbara, CA
There are over 6,034 therapists in Santa Barbara, CA accepting new patients.
6,034+
Average years in practice
Watercolor illustration of a bookshelf
10 years
Top specialties offered
Watercolor illustration of specialties
  • 100%Grief or loss
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 96%Depression
  • 92%Stress management
  • 86%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 80%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 78%Cigna
  • 76%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 67%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 17%Spanish
  • 2%Farsi
  • 1%Mandarin
  • 1%Hindi
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 90%Online only
  • 10%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 79%Woman
  • 20%Man
  • 1%Non-binary
License types
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  • 47%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 31%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 7%Nurse Practitioner
  • 7%Clinical Psychologist
  • 7%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 40%Family therapy
  • 26%Couples therapy
  • 17%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.