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LGBT therapists in Santa Barbara, CA

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People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Santa Barbara, CA

Santa Barbara's LGBTQIA community deserves mental health support from providers who truly understand. Headway offers flexible virtual and in-person sessions with 2,499 empowering, solution-oriented providers who create nonjudgmental spaces for exploring identity, with many appointments available within days.

Dr. Amanda Seon-Walker

Dr. Amanda Seon-Walker

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My role is to serve as your copilot, providing support, education, resources, and identifying areas that need attention.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Pavlo OConnor

Pavlo OConnor

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work primarily with gay and queer men, and the people who love them, navigating identity, self-worth, relationships, and life transitions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Lauren Bittner

Lauren Bittner

Therapist

Virtual • California


If you are feeling lost, alone, overwhelmed, or stuck, I am here. If you are exploring your sense of self, identity, relationships, or sexual orientation, I am here. If you are hoping to cultivate greater self-compassion or reconnect with your authentic self, I am here.

I believe every person deserves a space where they feel seen, heard, and accepted. My practice welcomes people of all genders, sexual orientations, relationship structures, abilities, professions, and backgrounds. It is a privilege to walk alongside clients as they navigate life's challenges, discover their strengths, and move toward healing and growth.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Valerie Vasquez

Valerie Vasquez

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I believe the best care comes from building a genuine partnership and creating a treatment plan that fits your unique goals and lifestyle.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Nancy Lopez

Nancy Lopez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I balance insight and self-exploration with practical tools and strategies, helping clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves while working toward meaningful, achievable goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ashley Griffin

Ashley Griffin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Newport Beach, CA


I know how heavy life can feel when you’re carrying pain, uncertainty, or self-doubt. But I believe, as a wise old wizard once said, “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of places, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” My role is to help you find that light again. I work with Gen Z and Millennial adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. Through integrative, culturally responsive care, I combine evidence-based psychiatry with holistic strategies to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered to create a life that aligns with your true self.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Christopher Brown

Christopher Brown

Therapist

Virtual • California


“A trauma-informed therapist is a compassionate mental health professional who prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Shawn McClellan

Shawn McClellan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, direct, and collaborative, and I focus on helping you build skills you can use in real life, not just insight you can talk about.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lauren Azantian

Lauren Azantian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm passionate about working with individuals who want to understand themselves on a deeper level, not just manage symptoms but shift the patterns underneath them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Jiaxi (Jessie) Shao

Jiaxi (Jessie) Shao

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome and thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. As a licensed therapist practicing in both California and New York, I believe deeply in the inherent resilience and transformative potential within every individual. I earned my Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University. Throughout my clinical practice, I have supported clients across all life stages in navigating complex emotional challenges, including trauma, anxiety, and depression, while empowering them to cultivate healthy, fulfilling interpersonal relationships.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Vanessa Davis

Vanessa Davis

Therapist

Virtual • California


I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions! I am also experienced in supporting individuals facing relationship challenges, identity development, and difficulties with emotional regulation. As a Queer therapist, I'm passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ population. I am drawn to this work because I value the depth and resilience within each person’s story. My approach is grounded in attachment-based theory and informed by evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Alexandria Hughes

Alexandria Hughes

Therapist

Virtual • California


Choosing a therapist is a big decision, and it helps to know a little about the person you’ll be working with. With more than 18 years in behavioral health, I’ve supported people from all walks of life through mental health challenges, trauma, and major life transitions. Whatever brought you here, I’d be honored to walk alongside you as you move forward with more confidence and resilience.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Anjana Kathuria

Anjana Kathuria

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California since 2008. My work is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and respect for each client’s unique life story.

I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, stress, health issues, and interpersonal relationship challenges, trauma, grief, aging, and end-of-life concerns. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and reconnect with their strengths while moving toward greater clarity, healing, and emotional balance.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Arianna Penalba

Arianna Penalba

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a counselor, I would describe myself as an eclectic therapist, and I use a variety of theoretical approaches in my work, depending on my specific client's needs.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kimberly Porter-Leite

Kimberly Porter-Leite

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have a deep belief in the healing power of relationship and draw from a range of trauma-informed, somatic, depth and behavioral approaches in my work.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Grief or loss
Holistic, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Timothy Korm

Timothy Korm

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I conduct a thorough evaluation of both your mental and physical symptoms, focusing on how they interact to shape your overall well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Zaryn Avaren

Zaryn Avaren

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe meaningful change begins when we slow down and meet ourselves with curiosity instead of judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Grief or loss
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Eileen Banados

Eileen Banados

Therapist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


“I have had the opportunity to work with people from all age groups, religious and cultural backgrounds and mental health diagnoses.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Adam Wiswell

Adam Wiswell

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My approach to counseling is strengths based and empowerment focused. I use a collaborative and egalitarian style with people who I works with in counseling.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Diane Anderson

Diane Anderson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have been in private practice for the past 18 years. I see myself as a CBT therapist with other emphasis in Psychodynamic clinician.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Creative, Direct, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Stacy Heiser

Stacy Heiser

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with individuals navigating ADHD, shame, stigma, and transgenerational trauma.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brianna Webb Almanza

Brianna Webb Almanza

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Alamo, CA


“My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in reverence for you and the power of your story. We'll utilize curiosity, practical suggestions, and fearless self-awareness to build self-attunement and tangible change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Lisette Montanez

Dr. Lisette Montanez

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I'm a direct therapist, which means I'll share what I'm noticing and offer interpretations, but always in a way that feels collaborative, not overwhelming.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Marilyn Foley

Dr. Marilyn Foley

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 27 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I offer tele-health only sessions from the comfort of your home, making care accessible no matter where you are in California. I accept Anthem and Magellan insurance. My practice is intentionally small — I keep a limited caseload so every client receives my full attention and care. I am warm, experienced, and deeply committed to showing up for the people I work with.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, PTSD
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Lina Kassar

Lina Kassar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Reclaiming control of your life is possible with the right tools, support team, and treatment plan.

Hi, I’m Lina, and I’m an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in mental health concerns across folks of all ages. My experience in psychiatry began years ago in the inpatient setting, where I worked with individuals facing a wide range of challenges, from mild concerns to more complex and severe symptoms. Over time, my training in psychotherapy and medication management has allowed me to support clients dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, PTSD, substance use, and ADHD.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Antonio Shallowhorn

Antonio Shallowhorn

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I will integrate CBT and other evidence-based strategies to explore the patterns, experiences, and beliefs that shape how you relate to yourself and others.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Tabitha Thompson

Dr. Tabitha Thompson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Dr. Tabitha Thompson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who finds value in helping others see the strengths in themselves and achieve their personal and professional goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Linh Tran

Linh Tran

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I’m Linh Tran, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years in healthcare and 5 years in advanced practice. I hold both a Master’s and Doctor of Nursing Practice from Columbia University. My work focuses on anxiety, ADHD, depression, trauma, and eating disorders. I’m especially passionate about supporting adolescents, adults, and those navigating the immigrant or bicultural experience.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Ka Cole

Ka Cole

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is grounded in bridging exceptional therapy tools while creating a warm, heart-centered, mindful set and setting that engages in an authentic healing relationship with you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Darby Childress

Darby Childress

Therapist

Virtual • Visalia, CA


“Therapy provides a confidential and safe space where feelings can be explored, new skills can be acquired, and healing can begin.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Aritcela Vega

Aritcela Vega

Therapist

Virtual • California


“In our sessions, you won't find a "blank wall" therapist. You'll find a real person who listens with empathy, offers gentle nudges when needed, and celebrates your wins with you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Julia McMullen Kharkar

Julia McMullen Kharkar

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I take a warm, gentle, and non-judgmental approach to create a sense of safety and build trust as we get to know each other.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cristina Vigil

Cristina Vigil

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My speciality in the last ten years has been working with gender expansive and LGBTQ+ children, adolescents and their families/caregivers.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Louise B Agyemang

Dr. Louise B Agyemang

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“She has extensive experience in psychiatric mental health both in pediatric, teenagers and geriatric population and effective management of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Substance abuse, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Eating disorders, Schizophrenia and Mood...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Elizabeth Natali

Elizabeth Natali

Therapist

Virtual • California


I support you in achieving your best quality of life as you define "quality of life". I encourage personal growth throughout the life span and will use whatever therapeutic tools available to help you reach your goals. It's never too late to start your journey.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Leigh Johnson

Leigh Johnson

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Sacramento, CA


You may be seeking support in moving toward a more preferred version of yourself, your life, and your relationships. You may be questioning important facets of your identity, or wondering how to locate and uproot the seeds of painful and complicated emotions. Perhaps you are curious about navigating a different type of relational structure with your loved ones, or you may be feeling stuck with a particular challenge in the way you connect to others. My role as a therapist is to provide support and facilitate insight that will allow you to work toward your personal goals.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Relationship issues
Affirming, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Sandi Webb

Sandi Webb

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I believe mental health care should feel supportive, collaborative, and grounded in each person's lived experience.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Bruce Strumpf

Bruce Strumpf

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'll provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where we can work together to help you feel better an move toward the life you want.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Humorous, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Esau Valdez

Esau Valdez

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have been a therapist for a little over for 4years, and have 20 plus years of experience in providing services in the mental health field. I received my MA from Brandman University and utilize CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and other modalities to help reduce symptoms and foster change in unhealthy behaviors.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Challenging, Creative, Direct, Empowering, Humorous, Inquisitive, Open-minded, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Eddie Posadas

Eddie Posadas

Therapist

Virtual • Roseville, CA


“Eddie has received training in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and certified as a Somatic EMDR Practitioner.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Frequently asked questions

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Find the right LGBTQ-friendly therapy provider for you

Headway makes it easier to connect with affirming therapists who understand your identity — from finding the right therapist, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

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