Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Santa Barbara, CA

As a Marriage and Family therapist, I take pleasure in helping clients acquire skills to build healthier relationships.

I work with people ages 13 to 85. Some of the issues I specialize in are adjustment issues, self-esteem, social pressure, issues you may be dealing with that may expected or unexpected.

Life can be challenging and difficult and I am here to help you work through those challenges you are facing in your life. You may be dealing with depression or work-related issues. I strive to make this a safe environment where you are comfortable with sharing what is really going on. I am bilingual in English/Spanish. ;

Social pressure - Self esteem - Adjustment Issues - Depression - Anxiety

Hi, I'm Ellen, a psychotherapist who treats adults and adolescents 19 and up. I combine psychodynamic techniques with spirituality to create a session that offers both common sense and compassion, and also some creative and fun interventions! I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationships, and more. My approach is individualized to respect you and what you need or hope for in therapy. I am a marriage and family therapist with experience in school, clinic, and private practice.

I help clients break the cycle of self-defeating patterns by exploring the lasting impact of early attachment wounds—especially the often unspoken pain of under-mothering and emotional neglect. My approach is grounded in compassion, curiosity, and the belief that healing begins when we de-stigmatize shame and make space for our unmet needs.

With certification in EMDR and advanced training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), I support clients in working through trauma, grief, and relational challenges. My background also includes working with first responders and professional athletes navigating high-pressure roles and emotional resilience.

Whether you're facing anxiety, grief, or feeling stuck in old patterns, I provide a steady therapeutic presence—offering insight, empathy, and deep respect for your healing process. Together, we work toward greater self-trust, healthier boundaries, and a renewed sense of wholeness.

What we see as flaws often echo patterns rooted in early experiences that shaped our connections with ourselves and others. Trauma, unknowingly, informs these unconscious ways of being that once helped us navigate emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.

With 4+ years of experience treating eating disorders, trauma, and navigating life transitions across outpatient, intensive day programs (IOP/PHP), and residential settings, I bring a trauma-informed approach to help unravel these patterns.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received my masters from CSU Northridge. I have worked with kids, teens, and adults, and have been trained in Somatic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other modalities. I have a bachelor's in nutrition and see health and wellbeing through a holistic lens.

Many of the women I work with grew up with high expectations & low emotional support. They learned to prioritize loyalty, achievement, or caregiving over their own needs. Over time, this can create anxiety, burnout, relationship struggles, and a deep sense of disconnection from the self. I specialize in working with women healing from abuse, emotionally unavailable parents & religious & intergenerational trauma. Many of my clients struggle with people-pleasing, guilt, perfectionism, hyper-independence, difficulty setting boundaries, or feelings of responsibility. They often know "why they are the way they are" but still feel stuck.

Aloha nui loa, and welcome to new possibilities, as you step through the threshold of conscious self-care. Congratulation on taking that first step in reaching out for help. Let's start that process together by creating a treatment plan that will address your needs.

As a therapist working with both children and adults with 5 years experience, my clinical approach is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a strong belief in each person’s capacity for healing and growth. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to explore their experiences. Many individuals come to therapy carrying the weight of trauma, stress, or life transitions, and my role is to walk alongside them as they develop insight, resilience, and practical coping skills.

You should know that I genuinely care about the people I work with. I approach therapy with curiosity, compassion, and respect for your lived experience. I believe healing happens through safety, connection, and understanding—not pressure or judgment. My role is to walk alongside you as you make sense of patterns, heal from past experiences, and move toward a life that feels more authentic and fulfilling.

I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Santa Barbara, California. My practice blends both psychological approach as well as eastern wisdom. With a diverse background of professional and life experiences, I bring empathy, warmth, and a solution-focused mindset to my clients. My goal is to help clients alleviate suffering, boost their productivitiy, and enhance well-being.