Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Santa Maria, CA covered by Aetna

Makenna Briceno is a dedicated therapist committed to supporting individuals as they navigate life's challenges. She provides compassionate and evidence-based care to adolescents and adults, helping them build resilience and develop the tools needed to improve their well-being.

My journey into therapy began with a deep curiosity about human resilience and the desire to help others find strength through life’s hardest challenges. During my graduate training, I had the opportunity to work with survivors of trauma. This experience showed me the powerful role therapy can play in recovery and solidified my commitment to supporting others through their healing journeys. I’m continually driven by the fundamental belief that everyone has the potential for positive growth and change. Seeing my clients gain confidence or find peace makes my work incredibly rewarding.

I work with adults who are managing anxiety, life transitions, and those seeking support for self-esteem issues. Whether you’re working through trauma, building coping skills, or exploring your personal goals, I’ll work with you to create a plan for growth that feels empowering and achievable. I best serve those who are ready to unearth the uncomfortable. Those who have felt stuck and just need the tools and a safe space to connect back to themselves. Those who have a desire to intentionally sit with the things that are sticky, so that it can stop ruling their life and they can take the reins. Is this you? This work is hard. If you’re ready to face it in a safe way, I’m the person for you.

Taking the first step toward therapy is an act of courage and self-growth. Whether you’re seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, healing from life’s challenges, or navigating complex relationships, I offer a supportive and collaborative space to help you move toward greater balance and well-being. I recognize that today’s world presents unique stressors—financial pressures, rapid social changes, and the emotional weight of current events can all impact mental health. Therapy can be a grounding space to process these experiences and rediscover a sense of hope, purpose, and empowerment.

My passion lies in working with clients who need assistance with personal empowerment and identity development. My goal is to instill hope by identifying areas of strength, resilience, and capacity for positive change. Effective therapy takes effort and commitment from both the therapist and the client.

You're here! Right here, right now! You may not be where you want to be yet, but you have already taken a step towards facing challenges with a strength you never knew you had. Besides, it doesn't hurt to get a little assistance on the way. I'm here to help you. Let me tell you something. Nothing is as remarkable as seeing positive change in my client! Helping you make even the smallest steps towards your goal every day brings me joy and I make sure to let you know when I've noticed your progress. Even when they seem too small to notice, I'll notice! You’ll be surprised how much a little positivity can help.

I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified rehabilitation counselor with additional experience in helping individuals get back to work to attain the highest success possible after experiencing any life changing issues. I have helped people with almost everything you can think of. I have helped those with mild and severe mental health concerns.

When I counsel, my style is energetic, compassionate, and supportive. I praise your progressions, and I can show you how to be proud of your efforts and steps in the right direction. I am client-centered and I want to listen to you and be as helpful as is humanly possible. I love to empower my clients. I can't wait to meet you!

We often seek therapy when we're ready for change and part of our life has become unbalanced. A feeling of discontent, depression, or anxiety may have lasted a lifetime, or may have been initiated by a transitional change, such as loss of a relationship or career, or a yearning to grow beyond where we have been stuck. I welcome all parts of you, and will meet you where you are at in the journey towards wholeness.

As a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals optimize their overall mental health. I have a BA in Psychology from Cal State Fullerton, a MS in counseling from Cal State Los Angeles and have been practicing for nearly a decade. I am currently working with clients statewide via telehealth.

We can all feel overwhelmed by persistent sadness, anxiety, or racing thoughts. Major life shifts—like a career change, relationship end, parenting, or new phase of life—can be difficult to navigate. You do not have to figure it out alone.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to helping adults break free from painful emotional patterns and reclaim a sense of control. My practice specializes in treating mood disorders and guiding individuals through challenging life transitions.

I believe people carry far more strength, clarity, and resilience than they often realize. My role is to help you understand the emotional patterns and internal narratives that shape your experience, so you can move through life with greater freedom and self‐trust. I’m engaged, attuned, and honest in the room — offering reflection, insight, and steady collaboration as we explore what’s happening beneath the surface. We work at a pace that feels grounded for you, creating space for real change to germinate.

Hello, Heather here. LMFT in Florida & California. My mission in therapy is to create a space where you will feel safe enough to just be yourself. I understand how difficult it is to seek counseling, to open up and share your experiences and struggles with another person. Therapy is my passion and I have over 28 years providing positive, successful & attainable results with various clients.