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LGBT therapists in Santa Maria, CA

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

Find open-minded, affirming therapy in Santa Maria tailored to LGBTQIA experiences and identity. Headway's 2,609 providers deliver evidence-based care through flexible virtual or in-person sessions, with average savings of 75% on therapy costs through insurance.

Brandi Woller

Brandi Woller

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 6.1 mi away • Santa Maria, CA


“I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy highlighting a person's strengths and resiliency in overcoming life's challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shuriee Gioieni

Shuriee Gioieni

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 21 mi away • Lompoc, CA


“I create a safe and nonjudgmental environment for my clients to feel comfortable while sharing their stories.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Kristina Shippey

Kristina Shippey

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away • San Luis Obispo, CA


As a therapist, I am passionate about walking alongside folks as they reveal their truths and vulnerabilities to themselves. I believe, and have witnessed that people are capable of long standing change with knowledge, support, and connection, and that therapy is a great place for that. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, feel safe, gain confidence, and live a more joyful and purposeful life. I use cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques, while never ignoring the human element and connection where the real change happens.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Hannah Morrison

Hannah Morrison

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away • San Luis Obispo, CA


In addition to my work as a licensed therapist, I have over 15 years of experience supporting children, adults, couples, and families in a variety of mental health and community settings. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with teens, adults, couples, and families navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, and the lasting impact of childhood experiences. My passion is helping cycle breakers heal old wounds, build healthier relationships, and create lives that feel more connected, intentional, and authentic.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kara Osborn

Kara Osborn

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away • San Luis Obispo, CA


“I have spent more than 20 years helping people understand the patterns, relationships, and experiences that shape how they move through the world.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Alisa Orozco

Alisa Orozco

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away • San Luis Obispo, CA


“My style is creative, gentle, and empowering. You are innately whole just as you are now and you are the expert of your life and experiences.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Timothy Malone

Timothy Malone

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away • San Luis Obispo, CA


“I am told I have a calming presence by my clients, which allows me to challenge them and be direct, without being intimidating.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Dr. Meghan Fuller

Dr. Meghan Fuller

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Oakland, CA


“My work is grounded in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic approaches, with careful attention to development, attachment, trauma, and the complexity of each individual's inner life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Sheida Kalantari

Sheida Kalantari

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I don't believe in a formula — I pay close attention to what's actually showing up for you and adjust as we go.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Candice Jeffers

Candice Jeffers

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


“I believe understanding your condition is empowering, so I take time to educate you about what's happening in your brain and why certain symptoms occur.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Jessica Agunnamani

Jessica Agunnamani

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I'm a warm, open-minded, and holistic Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who focuses on helping clients feel genuinely understood and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Misty Steffen

Misty Steffen

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Beverly Hills, CA


“At the core of my practice is authentic partnership, showing up for every client with genuine warmth, deep respect, and real interest in who they are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Lynelle Tyler

Dr. Lynelle Tyler

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My therapeutic approach is solution-focused and strength based. We use your strengths to bolster other aspects of your life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, End of life care
Creative, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Jamie Plaxco

Jamie Plaxco

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


IMPORTANT: All clients must complete our intake form and sign our policies before their appointment. Please complete these documents at https://intakeq.com/new/6oakjo/lusjbb or contact us at 602-800-4699 (call or text). Please also email or text us a copy of your photo ID/driver's license at [email protected]

For the most current schedule and openings, please book directly on our website at https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 415-968-6515.

As a PMHNP-BC who specializes in autism, complex cases, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, schizophrenia/psychosis disorders, and substance use, I've built my practice around understanding that every person's mental health journey is unique—especially when multiple conditions interact or when traditional approaches haven't worked.

I also provide comprehensive treatment for depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar disorder, always with an understanding that these conditions often overlap and influence each other in complex ways. What I want you to know is this: your experiences are valid, your struggles make sense in the context of your life, and there's no such thing as being "too much" for treatment.

Whether you're masking autistic traits, battling compulsive behaviors, managing intense emotions, processing trauma, questioning reality, or struggling with substances, I meet you exactly where you are without trying to force you into a predetermined mold. My approach combines evidence-based treatments with deep respect for your individual needs and experiences.

You deserve a provider who doesn't see complexity as a problem to solve, but as a roadmap to understanding how to best support your unique path to wellness.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Lindsay Fisher

Lindsay Fisher

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Stevenson Ranch, CA


“I understand that starting or adjusting psychiatric medication can feel overwhelming... I've made it my mission to change that experience.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Rachel Howard

Rachel Howard

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! I am Registered Yoga Teacher, Clinical Supervisor & Consultant, as well as a Certified Focusing-Oriented Expressive Arts Practitioner.

I have almost a decade of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families in a therapeutic capacity. I specialize in trauma and family work. I am an integrative psychotherapist – integrating art therapy, play therapy, sand tray, mindfulness, astrology, spirituality, and more into therapy.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shara Ally

Shara Ally

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Luis Obispo, CA


“I use measurement-based care, structured symptom tracking that guides our treatment adjustments and minimizes trial-and-error.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Shara Ally

Shara Ally

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


Shara Ally, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing evidence-based medication management for adults (18+) via telehealth. As an author and TEDx speaker, she translates complex research into clear, practical care plans that help patients feel informed and supported.

Shara specializes in mood and anxiety disorders, trauma-related conditions (PTSD), adult ADHD, OCD, bipolar spectrum disorders, and women's mental health across the reproductive lifespan—including perinatal and postpartum mood disorders, PMDD, and menopausal transitions. Her practice is medication-focused and highly collaborative, with education, skills coaching, and supportive check-ins integrated into visits. She coordinates closely with therapists, primary care providers, OB-GYNs, and other clinicians to ensure cohesive treatment.

Patients can expect a comprehensive evaluation reviewing history, symptoms, prior treatments, and goals. Shara practices thoughtful prescribing with transparent discussion of options, benefits, and side effects so decisions are truly shared. She uses measurement-based care—structured symptom tracking—to guide adjustments and reduce trial-and-error. Her whole-person approach integrates sleep, nutrition, movement, and stress management when relevant, with streamlined access through secure telehealth and clear after-visit summaries.

Shara's style is warm, direct, and person-centered, grounded in shared decision-making. Her care is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and rooted in current clinical evidence. Beyond clinical practice, she serves as a nurse educator and academic mentor, shaping future psychiatric clinicians through evidence-based teaching. An international fellowship in India enriched her global perspective through research and teaching in hospital and university settings.

For up-to-date availability, please visit us or call/text us at 415-968-6515.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Beverly Ann Lunar

Beverly Ann Lunar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I firmly believe that effective mental health care requires absolute transparency, active collaboration, and treatments rooted in solid clinical evidence.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Thomas Moore

Thomas Moore

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m Thomas Moore, LPCC, a licensed professional clinical counselor providing therapy for individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, emotional overwhelm, identity development, and complex relational patterns. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in repeating cycles such as overthinking, people pleasing, emotional shutdown, intense reactions, or difficulty maintaining stable relationships even when they logically understand what they should do. My goal is to help you translate insight into real change.

My approach is structured and compassionate. I integrate evidence based methods including cognitive restructuring, emotional regulation training, interpersonal effectiveness skills, and trauma informed therapy. Sessions focus on understanding why your brain reacts the way it does and building practical tools you can actually use outside the therapy room. This is not only about talking through problems but learning how to respond differently when they show up in real life.

I work well with clients who want more than passive support and are ready to build skills, increase self awareness, and interrupt patterns that no longer serve them.

What clients should know before starting

Therapy with me is collaborative and active and you will learn strategies rather than only venting. We will work on understanding both the emotional and neurological side of your reactions. Sessions focus on present day functioning while also addressing past experiences that still affect you. I may gently challenge patterns when it supports growth while maintaining a supportive and respectful space. Progress often comes from small repeated changes rather than sudden breakthroughs.

If you are looking for therapy that combines validation with practical change, we will likely work well together.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Len Ray

Len Ray

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will encourage and support our dialog and treatment plan(s) to meet your unique and specific needs.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Grief or loss
Direct, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 2 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.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Jamie Plaxco

Jamie Plaxco

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Gold River, CA


“My goal isn't to "fix" you—you're not broken. I'm here to help you understand your conditions, develop coping strategies, and build on your strengths.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Digna Guerrero

Digna Guerrero

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Digna, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to creating a supportive and safe space where clients will feel heard and understood. I work with adolescents and adults of all ages in navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional overwhelm. I also have vast experience working with individuals who have co-occuring disorders, developmental disabilities and cognitive delays servicing mild to moderate clients.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Amy Shefftz

Amy Shefftz

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Concord, CA


IMPORTANT: All clients must complete our intake form and sign our policies before their appointment. Please complete these documents at https://intakeq.com/new/6oakjo/lusjbb or contact us at 602-800-4699 (call or text). Please also email or text us a copy of your photo ID/driver's license at [email protected]

Hi, I'm Amy! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide comprehensive, individualized care for complex mental health challenges. My expertise includes ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD and trauma, schizophrenia and psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar conditions.

What sets my practice apart is my commitment to seeing each person as a unique individual with their own strengths, challenges, and goals. Whether you're seeking your first diagnosis, managing multiple conditions, or looking for a fresh perspective, I bring both clinical expertise and genuine empathy to every interaction. I work to address not just symptoms, but the whole person behind them.

I believe in collaborative care, where your voice and preferences guide our treatment decisions. My approach combines evidence-based psychiatric interventions with respect for your lived experience and personal values. I take time to listen, ask thoughtful questions, and ensure you feel heard and understood. Whether we're exploring medication options, developing coping strategies, or working through diagnostic questions, you'll always be an active partner in your care.

My goal is to help you thrive in daily life. Together, we'll work toward building resilience, improving functioning, and creating the meaningful life you deserve. I'm here to support you every step of the way. I create a safe, judgment-free environment where healing and growth are possible. Ready to begin? I'm currently accepting new patients.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Christina Rodriguez

Christina Rodriguez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in various social work settings.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jasmeen Kaur

Jasmeen Kaur

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, my name is Jasmeen, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I earned my Master's degree in Social Work and am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges in a supportive, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to create a safe space where clients feel heard, empowered, and supported throughout their healing journey.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sarah Kimmons

Sarah Kimmons

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring an easygoing approach that fosters trust and understanding, ensuring you feel heard and supported throughout the process.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Demetrus Jones

Demetrus Jones

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience. I provide thoughtful, personalized care for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other common mental health concerns. My approach is warm, respectful, and judgment-free — I believe real healing starts with feeling heard and understood. I work closely with each client to create a treatment plan that feels supportive, practical, and tailored to their unique needs.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Diana Pena

Diana Pena

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • El Segundo, CA


“I've dedicated my practice to supporting those who may have struggled to find providers comfortable with their complexity.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Tammie Makely

Tammie Makely

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My role isn't to fix you -- it's to work alongside you to quiet the noise, get curious about what's underneath, and help you reconnect with yourself and the people who matter most to YOU.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Nathalie Uriarte

Nathalie Uriarte

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I take a collaborative, strengths-based, and culturally responsive approach that considers the whole person and their unique experiences.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Amanda Long

Amanda Long

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


“I see our relationship as a true partnership. While I bring clinical knowledge and evidence-based treatment approaches, you bring the most important element—intimate knowledge of your own experience, strengths, and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Amanda Peterson

Amanda Peterson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I utilize a combination of person centered and cognitive behavioral therapy as my primary treatment methods, strongly believing each person is capable of getting through life with support and compassion.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Leah Zachter

Leah Zachter

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is a collaborative process built on trust, compassion, and curiosity, where clients can feel safe exploring their experiences without judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Yaning (Tina) Sun

Yaning (Tina) Sun

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Roseville, CA


“I see psychiatry as care and advocacy. Specializing in AAPI and complex behavioral health for adults and children, I view you as a whole person.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Empowering, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Luis Moreno

Luis Moreno

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am committed to creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their concerns.”
LGBTQIA+, Cultural & ethnic issues, Eating disorders, End of life care, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Shaun Wilson

Shaun Wilson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I decided to become a therapist after healing my own childhood trauma and realizing that what I went through, could be used as a gift to help others heal and grow.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Wendy Barajas

Wendy Barajas

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a first-gen Latina, I understand the struggle to balance bicultural identify and generational trauma.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Heather Paxton

Heather Paxton

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I approach each client with unconditional positive regard and maintain empathetic listening and compassionate services.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Santa Maria, CA

Number of therapists serving Santa Maria, CA
There are over 2,554 therapists in Santa Maria, CA accepting new patients.
2,554+
Average years in practice
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 94%Depression
  • 90%Stress management
  • 86%Trauma
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 80%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 75%Cigna
  • 73%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 64%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 15%Spanish
  • 2%Farsi
  • 1%Mandarin
  • 1%Assamese
How they see their clients
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  • 89%Online only
  • 11%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 74%Woman
  • 23%Man
  • 3%Non-binary
License types
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  • 46%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 29%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 9%Nurse Practitioner
  • 8%Clinical Psychologist
  • 7%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 40%Family therapy
  • 28%Couples therapy
  • 17%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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Find the right LGBTQ-friendly therapy provider for you

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