Prenatal and postpartum therapists & psychiatrists in Santa Maria, CA

As a youth, I recall many instances when I experienced intense anxiety, depression, even suicidal thoughts, – but I did so in isolation, without adequate support. Mental health services were not available and not commonly accessed in my community. As a young woman I used dance and movement, and other forms of creative expression (such as writing and singing), as my means to manage emotions. I became a psychotherapist to ensure that I could be supportive to those in similar situations – to help support people in not feeling alone with the difficult aspects of life and relationships. No one should have to fight their mental health battles alone. The integration of somatic (body-focused) psychotherapy has allowed me to support others while giving them the gift that I have discovered through a life of movement – the gift of understanding the role of the body in allowing for healing. Through the use of the body in psychotherapy clients can learn how to find balance in their mind while finding peace in their emotional landscape.

I have been in the healing professions throughout my adult life, initially as a Registered Nurse, working in many different specialities (NICU, pediatrics, and Clinical Trials for Hepatitis C). I’m grateful for both careers and maintain an active interest in medicine and alternative healing. I practice Christian Counseling and my goal as a therapist is to meet you where you’re at and walk with you to a healthier, stronger place. For those of different faiths, I offer counseling oriented toward growth and healing, grounded in traditional values.

If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, difficulty in relationships or other concerns, and are desiring a therapeutic approach aligned with a Christian worldview or traditional values, I would be honored to speak with you.

I offer compassionate, supportive care where you’ll feel heard, valued, and encouraged in your journey of growth and healing. Member of the Focus on the Family Referral Network and American Association of Christian Counselors.

I work with young adults and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and codependency. My approach is compassionate, interactive, and tailored to your unique needs.

I’m Elba Alvarado, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My work is rooted in the belief that healing begins in relationships — with ourselves, with others, and with the stories we carry. I hold space for people navigating the quiet weight of expectations, the complexity of identity, and the patterns that shape how we show up in the world.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Vanguard University and my Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and I have been providing therapy since 2018.

I am a licensed therapist who has been working in the field since 2014 with diverse individuals in different settings. I attended California State Polytechnic University for my Bachelors Degree in Psychology and the University of Southern California for my Masters in Social Work. I specialize in working with individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues and grief and loss issues. On a personal note, I love to hike, cook and watch movies.

You may have held doubts about talk therapy and perhaps are thinking therapy may not work at all for what you are dealing with. Psychotherapy like all science is continually changing. Both new and long held approaches to well-being are vast. I invite you to consider Brainspotting before you rule out therapy entirely. My role as a Brainspotting clinician is to offer you support, as you discover your innate capacity for positive self change. I specialize in trauma focused therapy, specializing in treating anxiety disorders. I focus on various forms of addiction, OCD, behavioral issues, depression, bi-polar and mood disorders.

I am a masters level trained Brainspotting clinician and a U.S. Army veteran. I believe in facilitating change in a supportive environment, following and observing your amazing capacity to heal from trauma in your therapeutic work. I work with veterans, first-responders, and other populations struggling with unresolved trauma and anxiety disorders.

Your unique circumstances are to be understood, honored respected and explored in a judgement free, supportive and caring environment. The issues that you bring into therapy remain entirely up to you. I will listen to your wants and needs; joining you on the journey towards your desired sense of well-being.

My goal with therapy is to provide a safe and open space to process and prioritize a growth mindset. I tailor my therapeutic approach to best match the needs of the client and truly believe in promoting acceptance. Some modalities I have experience with and may incorporate into therapy are Acceptance Compassion Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Here-and-now Counseling, Trauma-Informed, and Holistic. I have a passion for working with individuals who are looking to unpack complex emotions and experiences that have shaped their understanding of the world.

Welcome to my Therapy practice. Here we will work together to explore where you currently are emotionally, and work to get you to where you would like to be.

I believe that everyone needs to fell heard and understood. You and I are a team to prioritize your mental health and well-being.

I take a Psychodynamic approach to understanding your past. This is your therapy session and I welcome any and all feedback.

I look forward to working with you.

Go beyond coping and create real, lasting change by transforming the patterns at the root. Less time circling the problem. More time transforming it.