Depression Counseling in Santa Barbara, CA.

Leading therapy for major depression, bipolar, postpartum depression, SAD and mood disorders in Santa Barbara, California.


Kevin Fleming, Ph.D.
Depression Counselor

Kevin Fleming, Ph.D.

Coach/Change Agent/Consultant

Santa Barbara, California 93108 | 1-877-606-6161

Grey Matters International, Inc. and the work of Kevin J. Fleming, Ph.D. handles depression and other emotional disorders in a very unique way. Most of therapy or counseling processes utilize validation, unconditional positive regard, and reframing as common techniques to get someone to heal from their depression. Though this can be helpful, it rarely fixes the core problem behind it and for tough cases we then refer them usually to a psychiatrist for medication which can have tons of side effects. Instead, why not try a natural and arguably more effective way to not just change your mind, but change the brain--where the depression is rooted. Contact us at kevin@kevinflemingphd.com.

Brian Jones, AMFT
Depression Counselor

Brian Jones, AMFT

Brian La Roy Jones, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist

Available for Online Therapy

First, it's important to me to understand what my clients mean by "depression" because how one client experiences depression can be very different than another client. This is necessary so I can customize the strategies I use for each specific client based on their unique experience of depression. Ultimately, my clients can expect to discover real-world steps they can take to feel not just "less depressed" but better about their life - and more positive and hopeful.

Kimberly Koljat, LMFT, LIMFT-S, RPT-S, RDT
Depression Counselor

Kimberly Koljat, LMFT, LIMFT-S, RPT-S, RDT

Licensed Independent Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor

Available for Online Therapy

Working with the experience of depression is much more than changing our thoughts to change our behavior. Our brains are wired to notice the negative; it's part of our survival. I support my clients in expanding what they notice, and help them discover what works for them by creating a tool kit through experiential relational interventions in session. When I see children, I utilize play therapy as the modality, including Child Centered Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, and Prescriptive Play Therapy. When working with adolescents and adults, I utilize expressive arts, DBT, CBT and Narrative Therapy.

Rudi Lion, MA, MFT
Depression Counselor

Rudi Lion, MA, MFT

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

2020 Alameda Padre Serra, Santa Barbara, California 93103 | 805 453-4826

Most people will be faced with an episode of depression at least once in their lives. When you first come in we explore whether the depressive feelings are based in the past or the result of current events. Sometimes people who present with depression seem to have unresolved child hood issues. Together we find ways of bringing closure to these unexplored and unexpressed 'childhood wounds'. Clients often report a new sense of joy and more vitality after feelings of sadness, grief or anger have been expressed. Also relationships with parents and or other loved ones usually greatly improve. If the depression is based in current affairs we often use behavioral therapy to increase your coping.

Well Coached Life, PhD, MA, SEP
Depression Counselor

Well Coached Life, PhD, MA, SEP

WELL COACHED LIFE| Individuals | Couples | Youth

Available for Online Therapy

I work with a depressed nervous system by working with the body. Often we struggle to sleep, eat, or accomplish relatively simple tasks. Our bodies are stuck with the brake on. When our body thinks it is futile, out mind follows quickly thereafter and we begin to tell ourselves how pointless things are and how worthless we are. I work with the whole body to re-regulate the body to enable you to get back to a whole integrated self.

Taylor Wikel, MA, LMFT
Depression Counselor

Taylor Wikel, MA, LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Available for Online Therapy

Are you struggling with sadness, loss of motivation, low energy, feeling down, hopelessness or helplessness? Life these days are not easy and can bring on depression and loneliness. I want to be a support to you and help you through this part of your life. I will help you find hope and identify coping skills to manage your symptoms. It would be my pleasure to walk by your side and find a new path of hopefulness!

Fionnuala Kraus, MA, MFT
Depression Counselor

Fionnuala Kraus, MA, MFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

22 West Micheltorena St. Ste.A, Santa Barbara, California 93101 | 805 698 0370

When you’re depressed, it can feel like you’ll never get out from under its shadow. However, depression is a treatable problem. If your depression is keeping you from living the life you want to, don’t hesitate to contact me. Learning about your depression treatment options will help you decide what approach is right for you. From therapy to medication to healthy lifestyle changes, there are many effective treatments that can help you overcome depression and reclaim your life. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has shown in studies to have the best results for depression because it is a practical, hands-on method for challenging automatic negative thoughts.

Indira Katan, LCSW
Depression Counselor

Indira Katan, LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

5290 Overpass Road, 209, Santa Barbara, California 93101 | 8054488618

Are you feeling overwhelmed by life? Has the joy been taken out of things you used to enjoy? Common symptoms of depression in adults and children are feelings of sadness, lack of energy, changes in eating or sleeping, and being self-critical. Gently, we can approach these feelings and begin to understand them. Through connecting and understanding them, they can begin to transform them. Some techinques that I have found helpful are mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, somatic awareness, and expressive therapies like drawing, sand tray, or collage. Depression can feel heavy and isolating, and you don't need to handle it alone.

Philip Starkman, MSW, RSW
Depression Counselor

Philip Starkman, MSW, RSW

Registered Psychotherapist

Available for Online Therapy

When one is depressed the range of thoughts and feelings encompass a wide spectrum. Sadness and despair might be pervasive. One can feel as if they have fallen into a deep dark pit where everything is covered in negativity and hopelessness. In this state, one can feel inadequate, discouraged, unable or unwilling to make decisions. In addition, guilt, shame, profound low self-esteem and loss of interest in relationships, sex, career and even life itself are commonly found. A variety of evidence-based tools, specific to the needs of the individual, applied skillfully at the right time, can dramatically lift one out of that deep, dark pit and help avoid relapse.


You Have Found The Best Therapists for Depression and Mood Issues in Santa Barbara, CA.

Are you ready to experience new freedom? Thank you for visiting our California search of licensed therapists in Santa Barbara who specialize in helping people overcome sadness, treat major depression and mood disorders such as bipolar, postpartum depression, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Feeling down, lonely, and depressed can affect us at any station in life. Sometimes the cause may be physiological (such as hormonal or due to medication), it may be emotional, environmental, psychological or any combination of the above. Counseling for recovery and restoration from depression by a top rated therapist in Santa Barbara will help you climb back up and start living your dreams again.

Santa Barbara is located in Santa Barbara County, California. It has a land area of 19.48 square miles and a water area of 22.50 square miles.  The population of Santa Barbara is 91,842 people with 34,973 households and a median annual income of $66,107. .


Therapy Affordability Meter for Santa Barbara, CA

Generally Affordable

Therapists in Santa Barbara are often within budget with some potential challenges for longer term commitments. Your mental health and well being are a top priority. If accessibility is a concern, ask your counselor about sliding scale fees or inquire about accepted insurance plans. Low cost counseling and affordable therapy are also sometimes offered by listed city and university level clinics, check with your local Santa Barbara public health department.