Evidence-Based & Evidence-Informed Therapy in Santa Barbara
When you’re seeking therapy, it’s important to know that the care you receive is grounded in approaches that are proven to work. I draw on both evidence-based and evidence-informed practices to ensure that the tools that I use are effective for your unique needs.
What Is Evidence-Based Therapy?
Evidence-based therapy (EBT) refers to approaches that have been rigorously studied and shown through scientific research to be effective in treating specific mental health concerns. Examples include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression
Trauma-Focused Therapy for post-traumatic stress
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) for stress and emotional regulation
When using evidence-based therapy, I apply these well-established methods to help address challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship concerns.
What Is Evidence-Informed Therapy?
Evidence-informed therapy also relies on research and clinical evidence but allows more flexibility. Instead of using a single structured model, I integrate multiple approaches and adapt them to you as an individual. This means I combine the best available research with my professional experience and your preferences, ensuring therapy is both effective and personalized.
How I Use These Approaches in Practice
In my work, I often blend evidence-based interventions with evidence-informed practices. For example, I may use structured tools from CBT alongside more integrative approaches such as relational therapy, mindfulness practices, and good old fashioned compassion. This allows me to honor what research shows is effective while also achieving your goals, within your values, in a language and style that is comfortable to you.
Why This Matters for You
By combining evidence-based and evidence-informed approaches, I provide therapy that is:
Grounded in research so you know what we’re doing has real support
Flexible and adaptive to your needs and preferences
Holistic and integrative, drawing from multiple perspectives to support your healing
Next Step
If you’re seeking evidence-based therapy in Santa Barbara or want to learn more about my evidence-informed approach, I’d be glad to talk with you about how we might work together.
Humanistic, Person-Centered Therapy in Santa Barbara
At the heart of my work is the belief that every person has an inner capacity for growth, healing, and self-discovery. That’s why I use a Humanistic, Person-Centered approach to therapy — a style that emphasizes compassion, authenticity, and genuine connection.
What Is Humanistic, Person-Centered Therapy?
Humanistic, Person-Centered Therapy was developed by psychologist Carl Rogers and is based on the idea that people thrive in an environment of empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity. Rather than viewing the therapist as the “expert” who gives advice, this approach sees you as the expert of your own life. My role is to walk alongside you, creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals.
How I Use Person-Centered Therapy in Practice
In sessions, I focus on:
Empathy – striving to deeply understand your experience from your perspective
Unconditional positive regard – accepting you fully, without judgment
Authenticity – showing up as a real, human therapist, not a distant figure
This means therapy is not about me telling you what to do. Instead, we collaborate to uncover your strengths, explore new perspectives, and move toward the changes you want in your life.
The Benefits of a Humanistic Approach
Clients often find that Humanistic, Person-Centered Therapy helps them:
Build greater self-acceptance and confidence
Improve relationships and communication
Explore life transitions and identity questions with clarity
Heal from stress, grief, or emotional pain in a compassionate environment
Strengthen a sense of purpose, resilience, and personal growth
Why This Approach Matters
I believe therapy works best when you feel truly seen and heard. By creating a relationship built on trust, respect, and genuine care, Humanistic therapy empowers you to move forward in a way that feels authentic and aligned with your values.
Next Step
If you’re looking for Humanistic, Person-Centered Therapy in Santa Barbara, I’d be honored to walk with you on your path toward healing and growth.
Trauma-Informed Therapy in Santa Barbara
Experiences of trauma can shape how we see ourselves, how we relate to others, and how safe we feel in the world. I provide trauma-informed therapy, which means every aspect of the counseling process is approached with care, safety, and respect for your lived experience.
What Is Trauma-Informed Therapy?
Trauma-informed therapy is not one single method — it’s an approach to care that recognizes the impact of trauma on a person’s mind, body, and relationships. A trauma-informed perspective prioritizes:
Safety – ensuring sessions feel predictable and secure
Choice – empowering you to have control in the process
Collaboration – working together as partners in your healing
Trustworthiness – being consistent, transparent, and reliable
Empowerment – supporting your strengths and resilience
This approach acknowledges that trauma can show up in many ways, from anxiety, depression, and hypervigilance to difficulties with trust, boundaries, or relationships.
How I Use Trauma-Informed Therapy in Practice
In my work, I integrate trauma-informed care into every session, whether we are working with evidence-based tools like CBT, mindfulness practices, or Animal-Assisted Therapy with Sophie. My role is to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel safe enough to process your story at your own pace.
Being trauma-informed also means that I will:
Respect your boundaries and readiness for certain topics
Offer grounding techniques to help regulate overwhelming emotions
Focus on building coping skills before exploring difficult experiences
Honor your autonomy in every step of therapy