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Headshot of Erika Krueger-Santos, LMFT

Erika Krueger-Santos

Therapist
16 years of experience
  • Virtual & in-person
  • Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Family issues, Relationship issues, PTSD
  • Individual therapy, Couples therapy

Great to meet you!

I specialize in helping individuals address relationship concerns, including communication challenges, conflict patterns, trust issues, and difficulties maintaining emotional connection. I also treat anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction—including technology and internet/social media use, gaming, substance use, and other process addictions. I bring both experience and genuine dedication to the work we do together. I have been in practice since 2007, beginning as a Registered Associate and becoming a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in 2009. Since then, I have remained committed to helping individuals strengthen their emotional well-being and create meaningful, lasting change.

My approach to therapy is grounded in connection, collaboration, and practical growth. I believe meaningful change begins with a strong therapeutic relationship, so I intentionally create a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable discussing difficult experiences. My style is engaged and interactive—I offer thoughtful feedback, insights, and practical tools rather than simply listening. Clients often appreciate my balance of empathy and directness, as I am compassionate and supportive while also gently challenging them to grow.

I am highly trained in Level 3 Gottman Method Relationship Therapy and EMDR, both evidence-based approaches supporting relationship growth and trauma healing. I also integrate mindfulness, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Systems, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I tailor these approaches to each client’s needs, strengths, and values.

My approach to therapy

I believe strong human connection is at the heart of growth and meaningful change. As an open and engaged therapist, I value building authentic relationships with my clients and collaborating with them to explore solutions and adaptive ways to manage life’s challenges. Through supportive dialogue and thoughtful feedback, I help clients gain new perspectives and identify practical options that empower them to move forward with clarity, purpose, and a more fulfilling life.

What you can expect from me

Clients can expect their first session with me to feel welcoming, supportive, and grounded in genuine connection. I work intentionally to create a warm and safe environment where you can feel comfortable embracing vulnerability and talking about the hard things at your own pace.

During our first meeting, we’ll explore what brings you to therapy and begin identifying goals that feel meaningful and attainable. I collaborate closely with clients to ensure those goals align with their unique needs, strengths, and values. Together, we’ll start building a foundation for growth, clarity, and lasting change.

About me

  • I identify as
    Caucasian, Woman
  • My style is
    Direct, Open Minded, Empowering

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    16 years of experience
  • Training
    MA (Master of Arts) at Antioch College, Bachelor of Science at California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo
  • License type
    LMFT (Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist) (California)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Carelon Behavioral Health, Oxford, United Healthcare

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Family issues, Relationship issues, PTSD
  • More specialties
    Stress management, Grief or loss, Women's issues, Trauma
  • Therapy methods
    Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Behavior Modification, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Positive Psychology, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Gottman Method / Gottman Couples, Trauma Focused CBT, Gestalt, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Codependency Behavioral
  • Care types
    Individual therapy, Couples therapy
  • Ages served
    Adolescents, Adults, Seniors
  • Languages
    English
  • Location
    2659 Townsgate Road # 210
    Thousand Oaks, CA 91361