Anxiety and depression therapists and psychiatrists in Santa Cruz, 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.

Feeling worried all the time? Feeling down or depressed? Dealing with negative thinking that wont go away? Having difficulties in your relationships? Struggling to maintain a balance between responsibilities and everyday challenges?

Let me help you! I will guide you to effectively manage anxiety, depression or elevated stress that may arise when dealing with past or present relationship issues, family conflict, divorce, separation, parenting difficulties, trauma, illness, loss, transitions or other life stressors.

I'm here for you! Don't tackle this alone; open yourself to professional help.

I'm not just your therapist — I'm a mama who has been in the trenches too. After navigating my own postpartum experience and the heartbreak of pregnancy loss, I found my purpose: walking alongside mothers and families during some of life's most tender and transforming moments. Raising my amazing autistic son has also deepened my understanding of what it means to parent with love, resilience, and a whole lot of grace.

I believe healing happens when you feel truly seen — not judged, not rushed, just held. My approach is rooted in authenticity and compassion, creating a space where your full story is welcome. Whether you are struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety, grief, or the emotional weight of a special needs diagnosis, you do not have to carry it alone.

This work is personal to me. And that's exactly why I show up the way I do.

Are you doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results? Have you tried countless times to change a your behavior? Have you recently left inpatient rehabilitation or a psychiatric ward and need additional support? Do you feel like your mood, anxiety, and depression are running your life? Making these changes can be extremely difficult and cannot be done alone. My name is Lauren Debski. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner.

I work with individual adults and certain families who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, sad, lonely, sensitive, anxious, or defeated. If you're feeling heavy by everything going on, or feeling frantic, or having conflict in your relationships or are just feeling lost in any way, I would love to see if I can help! I also work with family units going through transition or strain, such as conflict between a parent and their adult child, or supporting parents who are experiencing difficult things with their child or teen.

I have a lot of experience helping people through loss, whether it's a breakup, losing a job, or a loved one - including loss of a pet, which is a specialty of mine. I have special interest in supporting other therapists, and also community organizers and activists who are engaged in social justice work. Many of my clients are trans or NB, and others are gay, lesbian, or queer. Poly and kink affirming.

I offer telehealth services to clients in California, Idaho, Washington, or Virginia.

I am a psychotherapist committed to helping individuals heal, grow, and navigate life's challenges through compassionate, evidence-based care and hold a Masters in Counseling Psychology, Marriage & Family Therapy. I work w/ clients 24 years & older facing anxiety, trauma, addiction, relationship struggles, stress, and life transitions to help them build resilience, clarity, and lasting change.

My name is Geno Creese, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Drama Therapist (#942) accepting virtual clients in California. Regardless of presenting issues, I like to meet my clients where they are at; whether you are new to mental health support or are a seasoned veteran there is space for you here. We will work to identify what is getting in the way of you meeting your goals and address these challenges together. That said, we will work together each session with whatever you bring to the room.

I am a passionate therapist who strives to empower my clients

I utilize an eclectic therapeutic style that allows me to meet the client where they are to help them accomplish their goals

Being a therapist is more than a job to me. It is a calling

The focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. I help individuals focus on the Solution.

I was always drawn to people who went unseen or unheard. Others told me I had a calm voice and that they could tell me anything. That led to a lifelong study of how people free themselves from their own patterns, later deepened by psychoanalysis and professional work in eating disorders, addiction treatment, and managed care settings like Kaiser.

I believe healing begins with meaningful connection. My work with cancer patients and their families has deeply shaped my understanding of pain, loss, resilience, and the complexities that relationships face during times of crisis. I support adults of all ages in navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, and relationship concerns, offering both compassionate guidance and practical, effective tools for growth and healing.

You're here! Right here, right now! You may not be where you want to be yet, but you have already taken a step towards facing challenges with a strength you never knew you had. Besides, it doesn't hurt to get a little assistance on the way. I'm here to help you. Let me tell you something. Nothing is as remarkable as seeing positive change in my client! Helping you make even the smallest steps towards your goal every day brings me joy and I make sure to let you know when I've noticed your progress. Even when they seem too small to notice, I'll notice! You’ll be surprised how much a little positivity can help.

I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified rehabilitation counselor with additional experience in helping individuals get back to work to attain the highest success possible after experiencing any life changing issues. I have helped people with almost everything you can think of. I have helped those with mild and severe mental health concerns.

When I counsel, my style is energetic, compassionate, and supportive. I praise your progressions, and I can show you how to be proud of your efforts and steps in the right direction. I am client-centered and I want to listen to you and be as helpful as is humanly possible. I love to empower my clients. I can't wait to meet you!