Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Santa Maria, CA

I’m warm and real, but I’ll also call you out when I see you getting in your own way. I believe emotions carry important information, and the goal isn’t to get rid of them. It’s to learn how to sit with them and respond in a new way. My background includes community mental health, school settings, PHP, IOP, short-term residential, and long-term transitional care, which has shaped a direct and collaborative style that’s all about helping you do something differently.

Recognizing when you're overwhelmed isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. Whether you’re stuck in familiar painful patterns or navigating a new life transition, I’m here to help guide you. Since 2011, I’ve supported diverse clients across inpatient, outpatient, substance use, and crisis settings. I offer contemplative, trauma-informed care for LGBTQ+ adults, veterans, artists & creatives, and high-performing professionals, and I help people of all backgrounds deepen self-understanding and work through questions of identity, meaning, and purpose.

Hello! My name is Michelle Garza-Rodriguez, LCSW. If you are reading this, you may be at a point in your life where you are overwhelmed, struggling with past or current difficulties or symptoms, or just need someone to listen. I have close to 20 years of experience in mental health treatment, which has allowed me to meet my clients where they are at, use evidence based practice to diagnose, treat and assist in improving many patients' lives. If you are struggling with anxiety, anger, trauma, mood disorders, or life challenges, don't struggle alone. Set up an appointment and we can begin the process to help you feeling better. If you are in the process of making sure we make a good fit, we can meet for an assessment and discuss your needs. I provide sessions in both English and Spanish. At the end of the day, I want you to feel you have a good match with your therapist. I look forward to meeting with you, and working together on your treatment goals.

Teryn Leaper has a Masters in Counseling

Psychology from Mount Saint Mary's University.

She is currently board certified with the BBS in

California and BHEC in Texas.

Teryn has been spent the last decade in Los

Angeles and has been living in Texas for the last

year. Outside of work Teryn likes to read, write

short stories and poems and knit.

Starting therapy isn't easy, but scheduling your first session is often the hardest part of the entire journey. You’ve already done the heavy lifting by showing up.

I have worked in the mental health field for over 15 years with a variety of different populations. From kids and adults with special needs, individuals who have been impacted by the justice system, individuals who are working through addictions, and sexual relationship challenges.

Treatment topics that I have experience with include anxiety, trauma, depression, personality disorders, relationships and sexual health topics, addiction, and other various topics.

I am a caring and compassionate person who genuinely wants to help others. I

It has been a privilege to provide psychotherapy to a variety of clients for over 20 years. I have advanced clinical training in trauma, addictions, sexual abuse, mood and personality disorders, and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, direct, and encouraging. I provide support as you examine core issues and change underlying patterns of behavior or simply gain perspective concerning a recent issue.

Welcome—glad you made it here!

I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience in crisis mental health and private practice. I help adults and adolescents work through anxiety, stress, trauma, and relationship challenges. I understand the impact of high-stress roles where you’re expected to stay in control, even when things build up over time. My style is direct, grounded, and focused on what actually works in real life. I provide a space where you can be honest, feel understood, and be challenged in a way that leads to real change.

I'm a Lincesed Marriage and Family Therapist with a background in working with anxiety, trauma, addiction, and dual diagnosis. I'v worked in higher levels of care, which gives me a strong foundation in helping clients navigate acute symptoms and long-term recovery.

I strive to create a space where you feel understood, not judged. I'll meet you where you are while also helping you move toward meaningful change. Whether you're dealing with stress, relationship issues, or feeling stuck, we'll work together to build insight and practical tools that actually fit your life.