Gary A. Santis, LMFT — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Gary A.!

We all experience difficult times in our lives, which can impede our desire to live a functional and meaningful life. Therapy allows you to get a different perspective on your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

My focus

I work with adults who struggle with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, and trauma related to relationships, life transitions, and self-esteem, among others. I use the S.M.A.R.T. goals method to ensure your goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely.

My approach

My treatment philosophy focuses on client-centered and collaborative treatment models. I use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you explore and identify unwanted thought patterns that lead to negative emotions and behaviors.

My communication style

Validation of what you are going through by active listening and allowing you to process and reflect on your situation is an important part of my approach. I prioritize clear, honest, and open communication to create a supportive, non-biased environment.

My journey to mental healthcare

As a son of an immigrant, a father of an Autistic child, and a Veteran of 20 years, my own journey has been one of adversity, but also resiliency. I have used therapy myself to overcome some of the more difficult times in my life, and these experiences allowed me a better understanding of the powerful role.

My goals for you

I believe in meeting you where you are. I believe that therapy is a partnership, and establishing a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to your success. I subscribe that the pillars of all good relationships are honesty, expression, acceptance, respect, and trust.

Our first session

Our first session will be an assessment and focus on discussing what brings you to therapy. We will discuss your background, and there will be many questions that may feel overwhelming, but I’m here to guide you through each step of the process.

I identify as...

Male
Hispanic or Latinx
Christian

Expertise

Specialties

+ 13 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Gestalt

Humanistic

Motivational Interviewing

+ 4 more

Focus populations

Aviation Professionals

Educators

Military/Veterans

Police/Fire/First Responders

+ 4 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 53 more

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Education

Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University and a Master of Arts (MA) in Human Behavior from National University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Gary A. Santis