Alessandra Snavely, LMFT
(She/Her)
About Me
With over 10 years of experience in psychotherapy, I’m passionate about helping individuals heal from the past and create more balanced, fulfilling lives. In our first session, you’ll find a warm, welcoming space where you feel safe, heard, and respected. We’ll take time to ensure we’re a good fit and clarify your goals for therapy. My primary approach is EMDR therapy, which helps process and resolve the impact of difficult experiences and trauma. I also integrate elements of CBT and mindfulness to support emotional regulation, insight, and practical coping strategies. My work is client-centered, meaning I tailor each session to your unique needs, pace, and preferences. Whether you’re working through trauma, anxiety, depression, or stress, we’ll collaborate to help you reconnect with your strengths, develop healthier patterns, and move toward lasting change. I provide a compassionate space where you can explore, process, and grow, along with practical tools and gentle strategies to support progress between sessions. I understand that reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable. My focus is on meeting you where you are—with empathy, curiosity, and respect—and walking alongside you on your journey toward healing and self-understanding. I offer both telehealth and in-person sessions in Santa Barbara, providing flexibility and comfort as you begin or continue your therapy process.
Education & Experience
I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UC Santa Barbara in 2012 and completed my Master’s in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University Santa Barbara in 2016. Over the past several years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings. I spent eight years supporting adults with severe and persistent mental illness in environments such as day centers, board and care homes, and community mental health programs. I also worked at an elementary school for a year, helping children in grades K–6 develop coping skills, regulate their emotions, and navigate challenges related to school, family, and friendships. For three years, I worked at a youth shelter, providing a safe and supportive space for foster youth and teens in crisis to express their emotions and build healthy coping strategies. For the past year and a half, I’ve been in private practice, where I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients—from teenagers to older adults—supporting them through various life challenges.
Specialty Area
- Anxiety/Panic Attacks
- Depression
- Grief/Loss/Mourning
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Stress Management
- Traumatic Incident
Population Served
- Adolescents (13-17)
- Adults
- BIPOC
- LGBTQ+
- Seniors
Language
- English
Insurance
- Aetna
- Cigna
- UnitedHealth