Welcome to Dr. Paula Strauss & Associates. We provide attuned therapy for children, families, and adults in Santa Barbara. Our approach is collaborative, strength-based, and integrative. We blend evidence-based practices with somatic and attachment-focused methods to support meaningful and lasting change.

Dr. Strauss

I’m Dr. Paula Strauss, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience and the founder of Dr. Paula Strauss & Associates. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and parents, focusing on strengthening relationships and helping families feel more grounded, resilient and connected. I also work with adults, with a particular specialization in anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, and stress related to life transitions.  

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FAQs

  • Our approach is collaborative, strength-based, and integrative. We blend evidence-based practices with somatic and attachment-focused methods to support meaningful and lasting change. We offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Exposure with Response Prevention (ERP), and Habit Reversal Training.

    Therapy with us is both supportive and practical. It is a safe space for healing, while also providing concrete skills and strategies clients can use in daily life. We believe that therapy works best when it feels authentic and relational. We make sure to take time to understand each clients’ unique strengths, challenges and goals.

  • We are an out-of-network provider and we do not accept insurance. We will provide a superbill at the end of every month for clients to send to insurance providers should they wish to receive reimbursement.

    Our Rates:

    50 minute session: $225 (Dr. Strauss)

    50 minute session: $175 (Associate)

  • Dr. Strauss and Associates offers in-person therapy located in downtown Santa Barbara. We also offer Telehealth via secure platform for residents of California. We can also provide a mix of in-person and Telehealth, depending on the client’s preferences and needs.

  • Yes, we provide a free 15 minute initial consult call for all new clients

  • The first step is to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation with Dr. Strauss. This call is an opportunity to briefly share what you’re looking for, ask any initial questions, and get a sense of whether the practice is the right fit for you or your child. It’s also a chance to discuss availability and next steps.

    Dr. Strauss personally conducts all consultation calls, including those for clients who may ultimately work with one of her associates. This ensures that every new client receives thoughtful guidance from the very beginning and is matched with the right clinician for their needs.