Meet Our Team

Shelby Swanson, LMFT

I’m Shelby Swanson, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving individuals in California through Shelby Swanson Therapy. With a background spanning individual psychotherapy, behavioral health leadership, substance use treatment, and clinical supervision, I bring a compassionate, well-rounded perspective to mental health and emotional well-being.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked with individuals navigating a wide range of challenges, including substance use, severe mental illness, life transitions, and emotional and behavioral difficulties. My experience in both direct clinical care and behavioral health program leadership has shaped my understanding of the many factors that influence mental health and the importance of providing thoughtful, individualized support.

In addition to my clinical work, I have extensive experience supervising and mentoring emerging therapists, overseeing behavioral health programs, and supporting the implementation of evidence-based practices. I am passionate about making mental health care accessible and helping individuals develop the tools and insight they need to navigate life’s challenges.

My commitment to mental health extends beyond the therapy room. Through my volunteer work with the American Red Cross, I support mental health education, stress reduction, resilience, and behavioral health services for military-affiliated individuals and families. I am also trained in Disaster Mental Health and offer crisis intervention to families following an emergency. I have served in leadership roles with the Santa Barbara Chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, supporting the professional development and connection of fellow therapists.

I believe that mental health is an essential part of overall well-being and that having a supportive space to explore your experiences can be a meaningful step toward growth and change. My goal is to help make that process feel approachable, supportive, and empowering.

Whether you are navigating a difficult season, working toward greater self-understanding, or looking for support as you move through life’s challenges, I believe therapy can offer an opportunity to reconnect with yourself, build resilience, and create meaningful change.

I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward greater emotional well-being.