(805) 882-2424 x 108
cmayer@ftisb.org
Education, Professional Training & Publications
M.A. in Clinical Psychology, Antioch University, Healthy Aging Concentration
M.S. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Illinois State University
B.S. in Psychology and Sociology, Illinois State University]
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (114480, State of California)
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) training through the Center for Creative Mindfulness
Advanced Master Program on the Treatment of Trauma
Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Alzheimer’s Association: Specialized psychotherapeutic training focused on individuals living with neurocognitive disorders and their spouses/families
Relational Life Therapy Level I
Graduate, Advanced Coach Curriculum and Leadership Program, The Coaches Training Institute
Additional training in Internal Family Systems, non-pharmaceutical methods for working with ADHD, somatic methods for working with abandonment
Developed and delivered a workshop on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Treatment Philosophy & Approach
I take a holistic, compassionate approach to therapy, honoring each client as a whole person within the unique context of their life. My priority is to create a safe and supportive space where you feel seen, heard, and accepted. Together, we explore your relationships—both with yourself and others—and work to uncover your strengths, core values, creativity, and inner wisdom. This collaborative process can lead to meaningful insight, healing, and lasting change.
Working within a systems framework, I draw on a person-centered, humanistic, and eclectic therapeutic style to support individuals and couples. Depending on your needs, our work may integrate a variety of evidence-based modalities including Family Systems, Relational Life Therapy, The Gottman Method, Cognitive Behavioral models, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR.
Professional & Volunteer Experience
I began my career as a psychotherapist in 2016 as an associate therapist at three local agencies: New Beginning Counseling Center, Family Service Agency, and the Center for Successful Aging. In 2017, I joined the Family Therapy Institute, where I continue to work with a focus on adult family systems, couples, and individual clients.
Since 2012, I have also served as adjunct faculty at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), teaching in both the College of Engineering’s Department of Technology Management and in the Professional and Continuing Education program.
Before entering the field of therapy, I spent more than 20 years in Human Resources leadership roles, where I specialized in organizational design, team building, leadership development, employee engagement, succession planning, and strategic organizational management.
My volunteer involvement includes:
- Santa Barbara Chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) – Member and Past Board Member/Sponsorship Director
- Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care, Santa Barbara
- Global Exec Women
- California Wildlife Center
- Big Brothers Big Sisters
- Chicago Lights Tutoring Program – Tutor and Committee Member
Specialties & Areas of Expertise
My therapeutic work is grounded in a nuanced understanding of how early life experiences and trauma impact emotional well-being and relational dynamics. I work with individuals, couples, and adult families, including clients navigating significant life transitions or late-in-life concerns. My approach is personalized and flexible, always responsive to your unique history, challenges, and goals.
Personal Philosophy & Interests
I live by my values and strive to be the best version of myself in every interaction. As a lifelong learner, I regularly engage in professional development to expand my understanding of mental health treatments, neurobiology, physiology, nutrition, and holistic wellness. My personal practices include mindfulness, healthy cooking, cycling, strength training, hiking, and quality time with my partner, family, friends, and our dog, Oscar. Every day, I aim to live intentionally, with care for others, the environment, and the living beings with whom we share this planet.