Steven Polchinski, AMFT
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist
Steven Polchinski is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a current doctoral student in counseling psychology. His approach to therapy is relational, client-centered, and integrative, drawing from a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), also informed by psychodynamic and depth psychology. He respects and values the unique experiences and needs of each individual, and is committed to fostering a safe and accepting space in therapy.
Steven has several years of clinical experience with the Santa Barbara Unified School District and the Community Counseling and Education Center, where he worked with adolescents and young adults to treat a range of mental and behavioral health issues. He is a yoga instructor at CorePower Yoga, and also utilizes mindfulness practices and somatic therapy. Steven earned his master’s degree in counseling psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Carpinteria, CA and his bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of California, Berkeley.
AMFT #126998
RYT 200 (Yoga Alliance)
My Story
I grew up in Santa Barbara, then moved to the Bay Area to attend college. Back in Santa Barbara since
2011, I am at home here, and feel so fortunate for opportunities to connect with and support this
community. I love spending time with my partner and our dog Waffles, as well with family and friends.
In my free time, I also enjoy a variety of sports and games including ice hockey, disc golf, pickleball, and
chess. Cultivating joy, balance, and sustainability in life is precious to me.
Education
Pacifica Graduate Institute – PsyD, Counseling Psychology (degree in progress)
Pacifica Graduate Institute – Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology
UC Berkeley – Bachelor of Arts in Economics
Expertise
Addiction & Substance Misuse
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Family Conflict
Grief & Bereavement
Life Transitions
School Issues
Trauma & PTSD
Treatment Approaches
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Art Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Exposure Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Psychodynamic
Psychological Testing and Evaluation
Somatic Therapy
Schedule a Time
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities to help people. Let's connect.
(805) 503-3131