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CHILDREN & ADOLESCENTS

We value our therapeutic work empowering children and teens to find security and identity while cultivating awareness and coping skills to navigate challenges such as social media and screen usage, peer relationships, dynamics with family members, and more. 

Heather Marshall head shot

HEATHER MARSHALL, AMFT

Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, #144800

(805) 203-6319

Heather.marshall@sbift.com 

Children and adolescents struggling with anxiety and panic have been an area of focus for Heather. Building a solid foundation of trust and modeling authenticity are at the center of her work as she helps young clients to meet the most confident and relaxed version of themselves. Through play therapy, art, and some laughter, kids can practice being who they truly are with Heather and open up at their own pace. She emphasizes the teaching and practice of coping skills for self-regulation in tough moments that kids can take out into the world and use on their own.  

David Barks head shot

DAVID BARKS, AMFT

Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, #144804

(805) 229-1627

Dlbarks@davidbarksmft.com

In his work with adolescents, David helps his clients explore and define
their true character and values to navigate times where their
environment might feel harsh and judgmental. David creates a space
where the teen can feel comfortable processing new and confusing
emotions as they work to gain a healthier understanding of themselves
as an individual and within their family, friend circles, and peer
groups. This approach means the teen gets to choose what they talk
about and has a say in the types of therapy that feel right for them.
Privacy and confidentiality are paramount in building the relationship
that fosters this growth. That said, David encourages periodic
check-ins with parents to form a collaborative approach where
suggestions and resources might be shared with the parents in the best
interest of the teen’s growth and/or healing.

Katherine Hawkes head shot

KATHERINE HAWKES, AMFT

Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, #145309

(805) 500-6985

Katherine.Hawkes@sbift.com

Working with youth, Kat integrates both non-directive and directive play therapy in tandem with traditional talk therapy interventions. This multifaceted approach allows a deepening into issues that may not readily surface otherwise. This may look like play therapy, sand play, creative art activities, or more traditional talk therapy. Kat tailors her sessions to align with the client's interests and support their needs. Through her employment with the City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department, Kat gained experience working closely with neurodivergent children with varying emotional, social, and physical needs. This experience ties in to her ability to create a supportive environment that is comprehensive in nature. 

Rub Conlan head shot

RUBY CONLAN, AMFT

Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, #144959

(805) 364-0393

Ruby.Conlan@sbift.com

While working with young individuals, Ruby employs a trauma-informed perspective and a person-centered approach to facilitate and invite adolescents in talk therapy. This could involve various methods such as traditional talk therapy, play or art therapy, or  family sessions. In her time spent working at a youth crisis shelter, she has been equipped with considerable experience in supporting youth navigating complex and intersecting traumas. Ruby brings forth a caring and understanding viewpoint to the therapeutic environment, fostering an atmosphere conducive to growth and healing.

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