David Barks
Registered Associate MFT #144804

My Approach

I use a comprehensive and empathic approach that emphasizes the relationship between therapist and client. Therapy is tailored to the needs and goals of the individual, developing strategies to cope with various life challenges and traumas. I welcome your feedback as to what you feel is working, and critically what aspects don't feel like a fit to you. Your voice is what matters.

One area of emphasis is in childhood trauma. I help process and integrate the past into present day patterns of living to help individuals heal from the lasting effects of early adverse experiences, and gain alignment with their true authentic values.

I aim to walk beside you as you uncover your truth. I support individuals and families cope with the impacts of depression, anxiety, trauma, self-sabotage, imposter syndrome, life transitions, and relational difficulties, among other struggles.

I practice an integrative approach that draws on person centered, psychodynamic theory, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I aim to help you in seeking a deeper understanding of yourself through exploration of your subconscious and unconscious mind. By being curious about symbolic meanings of our thoughts, dreams, and emotions we can uncover underlying issues, patterns, and gain a self-awareness that promotes psychological growth. Spending time defining our values helps identify the qualities and experiences we truly find meaningful and align our actions with our values. Mindfulness encourages us to be in the present moment without judgment. It is easy to become stuck looking from a thought rather than at the thought, and then identifying as that thing. Labels and words can carry a heavy weight and we all have them, whether they be in our careers, cultural identity or those given to us by society. This awareness helps with opening up to new possibilities and flexibility in ourselves and our lives.

Education and Training

University of California Santa Barbara

  • Bachelor of Arts in History

  • Minor in Cultural Anthropology

Antioch University - Santa Barbara

  • Master of Arts Clinical Psychology

Clinical Training

  • Community Counseling and Education Center (Santa Barbara)

  • Awarded Certificate of Clinical Excellence