Meet Our Team

Ari Goldstein, Ph.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY32497)

I am based in Santa Barbara, California and am dedicated to providing psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults, and families. My approach is rooted in creating a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and develop tools for meaningful growth.

My academic journey began at the University of Michigan, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. During my time there, I studied under the mentorship of Dr. Christopher Peterson and Dr. Nansook Park, pioneers in the field of positive psychology. Their groundbreaking work on character strengths and human flourishing profoundly shaped my understanding of well-being and continues to influence my practice today.

I pursued my doctorate in Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology at UC Santa Barbara, where my research focused on developing and implementing mindfulness-based interventions for children in school settings. This foundation deepened my commitment to integrating evidence-based practices with a compassionate, humanistic philosophy. My clinical training included a doctoral internship at The Help Group in Los Angeles, where I worked extensively with children, adolescents, and families navigating emotional and behavioral challenges.

Further refining my therapeutic approach, I trained under Dr. Radhule Weininger, M.D., Ph.D., a leader in mindfulness and compassion-based therapy. These experiences have solidified my belief in the power of mindfulness and self-awareness as tools for healing and growth.

Before becoming a clinical psychologist, I worked as a high school special education teacher, which gave me firsthand insight into the unique challenges faced by students and families navigating complex systems. Locally, I have served as a lead teacher and researcher for Kind Mind, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing mindfulness instruction to youth. In addition to my doctorate, I hold a Masters of Education and have been certified as a Nationally Certified School Psychologist.

I also bring specialized training to my work with couples as a Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapist. Using evidence-based strategies, I help couples build trust, foster deeper connection, and learn how to turn towards each other while navigating challenges with greater understanding.

Drawing on my education, training, and professional experiences, I take an integrative and client-centered approach to therapy. Whether working with individuals, families, or couples, I strive to empower clients to reconnect with their strengths, navigate life’s challenges, and create lives filled with deeper meaning and balance.

Bella Weininger, Psy.D.
Psychological Associate (94028728)

I am committed to creating spaces where individuals feel safe, valued, and empowered to explore their challenges and potential for growth. Central to my philosophy is the belief that every person possesses an innate capacity for healing and self-actualization. My role as a therapist is to collaborate with clients in uncovering and addressing the obstacles that stand in the way of their most authentic, liberated selves. Through this process, I aim to help clients reconnect with their inner strengths and align with their deeper values.

My therapeutic approach is collaborative and flexible, rooted in psychodynamic theory and enriched by evidence-based practices such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I integrate mindfulness practices into my work, inspired by teachers like Tara Brach, Kristin Neff, and my mother, Radhule Weininger, to foster self-awareness, emotional regulation, and compassion.

My academic journey began at Santa Clara University, where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Public Health, and French Studies. After gaining corporate experience as a technical recruiter, I returned to my passion for mental health, earning a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at the California School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles. My clinical training spans diverse settings, including San Fernando Child & Family Center, the Women's Community Reintegration Center, and the University of South Carolina Counseling Center. These experiences deepened my commitment to helping clients navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.

I am particularly passionate about addressing suicidal ideation and fostering resilience. My doctoral research focused on innovative strategies to assess suicide risk, and I have over six years of experience volunteering with a nationally recognized suicide prevention hotline. This work, paired with certifications in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) and crisis response, has shaped my ability to support individuals during moments of profound crisis.

As a dual citizen of Germany and the U.S., my upbringing across cultures has instilled a deep appreciation for how cultural context shapes identity and experience. I bring this perspective into my practice, working to understand the socio-cultural factors that influence my clients’ lives and how these factors can intersect with personal healing.

Currently, I practice in Santa Barbara as a Registered Psychological Associate under the supervision of Dr. Ari Goldstein, providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I also teach mindfulness meditation through Mindful Heart Programs and lead retreats to foster self-awareness and growth. Whether addressing emotional distress, relational challenges, or feelings of burnout, I strive to empower clients to reconnect with their strengths, align with their values, and move toward lives of greater authenticity, balance, and fulfillment.

Louie Goldstein
Office Therapy Dog

Louie Goldstein is the heart and paws of our practice. A Standard Poodle born on April 4, 2020, Louie began his journey at guide dog school, where he impressed everyone with his intelligence and charm. However, his exuberant love for people and his big, extroverted personality made focusing on a single task a challenge. Like many others, Louie discovered his true calling through a process of change.

Louie joined Ari’s practice at around 18 months old and has been an integral part of the team ever since. He attends therapy sessions at the Grant House office, where he’s often found holding paws (literally!) with clients who need a comforting presence. His calm and friendly demeanor brings a unique sense of warmth and safety to the therapeutic process.

When he’s not busy supporting clients, Louie loves getting ear scratches, splashing around at the dog-friendly beaches of Santa Barbara, and napping in the bay window at the office. Whether offering a paw to hold or simply lounging nearby, Louie brings joy and comfort to everyone he meets.