Robin Starkey Harpster, MA MFT

Robin Starkey Harpster, M.A., Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFC 41937) has been working with children, adolescents, and their families since 1996. Through individual, family, parent and group psychotherapy she helps girls and women develop empowering relationships, discover their unique gifts and skills, and find their own path of self-discovery. In addition to a strength-based interpersonal approach, she actively utilizes creative therapies such as sandtray and art therapy to enhance growth and heal from life's challenges.

Specialties

Skill building and coping techniques for recovery from anxiety (including selective mutism), depression and self-injury; Building friendship and social competency skills; Learning positive ways for dealing with anger; Developing a positive body image; Enhancing relationships; Building communication for teens and parents; Navigating the challenges of new motherhood and pregnancy.

Professional Affiliations and Memberships

California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists; Selective Mutism Group; Postpartum Support International.

Education

Bachelor's degree: UCSB; Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology: Antioch University.

Other Experience

Girls Incorporated of Greater Santa Barbara. Aviva Family and Children’s Services in Los Angeles.

Mission

"I believe in the capacity of each girl and woman to find personal strength, connection, healing, and power. It is my mission to utilize this capacity as witness, support, and guide through each girl's and woman's journey to find her authentic and whole self."