Nature Group Therapy for Youth
2026-02-18 16:00 - 17:00, 2026-02-25 16:00 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | nature therapy
An 8-week supportive after-school group, to de-stress, build resiliency, and deepen one’s relationship with peers and nature. A non-performance based group, for your child to get to grow their understanding of themselves, gain new perspectives, and appreciate the positive impact they have on all beings around them.
This seasonal group has one spot available for Winter 2026.

WHO: Youth ages 10-12, all genders
WHEN: WEDNESDAYS from 4:00-5:00pm [Jan 21-Mar 11]
WHERE: Location shared upon sign up
COST: $50/session, $400 total

VIRTUAL Support Group for Parents of Teens - Evolve
2026-02-18 17:30 - 18:30, 2026-02-25 17:30 - 18:30 | *VIRTUAL-ZOOM*, ONLINE, CA
Evolve offers free weekly virtual support groups for parents and caregivers of teens. This group provides a safe, welcoming space to connect with other parents, share resources, and talk openly about the challenges of supporting a teen while balancing work, family responsibilities, and self-care. Participants receive practical guidance and emotional support from others who understand the realities of teen mental health and behavioral challenges. You are not alone. This group is designed to help parents feel heard, supported, and connected to others who truly get it.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or unsure where to turn, this parent support group is here for you. It is made up of parents walking a similar path and navigating many of the same struggles.

WHEN: Every Wednesday from 10:00am-11:00am
WHERE: Virtual on ZOOM (link provided after registration)
REGISTRATION: **required REGISTER NOW >>
COST: $0
CONTACT: Call 1-855-890-2493

About Evolve Treatment Centers
provides evidence-based treatment for teens ages 12 to 17 facing mental health, substance use, and behavioral challenges. Our full continuum of care, exclusively for adolescents, includes outpatient psychiatry and therapy, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), and Residential Treatment Centers (RTC).
*How to Attend*
To join, please complete the registration form on our website. After reviewing your registration, our team will email you a consent form via DocuSign. Once the form is signed, you will receive access details for the Zoom group.

FamilyTools+ Parent Support Group — Free Weekly Drop-In (Hybrid)
2026-02-19 12:00 - 13:30, 2026-02-26 12:00 - 13:30 | Wake Center, SBCC, 300 N. Turnpike, Santa Barbara, CA, 93111, United States
FamilyTools+ Parent Support Group Free weekly drop-in for neurodivergent parent support in Santa Barbara
For parents and caregivers of children ages 5–18 with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, Tourette syndrome, or other neurodivergent profiles in Santa Barbara County.
Parenting a uniquely-wired kid is rewarding and genuinely hard. FamilyTools+ is a free neurodivergent parent support group in Santa Barbara where caregivers come together weekly to share real strategies, get support, and actually breathe for 90 minutes.
Each session addresses the day-to-day realities of raising neurodivergent youth: emotional regulation at home, time management, building productive relationships with teachers and schools, and ensuring your own well-being doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.
No curriculum, no commitment, just an honest, welcoming space with other parents who get it.
Every Thursday | 12:00–1:30 PM In-Person: SBCC Wake Center, 300 N. Turnpike, Room 15 — Santa Barbara Virtual: Zoom link provided after you register Free to attend
Register and find up-to-date details on our [Support Groups page →]
Questions? Email groups@youthwell.org or call 805.770.1930 ext. 103
Want to learn more?
About Your Facilitator
Kara Rocque is a California credentialed teacher, ADHD+ and executive function coach, and mom of three teens. After seven years teaching in Goleta, her own children’s experiences reshaped her focus, leading her to specialize in supporting neurodivergent learners and their families.
A few terms worth knowing: ADHD+ ADHD rarely travels alone; anxiety, learning challenges, and OCD often come with it. EF (Executive Functions) life skills like planning, time management, and emotional regulation. 2e (Twice Exceptional) gifted with challenges.
Kara helps students and families find connection, routines, and communication strategies that actually work. You aren’t alone in your ADHD+ journey.
Want to learn more?
Stronger Together: Parent, Provider & Education Series
Free virtual workshops for parents, providers, and educators focused on neurodiversity-affirming tools and practices for home and classroom. Designed for anyone supporting neurodivergent youth ages 5–25.
Spanish interpretation available · $5 suggested fee · Zoom link provided after registration
[Register for Stronger Together →] · Questions? groups@youthwell.org or 805.770.1239

Nature Group Therapy for Girls - 8 wk program
2026-02-19 15:30 - 16:30, 2026-02-26 15:30 - 16:30 | nature therapy
The female nervous system is primed for connection. This group allows girls to explore their strength and power for camaraderie and support, both with each other and with the earth. This after school group provides a space to process, de-compress, explore, and connect with what ever is coming up for each group member. In addition, getting to honor the unique needs of each season and what we can learn from mother earth’s cyclical nature.
Participants will also learn about our need for oxytocin, the hormone that helps regulates estrogen and our menstrual cycles. Female bodies make up 75%-80% of humans with autoimmune diseases, and there has been recent research that shows it is link to a lack of support in our hormonal production. We will explore this concept in an age appropriate manner, that will empower your child for puberty. Your child will get the opportunity to lead, speak-up, disagree, and learn important self-advocacy skills as they help shape the group and our experience together. This will allow them to practice expressing their emotions in a full and healthy way, allowing them to live an empowered life that doesn’t result in making themselves small.
I have 2 spots available in this group. Nature location shared upon sign-up.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions, I look forward to connecting!

WHO: Girls ages 9-12
WHEN: Weekly from January-March 2026 [exact day/time TBD]
WHERE: Location shared upon signup
COST: $50 per session, $400 total – Sliding Scale Available
CONTACT: Jenny Ziesenhenne, <therapywithjennyz@gmail.com>, 805.696.2266

Family Support Group
2026-02-19 18:00 - 19:30, 2026-02-26 18:00 - 19:30 | Mental Wellness Center, 617 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101
Family Support Group encourages empathy, productive discussion, and a sense of community in a non-judgmental space where participants can benefit from others’ experiences and discover their own inner strength.
The group helps caregivers build coping skills, find strength through shared experiences, and feel supported without judgment. Participants learn to let go of guilt, accept what they can’t control, and understand that mental health conditions are not anyone’s fault.
If you are interested in registering, please call the Family Advocate at (805)-325-5580.

Alateen/Alanon Support Group
2026-02-20 10:00, 2026-02-27 10:00 | IN-PERSON/YouthWell, 610B Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101, United States
For teens affected by someone’s drinking or addiction. Alateen, part of the Al-Anon Family Groups, is a fellowship of young people whose lives have been affected by alcoholism in a family member or friend. Young people aged 12 to 18 who have been affected by someone else’s drinking are invited to share experience, strength, and hope with other teens. Please join us.
WHEN: Fridays, 10:00 – 11am
WHO: Young people from 12 through 18
WHERE: YouthWell – 610 Anacapa Street, Suite B, Santa Barbara
QUESTIONS: Contact Nancy Palmer at 972.898.8133 or https://alanonsantabarbara.org/

WEBINAR: Predictors of Independence in Autism - Fusion Academy Palos Verdes
2026-02-20 11:30 - 13:00 | *VIRTUAL-ZOOM*, ONLINE, CA
Fusion Academy Palos Verdes is hosting a FREE educational webinar and workshop to explore the skills that help children with autism move toward greater independence, confidence, and long-term autonomy. The event will be led by Dr. Catherine Lord, who has done considerable observational research in autism across life-span from toddler to adulthood.
Guests may expect to learn the strategies and tools to strengthen the fundamental skills in order to help children on the autism spectrum lead independent, connected, and fulfilling lives.
Guests may attend either virtually over Zoom or in-person. RSVP is not required but is recommended.

WHEN: Friday, February 20 from 11:30am-1:00pm
WHERE: Zoom OR In-Person/Fusion Palos Verdes – 550 Deep Valley Drive, Suite 250, Rolling Hills Estates, CA
RSVP Virtually >>
RSVP In-person >>
CONTACT: palosverdes@fusionacademy.com or call 310-651-8284
COST: $0

TBRI Caregiver Package Training
2026-02-20 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-02-27 18:00 - 21:00 | Virtual, CA, United States
Join Pathway Family Services for Truth Relational Intervention Caregiver package training. TBRI is a powerful evidence based trauma intervention. This comprehensive training will go in depth to the three principles of TBRI: empowering, connecting, and correcting.
Gain valuable insight into brain development, proven techniques for healing children of trauma while exploring and addressing our own attachment styles.

Join us for 8 weekly online sessions
April 25th – June 13th, 2025
Register here! [Exact days and times can be selected after registration!]

Call 877-550-KIDS with any questions!

FREE YOUTH LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP - Visión y Compromiso
2026-02-21 09:00 - 15:00, 2026-02-28 09:00 - 15:00 | 2050 Alameda Padre Serra, Santa Barbara, 2050 Alameda Padre Serra, Santa Barbara, United States
The Promotores Institute in collaboration with the Network of Promotoras Central Coast Region are providing a free 8-week training that will help youth (ages 16-22) to enhance skills as community leaders interested in working toward a safer, healthier, and more equitable future.

WHEN: Saturdays, February 14th to April 11th from 9:00am-3:00pm
WHERE: 2050 Alameda Padre Serra, Suite 203, Santa Barbara
REGISTRATION: Register here >>
COST: $0
CONTACT: email andreabarahona@visionycompromiso.org or call 213-522-9147

Through this training you will:

Identify and enhance your strengths and leadership skills
Learn how to develop advocacy skills and create change
Understand the power of media, outreach, and policy
Create your own community project plan

By attending all sessions, you will receive certification as a community promoter/promotora.

AHA! Littlest Little Farm | Junior High
2026-02-21 10:00 - 12:30, 2026-02-28 10:00 - 12:30 | Montecito Union School, 385 San Ysidro Rd, Santa Barbara, 93108, United States
LLF participants learn and practice regenerative agriculture skills. They work hard and have fun as part of a team, getting hands in the soil and communicating with plants, animals (goats, chickens, and a tortoise!), insects, and each other.
The LLF is offered in 4-5 week cycles. The following cycle dates are for Junior High School Students.

Cycle 1: FEB 22, MAR 1, 8, 15, 22
Cycle 2: MAY 10, 17, 24, 31

WHEN: Saturday
WHERE: Montecito Union School – 385 San Ysidro Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
TIME: 10:00AM – 12:30PM
INTERESTED?
Step 1: Apply at tinyurl.com/AHAspring2025
Step 2: Attend Enrollment Meeting
WHEN: January 7th or 21st
TIME: 5:30 – 6:30PM
WHERE: AHA! office – 923 Olive St., Suite 5, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101
Please contact Sarah to RSVP

Step 3: Attend mandatory orientation
WHEN: February 1st
TIME: 10:00AM – 12PM
WHERE: Parish Hall – 1535 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101
QUESTIONS?
Sarah Block | LLF Enrollment Coordinator | 805-455-3456 sarah@ahasb.org

YOUTH WORKSHOP: Pizza Party Cooking Class for Youth with Disabilities
2026-02-21 11:00 - 13:00 | Santa Barbara, CA, Santa Barbara, United States
Access Central Coast (ACC) is partnering with A to Z Cooking School to put on a Pizza Party Cooking Class for youth with disabilities ages 14-26. Participants will engage in a fun, accessible cooking class and get to enjoy what they create after! Participants will also be entered into a raffle to win an A to Z Swag Bag and at-home pizza kit and all will receive goodie bags with an accessible cookbook. Parents are encouraged to return for pick-up unless specified that their presence is listed as an accommodation.

WHEN: Saturday, February 21 from 11:00am-1:00pm
WHERE: **workshop location will be shared only with those who RSVP**
REGISTRATION: RSVP to one of the contacts listed below and please include name, age, any dietary restrictions, and any accommodations needed

Call: (805) 963-0595 ext. 106
Email: agarrett@accesscentralcoast.org

Space is limited so participants must RSVP!
Example RSVP:
My name is ____, I am ____ years old and identify as having a disability. I need ____ accommodation and I am gluten free.

Alateen/Alanon Support Group - Friendship Center
2026-02-22 13:00, 2026-03-01 13:00 | Friendshipe Center, 89 Eucalyptus Lane, Santa Barbara, 93108, United States
For teens affected by someone’s drinking or addiction. 3 available dates and locations: Sundays at Friendship Center, Thursdays at SB High School, and Fridays at DP High School. Alateen is for young people from 12 through 18. Alateen, part of the Al-Anon Family Groups, is a fellowship of young people whose lives have been affected by alcoholism in a family member or friend. We help one another by sharing our experience, strength, and hope. ALATEEN CHAT… Chat live with other teens in any of the scheduled meetings! Young people aged 13 to 18 who have been affected by someone else’s drinking are invited to share experience, strength, and hope with other teens.
WHEN: Sundays, 1:00pm
WHERE: Friendship Center – 89 Eucalyptus Lane, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
QUESTIONS: Contact Nancy Palmer at 972.898.8133 or scws.org/alateen

VIRTUAL WORKSHOP - Neurodiversity 101: A Parent's Guide to Affirming Support
2026-02-22 17:00 - 18:00 | *VIRTUAL-ZOOM*, ONLINE, CA
Parenting a neurodivergent child can raise questions about language, labels, strengths, and challenges. This talk offers an introduction to neurodiversity, explaining how it contrasts with the medical model and why this shift matters. We’ll explore different types of neurodivergence and discuss how to speak about differences in ways that are honest, affirming, and developmentally supportive—without minimizing real struggles. Parents will leave with tools to foster confidence, understanding, and connection.

WHEN: Sunday, February 22 from 5:00pm-6:00pm
WHERE: Zoom (link shared after registration)
REGISTRATION: REQUIRED >>
COST: FREE
CONTACT: Email navigator@youthwell.org

ParentConnect Support Group [hybrid] – YouthWell
2026-02-23 12:00 - 13:30, 2026-03-02 12:00 - 13:30 | IN-PERSON/YouthWell, 610B Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101, United States
Learn skills to effectively and compassionately support your child struggling with any type of mental health challenge while also setting boundaries, supporting siblings, and managing your own self-care.
This is a weekly, hybrid, drop-in support group and is intended for parents or caregivers of youth, ages 12-25. However, if your child is outside of this age range and struggling with a mental health challenge, please don’t hesitate to inquire to attend.
WHEN: Mondays, 12:00-1:30pm
WHERE: HYBRID — Zoom OR In-Person/1528 Chapala St, Suite 203, Santa Barbara
REGISTRATION: REQUIRED >
**zoom link shared after registration**

Compartiendo Esperanza
2026-02-23 18:00 - 19:30 | Mental Wellness Center, 617 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101
Un grupo para personas que tienen seres queridos adultos que viven con un trastorno de salud mental. Regístrese para nuestro grupo de apoyo en Santa Barbara. Venga a nuestro grupo a compartir su historia con otras familias. Para registrarse llame al (805)-325-5580.

PFLAG Santa Barbara February Meeting
2026-02-23 19:00 - 20:30 | *VIRTUAL-ZOOM*, ONLINE, CA
Please join us for our February PFLAG Zoom meeting, “Seeking Safe and Affirming Spirituality”.
Many people feel that they have to choose between their faith and loving the LGBTQ people in their lives. Come hear from two speakers who have found communities of faith where they are growing and flourishing as their full, authentic selves.
This is a zoom meeting and pre-registration is required by emailing pflagsantabarbara@gmail.com

SAVE THE DATE: Psychiatric Grand Rounds - Chronic Pain: Team-Based Psychological Care
2026-02-24 12:00 - 13:30
Save the date for Psychiatric Grand Rounds hosted by Cottage Health Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine! This session will focus on chronic pain and team-based psychological care and will be presented by Dave Talavera, PhD.

WHEN: Tuesday, February 24th from 12:00pm-1:30pm
WHERE:
REGISTRATION:
CONTACT: Email fmckinne@sbch.org or call (805) 569-7471 ext. 57471
COST:

Family to Family Classes
2026-02-25 18:30 - 21:00 | Mental Wellness Center, 617 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101
Family to Family is a FREE 8 session education program for family members of adults living with a mental health disorder.
It will help them understand and support their loved one while maintaining their own wellbeing.
If you are interested in registering please call the Family Advocate at 805-325-5580 or email familyadvocate@mentalwellnesscenter.org.

Family to Family Class
2026-02-28 10:00 - 12:30 | Mental Wellness Center, 617 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101
Family to Family is a FREE 8 session education program for family members of adults living with a mental health disorder.
It will help them understand and support their loved one while maintaining their own wellbeing. Please call the Family Advocate at (805)-325-5580 to register or email familyadovcate@mentalwellnesscenter.org
