About
Jack May is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Santa Barbara, California, and holds active licenses in 15 states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Nevada, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Louisiana, and Indiana. He is a Certified Anger Management Facilitator (CAMF), a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), and a Certified Multiple Addictions Therapist (CMAT) specializing in financial disorders. Jack received his advanced training from the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP), and his practice focuses on helping individuals and couples overcome addiction, financial struggles, anger management issues, and co-occurring disorders.
Treatment Philosophy
Jack’s therapeutic philosophy is centered on the belief that healing begins by addressing the underlying patterns that drive behaviors and relationships. Drawing on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Family Systems Theory, and mindfulness techniques, Jack provides a comprehensive approach to therapy. He also specializes in addressing co-occurring disorders, recognizing the complex relationship between mental health conditions and addictive behaviors. In his practice, Jack creates a non-judgmental and empathetic space, supporting clients as they work through personal struggles to achieve lasting growth, resilience, and well-being.
Jack works extensively with men’s issues, including sex addiction, financial disorders, anger management, and emotional regulation. He is committed to helping clients foster healthy relationships and develop effective strategies for overcoming life’s challenges. Jack’s therapeutic approach combines empathy, professionalism, and a deep understanding of family systems and the interconnectedness of relational dynamics.
Education
Jack holds a Master of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate Institute. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Family Studies from California State University, Northridge.
Professional Experience
Jack began his clinical training at Cal Fam Counseling Center in Encino, California, where he worked with families, couples, and individuals. He then went on to work in the Juvenile Justice System for Los Angeles County, supporting young men aged 15-19. Over the years, Jack has gained extensive experience in community mental health, private practice, and drug and alcohol treatment facilities. He has also worked extensively with college-age students from the University of California, Santa Barbara (UC Santa Barbara), providing care to students who are overflow referrals from Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). Currently, his practice focuses on men’s issues, anger management, sex addiction, financial disorders, and co-occurring conditions, as well as couples counseling and working with college-aged students.
Personal Life
Outside of his clinical work, Jack enjoys spending time in nature. He is an avid fan of off-grid camping and enjoys Enduro motorcycle riding in the mountains, combining his love for adventure with the peace of the outdoors. In addition, Jack is currently learning to play the guitar and relishes the opportunity to unwind with friends, family, and loved ones. He also serves as the Community Engagement Director on the Board of Directors for the Santa Barbara Chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.
