Riviera Therapy, a local woman-owned small business, has announced the opening of its second location in downtown Santa Barbara.

Serving the area’s residents since 2017, Riviera Therapy recently purchased and opened its second building, allowing the business to hire more staff and provide therapy services to additional clients.

Representatives from Riviera Therapy and Bank of America celebrate the grand opening of Riviera Therapy's second office with cutting of a large red ribbon. (Courtesy photo)
Representatives from Riviera Therapy and Bank of America celebrate the grand opening of Riviera Therapy’s second office. (Courtesy photo)

Since first opening its doors in a small rented office space, Riviera Therapy owner Jenn Kennedy said she realized during the pandemic that she had outgrown that space as demand for mental health counseling and services grew.

Kennedy contacted Goleta-based Bank of America small business banker Brenda Cervantes to talk about her business growth struggles and understand her options.

With Cervantes’ advisement, Kennedy said she realized she could afford to buy her own office instead of leasing.

As business grew, Kennedy again turned to Cervantes and Bank of America for additional counsel and financing to buy the new second location.

“It’s rare for a therapist to own their own building, and now, thanks to help from Bank of America and Brendam we have two,” said Kennedy. “It’s a healthy investment financially and allows us to serve even more patients.”