Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Darlene Lancer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, JD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Online Only)
Relationships bring happiness, but also create longing and loneliness. They can preoccupy us and destroy our sense of safety and self-respect. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, afraid, or lost, or are unable to decide about staying or leaving, have irresolvable conflicts, unmet needs, or feel devalued, I can help - also if you seek guidance with codependency, trauma, communication, intimacy or self-esteem. You'll gain awareness in your first session and quickly see changes in handling emotions, conflict, and boundaries. Whether seeking individual or couple counseling, you'll find solutions, empower, and an improved sense of well-being
Relationships bring happiness, but also create longing and loneliness. They can preoccupy us and destroy our sense of safety and self-respect. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, afraid, or lost, or are unable to decide about staying or leaving, have irresolvable conflicts, unmet needs, or feel devalued, I can help - also if you seek guidance with codependency, trauma, communication, intimacy or self-esteem. You'll gain awareness in your first session and quickly see changes in handling emotions, conflict, and boundaries. Whether seeking individual or couple counseling, you'll find solutions, empower, and an improved sense of well-being
Jane Emmer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in psychotherapy, and psychological and neuropsychological testing with children, adults and adolescents. I also am very experienced in conducting adoption evaluations and working with issues and concerns involving adoption. My philosophy in providing treatment includes a combination of cognitive-behavioral, neurobiological and developmental therapies. My goal is to help to restore emotional balance while aiding in the acquisition of new emotional skills and tools.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in psychotherapy, and psychological and neuropsychological testing with children, adults and adolescents. I also am very experienced in conducting adoption evaluations and working with issues and concerns involving adoption. My philosophy in providing treatment includes a combination of cognitive-behavioral, neurobiological and developmental therapies. My goal is to help to restore emotional balance while aiding in the acquisition of new emotional skills and tools.
Yotam Heineberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I offer online video sessions as well as in-person psychotherapy sessions. I offer heart and science-based psychotherapy to growth-oriented individuals interested in deepening their capacity for resilience, coping with life’s challenges, care, connection, and meaning. Sessions are offered in person, or online via video chat. Counseling and coaching services are all informed by evidence-based psychotherapy perspectives, emphasizing primarily Compassion-Focused Therapy and related perspectives. Furthermore, I also offer psychotherapy in Hebrew.
I offer online video sessions as well as in-person psychotherapy sessions. I offer heart and science-based psychotherapy to growth-oriented individuals interested in deepening their capacity for resilience, coping with life’s challenges, care, connection, and meaning. Sessions are offered in person, or online via video chat. Counseling and coaching services are all informed by evidence-based psychotherapy perspectives, emphasizing primarily Compassion-Focused Therapy and related perspectives. Furthermore, I also offer psychotherapy in Hebrew.
Amy Carlson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
You know the capital of Kansas, but you hesitate when you’re asked what you do for fun. We go through years of education, but we often don’t even know ourselves. All we do know is something feels off…we feel unfulfilled in our work, and our relationships feel draining. We’ve worked so hard to make those around us proud, we forgot to think about how we feel about ourselves. Let's change that. My goal is to provide a space free of distraction and judgement so we can explore the experiences and relationships in your life that shaped you and begin to figure out our own personal values and strengths.
You know the capital of Kansas, but you hesitate when you’re asked what you do for fun. We go through years of education, but we often don’t even know ourselves. All we do know is something feels off…we feel unfulfilled in our work, and our relationships feel draining. We’ve worked so hard to make those around us proud, we forgot to think about how we feel about ourselves. Let's change that. My goal is to provide a space free of distraction and judgement so we can explore the experiences and relationships in your life that shaped you and begin to figure out our own personal values and strengths.
Vanessa Harvell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I am a licensed psychotherapist specializing in sex therapy & sexual wellness. I help my clients work through sexual shame, trauma, anxiety, painful sex, issues around arousal, orgasm & desire, compulsive behavior/”porn or sex” addiction, & sexual inexperience or anorexia. I believe my first job is to create a sense of safety by attuning to you and ensuring you a shame-free/judgment-free space. My second job is to help you identify the obstacles that are blocking you from sexual well-being and use my expertise, training and education so that you can get unstuck, reach your goals & find deep healing with sustained change.
I am a licensed psychotherapist specializing in sex therapy & sexual wellness. I help my clients work through sexual shame, trauma, anxiety, painful sex, issues around arousal, orgasm & desire, compulsive behavior/”porn or sex” addiction, & sexual inexperience or anorexia. I believe my first job is to create a sense of safety by attuning to you and ensuring you a shame-free/judgment-free space. My second job is to help you identify the obstacles that are blocking you from sexual well-being and use my expertise, training and education so that you can get unstuck, reach your goals & find deep healing with sustained change.
Sarah Tuberman-Green
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I work with children, adolescents, and families who are experiencing a wide variety of presenting problems. My approach to therapy is supportive, genuine, and collaborative, which allows children and adolescents to reach their fullest potential. I have worked with children and teens for over ten years across a number of settings, including community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, schools, and private practice.
I work with children, adolescents, and families who are experiencing a wide variety of presenting problems. My approach to therapy is supportive, genuine, and collaborative, which allows children and adolescents to reach their fullest potential. I have worked with children and teens for over ten years across a number of settings, including community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, schools, and private practice.
Dr. Yi-Xian Li
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Online Only)
Yi-Xian Li is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California (PSY34118). She earned her doctoral and master's degrees (Psy.D., M.A.) in Clinical Psychology from The Wright Institute in Berkeley, CA and a bachelor's degree in East Asian Studies from Brandeis University. Prior to her current career in psychology, Dr. Li worked in media strategy and advertising in Beijing and Shanghai, China. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the UCSF Faculty & Staff Assistance Program where she worked with physicians, faculty, nurses, administrators, and other UCSF staff members in therapy.
Yi-Xian Li is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California (PSY34118). She earned her doctoral and master's degrees (Psy.D., M.A.) in Clinical Psychology from The Wright Institute in Berkeley, CA and a bachelor's degree in East Asian Studies from Brandeis University. Prior to her current career in psychology, Dr. Li worked in media strategy and advertising in Beijing and Shanghai, China. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the UCSF Faculty & Staff Assistance Program where she worked with physicians, faculty, nurses, administrators, and other UCSF staff members in therapy.
Katherine Dautenhahn (Anxiety Trauma Depression Burnout)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
As a queer identifying clinician, I have extensive experience working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and have developed and led trainings in affirming care across the country.
Hello! I'm Dr. Katherine Dautenhahn (she/they) and I am the founder of Vibrant and Whole Psychological Services. For the past decade, I've had the privilege of working with clients as they've embarked on journeys of healing, growth, and transformation. I specialize in life transitions, work life balance, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and perfectionism. I take an individualized approach to therapy by prioritizing client goals, celebrating client's unique cultural traditions, and integrating relevant diversity and contextual factors into treatment.
As a queer identifying clinician, I have extensive experience working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and have developed and led trainings in affirming care across the country.
Hello! I'm Dr. Katherine Dautenhahn (she/they) and I am the founder of Vibrant and Whole Psychological Services. For the past decade, I've had the privilege of working with clients as they've embarked on journeys of healing, growth, and transformation. I specialize in life transitions, work life balance, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and perfectionism. I take an individualized approach to therapy by prioritizing client goals, celebrating client's unique cultural traditions, and integrating relevant diversity and contextual factors into treatment.
Jessica La Rocca
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
My work as a therapist is to improve lives by energizing and empowering children, teenagers, and young adults to learn to love themselves and be the best they can be. I am dedicated to finding dynamic and creative ways to bring about inner healing while establishing a unique and genuine relationship with each client.
My work as a therapist is to improve lives by energizing and empowering children, teenagers, and young adults to learn to love themselves and be the best they can be. I am dedicated to finding dynamic and creative ways to bring about inner healing while establishing a unique and genuine relationship with each client.
Ana Dolatabadi
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Ana D. your supporter towards personal growth, resilience, and wellbeing. I serve as the Clinical Director at the EAP at UC, San Francisco, and also maintain a fulfilling private practice. My mission is to foster a authentic and empathetic environment where individuals can explore and grow in various aspects of their lives. My approach is straightforward and compassionate, centered around your personal evolution. I provide a space where you can openly express your thoughts and feelings, knowing they will be met with respect and non-judgment.
I'm Dr. Ana D. your supporter towards personal growth, resilience, and wellbeing. I serve as the Clinical Director at the EAP at UC, San Francisco, and also maintain a fulfilling private practice. My mission is to foster a authentic and empathetic environment where individuals can explore and grow in various aspects of their lives. My approach is straightforward and compassionate, centered around your personal evolution. I provide a space where you can openly express your thoughts and feelings, knowing they will be met with respect and non-judgment.
Miri Jedeikin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
You’re looking for tools to deal with life’s challenges. Stronger coping skills and more meaningful relationships. More authenticity and personal empowerment. Less anxiety and fear. A safe, judgment-free space where you can gain awareness and grow. I help people process and heal from the harmful stories that have dominated and shaped their experiences. In our work together, you'll learn how to cope with feelings of overwhelm, set better boundaries and limit unhealthy relationships. You’ll discover how to navigate life’s ups and downs while gaining insight and taking active, effective steps to embody your deepest, truest self.
You’re looking for tools to deal with life’s challenges. Stronger coping skills and more meaningful relationships. More authenticity and personal empowerment. Less anxiety and fear. A safe, judgment-free space where you can gain awareness and grow. I help people process and heal from the harmful stories that have dominated and shaped their experiences. In our work together, you'll learn how to cope with feelings of overwhelm, set better boundaries and limit unhealthy relationships. You’ll discover how to navigate life’s ups and downs while gaining insight and taking active, effective steps to embody your deepest, truest self.
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Dr. Faith Szalay
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
My practice is devoted to working with adults, adolescents and couples to help them deal with difficulties in their relationships and in their personal lives. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, and I am continually honored and intrigued by being able to help people in their lives. I received my degrees (Summa Cum Laude) from Washington University, and my doctorate in Psychology is from CSPP. In addition to my years of work in private practice, my experience includes years of intensive supervised client counseling, and now I am a supervisor at a well established clinic, in addition to my practice.
My practice is devoted to working with adults, adolescents and couples to help them deal with difficulties in their relationships and in their personal lives. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, and I am continually honored and intrigued by being able to help people in their lives. I received my degrees (Summa Cum Laude) from Washington University, and my doctorate in Psychology is from CSPP. In addition to my years of work in private practice, my experience includes years of intensive supervised client counseling, and now I am a supervisor at a well established clinic, in addition to my practice.
Dr. Leslie Rodriguez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Online Only)
Dr. Leslie Rodriguez has a genuine interest in working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. She supports utilizing evidence-based practices and has extensive experience providing psychotherapy treating a wide variety of disorders. She has provided treatment in hospital settings, educational settings, and community mental-health centers She specializes in helping individuals, couples and families with life changes, identity, psychological trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, career burnout, and family communication.
Dr. Leslie Rodriguez has a genuine interest in working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. She supports utilizing evidence-based practices and has extensive experience providing psychotherapy treating a wide variety of disorders. She has provided treatment in hospital settings, educational settings, and community mental-health centers She specializes in helping individuals, couples and families with life changes, identity, psychological trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, career burnout, and family communication.
Melissa Garner-Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I can help you deal with life's challenges including issues of: trauma (PTSD), addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship/ family conflict, anger management, transition to parenting, concerns of aging/ end of life, LGBTQ concerns, child and adolescent concerns.
Would you like to reduce your suffering? Would you like freedom from destructive patterns of behavior? ------When we look deeply at ourselves...when we take the time to take care of ourselves with mindfulness and compassion, we begin to understand balance. I am committed to helping you learn how to stop living with self-sabotaging thoughts and behavior, to cultivate a life of emotional balance, deepen your connection with loved ones, resolve trauma and conflict, process grief and loss and become your best self.
I can help you deal with life's challenges including issues of: trauma (PTSD), addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship/ family conflict, anger management, transition to parenting, concerns of aging/ end of life, LGBTQ concerns, child and adolescent concerns.
Would you like to reduce your suffering? Would you like freedom from destructive patterns of behavior? ------When we look deeply at ourselves...when we take the time to take care of ourselves with mindfulness and compassion, we begin to understand balance. I am committed to helping you learn how to stop living with self-sabotaging thoughts and behavior, to cultivate a life of emotional balance, deepen your connection with loved ones, resolve trauma and conflict, process grief and loss and become your best self.
Janis Rosenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
During the pandemic, I am offering tele therapy sessions for new clients to deal with juggling family and work. I have helped many professionals with negotiation skills and difficult bosses. In 30 years as a psychologist, I've actively helped individuals and couples learn tools to create confidence, change negative thinking, and create healthy relationships. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, couples communication and work issues. I practice EMDR which accelerates your ability to get unstuck from negative beliefs, phobias, and traumatic memories.
During the pandemic, I am offering tele therapy sessions for new clients to deal with juggling family and work. I have helped many professionals with negotiation skills and difficult bosses. In 30 years as a psychologist, I've actively helped individuals and couples learn tools to create confidence, change negative thinking, and create healthy relationships. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, couples communication and work issues. I practice EMDR which accelerates your ability to get unstuck from negative beliefs, phobias, and traumatic memories.
Karina Castaneda
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Karina is a bilingual Spanish-speaking associate marriage and family therapist in Santa Monica, California, specializing in child development, including work with at-risk youth, neurodivergent disorders, and developmental delays. Working from an attachment-based lens, Karina is passionate about supporting families and children experiencing conflict and a variety of stressors, including high conflict family dynamics. Karina has a strong appreciation for the relationship between the body and the brain, thus integrating mindfulness, self-regulation, and other somatic-based modalities into her work.
Karina is a bilingual Spanish-speaking associate marriage and family therapist in Santa Monica, California, specializing in child development, including work with at-risk youth, neurodivergent disorders, and developmental delays. Working from an attachment-based lens, Karina is passionate about supporting families and children experiencing conflict and a variety of stressors, including high conflict family dynamics. Karina has a strong appreciation for the relationship between the body and the brain, thus integrating mindfulness, self-regulation, and other somatic-based modalities into her work.
Angela M. Aiello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am a trauma/addiction and Couples psychotherapist with an MFT license and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I have an engaging, active, personable style immediately putting clients at ease for a strong therapeutic bond necessary for deeper insights and behavioral change. I am trained in psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic modalities. I am a LEVEL II trained PACT (psychobiological approach to couples therapy) couple therapist as well as a facilitator for mindfulness and various relapse prevention models .
I am a trauma/addiction and Couples psychotherapist with an MFT license and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I have an engaging, active, personable style immediately putting clients at ease for a strong therapeutic bond necessary for deeper insights and behavioral change. I am trained in psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic modalities. I am a LEVEL II trained PACT (psychobiological approach to couples therapy) couple therapist as well as a facilitator for mindfulness and various relapse prevention models .
Joanna Gillis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404
I believe everyone can use some extra support sometimes. Whether you are seeking therapy to address a specific issue or because life feels overwhelming in general, I am here to help you identify your strengths, figure out how to cope with challenges, and guide you to increase your self esteem. Everyone's needs are unique, and I use a variety of evidence-based modalities. I provide a safe space for people to explore their deepest vulnerabilities with me. I am an empathetic listener, sensitive, compassionate, and I value the power of humor.
I believe everyone can use some extra support sometimes. Whether you are seeking therapy to address a specific issue or because life feels overwhelming in general, I am here to help you identify your strengths, figure out how to cope with challenges, and guide you to increase your self esteem. Everyone's needs are unique, and I use a variety of evidence-based modalities. I provide a safe space for people to explore their deepest vulnerabilities with me. I am an empathetic listener, sensitive, compassionate, and I value the power of humor.
Gisele Terry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Not accepting new clients
I work with individuals, couples and families in a variety of modalities. Clients benefit from therapy that is tailored to their unique needs and I believe that, with my experience in both long term and short term treatment, with in depth orientations and behavioral interventions, there is an approach that is just right for every client.
I work with individuals, couples and families in a variety of modalities. Clients benefit from therapy that is tailored to their unique needs and I believe that, with my experience in both long term and short term treatment, with in depth orientations and behavioral interventions, there is an approach that is just right for every client.
Dr. Shelby Solomon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Online Only)
Solomon is an ally to the LGBTQ+ communities, disabled communities, and BIPOC communities, and works with adults of all ages.
Dr. Shelby Solomon is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. Dr. Solomon recognizes therapy is an uplifting, supportive, and sometimes challenging experience, and believes establishing trust, safety, and open communication is essential to the process. She utilizes a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, which explores how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors often work in a cycle and can be difficult to break or re-shape, even when they are causing stress, anxiety, or sadness. Through techniques and exercises worked on in/out of sessions, many clients are able to strengthen their awareness and find relief.
Solomon is an ally to the LGBTQ+ communities, disabled communities, and BIPOC communities, and works with adults of all ages.
Dr. Shelby Solomon is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. Dr. Solomon recognizes therapy is an uplifting, supportive, and sometimes challenging experience, and believes establishing trust, safety, and open communication is essential to the process. She utilizes a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, which explores how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors often work in a cycle and can be difficult to break or re-shape, even when they are causing stress, anxiety, or sadness. Through techniques and exercises worked on in/out of sessions, many clients are able to strengthen their awareness and find relief.
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
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LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.