Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Shana Bujake
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
As a therapist, I specialize in working with individuals and couples who have experienced trauma, including those who have suffered from narcissistic abuse, as well as those who are struggling with relationship issues. My approach is grounded in trauma-informed care, meaning that I prioritize creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore and process their experiences. Additionally, I incorporate attachment theory to help clients understand and heal from attachment wounds. I also offer co-parenting classes to assist parents in navigating the challenges of raising children in separated families.
As a therapist, I specialize in working with individuals and couples who have experienced trauma, including those who have suffered from narcissistic abuse, as well as those who are struggling with relationship issues. My approach is grounded in trauma-informed care, meaning that I prioritize creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore and process their experiences. Additionally, I incorporate attachment theory to help clients understand and heal from attachment wounds. I also offer co-parenting classes to assist parents in navigating the challenges of raising children in separated families.
Ben Chandler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
It takes a lot of courage to seek therapy. You're at a crossroads. And you feel stuck. Perhaps you’re seeking relief from anxiety, depression, or addiction. Maybe you’re tired of living with shame about your sexuality or relationship needs. Maybe you’ve noticed that you keep repeating the same unproductive patterns in relationships or at work. Perhaps you’re feeling lost- unsure of who you really are and what you want in life. These are issues we can untangle and begin to understand in our work together.
It takes a lot of courage to seek therapy. You're at a crossroads. And you feel stuck. Perhaps you’re seeking relief from anxiety, depression, or addiction. Maybe you’re tired of living with shame about your sexuality or relationship needs. Maybe you’ve noticed that you keep repeating the same unproductive patterns in relationships or at work. Perhaps you’re feeling lost- unsure of who you really are and what you want in life. These are issues we can untangle and begin to understand in our work together.
Negar Khaefi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you living with a traumatic past, or severe anxiety? I am an Anxiety and PTSD specialist. My expertise is in treating Career/Romantic Anxiety, Panic, OCD, Traumatic Memories, Nightmares, and Social Anxiety. My typical clients experience debilitating Panic Attacks, Trauma Flashbacks, Feelings of Unreality, Insomnia, Feelings of Detachment, Fear of Death/Suicide, Losing Control, Fear of Going Insane, Fear of leaving the house, Fear of Embarrassment/Rejection, Fear of Being Trapped, Driving Anxiety, Violent Intrusive Thoughts, Constant Daily Anxiety about Work, Love Life, and Transitions.
Are you living with a traumatic past, or severe anxiety? I am an Anxiety and PTSD specialist. My expertise is in treating Career/Romantic Anxiety, Panic, OCD, Traumatic Memories, Nightmares, and Social Anxiety. My typical clients experience debilitating Panic Attacks, Trauma Flashbacks, Feelings of Unreality, Insomnia, Feelings of Detachment, Fear of Death/Suicide, Losing Control, Fear of Going Insane, Fear of leaving the house, Fear of Embarrassment/Rejection, Fear of Being Trapped, Driving Anxiety, Violent Intrusive Thoughts, Constant Daily Anxiety about Work, Love Life, and Transitions.
Trauma And Anxiety Therapy For Women Adrianna Holness
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90407
You wonder who you would be if you didn’t struggle with perfectionism, people-pleasing, anxiety, or negative self-talk. You value friends and family and validate everyone except for yourself, as if your worthiness is an exception to the rule. A lot of doubt and uncertainty comes from not knowing if we are worthy, if we’re leading “worthwhile” lives, if we are good enough to take chances, to state our needs, to show up as ourselves and not who others want, expect, or demand that we be. Before we can ask others to meet our needs, we first have to take the deep dive of figuring out what that looks like for ourselves.
You wonder who you would be if you didn’t struggle with perfectionism, people-pleasing, anxiety, or negative self-talk. You value friends and family and validate everyone except for yourself, as if your worthiness is an exception to the rule. A lot of doubt and uncertainty comes from not knowing if we are worthy, if we’re leading “worthwhile” lives, if we are good enough to take chances, to state our needs, to show up as ourselves and not who others want, expect, or demand that we be. Before we can ask others to meet our needs, we first have to take the deep dive of figuring out what that looks like for ourselves.
Jennifer Lara
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma-related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma-related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
Amanda Baker-Vande Brake
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PhDc, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Working from an integrative depth psychological perspective, Amanda helps couples and individual adults deepen and navigate their everyday lives in a conscious relationship with their inner selves and their inner callings. Her patients often begin therapy with issues related to depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and unintentionally making choices that keep them stuck. They desire more clarity about the cause of their persistent mental, physical and emotional symptoms in order to experience more freedom in their daily lives. Ultimately, her patients seek more meaning in their lives and are willing to take steps toward it.
Working from an integrative depth psychological perspective, Amanda helps couples and individual adults deepen and navigate their everyday lives in a conscious relationship with their inner selves and their inner callings. Her patients often begin therapy with issues related to depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and unintentionally making choices that keep them stuck. They desire more clarity about the cause of their persistent mental, physical and emotional symptoms in order to experience more freedom in their daily lives. Ultimately, her patients seek more meaning in their lives and are willing to take steps toward it.
Dr. Saarah D Nicolas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
I also have a long history working with Veterans, women, male sexual trauma survivors, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC people.
Have you experienced a traumatic event that has left you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to move forward? Or maybe grew up in a home that left you struggling to feel safe or worthy of love? If so, I want you to know that you are not alone. Trauma can really shake up our lives, affecting our identity, relationships, work-life balance, and the ability to just feel comfortable in our own skin. Whether you have experienced a one-time traumatic event or a pattern of ongoing trauma, I am here to help. Together, we will explore your experiences and develop practical tools to help you overcome trauma and reclaim your life.
I also have a long history working with Veterans, women, male sexual trauma survivors, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC people.
Have you experienced a traumatic event that has left you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to move forward? Or maybe grew up in a home that left you struggling to feel safe or worthy of love? If so, I want you to know that you are not alone. Trauma can really shake up our lives, affecting our identity, relationships, work-life balance, and the ability to just feel comfortable in our own skin. Whether you have experienced a one-time traumatic event or a pattern of ongoing trauma, I am here to help. Together, we will explore your experiences and develop practical tools to help you overcome trauma and reclaim your life.
Aviv Michael Linden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I work with people from all walks of life. Everyone is unique and so each client has a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs. People who see me for psychological treatment are often experiencing low mood, anxiety, difficulty relaxing, excessive criticism and low self esteem. Many have experienced a significant loss or a traumatic life event. I will help you to better understand how your present responses (emotional, behavioral, emotional and physical) are influenced by your past experiences. Working collaboratively with you, I will facilitate a safe space for you to reflect, process and grow.
I work with people from all walks of life. Everyone is unique and so each client has a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs. People who see me for psychological treatment are often experiencing low mood, anxiety, difficulty relaxing, excessive criticism and low self esteem. Many have experienced a significant loss or a traumatic life event. I will help you to better understand how your present responses (emotional, behavioral, emotional and physical) are influenced by your past experiences. Working collaboratively with you, I will facilitate a safe space for you to reflect, process and grow.
Hayden Hunter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
I am happy you are here! Lotus flowers bloom after traversing through thick layers of mud. My goal is to help you understand blockages in your life holding you back from living an authentic and full life, help you make sense and create meaning from your experiences that propel you forward with purpose! My clients face anxiety/depression, life/career transitions, complex family/relationship dynamics, trauma related to dysfunctional dynamics present across family/professional/social/intimate relationships, families navigating divorce, individuals healing from narcissistic abuse, and parents looking to improve their parenting skills.
I am happy you are here! Lotus flowers bloom after traversing through thick layers of mud. My goal is to help you understand blockages in your life holding you back from living an authentic and full life, help you make sense and create meaning from your experiences that propel you forward with purpose! My clients face anxiety/depression, life/career transitions, complex family/relationship dynamics, trauma related to dysfunctional dynamics present across family/professional/social/intimate relationships, families navigating divorce, individuals healing from narcissistic abuse, and parents looking to improve their parenting skills.
Darcy Manav
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
My therapeutic intention is to cultivate a collaborative space to foster personal growth, healing and self-awareness. You will feel supported each step of the way as we navigate your inner landscape and life, identifying any issues keeping you feeling lost, stuck or disconnected. We’ll explore tools to promote emotional resilience, process unresolved traumas and experience a more grounded and empowered sense of self. Because therapy is not a one size fits all experience, sessions and treatment goals are tailored to meet your specific needs and desires for positive growth and change.
My therapeutic intention is to cultivate a collaborative space to foster personal growth, healing and self-awareness. You will feel supported each step of the way as we navigate your inner landscape and life, identifying any issues keeping you feeling lost, stuck or disconnected. We’ll explore tools to promote emotional resilience, process unresolved traumas and experience a more grounded and empowered sense of self. Because therapy is not a one size fits all experience, sessions and treatment goals are tailored to meet your specific needs and desires for positive growth and change.
Lana Benedek
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Do you want to wake up each day feeling inspired and excited for the day ahead? Are you tired of old feelings and patterns getting in the way of achieving your goals? Are you willing to work hard and make changes in your life but are not sure where to start? I work with adolescents and adults who want to take risks and live meaningful lives and who are open to navigating challenging pasts. Many of my clients are going through life transitions and all want to have more peace and joy in their lives. I will help you figure out where you want to get to and what is holding you back.
Do you want to wake up each day feeling inspired and excited for the day ahead? Are you tired of old feelings and patterns getting in the way of achieving your goals? Are you willing to work hard and make changes in your life but are not sure where to start? I work with adolescents and adults who want to take risks and live meaningful lives and who are open to navigating challenging pasts. Many of my clients are going through life transitions and all want to have more peace and joy in their lives. I will help you figure out where you want to get to and what is holding you back.
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Lanning M. Melville
PsyD, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am particularly effective working with people who come to therapy with histories of childhood trauma, including emotional, sexual and/or physical abuse, and family neglect and/or abandonment. I have a strong commitment to helping men come to grips with the pains, conflicts and deficits in their work and relational lives. At the same time, I believe I can be particularly helpful to women, as a male therapist, in their work with these kinds of issues. I work primarily with individual adults. I have expertise working with a wide range of issues, including substance abuse/dependence, depression and anxiety.
I am particularly effective working with people who come to therapy with histories of childhood trauma, including emotional, sexual and/or physical abuse, and family neglect and/or abandonment. I have a strong commitment to helping men come to grips with the pains, conflicts and deficits in their work and relational lives. At the same time, I believe I can be particularly helpful to women, as a male therapist, in their work with these kinds of issues. I work primarily with individual adults. I have expertise working with a wide range of issues, including substance abuse/dependence, depression and anxiety.
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 .
Dr. Evangeline Bishop
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Hello and welcome. I specialize in working with individuals on their parenting journey. This includes the perinatal stage addressing perinatal mood and anxiety issues (also described as postpartum depression and/or anxiety), infant-parent bonding, role transitions in individuals and families, and parenting support and coaching. I have expertise in infant and early childhood mental health and child psychology. I am passionate about supporting the well-being of new and growing families by providing individual, couples, and family therapy. My approach to therapy emphasizes connection and promotes self-reflection.
Hello and welcome. I specialize in working with individuals on their parenting journey. This includes the perinatal stage addressing perinatal mood and anxiety issues (also described as postpartum depression and/or anxiety), infant-parent bonding, role transitions in individuals and families, and parenting support and coaching. I have expertise in infant and early childhood mental health and child psychology. I am passionate about supporting the well-being of new and growing families by providing individual, couples, and family therapy. My approach to therapy emphasizes connection and promotes self-reflection.
Joseph Mauch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
I'm experienced with relational and emotional issues including depression, anxiety, transition, LGBTQ issues, complex trauma, spirituality, substance abuse and identity issues.
I’m a clinical psychologist and I specialize in therapy for adults. If you’re here, I’m guessing it’s because you are struggling with something in your life and feel like you need help. I know how hard it can be to reach out and ask for help, and I’m glad that you’ve made it this far. Therapy doesn’t have to be daunting and mysterious. At the most basic level, therapy is just two people relating with one another in a relaxed, safe, and supportive atmosphere. What makes it different from other relationships is that we keep the focus on you, and I have specialized training that enables me to foster the conditions necessary for change.
I'm experienced with relational and emotional issues including depression, anxiety, transition, LGBTQ issues, complex trauma, spirituality, substance abuse and identity issues.
I’m a clinical psychologist and I specialize in therapy for adults. If you’re here, I’m guessing it’s because you are struggling with something in your life and feel like you need help. I know how hard it can be to reach out and ask for help, and I’m glad that you’ve made it this far. Therapy doesn’t have to be daunting and mysterious. At the most basic level, therapy is just two people relating with one another in a relaxed, safe, and supportive atmosphere. What makes it different from other relationships is that we keep the focus on you, and I have specialized training that enables me to foster the conditions necessary for change.
Jaime Carrillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
Hi there, my name is Jaime Carrillo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe having someone to talk to is incredibly important. I try to offer a warm and collaborative approach with my clients, and provide a safe and non judgmental space to work through whatever struggles you are facing.
Hi there, my name is Jaime Carrillo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe having someone to talk to is incredibly important. I try to offer a warm and collaborative approach with my clients, and provide a safe and non judgmental space to work through whatever struggles you are facing.
Mindfulpath Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Mindfulpath Inc is a healing space encompassed by a variety of treatment professionals, providing a wide array of services, and working as one connected team to provide quality mental health care. Our community of practitioners make available a wide array of services from individual and group therapy to nutrition and yoga all in one location. Mindfulpath understands there is no one healing modality that works for all. We take the time to get to know YOU based on YOUR uniqueness and together we create a customized plan to best suit your needs as you walk on YOUR mindfulpath.
Mindfulpath Inc is a healing space encompassed by a variety of treatment professionals, providing a wide array of services, and working as one connected team to provide quality mental health care. Our community of practitioners make available a wide array of services from individual and group therapy to nutrition and yoga all in one location. Mindfulpath understands there is no one healing modality that works for all. We take the time to get to know YOU based on YOUR uniqueness and together we create a customized plan to best suit your needs as you walk on YOUR mindfulpath.
Madison Dennis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working as a therapist in outpatient clinic and inpatient residential settings where I have treated adults, adolescents, couples, and families who were struggling with issues ranging from trauma to depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and disordered eating. I help individuals and families navigate challenges, heal, and create meaningful lives. For more information, please see my website: www.westcoastintegrative.com.
I have extensive experience working as a therapist in outpatient clinic and inpatient residential settings where I have treated adults, adolescents, couples, and families who were struggling with issues ranging from trauma to depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and disordered eating. I help individuals and families navigate challenges, heal, and create meaningful lives. For more information, please see my website: www.westcoastintegrative.com.
Tamara Altowaiji
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I am an LGBTQIA+ ally and supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Have you experienced relationship issues with your partner(s), friends, or family? Maybe you are having difficulty connecting as a couple, adjusting to life changes, or feeling your cultural identity pulled in multiple directions. Sometimes life can feel quite heavy, but I am here to tell you, you don't have to carry it alone. Together we will explore your world, and discover how, with your willingness and commitment to learning new skills and tools, you can comfortably heal, grow, and take back control over your life and improve relationships. With me, you can expect a warm, trusting, and supportive environment.
I am an LGBTQIA+ ally and supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Have you experienced relationship issues with your partner(s), friends, or family? Maybe you are having difficulty connecting as a couple, adjusting to life changes, or feeling your cultural identity pulled in multiple directions. Sometimes life can feel quite heavy, but I am here to tell you, you don't have to carry it alone. Together we will explore your world, and discover how, with your willingness and commitment to learning new skills and tools, you can comfortably heal, grow, and take back control over your life and improve relationships. With me, you can expect a warm, trusting, and supportive environment.
Jennie Nystrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Santa Monica
- Baldwin Hills
- Beverly Hills
- Century City
- Culver City
- El Segundo
- Marina Del Rey
- Pacific Palisades
- Playa Del Rey
- Venice
- West Hollywood
- West Los Angeles
- Westchester
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.