Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Anahita Gheytanchi
Psychologist, MS, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I am a clinical psychologist with expertise in a variety of mental health issues including: mood and anxiety disorder, complex trauma, interpersonal difficulties, and personality disorders.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to experience an awareness of yourself and the obstacles that hinder your emotional growth and connection to others. In this courageous journey, the match between you and your therapist is essential. I view our work as an important collaborative journey and welcome all of your experiences. We will work together to identify your goals as well engage in a meaningful way in your life. My role is to provide a genuine and safe environment to make life-affirming changes.
I am a clinical psychologist with expertise in a variety of mental health issues including: mood and anxiety disorder, complex trauma, interpersonal difficulties, and personality disorders.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to experience an awareness of yourself and the obstacles that hinder your emotional growth and connection to others. In this courageous journey, the match between you and your therapist is essential. I view our work as an important collaborative journey and welcome all of your experiences. We will work together to identify your goals as well engage in a meaningful way in your life. My role is to provide a genuine and safe environment to make life-affirming changes.
William G Valdivia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
I meet every day with people who are overcoming worry, depression, dissatisfaction and conflict to find greater joy, and fulfillment in their life. My specialties include working with depression/anxiety, OCD/ADD, personality disorders, and addiction. I also have expertise in working with the LGBTQQI community. My approach to psychotherapy is practical and interactive, providing the support and insight to help you resolve current issues and historical patterns. Through empathy and direct communication, I assist you in finding the solutions to life's adversities, challenges, and mental health.
I meet every day with people who are overcoming worry, depression, dissatisfaction and conflict to find greater joy, and fulfillment in their life. My specialties include working with depression/anxiety, OCD/ADD, personality disorders, and addiction. I also have expertise in working with the LGBTQQI community. My approach to psychotherapy is practical and interactive, providing the support and insight to help you resolve current issues and historical patterns. Through empathy and direct communication, I assist you in finding the solutions to life's adversities, challenges, and mental health.
Jennifer Ollestad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Areas of clinical specialty and interest include anxiety and stress management, eating disorder and addiction treatment, the treatment of compulsive behaviors, loss and trauma, personality disorders, the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, and the adjustment to life transitions.
I am a licensed MFT with offices in Santa Monica and Ojai. For the past twenty + years I have been working as a therapist with adolescents, adults and families. I am also a clinical supervisor to interns in my private practice, and I provide psychotherapy for therapists in training. My work as a therapist focuses on relationships of all kinds. For my clients, I hope to be an agent of positive change by working with them towards an understanding of the dynamics that keep them from moving forward and then by mentoring them to co-create bigger lives for themselves.
Areas of clinical specialty and interest include anxiety and stress management, eating disorder and addiction treatment, the treatment of compulsive behaviors, loss and trauma, personality disorders, the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, and the adjustment to life transitions.
I am a licensed MFT with offices in Santa Monica and Ojai. For the past twenty + years I have been working as a therapist with adolescents, adults and families. I am also a clinical supervisor to interns in my private practice, and I provide psychotherapy for therapists in training. My work as a therapist focuses on relationships of all kinds. For my clients, I hope to be an agent of positive change by working with them towards an understanding of the dynamics that keep them from moving forward and then by mentoring them to co-create bigger lives for themselves.
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.
Vicki Underwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
We all struggle at times and our struggles are our own, do not compare what may feel catastrophic to you to what others are dealing with. I have been practicing for 12 years and revolve my practice around person-centered therapy; non-judgment, genuineness & positive regard. I will accept you for who you are and we will start where you are. My goal is to help you reach your goals. I find that humor, compassion, and authenticity allow my clients to feel comfortable and progress at the same time. Since 2010, I have provided intensive therapy at institutional, residential, and outpatient levels of care for adults and adolescents.
We all struggle at times and our struggles are our own, do not compare what may feel catastrophic to you to what others are dealing with. I have been practicing for 12 years and revolve my practice around person-centered therapy; non-judgment, genuineness & positive regard. I will accept you for who you are and we will start where you are. My goal is to help you reach your goals. I find that humor, compassion, and authenticity allow my clients to feel comfortable and progress at the same time. Since 2010, I have provided intensive therapy at institutional, residential, and outpatient levels of care for adults and adolescents.
At Home Ketamine Assisted Therapy (Instant Insurance Verification)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Feya Health is a woman-owned, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy group practice, featured on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms over a short period of time. We offer a comprehensive, integrative & customizable approach to the Ketamine & Oxytocin Therapy Process and specialize in EMDR, PTSD, CPTSD, human optimization and Pharmaceutical Medication withdrawal.
Feya Health is a woman-owned, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy group practice, featured on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms over a short period of time. We offer a comprehensive, integrative & customizable approach to the Ketamine & Oxytocin Therapy Process and specialize in EMDR, PTSD, CPTSD, human optimization and Pharmaceutical Medication withdrawal.
Stara Shakti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you seeking a safe space where your unique identity is understood and celebrated? Do you find yourself straddling the complexities of many marginalized identities: POC/BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ADHD/neurodivergent, 1st-gen American/adult child of immigrant parents? The weight from the social pressure to conform to immigrant family roles / expectations—especially the “minority model” stereotype and resulting perfectionism—can leave you feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed. Navigating these challenges can be daunting, but you’ll find answers and guidance here.
Are you seeking a safe space where your unique identity is understood and celebrated? Do you find yourself straddling the complexities of many marginalized identities: POC/BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ADHD/neurodivergent, 1st-gen American/adult child of immigrant parents? The weight from the social pressure to conform to immigrant family roles / expectations—especially the “minority model” stereotype and resulting perfectionism—can leave you feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed. Navigating these challenges can be daunting, but you’ll find answers and guidance here.
Hussain Johnee Elhaouli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, interrelation issues, or any of the complexities of life, therapy can be a non-judgmental space for reflection and vulnerability. Finding the right fit to help you explore these internal, interpersonal, or sociocultural factors can be a challenge, and I want to meet you where you're at, then help you get where you’d like to go. Our focus is building a strong therapeutic relationship together and having an affirming space for you to explore your identity, experiences, and emotions.
Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, interrelation issues, or any of the complexities of life, therapy can be a non-judgmental space for reflection and vulnerability. Finding the right fit to help you explore these internal, interpersonal, or sociocultural factors can be a challenge, and I want to meet you where you're at, then help you get where you’d like to go. Our focus is building a strong therapeutic relationship together and having an affirming space for you to explore your identity, experiences, and emotions.
Ali (Alexandria) Wolfe-Grady
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACP, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
I find the best way for me to help people reach their goals is to work collaboratively and to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust, honesty, and openness. An individualized therapeutic approach is imperative for helping explore my clients’ unique life experiences. We work together utilizing an eclectic interactive approach that encourages feedback and collaboration to shape treatment to meet a client's individual needs. Together we formulate a plan to address achieving specific short-term goals aimed at improving daily life in addition to long term growth focusing on personal development.
I find the best way for me to help people reach their goals is to work collaboratively and to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust, honesty, and openness. An individualized therapeutic approach is imperative for helping explore my clients’ unique life experiences. We work together utilizing an eclectic interactive approach that encourages feedback and collaboration to shape treatment to meet a client's individual needs. Together we formulate a plan to address achieving specific short-term goals aimed at improving daily life in addition to long term growth focusing on personal development.
Sally Hackman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
People are my passion! Is life for you or your child not going the way you'd like? In a supportive and confidential environment we can work together to identify the obstacles that are in the way of life being all that you want for yourself, your relationships, or your child. There are many approaches to psychotherapy, but research indicates that the patient-therapist relationship is a crucial factor. The beginning of therapy is creating that relationship and building trust. My focus is the present but I use the past that lives inside you to free you from its influence.
People are my passion! Is life for you or your child not going the way you'd like? In a supportive and confidential environment we can work together to identify the obstacles that are in the way of life being all that you want for yourself, your relationships, or your child. There are many approaches to psychotherapy, but research indicates that the patient-therapist relationship is a crucial factor. The beginning of therapy is creating that relationship and building trust. My focus is the present but I use the past that lives inside you to free you from its influence.
Elaine R. Gordon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I take pride as a psychologist in the area of personal growth when dealing with life's challenges. This involves meeting your needs and starting where you are now and going from there. I work collaboratively in order for you to get to a 'better' place. I have accumulated a wealth of experience helping others combat challenges of not being able to have children by traditional means. I worked with patients exploring 'good' solutions to this heart-rending process. My goal involves helping individuals deal with the normal and not so normal life challenges of depression, self-esteem, anxiety, relationships, children, parents, and more.
I take pride as a psychologist in the area of personal growth when dealing with life's challenges. This involves meeting your needs and starting where you are now and going from there. I work collaboratively in order for you to get to a 'better' place. I have accumulated a wealth of experience helping others combat challenges of not being able to have children by traditional means. I worked with patients exploring 'good' solutions to this heart-rending process. My goal involves helping individuals deal with the normal and not so normal life challenges of depression, self-esteem, anxiety, relationships, children, parents, and more.
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Los Angeles Therapy Network (Santa Monica)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you struggling with sexual trauma, a history of childhood abuse, extreme forms of abuse, cult abuse, LGBTQI related issues or needing a therapist whose focus in on empowering you in your life? If so, I am the therapist for you! Feminist Therapist, Board Certified Expert in Treatment of Trauma/PTSD. If life is throwing you a curve ball, let me see if either I or one of the therapists who work with me can help! Special focus in tx sexual trauma & victims of violent crimes. Help with gay/lesbian & transgendered issues. Call me, I can help!
Are you struggling with sexual trauma, a history of childhood abuse, extreme forms of abuse, cult abuse, LGBTQI related issues or needing a therapist whose focus in on empowering you in your life? If so, I am the therapist for you! Feminist Therapist, Board Certified Expert in Treatment of Trauma/PTSD. If life is throwing you a curve ball, let me see if either I or one of the therapists who work with me can help! Special focus in tx sexual trauma & victims of violent crimes. Help with gay/lesbian & transgendered issues. Call me, I can help!
Patrick Brian Dickey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Life keeps rolling on whether we experience depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or conflicts with your loved ones. Getting yourself unstuck can be quite frustrating. For some, the challenge can create feelings of despair and hopelessness. But you can create a life that’s meaningful. Together we will collaborate on building on your existing strengths and create a new, purposeful, and worthwhile future.
Life keeps rolling on whether we experience depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or conflicts with your loved ones. Getting yourself unstuck can be quite frustrating. For some, the challenge can create feelings of despair and hopelessness. But you can create a life that’s meaningful. Together we will collaborate on building on your existing strengths and create a new, purposeful, and worthwhile future.
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Ann Epifanio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
I believe everyone has inherent strengths and abilities — let me help you discover yours. In my work, I focus on helping patients achieve change, discover their inherent strengths and abilities, shift to a solution-focused mindset, and increase awareness of their thoughts/feelings/behaviors. If we're hitting roadblocks, we work on identifying those roadblocks and getting "unstuck" — together.
I believe everyone has inherent strengths and abilities — let me help you discover yours. In my work, I focus on helping patients achieve change, discover their inherent strengths and abilities, shift to a solution-focused mindset, and increase awareness of their thoughts/feelings/behaviors. If we're hitting roadblocks, we work on identifying those roadblocks and getting "unstuck" — together.
Ava Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I offer individual, couple, family and group psychotherapy for adults, children and teens who would like to cope more effectively with their emotions and life stresses, heal from difficult or traumatic experiences, improve their relationships, and achieve more success and fulfillment in their lives. By creating a safe, collaborative space to explore your concerns and challenges, I offer reparative experiences for individuals who have felt overwhelmed, hurt or unsupported by others; and I help individuals, couples & families to strengthen their connections, improve communication, and develop more secure and fulfilling relationships.
I offer individual, couple, family and group psychotherapy for adults, children and teens who would like to cope more effectively with their emotions and life stresses, heal from difficult or traumatic experiences, improve their relationships, and achieve more success and fulfillment in their lives. By creating a safe, collaborative space to explore your concerns and challenges, I offer reparative experiences for individuals who have felt overwhelmed, hurt or unsupported by others; and I help individuals, couples & families to strengthen their connections, improve communication, and develop more secure and fulfilling relationships.
Hannah Ayers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Do you feel like your past prevents you from enjoying your present and looking forward to your future? Do you find yourself repeating patterns of behavior that no longer serve you? Do you struggle to maintain meaningful and stable relationships? If yes, perhaps it’s time to take a deep breath and look inward. By exploring the wounds from your past, you can find empathy and understanding. You can be free. “Trauma is a fact of life. It does not, however, have to be a life sentence.” – Peter A. Levine
Do you feel like your past prevents you from enjoying your present and looking forward to your future? Do you find yourself repeating patterns of behavior that no longer serve you? Do you struggle to maintain meaningful and stable relationships? If yes, perhaps it’s time to take a deep breath and look inward. By exploring the wounds from your past, you can find empathy and understanding. You can be free. “Trauma is a fact of life. It does not, however, have to be a life sentence.” – Peter A. Levine
Iris Nathaniel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I'm a holistic psychotherapist , with training in mind body modalities. I practice a unique blend of psychodynamic therapy combined with somatic modalities such as sensorymotor psychotherapy and EMDR. Sessions are individually crafted to fit each individual's needs at the moment of seeking help while relaying not only on cognitive restructuring and and uncovering unconscious emotions but also draws from the natural intelligence of the body and the most recent neuroscience, in order to heal past traumas , undo maladaptive patterns and create an empowered and fulfilling life. I am engaged and active during sessions and a partner on your road towards health and vitality.
I'm a holistic psychotherapist , with training in mind body modalities. I practice a unique blend of psychodynamic therapy combined with somatic modalities such as sensorymotor psychotherapy and EMDR. Sessions are individually crafted to fit each individual's needs at the moment of seeking help while relaying not only on cognitive restructuring and and uncovering unconscious emotions but also draws from the natural intelligence of the body and the most recent neuroscience, in order to heal past traumas , undo maladaptive patterns and create an empowered and fulfilling life. I am engaged and active during sessions and a partner on your road towards health and vitality.
The Saturday Center for Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
"Being listened to." That is the experience of being at the Saturday Center: intensely, deeply, actively, empathically listened to; seen, heard and understood. For over 30 years we have provided this type of counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. TSC is committed to dynamic psychotherapy and to providing treatment based on need rather than economics. The Center is staffed by advanced psychological interns, psychological assistants and marriage & family therapist interns who are supervised by a group of experienced, licensed private practitioners dedicated to the practice and teaching of psychotherapy.
"Being listened to." That is the experience of being at the Saturday Center: intensely, deeply, actively, empathically listened to; seen, heard and understood. For over 30 years we have provided this type of counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. TSC is committed to dynamic psychotherapy and to providing treatment based on need rather than economics. The Center is staffed by advanced psychological interns, psychological assistants and marriage & family therapist interns who are supervised by a group of experienced, licensed private practitioners dedicated to the practice and teaching of psychotherapy.
Georgea Robin Muschel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I am interested in seeing anyone who needs help with major life transitions or who is in the midst of a life crisis. I also encourage people who are not in crisis but interested in improving the quality of their life and to enhance their overall well being. Besides being in private practice I have also worked in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I believe in using an eclectic approach, with a multitude of modalities, to help people, in a safe setting, clarify their issues, gain greater insight and assist them in finding their own solutions and coping skills. Most of my clients report feeling better in a short time.
I am interested in seeing anyone who needs help with major life transitions or who is in the midst of a life crisis. I also encourage people who are not in crisis but interested in improving the quality of their life and to enhance their overall well being. Besides being in private practice I have also worked in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I believe in using an eclectic approach, with a multitude of modalities, to help people, in a safe setting, clarify their issues, gain greater insight and assist them in finding their own solutions and coping skills. Most of my clients report feeling better in a short time.
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
Personality Disorders Therapists
What are the common treatment options for personality disorders?
Personality disorders are typically treated with psychotherapy, sometimes in conjunction with medication. Therapy can help people with personality disorders develop skills to tolerate difficult emotions, navigate interpersonal relationships, and solidify their sense of self. Medications can treat symptoms that co-occur with the disorder, such as depression, anger, aggression, and impulsivity.
When to seek treatment for personality disorders?
Even though treatment for personality disorders can be an uphill battle, it’s best to seek help if you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with one, because personality disorders can create substantial problems in life. Symptoms depend on the specific disorder, but overall signs of personality disorders include consistent difficulty maintaining close relationships, dramatic variations in self-esteem, and an unstable sense of identity.
How long does therapy take for personality disorders?
The timeline for treating personality disorders isn’t as clear-cut as it is for other disorders. Change can be difficult, taking from around one year to five, 10, or more. The key is finding a therapist who has extensive experience treating the relevant disorder. For example, a psychologist who specializes in narcissistic personality disorder has specific communication strategies that allow them to sustain the relationship and be more effective with narcissistic patients.
Can therapy help people with personality disorders?
Research suggests that for those who are motivated to address concerns or interpersonal conflict related to a personality disorder, therapy is far more effective than no treatment, and that most people in therapy see improvements. However, since personality disorders involve entrenched elements of identity, they are less responsive to treatment than are other mental health conditions. Finding an expert who has extensive experience working with a given personality disorder is one factor that increases the likelihood of successful treatment.