Photo of Kerri Karlsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Kerri Karlsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405  (Online Only)
Therapy is a deeply personal, multifaceted journey inward in an already complex world. To those who choose to venture down this road, the process can leave one feeling emotional and vulnerable, but it will also be healing, enlightening and enriching. Taking steps down this path is a virtuous act and I am here to honor you and your process. Together we will gently explore what may be causing you pain. Healing is at the heart of my practice - what you will experience with me is empathy, non-judgmental compassion, and authenticity. My therapeutic style is warm, energetic and engaged.
Therapy is a deeply personal, multifaceted journey inward in an already complex world. To those who choose to venture down this road, the process can leave one feeling emotional and vulnerable, but it will also be healing, enlightening and enriching. Taking steps down this path is a virtuous act and I am here to honor you and your process. Together we will gently explore what may be causing you pain. Healing is at the heart of my practice - what you will experience with me is empathy, non-judgmental compassion, and authenticity. My therapeutic style is warm, energetic and engaged.
(747) 204-3313 View (747) 204-3313
Photo of Anna Selena Cho, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Anna Selena Cho
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Dr. Anna Selena Cho, was born in Los Angeles and has personal experience living bi-culturally. Dr. Cho was traditionally trained in visual arts in her early developmental years and eventually obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, and her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Cho has developed programs with organizations wanting to further expand their learning standards towards socio-emotional integration.
Dr. Anna Selena Cho, was born in Los Angeles and has personal experience living bi-culturally. Dr. Cho was traditionally trained in visual arts in her early developmental years and eventually obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, and her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Cho has developed programs with organizations wanting to further expand their learning standards towards socio-emotional integration.
(310) 340-2835 View (310) 340-2835
Photo of Dianne Porchia in Santa Monica, CA
Dianne Porchia
MA, DMBM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Dianne Porchia is featured in HEAL Documentary film for her successful healing work with advance stage cancer client who remains cancer free over 5 years after diagnosis with stage IV colorectal cancer. Porchia's unique holistic approach to healing integrates the principles and practice of mind-body-heart-soul energy medicine, epigenetics, psychoneuroimmunology and heart-centered communication skills to reduce mental-emotional stress, support immune function and create and maintain successful and loving relationships through high stress life challenges such as divorce, death, loss of job, serious illness, disease and cancer.
Dianne Porchia is featured in HEAL Documentary film for her successful healing work with advance stage cancer client who remains cancer free over 5 years after diagnosis with stage IV colorectal cancer. Porchia's unique holistic approach to healing integrates the principles and practice of mind-body-heart-soul energy medicine, epigenetics, psychoneuroimmunology and heart-centered communication skills to reduce mental-emotional stress, support immune function and create and maintain successful and loving relationships through high stress life challenges such as divorce, death, loss of job, serious illness, disease and cancer.
(310) 627-2585 View (310) 627-2585
Photo of Adi Diamant, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Adi Diamant
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Eating Disorders are truly not just about food and body image. It is a disorder of relationships, a disorder of shame, and a disorder of anxieties. Not every person with Eating Disorders has experienced trauma, but some do. Eating disorders thrive in isolation, shame, and silence. Therapy can be the place to get you off that dark and lonely path to a safe space where you can heal and thrive; yes, you thrive! It is time to stop hurting yourself, it is time for you to breathe. You matter, you are good enough – break the cycle.
Eating Disorders are truly not just about food and body image. It is a disorder of relationships, a disorder of shame, and a disorder of anxieties. Not every person with Eating Disorders has experienced trauma, but some do. Eating disorders thrive in isolation, shame, and silence. Therapy can be the place to get you off that dark and lonely path to a safe space where you can heal and thrive; yes, you thrive! It is time to stop hurting yourself, it is time for you to breathe. You matter, you are good enough – break the cycle.
(747) 221-7368 View (747) 221-7368
Photo of Triva Ponder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Triva Ponder
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Looking for meaningful change in your relationship? Ready to tackle everyday struggles that turn into BIG struggles? I'm here to guide you. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I specialize in treating couples, offering a premium service based on the scientifically-proven Gottman Method. I help couples overcome betrayal and rebuild trust, improve communication through skill building, create emotional connection and navigate small and big issues that crack the foundation of their relationship.
Looking for meaningful change in your relationship? Ready to tackle everyday struggles that turn into BIG struggles? I'm here to guide you. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I specialize in treating couples, offering a premium service based on the scientifically-proven Gottman Method. I help couples overcome betrayal and rebuild trust, improve communication through skill building, create emotional connection and navigate small and big issues that crack the foundation of their relationship.
(424) 452-2583 View (424) 452-2583
Photo of Rossana Sida, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Rossana Sida
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
in Marriage & Family Therapy from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology; Treatment of Sexual Assault Survivors via Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy training from Strength United.
Are relationships supposed to be this hard? When sexual issues keep you from maintaining or obtaining a happy relationship it's time to see a sex therapist. As a sex & relationship specialist, I successfully treat people with issues surrounding sexual desire & performance, sexual trauma, problems with arousal or orgasm, differences in the amount of sex they'd like to have, & sexual pain disorders such as vaginismus. I assist clients in building intimacy by deepening their mutual understanding & compassion (for their often very opposite mate!) and help them stay accountable for taking positive action to improve relationships.
in Marriage & Family Therapy from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology; Treatment of Sexual Assault Survivors via Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy training from Strength United.
Are relationships supposed to be this hard? When sexual issues keep you from maintaining or obtaining a happy relationship it's time to see a sex therapist. As a sex & relationship specialist, I successfully treat people with issues surrounding sexual desire & performance, sexual trauma, problems with arousal or orgasm, differences in the amount of sex they'd like to have, & sexual pain disorders such as vaginismus. I assist clients in building intimacy by deepening their mutual understanding & compassion (for their often very opposite mate!) and help them stay accountable for taking positive action to improve relationships.
(323) 633-6986 View (323) 633-6986
Photo of Online Only, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Online Only
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult, and we all find ourselves at times struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings. Past traumas or current stressors can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, or disconnected from ourselves and others. As a psychotherapist, I provide a compassionate, safe, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore with curiosity their feelings, thoughts, behaviors, and how they serve them and where they would like to bring in change.
Life can be difficult, and we all find ourselves at times struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings. Past traumas or current stressors can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, or disconnected from ourselves and others. As a psychotherapist, I provide a compassionate, safe, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore with curiosity their feelings, thoughts, behaviors, and how they serve them and where they would like to bring in change.
(323) 784-6644 View (323) 784-6644
Photo of Seana Diemer Iwanyk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Seana Diemer Iwanyk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
We all have a story, but when burnout spirals into deeper struggles like anxiety, depression, exhaustion, and compassion fatigue, we can lose sight of that narrative. Pressures like work stress, relationship issues, societal expectations, identity struggles, or pursuit of perfection can engulf us to the point that we can't handle the burden. This impacts our creativity, relationships, and sense of direction. But burnout isn't the end of the story; with support, a new chapter can unfold. I love stories because they foster understanding. Throughout history, stories have been our tools for making sense of ourselves and the world.
We all have a story, but when burnout spirals into deeper struggles like anxiety, depression, exhaustion, and compassion fatigue, we can lose sight of that narrative. Pressures like work stress, relationship issues, societal expectations, identity struggles, or pursuit of perfection can engulf us to the point that we can't handle the burden. This impacts our creativity, relationships, and sense of direction. But burnout isn't the end of the story; with support, a new chapter can unfold. I love stories because they foster understanding. Throughout history, stories have been our tools for making sense of ourselves and the world.
(424) 788-1832 View (424) 788-1832
Photo of Brooke Baldwin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Brooke Baldwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. It is hard asking for help and it can be scary to think about finding the right therapist, but it does not have to be. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I create space to explore with care, kindness and collaboration.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. It is hard asking for help and it can be scary to think about finding the right therapist, but it does not have to be. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I create space to explore with care, kindness and collaboration.
(424) 238-6823 View (424) 238-6823
Photo of Mindfulpath Inc, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
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. 
(310) 909-8164 View (310) 909-8164
Photo of Michele Conklin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Michele Conklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, ATR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
You put in a lot of effort to find fulfillment at work and in your relationships. You are wondering why it doesn't feel like enough and try even harder. You worry that the hard things that have happened to you in the past might always hold you back. Uncomfortable emotions crop up and last too long: anxiety, sadness, hurt, shame and anger. It can be overwhelming. You feel less energized and less creative. Maybe you blame yourself or others. Sometimes you might make unhealthy choices, followed by regret. You are ready to do the work to make things better, to go below the surface because, in your heart, you know you deserve more.
You put in a lot of effort to find fulfillment at work and in your relationships. You are wondering why it doesn't feel like enough and try even harder. You worry that the hard things that have happened to you in the past might always hold you back. Uncomfortable emotions crop up and last too long: anxiety, sadness, hurt, shame and anger. It can be overwhelming. You feel less energized and less creative. Maybe you blame yourself or others. Sometimes you might make unhealthy choices, followed by regret. You are ready to do the work to make things better, to go below the surface because, in your heart, you know you deserve more.
(203) 439-5522 View (203) 439-5522
Photo of Kendall Myers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Kendall Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
My work specializes in sex-related issues. We all grew up with and have been affected by different narratives of sex. These narratives, as well as positive and negative sexual experiences, have shaped our current outlook and intimacy in relationships. I work with individuals and couples in a collaborative effort to identify, process and heal areas specific to problems with intimacy, sexual trauma and religious guilt. I also work with my client's to provide solutions to sexual issues like low desire, communication or betrayed partners.
My work specializes in sex-related issues. We all grew up with and have been affected by different narratives of sex. These narratives, as well as positive and negative sexual experiences, have shaped our current outlook and intimacy in relationships. I work with individuals and couples in a collaborative effort to identify, process and heal areas specific to problems with intimacy, sexual trauma and religious guilt. I also work with my client's to provide solutions to sexual issues like low desire, communication or betrayed partners.
(310) 361-8693 View (310) 361-8693
Photo of Dr. Margie Mirell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Dr. Margie Mirell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AASECT, Imago
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Struggling with conflicts within yourself and with others? To help you recover and gain a sense of healthy self-esteem, I have specialized techniques for dealing with complex trauma, PTSD, sexual issues, addiction, relationship issues, disordered eating, and grief. Sometimes we need to talk it out. Not for sympathy, but to find truth that guides us to our purpose and peace within ourselves. Discover satisfaction in every aspect of your life. I can teach you to avoid pain, change behavior patterns, and dialogue for more creative, productive, and healing solutions.
Struggling with conflicts within yourself and with others? To help you recover and gain a sense of healthy self-esteem, I have specialized techniques for dealing with complex trauma, PTSD, sexual issues, addiction, relationship issues, disordered eating, and grief. Sometimes we need to talk it out. Not for sympathy, but to find truth that guides us to our purpose and peace within ourselves. Discover satisfaction in every aspect of your life. I can teach you to avoid pain, change behavior patterns, and dialogue for more creative, productive, and healing solutions.
(310) 773-0391 View (310) 773-0391
Photo of Reconnect Trauma Center & Reconnect Trauma Clinic, Psychologist in Santa Monica, CA
Reconnect Trauma Center & Reconnect Trauma Clinic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Reconnect is a transformational outpatient center specializing in treating the real causes of addiction, depression and anxiety by addressing TRAUMA with individual, intensive therapy and healing. By deeply exploring underlying trauma, we approach post traumatic stress disorder, addiction, and mood disorders with an elevated sense of awareness, compassion and knowledge. The result is a sense of reconnection with one's self. We have two facilities: Center and Clinic. Our center constitutes of an interdisciplinary team. Our clinic is a training facility with registered associates under the direct supervision of Dr. Karol Darsa, PsyD.
Reconnect is a transformational outpatient center specializing in treating the real causes of addiction, depression and anxiety by addressing TRAUMA with individual, intensive therapy and healing. By deeply exploring underlying trauma, we approach post traumatic stress disorder, addiction, and mood disorders with an elevated sense of awareness, compassion and knowledge. The result is a sense of reconnection with one's self. We have two facilities: Center and Clinic. Our center constitutes of an interdisciplinary team. Our clinic is a training facility with registered associates under the direct supervision of Dr. Karol Darsa, PsyD.
(310) 909-7888 View (310) 909-7888
Photo of Vincent Lombardi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Vincent Lombardi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
I truly enjoy working with clients who are seeking understanding of themselves and wanting to create some change in their lives. I also understand that true intimacy is created from the client-patient relationship, therefore it is tantamount to find the right therapist that you (the patient) feels safe/comfortable enough to say anything that is needed in order to illicit insight/change. I ask that all my clients outline specific therapeutic goals so that together we be clear as to our purpose and stay the course of treatment. I am client-focused and open to feedback since treatment is made for the client.
I truly enjoy working with clients who are seeking understanding of themselves and wanting to create some change in their lives. I also understand that true intimacy is created from the client-patient relationship, therefore it is tantamount to find the right therapist that you (the patient) feels safe/comfortable enough to say anything that is needed in order to illicit insight/change. I ask that all my clients outline specific therapeutic goals so that together we be clear as to our purpose and stay the course of treatment. I am client-focused and open to feedback since treatment is made for the client.
(323) 924-6521 View (323) 924-6521
Photo of Maya Rasak, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Maya Rasak
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IBP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Feeling stuck in familiar self defeating patterns? I can help uncover unconscious habits or behaviors that keep you anxious and depressed. Through active listening, and interactive exercises my direct approach helps you encounter hidden parts of yourself, enabling you to integrate these into one whole, thriving person with greater capacity to live and love completely. With extensive background in Western Psychology and Eastern practices I treat the whole being which leads to deeper awareness, changes in behavior and more satisfying relationships with others. Nothing changes if you don't take action. The journey begins with you.
Feeling stuck in familiar self defeating patterns? I can help uncover unconscious habits or behaviors that keep you anxious and depressed. Through active listening, and interactive exercises my direct approach helps you encounter hidden parts of yourself, enabling you to integrate these into one whole, thriving person with greater capacity to live and love completely. With extensive background in Western Psychology and Eastern practices I treat the whole being which leads to deeper awareness, changes in behavior and more satisfying relationships with others. Nothing changes if you don't take action. The journey begins with you.
(310) 895-9811 View (310) 895-9811
Photo of KD Farris, Pastoral Counselor in Santa Monica, CA
KD Farris
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My roots as a therapist and healer have seeded over the past thirty-five years, bringing substance and depth to my one-on-one sessions with couples and individuals. During this time, I have maintained a private practice, which has always consisted of process-oriented consciousness work -- a means by which to enter safely and deeply into the inner landscape of the psyche for positive and real world change. My results-oriented approach to psychology is derived from the commitment to a conscious process and the intrapsychic relationship one can access when choosing to turn toward--and look at--oneself.
My roots as a therapist and healer have seeded over the past thirty-five years, bringing substance and depth to my one-on-one sessions with couples and individuals. During this time, I have maintained a private practice, which has always consisted of process-oriented consciousness work -- a means by which to enter safely and deeply into the inner landscape of the psyche for positive and real world change. My results-oriented approach to psychology is derived from the commitment to a conscious process and the intrapsychic relationship one can access when choosing to turn toward--and look at--oneself.
(310) 889-0677 View (310) 889-0677
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Musselman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Dr. Jennifer Musselman
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
LIFE CAN BE TOUGH. Who has your back? Are you bored in your life or career? Do you feel alone and lonely, despite that you love your partner and your two adorable kids? Are you the last single one left in your group and are questioning if you will ever meet the love of your life? Do you feel misunderstood, not good enough, scared? Are you escaping your feelings with drugs and alcohol, elaborate vacations, shopping, work? What plays out in your personal life plays out in your work life, causing stress, depression and anxiety. I also executive coach CEOs and entrepreneurs, as well as being a team facilitator for corporate change
LIFE CAN BE TOUGH. Who has your back? Are you bored in your life or career? Do you feel alone and lonely, despite that you love your partner and your two adorable kids? Are you the last single one left in your group and are questioning if you will ever meet the love of your life? Do you feel misunderstood, not good enough, scared? Are you escaping your feelings with drugs and alcohol, elaborate vacations, shopping, work? What plays out in your personal life plays out in your work life, causing stress, depression and anxiety. I also executive coach CEOs and entrepreneurs, as well as being a team facilitator for corporate change
(310) 421-2985 View (310) 421-2985
Photo of Flow House Therapy Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Flow House Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Yay! You’re thinking about trying therapy, but going through these profiles is A LOT. Life is overwhelming enough, let us help make this part easy. Schedule a free consult call, have a nice little chat, and get matched immediately with someone personally chosen for you. There are 8 of us - with different styles, personalities, specialities, and schedules - so odds are high of finding a good match.
Yay! You’re thinking about trying therapy, but going through these profiles is A LOT. Life is overwhelming enough, let us help make this part easy. Schedule a free consult call, have a nice little chat, and get matched immediately with someone personally chosen for you. There are 8 of us - with different styles, personalities, specialities, and schedules - so odds are high of finding a good match.
(323) 310-1543 View (323) 310-1543
Photo of Dave McGuire, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Dave McGuire
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I treat clients from a trauma informed perspective. If it is addiction issues (substance or process) anxiety, depression or other mood disorders, so much of what informs these maladies is developmental or relational trauma. Big T or shock trauma can bring on many underlying issues that have been dormant. I work with clients to carefully assess their history and treatment goals. I use CBT, Psychodynamics, EMDR and other trauma treatment modalities to effectively resolve the inner disturbance.
I treat clients from a trauma informed perspective. If it is addiction issues (substance or process) anxiety, depression or other mood disorders, so much of what informs these maladies is developmental or relational trauma. Big T or shock trauma can bring on many underlying issues that have been dormant. I work with clients to carefully assess their history and treatment goals. I use CBT, Psychodynamics, EMDR and other trauma treatment modalities to effectively resolve the inner disturbance.
(310) 299-2361 View (310) 299-2361

See more therapy options for Santa Monica

Sexual Abuse Therapists

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.