Strength-Based Therapists in 90403

Photo of Tara Vatankhah, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Tara Vatankhah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My style is collaborative, strength-based, person centered and solution oriented.
The natural ebb and flow of life can keep us flowing between a state of connection & disconnection to our authentic selves. Often times, the disconnection sparks the desire to seek therapy, subsequently leading to an inward journey back to our essence. I would feel honored to be part of your journey. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is based on the idea that wisdom lives within all of us. My hope is to help you tap into & live from that place of connection to your own unique inner compass. I utilize mindfulness, somatic, narrative, CBT & family systems theoretical frameworks to help you create & lead a more fulfilling life.
My style is collaborative, strength-based, person centered and solution oriented.
The natural ebb and flow of life can keep us flowing between a state of connection & disconnection to our authentic selves. Often times, the disconnection sparks the desire to seek therapy, subsequently leading to an inward journey back to our essence. I would feel honored to be part of your journey. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is based on the idea that wisdom lives within all of us. My hope is to help you tap into & live from that place of connection to your own unique inner compass. I utilize mindfulness, somatic, narrative, CBT & family systems theoretical frameworks to help you create & lead a more fulfilling life.
(213) 376-3065 View (213) 376-3065
Photo of Ali (Alexandria) Wolfe-Grady, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
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.
(805) 608-3474 View (805) 608-3474
Photo of Leslie E, Pre-Licensed Professional in 90403, CA
Leslie E
Pre-Licensed Professional, PPSC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Depending on your needs, we (therapist and client) will collaborate on how to 1) Identify the problems, 2) Focus on one or more of the problems utilizing a structured approach, and 3) Promote a strength-based view to addressing problems in general.
You work, pay bills, socialize, maybe exercise (or not) and wake up to do it all over again. There is more to life than running the “rat race”. If you are starting to question your values, your thought processes, even your choices because you know there is more; Let’s dig a little deeper. Let us take a journey in your life by going back to childhood experiences that have shaped you or at the minimum, had some effect on your current position in life. Addressing personal, relational, and professional issues can be difficult but from the famous saying “whether you believe that you can or cannot you are right.”
Depending on your needs, we (therapist and client) will collaborate on how to 1) Identify the problems, 2) Focus on one or more of the problems utilizing a structured approach, and 3) Promote a strength-based view to addressing problems in general.
You work, pay bills, socialize, maybe exercise (or not) and wake up to do it all over again. There is more to life than running the “rat race”. If you are starting to question your values, your thought processes, even your choices because you know there is more; Let’s dig a little deeper. Let us take a journey in your life by going back to childhood experiences that have shaped you or at the minimum, had some effect on your current position in life. Addressing personal, relational, and professional issues can be difficult but from the famous saying “whether you believe that you can or cannot you are right.”
(310) 775-2808 View (310) 775-2808
Photo of Darrell Walters, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Darrell Walters
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I specialize in working with individuals and families to overcome neurodevelopmental and life-adjustment challenges using a strength-based approach. My areas of expertise include executive functioning issues such as ADHD, moodiness and depression, and anxiety resulting from high academic pressure, life stress, or divorce. I also have a strong background in addressing technology-related issues, including healthy-mind balance, boundary setting, and mindfulness practices for relaxation and increased frustration tolerance.
I specialize in working with individuals and families to overcome neurodevelopmental and life-adjustment challenges using a strength-based approach. My areas of expertise include executive functioning issues such as ADHD, moodiness and depression, and anxiety resulting from high academic pressure, life stress, or divorce. I also have a strong background in addressing technology-related issues, including healthy-mind balance, boundary setting, and mindfulness practices for relaxation and increased frustration tolerance.
(310) 773-4831 View (310) 773-4831
Photo of Naama Ratzersdorfer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Naama Ratzersdorfer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I believe in a holistic, strength- based, individualized approach to therapy. I believe we are all multifaceted, and that our mental, physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual health are all interconnected. I work with each of my clients to better understand and integrate those aspects of themselves to best approach challenges and changes in their lives. I work with clients to uncover and build on their own unique strengths, and my philosophy is that a collaborative therapeutic relationship is a key factor in successful treatment. My goal is to help each person feel empowered to thrive in all areas of life.
I believe in a holistic, strength- based, individualized approach to therapy. I believe we are all multifaceted, and that our mental, physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual health are all interconnected. I work with each of my clients to better understand and integrate those aspects of themselves to best approach challenges and changes in their lives. I work with clients to uncover and build on their own unique strengths, and my philosophy is that a collaborative therapeutic relationship is a key factor in successful treatment. My goal is to help each person feel empowered to thrive in all areas of life.
(424) 349-5760 View (424) 349-5760
Photo of Elizabeth Sharrak Ketchel, Pre-Licensed Professional in 90403, CA
Elizabeth Sharrak Ketchel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is grounded in a strength-based, individualized treatment plan designed to enrich your daily life.
In our sessions, we will delve into the underlying patterns and themes that shape your beliefs and behaviors, focusing on identifying and dismantling the barriers that may be deeply ingrained in your psyche. The therapeutic modalities I may employ range from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to psychodynamic approaches, tailored to meet your specific needs and objectives.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in a strength-based, individualized treatment plan designed to enrich your daily life.
In our sessions, we will delve into the underlying patterns and themes that shape your beliefs and behaviors, focusing on identifying and dismantling the barriers that may be deeply ingrained in your psyche. The therapeutic modalities I may employ range from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to psychodynamic approaches, tailored to meet your specific needs and objectives.
(951) 484-1822 View (951) 484-1822
Photo of Kenneth Kennaugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Kenneth Kennaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My approach to treatment utilizes interpersonal neurobiology in concert with other proven therapeutic modalities, such as attachment-based therapy, brainspotting, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), and strength-based treatment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) with certification from the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP). After graduating from UCLA with a degree in Sociology, concentrating in Conversational Analysis, I earned my Master's in Social Work from USC, concentrating in Business and Social Work in Global Communities. Prior to becoming Clinical Director at Center for Sexual Integrity, I served as the Associate Clinical Director at Center for Healthy Sex, working closely with one of the most respected authorities in the field, Dr. Alexandra Katehakis.
My approach to treatment utilizes interpersonal neurobiology in concert with other proven therapeutic modalities, such as attachment-based therapy, brainspotting, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), and strength-based treatment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) with certification from the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP). After graduating from UCLA with a degree in Sociology, concentrating in Conversational Analysis, I earned my Master's in Social Work from USC, concentrating in Business and Social Work in Global Communities. Prior to becoming Clinical Director at Center for Sexual Integrity, I served as the Associate Clinical Director at Center for Healthy Sex, working closely with one of the most respected authorities in the field, Dr. Alexandra Katehakis.
(323) 576-7131 View (323) 576-7131
Photo of Theppharack Sounthala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Theppharack Sounthala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Hello! I'm Theppharack Sounthala, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with a Master of Social Work from the California State University of Stanislaus. I have over 20 years of diverse experience with adults who are experiencing Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Grief, and Loss. I also have experience working with refugee clients, and am a refugee myself. I speak English, Laotian, and Thai, and provide services via teletherapy. Some of my most used modalities are CBT, Cognitive Processing, Humanistic, Mindfulness, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused, Strength-Based, and more.
Hello! I'm Theppharack Sounthala, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with a Master of Social Work from the California State University of Stanislaus. I have over 20 years of diverse experience with adults who are experiencing Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Grief, and Loss. I also have experience working with refugee clients, and am a refugee myself. I speak English, Laotian, and Thai, and provide services via teletherapy. Some of my most used modalities are CBT, Cognitive Processing, Humanistic, Mindfulness, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused, Strength-Based, and more.
(209) 554-2031 View (209) 554-2031
Photo of Erica Arnold, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 90403, CA
Erica Arnold
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, AMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I work with young adults and adolescents seeking support in navigating the challenges of life. I help my clients to improve various relationships in their lives by strengthening self-esteem and confidence, working on setting boundaries, and focusing on self-care. I also provide support for people experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety, trauma, major life changes/transitions, and co-dependency. I do so by helping my clients gain awareness of patterns and providing tools for shifting into healthier patterns aligned with each individual's goals.
I work with young adults and adolescents seeking support in navigating the challenges of life. I help my clients to improve various relationships in their lives by strengthening self-esteem and confidence, working on setting boundaries, and focusing on self-care. I also provide support for people experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety, trauma, major life changes/transitions, and co-dependency. I do so by helping my clients gain awareness of patterns and providing tools for shifting into healthier patterns aligned with each individual's goals.
(424) 587-1337 View (424) 587-1337
Photo of Ashley Alpert, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Ashley Alpert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you looking for a psychotherapist during these tough times? I work with children and adults who struggle with behavioral issues, ADHD/learning disorders, divorce, depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic pain. Many believe disorders are a disability, but I know this to be wrong. They only make you stronger, and do not have to keep you from living a full and healthy life. It may be time to tap into your inner strength, and I am here to help.
Are you looking for a psychotherapist during these tough times? I work with children and adults who struggle with behavioral issues, ADHD/learning disorders, divorce, depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic pain. Many believe disorders are a disability, but I know this to be wrong. They only make you stronger, and do not have to keep you from living a full and healthy life. It may be time to tap into your inner strength, and I am here to help.
(310) 363-7369 View (310) 363-7369
Photo of Adriana Garcia, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Adriana Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Change is possible and I believe therapy is a place where you can explore the challenges and achievements that make our lives feel more fulfilled. My approach to therapy is one of empathy, collaboration and practicality. I like to make therapy fun, engaging, and a safe place for you to comfortably explore your emotions and learn new healthy coping skills to support your growth. I have a passion for helping others achieve more fulfillment and balance in their lives. My goal is to provide a safe space to explore feelings that may contribute to ongoing difficulties, re-process experiences, and ultimately co-create your next chapter.
Change is possible and I believe therapy is a place where you can explore the challenges and achievements that make our lives feel more fulfilled. My approach to therapy is one of empathy, collaboration and practicality. I like to make therapy fun, engaging, and a safe place for you to comfortably explore your emotions and learn new healthy coping skills to support your growth. I have a passion for helping others achieve more fulfillment and balance in their lives. My goal is to provide a safe space to explore feelings that may contribute to ongoing difficulties, re-process experiences, and ultimately co-create your next chapter.
(424) 672-3668 View (424) 672-3668
Photo of Rachel Brous, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90403, CA
Rachel Brous
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
The first step in creating meaningful change, is the desire for things to be different followed by the courage to take action to make it happen. You've already taken that first step by seeking therapy and I honor you for that, and gladly meet you there! Together, we we will co-create a safe and supportive space for you to feel seen, heard and honored where you will feel held as you enter a more deep exploration of self. Here we will identify patterns, themes and the source of which have brought your to your current reality and identify how and where you can make conscious shifts to create the change you want to see in your life.
The first step in creating meaningful change, is the desire for things to be different followed by the courage to take action to make it happen. You've already taken that first step by seeking therapy and I honor you for that, and gladly meet you there! Together, we we will co-create a safe and supportive space for you to feel seen, heard and honored where you will feel held as you enter a more deep exploration of self. Here we will identify patterns, themes and the source of which have brought your to your current reality and identify how and where you can make conscious shifts to create the change you want to see in your life.
(310) 818-7358 View (310) 818-7358
Photo of Daniel C. Slavin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Daniel C. Slavin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
If your goals or dreams have drifted, seem out of reach, or you just feel stuck, I can help navigate you to a better understanding of yourself for permanent change. I learn to speak your individual language, to help and coach you to live a more manageable and meaningful life. I take a goal-oriented approach to psychotherapy. My innovative techniques help to empower patients to learn the tools and strategies they need to navigate through life challenges. I will assist you in defining achievable goals and will help you learn simple, understandable procedures that will become second nature to help you reach those goals.
If your goals or dreams have drifted, seem out of reach, or you just feel stuck, I can help navigate you to a better understanding of yourself for permanent change. I learn to speak your individual language, to help and coach you to live a more manageable and meaningful life. I take a goal-oriented approach to psychotherapy. My innovative techniques help to empower patients to learn the tools and strategies they need to navigate through life challenges. I will assist you in defining achievable goals and will help you learn simple, understandable procedures that will become second nature to help you reach those goals.
(424) 286-4938 View (424) 286-4938
Photo of Linda Snouffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Linda Snouffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP, PCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Welcome, and thank you for clicking on my profile. You would probably like to know a little about me and how we might work together. I am a psychotherapist who is passionate about my work and whose interest lies in developing rapport and trust through active listening, respect, and creating an environment where you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings. My approach is multidisciplinary, eclectic and highly interactive. My demeanor has been described as warm, accepting, non-judgmental, and compassionate. Together we will identify your concerns, what you hope to accomplish and build strategies for leading a happier life.
Welcome, and thank you for clicking on my profile. You would probably like to know a little about me and how we might work together. I am a psychotherapist who is passionate about my work and whose interest lies in developing rapport and trust through active listening, respect, and creating an environment where you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings. My approach is multidisciplinary, eclectic and highly interactive. My demeanor has been described as warm, accepting, non-judgmental, and compassionate. Together we will identify your concerns, what you hope to accomplish and build strategies for leading a happier life.
(310) 683-0476 View (310) 683-0476
Photo of Karen Wiener, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Karen Wiener
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
If you are dealing with infidelity, sexual secrets, sex addiction, or drug and alcohol addiction, I am glad you are here. As a licensed therapist specializing in sex addiction (CSAT-C), and trained in EMDR trauma therapy, I also support people with complex trauma and betrayal trauma. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples who are struggling in these areas.
If you are dealing with infidelity, sexual secrets, sex addiction, or drug and alcohol addiction, I am glad you are here. As a licensed therapist specializing in sex addiction (CSAT-C), and trained in EMDR trauma therapy, I also support people with complex trauma and betrayal trauma. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples who are struggling in these areas.
(310) 510-6151 View (310) 510-6151
Photo of Dr. Rachel Lauber, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Dr. Rachel Lauber
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Welcome. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My practice is centered around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches tailored to assist those dealing with depression and anxiety disorders. Additionally, I specialize in maternal mental health, supporting women through the delicate phases of pregnancy and postpartum. I also work extensively on relationship dynamics, career concerns, struggles with self-esteem, the transition to parenthood, and general life adjustments.
Welcome. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My practice is centered around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches tailored to assist those dealing with depression and anxiety disorders. Additionally, I specialize in maternal mental health, supporting women through the delicate phases of pregnancy and postpartum. I also work extensively on relationship dynamics, career concerns, struggles with self-esteem, the transition to parenthood, and general life adjustments.
(424) 247-5436 View (424) 247-5436
Photo of Patrick Brian Dickey, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
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.
(310) 929-6157 View (310) 929-6157
Photo of Nicole Evans, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Nicole Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you struggling to find the motivation or focus to get through daily tasks? Do you feel like you are going through life alone or unsure about who you are? Or do you simply just need someone to listen and talk to? If so, I am here to help you. I specialize in working with young adults, and adults with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, I also provide therapy for grief/loss, relationship issues, and self-acceptance.
Are you struggling to find the motivation or focus to get through daily tasks? Do you feel like you are going through life alone or unsure about who you are? Or do you simply just need someone to listen and talk to? If so, I am here to help you. I specialize in working with young adults, and adults with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, I also provide therapy for grief/loss, relationship issues, and self-acceptance.
(323) 498-1297 View (323) 498-1297
Photo of Noelle McCutchen in 90403, CA
Noelle McCutchen
MSW, PCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am a certified life coach and help my clients gather a life they love! Are you looking for more fulfillment and balance in your life? Feeling like you need to reconnect with your life purpose or find it? Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Longing to make change in your life but don't know where to begin? Is something inside of you longing to be heard? Are you looking to deepen connections and strengthen your relationships? Looking for a career change? Want more abundance and joy? Going through some challenging choices and feeling stuck?
I am a certified life coach and help my clients gather a life they love! Are you looking for more fulfillment and balance in your life? Feeling like you need to reconnect with your life purpose or find it? Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Longing to make change in your life but don't know where to begin? Is something inside of you longing to be heard? Are you looking to deepen connections and strengthen your relationships? Looking for a career change? Want more abundance and joy? Going through some challenging choices and feeling stuck?
(310) 693-4062 View (310) 693-4062
Photo of Sally Gibbons Psychotherapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in 90403, CA
Sally Gibbons Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
At different times in life, many of us find ourselves feeling stuck, uncertain about who we have become, feeling hopeless or anxious as we confront the challenges of our life. Entering therapy can be a courageous and creative way to find support in transforming the pain of these experiences into an opportunity for healing and growth. The therapeutic relationship allows client and therapist together to engage in a dialogue that fosters understanding and acceptance, while encouraging emotional growth and shifting old patterns that may be keeping us stuck and suffering.
At different times in life, many of us find ourselves feeling stuck, uncertain about who we have become, feeling hopeless or anxious as we confront the challenges of our life. Entering therapy can be a courageous and creative way to find support in transforming the pain of these experiences into an opportunity for healing and growth. The therapeutic relationship allows client and therapist together to engage in a dialogue that fosters understanding and acceptance, while encouraging emotional growth and shifting old patterns that may be keeping us stuck and suffering.
(310) 388-8653 View (310) 388-8653
Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.