Chronic Illness Therapists in 90403

Photo of Sarah Dihmes, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Sarah Dihmes
Psychologist, PhD, BCB
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist one of the few board certified biofeedback psychologists in Northern California. With specialties in life stressors, executive coaching, psychophysiology, and teens, she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California and New York!
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist one of the few board certified biofeedback psychologists in Northern California. With specialties in life stressors, executive coaching, psychophysiology, and teens, she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California and New York!
(415) 799-5164 View (415) 799-5164
Photo of Michael O'Hara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Michael O'Hara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking help shows how strong you already are. Your story, experiences, struggles, pain, and resiliency are welcome here. Psychotherapy is a collaborative and relational process. My goal is to highlight your potential and strengths. Together we can find ways to honor your journey and encourage growth. I specialize in working with individuals navigating chronic illness, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loss, perinatal mental health, and parenting stressors. I have specialized training in perinatal mental health. I am passionate about supporting parents, and caregivers who are navigating postpartum. I also offer couples counseling.
Seeking help shows how strong you already are. Your story, experiences, struggles, pain, and resiliency are welcome here. Psychotherapy is a collaborative and relational process. My goal is to highlight your potential and strengths. Together we can find ways to honor your journey and encourage growth. I specialize in working with individuals navigating chronic illness, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loss, perinatal mental health, and parenting stressors. I have specialized training in perinatal mental health. I am passionate about supporting parents, and caregivers who are navigating postpartum. I also offer couples counseling.
(213) 320-5063 View (213) 320-5063
Photo of Jamie Feldstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Jamie Feldstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My specialties include Relationship Issues and Codependency, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Addiction, Chronic Illness and Life Transitions.
Are you looking for a safe place where you can access and explore your emotions without shame or judgment? Are you feeling frustrated, stuck or disappointed with the quality of your life? I can help you learn how to access your inner wisdom, build and bolster resiliency and connect more effectively with yourself and others.
My specialties include Relationship Issues and Codependency, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Addiction, Chronic Illness and Life Transitions.
Are you looking for a safe place where you can access and explore your emotions without shame or judgment? Are you feeling frustrated, stuck or disappointed with the quality of your life? I can help you learn how to access your inner wisdom, build and bolster resiliency and connect more effectively with yourself and others.
(805) 669-9917 View (805) 669-9917
Photo of Catalina Lawsin, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Catalina Lawsin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Our sexuality is at the core of who we are as humans, and where we came from – it is our life force. It’s also at the core of our own identity. So many of us are searching for who we truly are. We’re so encapsulated in who we should be being for others, that we end up losing ourselves. This shows up most frequently in intimate relationships. Our desire for unconditional love from another supersedes our need for physical connection. Emotion trumps sexuality. And what goes on within our mind shuts down the abilities of our body. Are you feeling lost in your relationship? Do you desire more sexually?
Our sexuality is at the core of who we are as humans, and where we came from – it is our life force. It’s also at the core of our own identity. So many of us are searching for who we truly are. We’re so encapsulated in who we should be being for others, that we end up losing ourselves. This shows up most frequently in intimate relationships. Our desire for unconditional love from another supersedes our need for physical connection. Emotion trumps sexuality. And what goes on within our mind shuts down the abilities of our body. Are you feeling lost in your relationship? Do you desire more sexually?
(347) 229-5105 View (347) 229-5105
Photo of Ava Rose, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
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.
(424) 324-3596 View (424) 324-3596
Photo of Natalie Kazarian, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Natalie Kazarian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Beginning therapy takes courage and you've already taken the first step. My goal is to help you create a more fulfilling life. I provide a safe space to work collaboratively with you. I will listen and use my knowledge base to help address the parts of your life that feel challenging. I work in both short term and long term treatment modalities.
Beginning therapy takes courage and you've already taken the first step. My goal is to help you create a more fulfilling life. I provide a safe space to work collaboratively with you. I will listen and use my knowledge base to help address the parts of your life that feel challenging. I work in both short term and long term treatment modalities.
(559) 761-1474 View (559) 761-1474
Photo of Brenda McDonald, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Brenda McDonald
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Clients often seek therapy in order to effect some form of change in their lives. My work is less about change and more about understanding and acceptance. Our work is a collaborative format in which I assist you in understanding your unconscious motivations and accepting yourself just as your are. In other words, meeting you where you are and encouraging you to do the same. Change is secondary to self-acceptance. It is only when we love and accept ourselves that we can extend this grace to others. Currently we are living in a time of unprecedented uncertainness. Acceptance leads to less stress and a healthier immune system.
Clients often seek therapy in order to effect some form of change in their lives. My work is less about change and more about understanding and acceptance. Our work is a collaborative format in which I assist you in understanding your unconscious motivations and accepting yourself just as your are. In other words, meeting you where you are and encouraging you to do the same. Change is secondary to self-acceptance. It is only when we love and accept ourselves that we can extend this grace to others. Currently we are living in a time of unprecedented uncertainness. Acceptance leads to less stress and a healthier immune system.
(424) 401-3826 View (424) 401-3826
Photo of Susan Kleinman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Susan Kleinman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I offer and prefer to deliver services via TeleHealth, but I am also open to meeting you in person if it's imperative to the meaningfulness of our work together. I have specific experience in helping those with Trauma, Maternity issues, Relationship issues (family or couples), Lupus and specifically those who suffer from neurological movement disorders such Tourette's disorder, Parkinson's or TD.
I offer and prefer to deliver services via TeleHealth, but I am also open to meeting you in person if it's imperative to the meaningfulness of our work together. I have specific experience in helping those with Trauma, Maternity issues, Relationship issues (family or couples), Lupus and specifically those who suffer from neurological movement disorders such Tourette's disorder, Parkinson's or TD.
(310) 919-0733 View (310) 919-0733
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 Chloe D Brooks-Lao, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Chloe D Brooks-Lao
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Welcome to my practice. My approach as a therapist is collaborative, blending psychodynamic and client-centered therapies with mindfulness. This foundation allows me to deeply understand and connect with you as a whole person, beyond the surface of the issues at hand. When immediate concerns arise, I am equipped to utilize behavioral and cognitive-behavioral techniques to address acute issues effectively. I view therapy as a shared journey, grounded in mutual trust and openness. Together, we'll delve into your experiences and emotions to foster not only insight but also personal growth and a deeper sense of well-being.
Welcome to my practice. My approach as a therapist is collaborative, blending psychodynamic and client-centered therapies with mindfulness. This foundation allows me to deeply understand and connect with you as a whole person, beyond the surface of the issues at hand. When immediate concerns arise, I am equipped to utilize behavioral and cognitive-behavioral techniques to address acute issues effectively. I view therapy as a shared journey, grounded in mutual trust and openness. Together, we'll delve into your experiences and emotions to foster not only insight but also personal growth and a deeper sense of well-being.
(424) 722-8551 View (424) 722-8551
Photo of Dr. Sarika Seth , Psychologist in 90403, CA
Dr. Sarika Seth
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Challenging life circumstances, traumatic experiences, unanticipated changes, opposing messages, and /or oppressive forces can knock us off our course. We may find ourselves having difficulty navigating through heightened states of anxiety and the depths of depression. Or, we just need to be seen and heard. In this instance, therapy can be a refuge- a place to explore, observe, make sense of, find meaning in, and heal from pain we have long been carrying. We may experience a newfound state of peace as we gradually sit with, accept, let go, move forward, and reconnect with the sweetness of life.
Challenging life circumstances, traumatic experiences, unanticipated changes, opposing messages, and /or oppressive forces can knock us off our course. We may find ourselves having difficulty navigating through heightened states of anxiety and the depths of depression. Or, we just need to be seen and heard. In this instance, therapy can be a refuge- a place to explore, observe, make sense of, find meaning in, and heal from pain we have long been carrying. We may experience a newfound state of peace as we gradually sit with, accept, let go, move forward, and reconnect with the sweetness of life.
(310) 947-8614 View (310) 947-8614
Photo of Jane Bryson, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Jane Bryson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I provide a caring & objective atmosphere to encourage your self-awareness and emotional growth. One rare, unifying finding among all specialities of psychotherapy is that a strong therapeutic relationship is vital to success. Therefore, I will be your partner throughout the process, both supporting & challenging you along the way. During the over 35 years I have provided therapy, I have developed many approaches tailored to the unique needs of each client. Originally trained in psychodynamic therapy, my therapeutic approach now is eclectic and includes cognitive behavior therapy to facilitate observable change.
I provide a caring & objective atmosphere to encourage your self-awareness and emotional growth. One rare, unifying finding among all specialities of psychotherapy is that a strong therapeutic relationship is vital to success. Therefore, I will be your partner throughout the process, both supporting & challenging you along the way. During the over 35 years I have provided therapy, I have developed many approaches tailored to the unique needs of each client. Originally trained in psychodynamic therapy, my therapeutic approach now is eclectic and includes cognitive behavior therapy to facilitate observable change.
(310) 935-4521 View (310) 935-4521
Photo of Sheila K Bost, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Sheila K Bost
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
A warm welcome to individuals, couples & families! I specialize in helping you move from emotional distress & confusion to enhanced well being. Old family wounds or traumas, small or large, may be holding you back from your full life. You may have only a smidgen of hope. We can build on that hope. Perhaps you gained insight into yourself and your relationships from the on Enneagram or Myers-Briggs. We can build on your insights. You have lived in emotional turmoil way too long! Make one small step forward now! I have witnessed people moving from a place of hopelessness to freedom & deliverance from old lies.
A warm welcome to individuals, couples & families! I specialize in helping you move from emotional distress & confusion to enhanced well being. Old family wounds or traumas, small or large, may be holding you back from your full life. You may have only a smidgen of hope. We can build on that hope. Perhaps you gained insight into yourself and your relationships from the on Enneagram or Myers-Briggs. We can build on your insights. You have lived in emotional turmoil way too long! Make one small step forward now! I have witnessed people moving from a place of hopelessness to freedom & deliverance from old lies.
(424) 484-3329 View (424) 484-3329
Photo of Tracy A. Pollack, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Tracy A. Pollack
Psychologist, PsyD, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with many years of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, couples and families. I offer a warm, collaborative and confidential place where you will feel heard and understood while working together to identify issues of conflict and remove the obstacles that are getting in the way of your life. My specialties include eating disorders and body image issues, also self-injurious behaviors. My practice also focuses on women's issues such as those related to beginning a family, fertility challenges and perinatal and postpartum anxiety and depression. I am EMDR trained and incorporate as needed
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with many years of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, couples and families. I offer a warm, collaborative and confidential place where you will feel heard and understood while working together to identify issues of conflict and remove the obstacles that are getting in the way of your life. My specialties include eating disorders and body image issues, also self-injurious behaviors. My practice also focuses on women's issues such as those related to beginning a family, fertility challenges and perinatal and postpartum anxiety and depression. I am EMDR trained and incorporate as needed
(424) 322-6709 View (424) 322-6709
Photo of Elizabeth Lauber, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Elizabeth Lauber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Throughout life, we all must examine painful feelings that complicate our lives and prevent us from finding satisfaction and joy. Obstacles may stand in the way of our leading more meaningful lives. We may feel stuck or powerless to take vital steps, make decisions, work toward goals, and improve relationships.
Throughout life, we all must examine painful feelings that complicate our lives and prevent us from finding satisfaction and joy. Obstacles may stand in the way of our leading more meaningful lives. We may feel stuck or powerless to take vital steps, make decisions, work toward goals, and improve relationships.
(424) 419-2097 View (424) 419-2097
Photo of Allan Silverstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Allan Silverstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
A good therapist has wisdom, compassion and the ability to connect deeply with you, while creating a safe healing environment. These are among the strengths that my patients ascribed to me during my many years as a Pediatrician... and that ultimately led me to a career in psychotherapy. Having raised two preadolescent daughters after my wife died, I have experienced many of life's tragedies, celebrations, anxieties and fears. With empathy, expertise, and kindness, I've helped countless individuals and families work through their issues. I would look forward to doing the same with you. I employ HUMOR when appropriate and useful.
A good therapist has wisdom, compassion and the ability to connect deeply with you, while creating a safe healing environment. These are among the strengths that my patients ascribed to me during my many years as a Pediatrician... and that ultimately led me to a career in psychotherapy. Having raised two preadolescent daughters after my wife died, I have experienced many of life's tragedies, celebrations, anxieties and fears. With empathy, expertise, and kindness, I've helped countless individuals and families work through their issues. I would look forward to doing the same with you. I employ HUMOR when appropriate and useful.
(424) 324-5167 View (424) 324-5167
Photo of David Ibrahim, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
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.
(805) 420-7531 View (805) 420-7531
Photo of Katy O'Donnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Katy O'Donnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Anxiety and depression are on the rise. We are regularly flooded with images of climate crisis, war, violence, homelessness... leaving us feeling overwhelmed and powerless. The strain of these events can intensify ongoing stressors on every front; relationships, finances, physical and mental health. It's hard to know where to turn or how to help ourselves. As a trauma therapist, I integrate psychotherapy and Attachment-Focused EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a cutting edge therapy that works with the brain's natural ability to heal.
Anxiety and depression are on the rise. We are regularly flooded with images of climate crisis, war, violence, homelessness... leaving us feeling overwhelmed and powerless. The strain of these events can intensify ongoing stressors on every front; relationships, finances, physical and mental health. It's hard to know where to turn or how to help ourselves. As a trauma therapist, I integrate psychotherapy and Attachment-Focused EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a cutting edge therapy that works with the brain's natural ability to heal.
(424) 488-0232 View (424) 488-0232
Photo of Westside Therapy Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Westside Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
If you are looking for long-term change and a team of highly effective therapists, look no further. We believe that therapy begins with finding the right fit with the perfect therapist who takes a collaborative and holistic approach. Our team incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational therapy. Please contact Shannon Kalberg, LMFT to book a free 20-minute phone consultation.
If you are looking for long-term change and a team of highly effective therapists, look no further. We believe that therapy begins with finding the right fit with the perfect therapist who takes a collaborative and holistic approach. Our team incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational therapy. Please contact Shannon Kalberg, LMFT to book a free 20-minute phone consultation.
(844) 592-0133 View (844) 592-0133
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
Chronic Illness Therapists

How does therapy for chronic illness work?

Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?

Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?

No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?

There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.