Behavioral Issues Psychiatrists in Santa Monica, CA

Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Accepting New Patients – Welcome to Bonmente! We know asking for help takes courage, and finding the right provider shouldn’t add stress. That’s why we offer same-week appointments and can often see you within 3–5 days. We accept most major insurance plans (including Aetna, Anthem Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Cigna, and United) and provide care through compassionate, highly trained professionals. With insurance-covered telemedicine sessions, you can connect from the comfort of home or office. Our supportive team makes starting your mental health journey simple, so you can focus on what matters most — feeling better and moving forward.
Accepting New Patients – Welcome to Bonmente! We know asking for help takes courage, and finding the right provider shouldn’t add stress. That’s why we offer same-week appointments and can often see you within 3–5 days. We accept most major insurance plans (including Aetna, Anthem Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Cigna, and United) and provide care through compassionate, highly trained professionals. With insurance-covered telemedicine sessions, you can connect from the comfort of home or office. Our supportive team makes starting your mental health journey simple, so you can focus on what matters most — feeling better and moving forward.
(424) 401-5156 View (424) 401-5156
Amir E Ettekal
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
*Offices in Hermosa Beach & Santa Monica.* I am a psychiatrist specialized in understanding both the biological and psychological factors of human emotions. I take the time to understand what my patients need and through a collaborative approach, we create a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs. Through my work in clinical trials, I stay on the forefront of medication innovation and safety, giving me first-hand experience in the most effective, and safe treatments. Through my training in psychotherapy I continue to address the emotional and psychological aspects of that person.
*Offices in Hermosa Beach & Santa Monica.* I am a psychiatrist specialized in understanding both the biological and psychological factors of human emotions. I take the time to understand what my patients need and through a collaborative approach, we create a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs. Through my work in clinical trials, I stay on the forefront of medication innovation and safety, giving me first-hand experience in the most effective, and safe treatments. Through my training in psychotherapy I continue to address the emotional and psychological aspects of that person.
(310) 341-2905 View (310) 341-2905
Eva Altobelli
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I find that life is a challenge for most of us. The desire to avoid pain is a natural human mechanism and whether we're doing it with defense mechanisms or perhaps working too much or over exercising or drinking, just being human and living within our society creates obstacles to stress free living. We are complicated creatures and it has taken us years of experiences and usually some trauma to become who we are now. I believe each of us have the capacity to heal and there is not one 'right' way to do it. I believe strongly that healing doesn't happen in isolation and prioritize the relationship we co-create.
I find that life is a challenge for most of us. The desire to avoid pain is a natural human mechanism and whether we're doing it with defense mechanisms or perhaps working too much or over exercising or drinking, just being human and living within our society creates obstacles to stress free living. We are complicated creatures and it has taken us years of experiences and usually some trauma to become who we are now. I believe each of us have the capacity to heal and there is not one 'right' way to do it. I believe strongly that healing doesn't happen in isolation and prioritize the relationship we co-create.
(310) 596-4301 View (310) 596-4301
Emil Soorani MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I have over 38 yrs of experience using psychopharmacology to treat depression, bi-polar, anxiety, dementias, ADHD, traumatic injuries, PTSD, and complex psychiatric disorders compounded by medical illnesses. I believe a holistic approach to treatment offers optimal outcomes. I also offer home consultations and Concierge Service.
I have over 38 yrs of experience using psychopharmacology to treat depression, bi-polar, anxiety, dementias, ADHD, traumatic injuries, PTSD, and complex psychiatric disorders compounded by medical illnesses. I believe a holistic approach to treatment offers optimal outcomes. I also offer home consultations and Concierge Service.
(424) 294-8980 View (424) 294-8980
Matthew Goldenberg
Psychiatrist, DO , FAPA, FASAM
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Matthew Goldenberg D.O. is double Board Certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry and is a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO). Dr. Goldenberg is an expert in the evaluation and treatment of mental health disorders and is an addiction specialist for adults in his private practice in Santa Monica, California. Dr. Goldenberg is a trusted aviation & HIMS trained psychiatrist providing evaluations for pilots for the FAA and has extensive experience evaluating and treating healthcare providers. He is licensed in the states of CA, Hawaii, Alaska and Utah and is a former president of the Southern California Psychiatric Society.
Matthew Goldenberg D.O. is double Board Certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry and is a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO). Dr. Goldenberg is an expert in the evaluation and treatment of mental health disorders and is an addiction specialist for adults in his private practice in Santa Monica, California. Dr. Goldenberg is a trusted aviation & HIMS trained psychiatrist providing evaluations for pilots for the FAA and has extensive experience evaluating and treating healthcare providers. He is licensed in the states of CA, Hawaii, Alaska and Utah and is a former president of the Southern California Psychiatric Society.
(424) 369-0822 View (424) 369-0822
Taylor Scheller
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Taylor is a board-certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. With a passion for continuous learning, Taylor considers it tantamount to optimizing care to stay informed of the latest treatment innovations. She conducts thorough evaluations, develops individualized treatment plans, and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams. Her patient-centered approach ensures that each client receives the attention and care they deserve.
Welcoming New Patients! Taylor is a board-certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. With a passion for continuous learning, Taylor considers it tantamount to optimizing care to stay informed of the latest treatment innovations. She conducts thorough evaluations, develops individualized treatment plans, and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams. Her patient-centered approach ensures that each client receives the attention and care they deserve.
(424) 359-1571 View (424) 359-1571
Eric Wexler
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
With expertise in psychiatry and neurobiology I provide patients with an individualized approach that combines the most effective tools including cognitive- behavioral therapy and state-of-the-art psychopharmacology.
In addition to my general psychiatry practice, I have published on a broad range of neuropsychiatry-related topics, including early-onset dementia, autism, neuropharmacology and neurogenetics. This experience has given me unique insights into managing treatment resistant patients, particularly in those individuals with neurologic or medical illnesses.
With expertise in psychiatry and neurobiology I provide patients with an individualized approach that combines the most effective tools including cognitive- behavioral therapy and state-of-the-art psychopharmacology.
In addition to my general psychiatry practice, I have published on a broad range of neuropsychiatry-related topics, including early-onset dementia, autism, neuropharmacology and neurogenetics. This experience has given me unique insights into managing treatment resistant patients, particularly in those individuals with neurologic or medical illnesses.
(310) 692-9011 View (310) 692-9011
Ryan Volk
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, mood changes, or difficulty sleeping? I provide compassionate psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults throughout California using secure telehealth appointments. My goal is to make psychiatric care accessible, affordable, and personalized to your unique needs, symptoms, and treatment goals.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, mood changes, or difficulty sleeping? I provide compassionate psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults throughout California using secure telehealth appointments. My goal is to make psychiatric care accessible, affordable, and personalized to your unique needs, symptoms, and treatment goals.
(213) 306-5495 View (213) 306-5495
Holly Olalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Holly is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She brings a diverse clinical background, having experience working in inpatient, outpatient, and correctional nursing settings. As a PMHNP, her mission is to be a guiding light for individuals struggling with their mental health by fostering a safe and compassionate space.
Welcoming New Patients! Holly is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She brings a diverse clinical background, having experience working in inpatient, outpatient, and correctional nursing settings. As a PMHNP, her mission is to be a guiding light for individuals struggling with their mental health by fostering a safe and compassionate space.
(310) 919-2118 View (310) 919-2118
Catalina Villa
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Dr. Villa is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She is a compassionate bilingual Spanish-English specialist with deep experience in community psychiatry. Regardless of the complexity of the issue, Dr. Villa prioritizes personalized understanding of the diverse needs of her clients. “Mental health challenges don’t define who we are," she says. "I work hard to understand the entire person so we can find solutions together.”
Welcoming New Patients! Dr. Villa is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She is a compassionate bilingual Spanish-English specialist with deep experience in community psychiatry. Regardless of the complexity of the issue, Dr. Villa prioritizes personalized understanding of the diverse needs of her clients. “Mental health challenges don’t define who we are," she says. "I work hard to understand the entire person so we can find solutions together.”
(424) 496-3046 View (424) 496-3046
Jordan Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Jordan is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She believes in a collaborative, low-pressure approach that integrates psychoeducation, coaching, medication management, and supportive therapy. She appreciates the unique strengths of individuals and works with clients to leverage those strengths in new productive ways.
Welcoming New Patients! Jordan is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She believes in a collaborative, low-pressure approach that integrates psychoeducation, coaching, medication management, and supportive therapy. She appreciates the unique strengths of individuals and works with clients to leverage those strengths in new productive ways.
(424) 677-0413 View (424) 677-0413
Dan Begel
Psychiatrist, MD
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Dr. Begel received his undergraduate and medical degrees from Yale University, where he also completed his residency in psychiatry. At Yale he studied the conceptual foundations of psychiatry and the core principles of diverse treatment methods. Today he treats people for a wide variety of issues, from the seemingly mild to the severe. He is up to date on psychiatric research and treatment, and utilizes the full range of methods in his work, including genetic analysis, psychotherapy, and medication management.
Dr. Begel received his undergraduate and medical degrees from Yale University, where he also completed his residency in psychiatry. At Yale he studied the conceptual foundations of psychiatry and the core principles of diverse treatment methods. Today he treats people for a wide variety of issues, from the seemingly mild to the severe. He is up to date on psychiatric research and treatment, and utilizes the full range of methods in his work, including genetic analysis, psychotherapy, and medication management.
(424) 610-8627 View (424) 610-8627
Cinthia Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Cinthia is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She offers psychiatric evaluations, individualized treatment plans, and therapeutic interventions to enhance overall well-being. Using the latest evidence-based practices and research, Cinthia treats her clients holistically, compassionately, culturally sensitively, and nonjudgmentally to empower them on their journey to mental wellbeing.
Welcoming New Patients! Cinthia is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She offers psychiatric evaluations, individualized treatment plans, and therapeutic interventions to enhance overall well-being. Using the latest evidence-based practices and research, Cinthia treats her clients holistically, compassionately, culturally sensitively, and nonjudgmentally to empower them on their journey to mental wellbeing.
(424) 476-4869 View (424) 476-4869
Dr. Kevin Simonson - Cura Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Kevin Simonson offers an integrative approach to mental health care, specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, and PTSD. With years of experience, he combines evidence-based treatments like TMS, Ketamine, and MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, with a holistic, personalized approach. Certified in Psychedelic Therapy, Integrative Psychiatry, and Psychodynamic Therapy, Dr. Simonson ensures that each patient receives the most advanced care tailored to their needs. We’re dedicated to helping you achieve lasting well-being through innovative and compassionate treatment.
Dr. Kevin Simonson offers an integrative approach to mental health care, specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, and PTSD. With years of experience, he combines evidence-based treatments like TMS, Ketamine, and MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, with a holistic, personalized approach. Certified in Psychedelic Therapy, Integrative Psychiatry, and Psychodynamic Therapy, Dr. Simonson ensures that each patient receives the most advanced care tailored to their needs. We’re dedicated to helping you achieve lasting well-being through innovative and compassionate treatment.
(424) 306-0269 View (424) 306-0269
Lauren Toneck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Her diverse background enhances her ability to support children, adolescents, and families navigating complex behavioral health challenges.
As a provider at Bonmente, Lauren treats a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, sleep disorders, PTSD, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and personality disorders. Through convenient telepsychiatry appointments, she offers evaluation and diagnosis, medication management, and talk therapy.
Her diverse background enhances her ability to support children, adolescents, and families navigating complex behavioral health challenges.
As a provider at Bonmente, Lauren treats a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, sleep disorders, PTSD, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and personality disorders. Through convenient telepsychiatry appointments, she offers evaluation and diagnosis, medication management, and talk therapy.
(424) 544-7956 View (424) 544-7956
Tiffany Quach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Tiffany is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. A mental health specialist for more than five years, Tiffany brings warmth, clinical expertise, and evidence-based care to every visit. She listens closely, offers thoughtful evaluations and conscientious medication management, and works collaboratively with clients to build practical plans that support lasting mental health.
Welcoming New Patients! Tiffany is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. A mental health specialist for more than five years, Tiffany brings warmth, clinical expertise, and evidence-based care to every visit. She listens closely, offers thoughtful evaluations and conscientious medication management, and works collaboratively with clients to build practical plans that support lasting mental health.
(424) 509-2891 View (424) 509-2891
Dr. Prudhvi Bandi
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Bandi is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. He combines medication management with evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT to provide compassionate, patient-centered treatment that promotes healing, resilience, and long-term emotional well-being. Dr. Bandi earned his MD from Creighton University and completed residency at George Washington University and Harvard-BIDMC.
Dr. Bandi is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. He combines medication management with evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT to provide compassionate, patient-centered treatment that promotes healing, resilience, and long-term emotional well-being. Dr. Bandi earned his MD from Creighton University and completed residency at George Washington University and Harvard-BIDMC.
(424) 301-7996 View (424) 301-7996
Chidinma G Nwankwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is frequently utilized in my practice.
I am a skilled Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Los Angeles, California. With experience caring for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, I provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health care across the lifespan. I have spent most of my career working as a psychiatric nurse and nurse practitioner. My areas of expertise include ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, schizophrenia, postpartum depression, and insomnia. I provide care for patients ranging from 5 to 100 years old through both tele health and in-person services. I believe in a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health care.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is frequently utilized in my practice.
I am a skilled Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Los Angeles, California. With experience caring for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, I provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health care across the lifespan. I have spent most of my career working as a psychiatric nurse and nurse practitioner. My areas of expertise include ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, schizophrenia, postpartum depression, and insomnia. I provide care for patients ranging from 5 to 100 years old through both tele health and in-person services. I believe in a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health care.
(310) 272-5049 View (310) 272-5049
Ashley Benjamin
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I have an extensive background in multiple areas of psychiatry, my emphasis on holistic care including exercise, nutrition, herbal options, and mindfulness. For those patients who are under the care of a primary care doctor, I provides consultation services and will not take over the prescriber role. For a cost effective option, TLC also has an experienced/skilled (PA-C) who sees patients and prescribes under the TLC consortium. I consult with our closely in a collaborative manner. Are you experiencing medication side effects? Ask about Genesight.
I have an extensive background in multiple areas of psychiatry, my emphasis on holistic care including exercise, nutrition, herbal options, and mindfulness. For those patients who are under the care of a primary care doctor, I provides consultation services and will not take over the prescriber role. For a cost effective option, TLC also has an experienced/skilled (PA-C) who sees patients and prescribes under the TLC consortium. I consult with our closely in a collaborative manner. Are you experiencing medication side effects? Ask about Genesight.
(310) 779-6171 View (310) 779-6171
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(310) 943-0632 View (310) 943-0632

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FAQ - Behavioral Issues Psychiatrists
How can a behavioral psychiatrists help?
Behavioral issues is a general term used to encompass conditions like Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD), which significantly impact the behavior and emotional functioning of children and adolescents. These disorders are characterized by disruptive behaviors that create substantial challenges for children and their family across emotional, academic, and social domains. Psychiatrists specializing in behavioral issues have expertise in diagnosing these conditions and crafting treatment plans. Their approach typically integrates therapy and medication while helping families navigate supportive services. Psychiatrists may also address underlying factors—such as trauma—that may fuel behavioral disturbances.

What treatment approaches are used for behavioral issues?
Because behavioral issues can present in a variety of ways, treatment is usually very individualized. Psychotherapeutic approaches—such as age-appropriate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), or play therapy—are commonly used to help children improve emotional regulation and communication skills. For parents and caregivers, psychiatrists can also offer support—such as by helping them manage challenging behaviors and strengthen parent-child trust. Medications can also be effective in some cases to help manage symptoms and help regulate mood. When medication is recommended, it is typically paired with behavioral strategies and ongoing monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness.

How can I find a psychiatrist who specializes in behavioral issues?
Psychology Today's online directory serves as a valuable resource for families seeking qualified psychiatrists (MDs) or psychiatric nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) who specialize in behavioral issues. The platform's search filters enable users to identify providers with specific expertise in areas such as oppositional behavior, medication management, and psychological evaluation. Families can refine their search based on multiple criteria including age group specialization (e.g. children or adolescents), accepted insurance plans, geographic location, and session fees. When evaluating potential psychiatrists, families should inquire about their specific treatment philosophy, as well as their commitment to collaborating with school professionals and other members of the child's care team.