Teletherapy for 90403
Tamala J. Poljak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
I specialize in working LGBTQ+ folks and/or artists/creative folks.
People seek therapy for so many reasons, but mostly we all want to feel loved, safe and understood. We want to feel a sense purpose & feel good enough as we are, and yet so many of us struggle to feel these ways. Sometimes our lives look very different than we imagined & we need help making sense out of things. We might be feeling numb or disconnected, uncertain or alone. We might be questioning the direction we are heading and need to find some hope or clarity. Self compassion & radical self-acceptance are cornerstones of my work. I'd like to explore these concepts with you and help you make meaning of your life and sense of self.
I specialize in working LGBTQ+ folks and/or artists/creative folks.
People seek therapy for so many reasons, but mostly we all want to feel loved, safe and understood. We want to feel a sense purpose & feel good enough as we are, and yet so many of us struggle to feel these ways. Sometimes our lives look very different than we imagined & we need help making sense out of things. We might be feeling numb or disconnected, uncertain or alone. We might be questioning the direction we are heading and need to find some hope or clarity. Self compassion & radical self-acceptance are cornerstones of my work. I'd like to explore these concepts with you and help you make meaning of your life and sense of self.
Denise Maratos
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, EdM
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I also have a special interest in transpersonal and depth psychology, including spiritual & transpersonal emergence, expressive arts therapies, ecotherapy, sexuality, LGBTQIA concerns, and transitional age youth (TAY).
Do you need support finding your life’s purpose? Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you find it difficult to feel pain and face your shadows? While considering the whole person- heart, soul, mind and body, I trust that you enter therapy having the insight you need to navigate your distress. I use the term "depth emergence" to explain my orientation and approach. It stems from depth psychology, which emphasizes gaining access to the unconscious and bringing it into consciousness. While increasing awareness we derive meaning, evolve, and transform.
I also have a special interest in transpersonal and depth psychology, including spiritual & transpersonal emergence, expressive arts therapies, ecotherapy, sexuality, LGBTQIA concerns, and transitional age youth (TAY).
Do you need support finding your life’s purpose? Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you find it difficult to feel pain and face your shadows? While considering the whole person- heart, soul, mind and body, I trust that you enter therapy having the insight you need to navigate your distress. I use the term "depth emergence" to explain my orientation and approach. It stems from depth psychology, which emphasizes gaining access to the unconscious and bringing it into consciousness. While increasing awareness we derive meaning, evolve, and transform.
Kristen Welke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Whether a client is grappling with anger, depression, anxiety, substance-related concerns, identity issues, grief/loss, LGBTQIA-specific topics, or relationship issues, I am here to collaboratively address and support my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals.
Life can be really hard and oftentimes we need additional support. I love working with individuals through life's transitions and challenges. A belief and dedication to growth, resilience, and well-being, I prioritize trauma-informed care and social justice in my practice. I emphasize authenticity and genuine connections by integrating empathy, creativity, and humor into sessions using Gestalt Therapy. Whether guiding teens or adults through various life’s transitions or focusing on improving a client’s mental well-being, my approach remains culturally conscious and sensitive to individual experiences in the broader societal context
Whether a client is grappling with anger, depression, anxiety, substance-related concerns, identity issues, grief/loss, LGBTQIA-specific topics, or relationship issues, I am here to collaboratively address and support my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals.
Life can be really hard and oftentimes we need additional support. I love working with individuals through life's transitions and challenges. A belief and dedication to growth, resilience, and well-being, I prioritize trauma-informed care and social justice in my practice. I emphasize authenticity and genuine connections by integrating empathy, creativity, and humor into sessions using Gestalt Therapy. Whether guiding teens or adults through various life’s transitions or focusing on improving a client’s mental well-being, my approach remains culturally conscious and sensitive to individual experiences in the broader societal context
Stefani Reitter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Some of my areas of specialization are: relational trauma, PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, mood disorders, divorce and blended families, perinatal therapy, and addiction recovery, and women's empowerment.
Hello and thanks for stopping by! I offer a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples navigating life's challenges. I help clients explore their thoughts and emotions with compassion, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build stronger relationships. With over fifteen years experience as a mindfulness-based practitioner, yoga teacher, and yoga therapist, I approach psychotherapy from a somatically based perspective. I will help you connect to your deeper knowing through the sensations in your body leading you to more profound and lasting transformation.
Some of my areas of specialization are: relational trauma, PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, mood disorders, divorce and blended families, perinatal therapy, and addiction recovery, and women's empowerment.
Hello and thanks for stopping by! I offer a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples navigating life's challenges. I help clients explore their thoughts and emotions with compassion, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build stronger relationships. With over fifteen years experience as a mindfulness-based practitioner, yoga teacher, and yoga therapist, I approach psychotherapy from a somatically based perspective. I will help you connect to your deeper knowing through the sensations in your body leading you to more profound and lasting transformation.
Natalie Badawy
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
I'm sex-positive and supportive of all lifestyle and relationship paths inclusive of monogamy, ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQIA, and kink.
Many of us carry our emotional wounds in our bodies and only when we create a connection between the mind and the body can we feel whole again. I utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques that include shadow work, inner child healing, internal family systems (IFS), somatic therapy, and reparenting in order to create a safe connection within the body and mind. When you are in connection with your whole self you are then equipped to heal your relationship with others and the planet. I help clients struggling with sexual trauma, grief, codependency, depression, and relationship challenges.
I'm sex-positive and supportive of all lifestyle and relationship paths inclusive of monogamy, ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQIA, and kink.
Many of us carry our emotional wounds in our bodies and only when we create a connection between the mind and the body can we feel whole again. I utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques that include shadow work, inner child healing, internal family systems (IFS), somatic therapy, and reparenting in order to create a safe connection within the body and mind. When you are in connection with your whole self you are then equipped to heal your relationship with others and the planet. I help clients struggling with sexual trauma, grief, codependency, depression, and relationship challenges.
Seana Diemer Iwanyk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Specializing in supporting creatives, LGBTQ+ individuals, and "former gifted kids," I understand the unique stressors these groups face and the burnout that can result.
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.
Specializing in supporting creatives, LGBTQ+ individuals, and "former gifted kids," I understand the unique stressors these groups face and the burnout that can result.
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.
Audrey Hu
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I also provide LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
I also provide LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
Patrick Brian Dickey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Life keeps rolling on whether we experience depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or conflicts with your loved ones. Getting yourself unstuck can be quite frustrating. For some, the challenge can create feelings of despair and hopelessness. But you can create a life that’s meaningful. Together we will collaborate on building on your existing strengths and create a new, purposeful, and worthwhile future.
Life keeps rolling on whether we experience depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or conflicts with your loved ones. Getting yourself unstuck can be quite frustrating. For some, the challenge can create feelings of despair and hopelessness. But you can create a life that’s meaningful. Together we will collaborate on building on your existing strengths and create a new, purposeful, and worthwhile future.
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Sam Hopper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My ideal client is aware that some primary positive feeling has changed. The positive feeling has suddenly, or over time, become negative and painful. Because of this change, he or she may have reluctantly given up on a long term goal, or may be in the midsts of a divorce where there was once loving contentment that has disappeared. Sometimes the pain is so severe that the Client considers ending his or her life. No matter what the circumstance, this Client is longing for relief from the pain. The Client needs a Therapist who can, incrementally over time, help to alleviate the pain and begin a more positive approach to living life.
My ideal client is aware that some primary positive feeling has changed. The positive feeling has suddenly, or over time, become negative and painful. Because of this change, he or she may have reluctantly given up on a long term goal, or may be in the midsts of a divorce where there was once loving contentment that has disappeared. Sometimes the pain is so severe that the Client considers ending his or her life. No matter what the circumstance, this Client is longing for relief from the pain. The Client needs a Therapist who can, incrementally over time, help to alleviate the pain and begin a more positive approach to living life.
Eric L. Strang
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am a practical clinician who draws from an array of psychological approaches to assist my patients in achieving their goals. In addition to being practical, my therapeutic approach is aimed at understanding and integrating the dissonant thoughts and feelings at the core of most problems. I employ a focused and systematic method to identify the barriers to an individual's development and bring about change through an understanding and relinquishing of old models of coping. I am also able to utilize psychological measures of personality and aptitude to assist my clients in making decisions about their treatment and goals.
I am a practical clinician who draws from an array of psychological approaches to assist my patients in achieving their goals. In addition to being practical, my therapeutic approach is aimed at understanding and integrating the dissonant thoughts and feelings at the core of most problems. I employ a focused and systematic method to identify the barriers to an individual's development and bring about change through an understanding and relinquishing of old models of coping. I am also able to utilize psychological measures of personality and aptitude to assist my clients in making decisions about their treatment and goals.
Maria Gray
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, NMP, CGP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you tired of traditional talk therapy? Overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety, or fear and stress? Maybe you feel like you've already done "so much work on yourself" and yet you still engage in some self-defeating patterns. This may show up in dating the same dysfunctional type of person, or acting out childhood patterns at work, overworking to please your boss without being recognized. You may lack patience or sometimes get impatient with your partner/children, the same way your parents were with you. Or maybe you shut down when you need to speak up, since many of us were taught to be "good little girls and boys". I can help.
Are you tired of traditional talk therapy? Overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety, or fear and stress? Maybe you feel like you've already done "so much work on yourself" and yet you still engage in some self-defeating patterns. This may show up in dating the same dysfunctional type of person, or acting out childhood patterns at work, overworking to please your boss without being recognized. You may lack patience or sometimes get impatient with your partner/children, the same way your parents were with you. Or maybe you shut down when you need to speak up, since many of us were taught to be "good little girls and boys". I can help.
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!
Niaz Khani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I understand that seeking therapy may be a very difficult process, however what you can gain from the process is limitless. If you are feeling stuck and interested in making some changes in your life or just need some support right now, this may be a good time to give therapy a try. It's very important to feel safe and connected to your therapist and I encourage you to shop around for the "best-fit." I welcome you to contact me in order to determine whether we would be a good match.
I understand that seeking therapy may be a very difficult process, however what you can gain from the process is limitless. If you are feeling stuck and interested in making some changes in your life or just need some support right now, this may be a good time to give therapy a try. It's very important to feel safe and connected to your therapist and I encourage you to shop around for the "best-fit." I welcome you to contact me in order to determine whether we would be a good match.
Cari Ginger Smulyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
“Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up.” Brene Brown -Putting yourself first can be scary. Showing up in life can be overwhelming but I believe showing up is half the battle and from there we can create a collaborative therapeutic relationship to help you on your path of healing and self-discovery. I integrate principles of psychodynamic, attachment, mindfulness and humanistic theoretical approaches into my work. I believe that by looking at events and relationships in our past can help us understand patterns in our present that no longer serve us or have made us feel stuck.
“Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up.” Brene Brown -Putting yourself first can be scary. Showing up in life can be overwhelming but I believe showing up is half the battle and from there we can create a collaborative therapeutic relationship to help you on your path of healing and self-discovery. I integrate principles of psychodynamic, attachment, mindfulness and humanistic theoretical approaches into my work. I believe that by looking at events and relationships in our past can help us understand patterns in our present that no longer serve us or have made us feel stuck.
Desiree Basl
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you looking to remove the obstacles that stand in the way of achieving well-being and live your most authentic and connected life? In the work with clients, it is my job to support you through a supportive therapeutic relationship. Whether you are coming in to process a relationship, attachment trauma, increased anxiety or depression or struggling with life transitions, I am here to help provide you with a safe space to reach your goals.
Are you looking to remove the obstacles that stand in the way of achieving well-being and live your most authentic and connected life? In the work with clients, it is my job to support you through a supportive therapeutic relationship. Whether you are coming in to process a relationship, attachment trauma, increased anxiety or depression or struggling with life transitions, I am here to help provide you with a safe space to reach your goals.
Monica Farassat, Psy.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CGP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Many people shy away from asking for help when in emotional and psychological pain. It is not easy to ask for help. Perhaps there are feelings of shame underlying the recognition of one's vulnerability. But in essence these are the times that important and life-altering changes can occur. I am invested in establishing a safe, supportive, and truthful interaction with you towards improving your life, your choices, and your relationships, & have over 25 years of experience as proof. The concerns that I have worked with extensively include depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, substance-abuse, adjustment, crisis intervention, & individuation.
Many people shy away from asking for help when in emotional and psychological pain. It is not easy to ask for help. Perhaps there are feelings of shame underlying the recognition of one's vulnerability. But in essence these are the times that important and life-altering changes can occur. I am invested in establishing a safe, supportive, and truthful interaction with you towards improving your life, your choices, and your relationships, & have over 25 years of experience as proof. The concerns that I have worked with extensively include depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, substance-abuse, adjustment, crisis intervention, & individuation.
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.
Eve Nadel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
No one goes unscathed in this life, and sometimes we need help from a professional. My job is to provide a safe place to begin the path of psychotherapy. I have 26 years of experience providing psychotherapy to clients with a variety of challenges. I listen, provide support, empathize and care for my clients. Often we feel that we have not been heard or seen in a deep way. I aim to offer a different and corrective experience and help clients gain insight and change behaviors.
No one goes unscathed in this life, and sometimes we need help from a professional. My job is to provide a safe place to begin the path of psychotherapy. I have 26 years of experience providing psychotherapy to clients with a variety of challenges. I listen, provide support, empathize and care for my clients. Often we feel that we have not been heard or seen in a deep way. I aim to offer a different and corrective experience and help clients gain insight and change behaviors.
Aviv Michael Linden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I work with people from all walks of life. Everyone is unique and so each client has a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs. People who see me for psychological treatment are often experiencing low mood, anxiety, difficulty relaxing, excessive criticism and low self esteem. Many have experienced a significant loss or a traumatic life event. I will help you to better understand how your present responses (emotional, behavioral, emotional and physical) are influenced by your past experiences. Working collaboratively with you, I will facilitate a safe space for you to reflect, process and grow.
I work with people from all walks of life. Everyone is unique and so each client has a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs. People who see me for psychological treatment are often experiencing low mood, anxiety, difficulty relaxing, excessive criticism and low self esteem. Many have experienced a significant loss or a traumatic life event. I will help you to better understand how your present responses (emotional, behavioral, emotional and physical) are influenced by your past experiences. Working collaboratively with you, I will facilitate a safe space for you to reflect, process and grow.
See more therapy options for 90403
Online Therapists
Is online therapy as effective as in-person?
Numerous studies suggest that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy. However, further research is needed to determine if online therapy provides the same benefits across all client populations. Individuals with severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or those who may benefit from in-person check-ins, like those with eating disorders, may not experience the same level of benefit from online therapy. Nonetheless, the success of online therapy, much like in-person therapy, often hinges on the quality of the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client rather than the specific modality of therapy used.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of therapy conducted online?
One of the main advantages of online therapy is its convenience for both clients and therapists. It also allows clients who require specialized therapy to access a wider range of professionals than they could with only in-person sessions. Additionally, online therapy may be a more affordable option in some cases and often offers the same insurance benefits as in-person therapy. However, online therapy may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who value face-to-face interaction with a therapist. Therapists may find it more challenging to assess clients accurately in an online setting due to reduced nonverbal cues on camera. There is also the increased risk that disruptions caused by external factors, such as technology malfunctions, can hinder the therapy session. For these reasons, many therapists offer a "hybrid" therapeutic approach, alternating between seeing clients in-person and online.
Is online therapy suitable for children and adolescents?
Just like with adults, the accessibility and convenience of online therapy can greatly benefit children and adolescents. In fact, children and adolescents may be more accustomed to navigating online platforms than older adults, making online sessions feel more natural for them. Teens might also be interested in using additional online tools, such as therapist-recommended apps, as an adjunct to online therapy sessions. Apps for developing CBT skills, practicing mindfulness exercises, or tracking thoughts and moods can be helpful for teens receiving therapy. However, it's important to note that not all therapeutic modalities are well-suited to online therapy, especially those used with younger children. For example, play therapy, which helps younger children express their emotions, often requires in-person sessions to be fully effective.
Can I receive prescriptions and medication management with online therapy?
The ability for psychiatrists to prescribe medications through online therapy varies based on the medication and the states where the medical professional and client are located. While many prescribing regulations were relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic, some states still enforce rules, especially concerning controlled substances, which may mandate an in-person visit before prescribing. Generally, however, medical professionals can prescribe non-controlled substances through online therapy sessions just as they do during in-person sessions.