Photo of Raha Salehinia, PsyD, Psychologist
Raha Salehinia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am accepting new patients via Telemedicine as the need for mental health support is stronger today than ever. My style is grounded in empathy, listening, and compassion, with a dash of humor central to building a trusting alliance. I work with adults and couples; my doctoral project focused on treating violent couples in highly conflictual relationships in a conjoint setting examining the role of aggression and masochism in relationships. Another area of my expertise is working with individuals and families who are struggling with addiction and addiction-related predicaments.
I am accepting new patients via Telemedicine as the need for mental health support is stronger today than ever. My style is grounded in empathy, listening, and compassion, with a dash of humor central to building a trusting alliance. I work with adults and couples; my doctoral project focused on treating violent couples in highly conflictual relationships in a conjoint setting examining the role of aggression and masochism in relationships. Another area of my expertise is working with individuals and families who are struggling with addiction and addiction-related predicaments.
(310) 361-2125 View (310) 361-2125
Photo of Sid Kalcheim, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sid Kalcheim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
"The function of a psychotherapist is to become obsolete as soon as possible." That quote is from my own psychotherapist and mentor, years ago, and it's the model and motto of my practice. There are, of course, exceptions, including couples or individuals who return for a "tune up" once in a while and others who call me in as co-strategist when some new turbulence hits. Another exception is my work with schizophrenic spectrum patients, who need a long-term connection with consensus reality from wherever they happen to be stuck "on the other side of the mirror".
"The function of a psychotherapist is to become obsolete as soon as possible." That quote is from my own psychotherapist and mentor, years ago, and it's the model and motto of my practice. There are, of course, exceptions, including couples or individuals who return for a "tune up" once in a while and others who call me in as co-strategist when some new turbulence hits. Another exception is my work with schizophrenic spectrum patients, who need a long-term connection with consensus reality from wherever they happen to be stuck "on the other side of the mirror".
(310) 312-0771 View (310) 312-0771
Photo of Cari Ginger Smulyan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cari Ginger Smulyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I have experience working with individuals with personality disorders, mood disorders and addiction.
“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.
I have experience working with individuals with personality disorders, mood disorders and addiction.
“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.
(424) 317-7709 View (424) 317-7709
Photo of Mary Starks, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Mary Starks
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I specialize in individuals who have experienced childhood trauma, struggling to navigate an life event or change, or experiencing relationship distress.
I am a psychotherapist licensed therapist in California, Utah and Arizona. I have 20 years of experience and my approach is psychoanalytic, relational and collaborative. I have an enduring interest in psychological crises and struggles within relationships. I'm interested in how our attachment histories can contribute to our current states and how they've shaped who we are. I also offer virtual Circle of Security Parenting Groups.
I specialize in individuals who have experienced childhood trauma, struggling to navigate an life event or change, or experiencing relationship distress.
I am a psychotherapist licensed therapist in California, Utah and Arizona. I have 20 years of experience and my approach is psychoanalytic, relational and collaborative. I have an enduring interest in psychological crises and struggles within relationships. I'm interested in how our attachment histories can contribute to our current states and how they've shaped who we are. I also offer virtual Circle of Security Parenting Groups.
(310) 388-6796 View (310) 388-6796
Photo of Sheherezad Shashaani, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheherezad Shashaani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Is life too stressful for you? Is your relationship suffering? Do you feel depressed, anxious, or angry due to individual, relationship, family or career issues? Are you concerned about achieving your goals, and wonder about meaning of your life? Has this affected your self esteem and hope for resolving your issues? If so, you will find me compassionate, understanding, comfortable and safe in helping you connect to the strength within you. Together we will work to bring about healing and improve the quality of your life. I am a Jungian oriented psychotherapist specializing in working with individuals, couples, and children.
Is life too stressful for you? Is your relationship suffering? Do you feel depressed, anxious, or angry due to individual, relationship, family or career issues? Are you concerned about achieving your goals, and wonder about meaning of your life? Has this affected your self esteem and hope for resolving your issues? If so, you will find me compassionate, understanding, comfortable and safe in helping you connect to the strength within you. Together we will work to bring about healing and improve the quality of your life. I am a Jungian oriented psychotherapist specializing in working with individuals, couples, and children.
(424) 329-6941 View (424) 329-6941
Photo of undefined - Maxine J Dusig, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maxine J Dusig, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties are helping individuals and couples to better understand themselves.
It is a privilege to work with you. I am committed to assist you in discovering any emotional issues that may be troubling. Some of the issues may be relationships, depression, anxiety or any crisis. I am understanding of life's difficulties. I will help you discover how they are affecting you. You will gain more knowledge about yourself as well as others. You may need to learn new tools in managing difficult situations. I will help you to grow, gain more knowledge of yourself, and to set better boundaries In communication. I look forward to meeting with you and establishing a good working relationship.
Specialties are helping individuals and couples to better understand themselves.
It is a privilege to work with you. I am committed to assist you in discovering any emotional issues that may be troubling. Some of the issues may be relationships, depression, anxiety or any crisis. I am understanding of life's difficulties. I will help you discover how they are affecting you. You will gain more knowledge about yourself as well as others. You may need to learn new tools in managing difficult situations. I will help you to grow, gain more knowledge of yourself, and to set better boundaries In communication. I look forward to meeting with you and establishing a good working relationship.
(310) 828-2323 View (310) 828-2323
Photo of Ava Rose, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Mark B. Copeland, PhD, Psychologist
Mark B. Copeland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
During the past 16 years I have pursued personal development and professional training to focus on individuals, couples, adolescent males and professional athletes.
At various times in their lives people need help in recognizing what they want and are not getting. In an atmosphere of safety and support, we will look at patterns and beliefs that prevent each person from feeling cohesive and understood. We will also look at patterns that trigger feelings of depression, anger and anxiety, as well as longings that may be shameful and out of awareness. With support and understanding shame can be dealt with and reduced leading to a life that is less isolated and anxiety ridden.
During the past 16 years I have pursued personal development and professional training to focus on individuals, couples, adolescent males and professional athletes.
At various times in their lives people need help in recognizing what they want and are not getting. In an atmosphere of safety and support, we will look at patterns and beliefs that prevent each person from feeling cohesive and understood. We will also look at patterns that trigger feelings of depression, anger and anxiety, as well as longings that may be shameful and out of awareness. With support and understanding shame can be dealt with and reduced leading to a life that is less isolated and anxiety ridden.
(424) 294-8921 View (424) 294-8921
Photo of undefined - The Saturday Center for Psychotherapy, PhD, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
The Saturday Center for Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
"Being listened to." That is the experience of being at the Saturday Center: intensely, deeply, actively, empathically listened to; seen, heard and understood. For over 30 years we have provided this type of counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. TSC is committed to dynamic psychotherapy and to providing treatment based on need rather than economics. The Center is staffed by advanced psychological interns, psychological assistants and marriage & family therapist interns who are supervised by a group of experienced, licensed private practitioners dedicated to the practice and teaching of psychotherapy.
"Being listened to." That is the experience of being at the Saturday Center: intensely, deeply, actively, empathically listened to; seen, heard and understood. For over 30 years we have provided this type of counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. TSC is committed to dynamic psychotherapy and to providing treatment based on need rather than economics. The Center is staffed by advanced psychological interns, psychological assistants and marriage & family therapist interns who are supervised by a group of experienced, licensed private practitioners dedicated to the practice and teaching of psychotherapy.
(310) 879-5804 View (310) 879-5804
Photo of Robyn Blythe, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Blythe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, nurturing, and empathic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addictions. I am trained & certified in EMDR, which helps a person to quickly move through recent and past trauma and successfully overcome symptoms related to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). We'll work together to help you find a healthy balance between body, mind, and emotions that allow for success in relationships and work, self-empowerment, and to live a life full of hope, meaning, and purpose.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, nurturing, and empathic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addictions. I am trained & certified in EMDR, which helps a person to quickly move through recent and past trauma and successfully overcome symptoms related to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). We'll work together to help you find a healthy balance between body, mind, and emotions that allow for success in relationships and work, self-empowerment, and to live a life full of hope, meaning, and purpose.
(818) 203-0246 View (818) 203-0246
Photo of Ann Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
(818) 230-4431 View (818) 230-4431
Photo of Nicole Woolf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Woolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I appreciate working with a wide and diverse range of individuals that include unsafe upbringings, family/relationship issues, and anger issues.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
I appreciate working with a wide and diverse range of individuals that include unsafe upbringings, family/relationship issues, and anger issues.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
(818) 293-4986 View (818) 293-4986
Photo of Vanessa Katz, PsyD, Psychologist
Vanessa Katz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I work with individuals and couples who are having difficulties in their relationships.
Even though therapy can be challenging and often a painful process of self-discovery, when done in a supportive and empathic environment it can be immensely life changing. Together we will explore how the past has influenced you and make changes in the present, so you can create a more gratifying future. I have extensive experience in treating depression, life transitions, anxiety, relationship & family issues, loss & trauma and sexual abuse.
I work with individuals and couples who are having difficulties in their relationships.
Even though therapy can be challenging and often a painful process of self-discovery, when done in a supportive and empathic environment it can be immensely life changing. Together we will explore how the past has influenced you and make changes in the present, so you can create a more gratifying future. I have extensive experience in treating depression, life transitions, anxiety, relationship & family issues, loss & trauma and sexual abuse.
(323) 870-7225 View (323) 870-7225
Photo of undefined - Kelsey Harper, Psy.D., PsyD, Psychologist
Kelsey Harper, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
A life worth living is one that is full of relationships, and commitments that align with and express our personal values; a life of meaning and purpose. For many people with BPD or CPTSD, such a life feels like a fantasy, wholly unattainable and not within grasp. We often simply hope for a life we can survive, getting through day to day, weeks, months, and staying alive and ok. But we can hope for more than that from life. We can recover and heal, and learn about ourselves and what makes us come alive. I’m here to help you navigate overwhelming emotion so you can feel safe and grounded; connect to yourself so you feel powerful.
A life worth living is one that is full of relationships, and commitments that align with and express our personal values; a life of meaning and purpose. For many people with BPD or CPTSD, such a life feels like a fantasy, wholly unattainable and not within grasp. We often simply hope for a life we can survive, getting through day to day, weeks, months, and staying alive and ok. But we can hope for more than that from life. We can recover and heal, and learn about ourselves and what makes us come alive. I’m here to help you navigate overwhelming emotion so you can feel safe and grounded; connect to yourself so you feel powerful.
(415) 680-9455 View (415) 680-9455
Photo of Amada Battista, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amada Battista
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will collaborate with you in developing problem-solving skills to enhance the coping strategies that will help you deal with depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and other anxiety-producing experiences. I focus on understanding your symptoms within the context of your interpersonal relationships.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will collaborate with you in developing problem-solving skills to enhance the coping strategies that will help you deal with depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and other anxiety-producing experiences. I focus on understanding your symptoms within the context of your interpersonal relationships.
(424) 383-7690 View (424) 383-7690
Photo of Alison C Campbell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alison C Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Let's do this! My ideal client is focused on growth and healing. Many of my clients have suffered from narcissistic and borderline abuse, are interested in building an ability to identify and set good boundaries, and improve their lives. I believe in the power of human resilience and our unstoppable inclination to grow towards wellness, health and balance. We can heal and grow, no matter what obstacles we face.
Let's do this! My ideal client is focused on growth and healing. Many of my clients have suffered from narcissistic and borderline abuse, are interested in building an ability to identify and set good boundaries, and improve their lives. I believe in the power of human resilience and our unstoppable inclination to grow towards wellness, health and balance. We can heal and grow, no matter what obstacles we face.
(424) 364-1153 View (424) 364-1153
Photo of Adriana Garcia, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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 Desiree Basl, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
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.
(424) 378-5129 View (424) 378-5129
Photo of Robert Grossbard, PhD, Psychologist
Robert Grossbard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
People who see me for the first time are often feeling overwhelmed, confused, depressed or anxious. Some people are unable to sleep, have distressing thoughts, or cannot control troublesome habits and behaviors. Others have have struggled with chronic pain due to injuries or illnesses. Many have endured the stigma of having a major mental illness which created difficulties in daily functioning, mood swings, or poor judgement and distorted thinking. And others have functioned well with significant achievements in their careers, family, and relationships but still feel empty inside, and cannot experience pleasure, meaning, or fulfillment from their lives.
People who see me for the first time are often feeling overwhelmed, confused, depressed or anxious. Some people are unable to sleep, have distressing thoughts, or cannot control troublesome habits and behaviors. Others have have struggled with chronic pain due to injuries or illnesses. Many have endured the stigma of having a major mental illness which created difficulties in daily functioning, mood swings, or poor judgement and distorted thinking. And others have functioned well with significant achievements in their careers, family, and relationships but still feel empty inside, and cannot experience pleasure, meaning, or fulfillment from their lives.
(424) 570-1193 View (424) 570-1193
Photo of Dr. Faith Szalay, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Faith Szalay
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
My practice is devoted to working with adults, adolescents and couples to help them deal with difficulties in their relationships and in their personal lives. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, and I am continually honored and intrigued by being able to help people in their lives. I received my degrees (Summa Cum Laude) from Washington University, and my doctorate in Psychology is from CSPP. In addition to my years of work in private practice, my experience includes years of intensive supervised client counseling, and now I am a supervisor at a well established clinic, in addition to my practice.
My practice is devoted to working with adults, adolescents and couples to help them deal with difficulties in their relationships and in their personal lives. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, and I am continually honored and intrigued by being able to help people in their lives. I received my degrees (Summa Cum Laude) from Washington University, and my doctorate in Psychology is from CSPP. In addition to my years of work in private practice, my experience includes years of intensive supervised client counseling, and now I am a supervisor at a well established clinic, in addition to my practice.
(323) 878-2263 View (323) 878-2263
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.