Photo of undefined - EMDR Trauma Therapy, MA, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
EMDR Trauma Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405  (Online Only)
Greetings, we are delighted that you've embarked on this journey of self-discovery, growth, & healing. We are a group practice based out of California led by Founder/Director, Patricia Alvarado. Collectively, we have over a decade of experience in the helping profession, assisting children, teens, and adults. Our approach involves viewing situations through a multicultural lens, enabling us to comprehend your unique needs through active listening, empathy, and a non-judgmental perspective. We specialize in EMDR, CBT, Solution-Focused Treatment, & Mindfulness.
Greetings, we are delighted that you've embarked on this journey of self-discovery, growth, & healing. We are a group practice based out of California led by Founder/Director, Patricia Alvarado. Collectively, we have over a decade of experience in the helping profession, assisting children, teens, and adults. Our approach involves viewing situations through a multicultural lens, enabling us to comprehend your unique needs through active listening, empathy, and a non-judgmental perspective. We specialize in EMDR, CBT, Solution-Focused Treatment, & Mindfulness.
(310) 570-2494 View (310) 570-2494
Photo of undefined - Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Our wide variety of specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Child and Teen Behaviors, Family Issues, Couples, Divorce, Co-parenting, Communication, Dating, Life Transitions, LGBTQIA+, Racial/Ethnic Identity, and clinicians who are trained in EMDR, CBT, IFS, ERP, ACT, and Brain Spotting.
Pacific MFT Network is a group of highly skilled, diverse, and well-trained therapists. Our mission is to empower you to live the life you want. We do so by creating supportive, caring, and non-judgmental relationships with our clients. We work to provide you with the best care possible and reduce obstacles to participation. Additional benefits to working with us include a unique concierge billing service and a wide range of scheduling options (all weekdays, weekends, day and evening appointments are available). We work with children, teens, and adults of all ages.
Our wide variety of specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Child and Teen Behaviors, Family Issues, Couples, Divorce, Co-parenting, Communication, Dating, Life Transitions, LGBTQIA+, Racial/Ethnic Identity, and clinicians who are trained in EMDR, CBT, IFS, ERP, ACT, and Brain Spotting.
Pacific MFT Network is a group of highly skilled, diverse, and well-trained therapists. Our mission is to empower you to live the life you want. We do so by creating supportive, caring, and non-judgmental relationships with our clients. We work to provide you with the best care possible and reduce obstacles to participation. Additional benefits to working with us include a unique concierge billing service and a wide range of scheduling options (all weekdays, weekends, day and evening appointments are available). We work with children, teens, and adults of all ages.
(424) 246-2494 View (424) 246-2494
Photo of Tracy King, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
We address communication, intimacy,money, family, and the future I work with children, adults, adolescents, and seniors.
You've already tried it on your own. Maybe you've found partial solutions,but it does get discouraging finding yourself, or your relationship, repeating the same patterns over and over. Seeing a very experienced, sharp, interactive therapist means finding much quicker relief for problems related to relationships , depression, anxiety and panic, parenting, childhood, and life directions. Working with me means forming a solution-oriented partnership for real change. I have successfully done this work for many years, and help people on both long or short term issues. To meet your needs, I have evening & W/E appointments.
We address communication, intimacy,money, family, and the future I work with children, adults, adolescents, and seniors.
You've already tried it on your own. Maybe you've found partial solutions,but it does get discouraging finding yourself, or your relationship, repeating the same patterns over and over. Seeing a very experienced, sharp, interactive therapist means finding much quicker relief for problems related to relationships , depression, anxiety and panic, parenting, childhood, and life directions. Working with me means forming a solution-oriented partnership for real change. I have successfully done this work for many years, and help people on both long or short term issues. To meet your needs, I have evening & W/E appointments.
(310) 340-6874 View (310) 340-6874
Photo of Eri Nagai Ashlock - Anxiety - Self Esteem, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Eri Nagai Ashlock - Anxiety - Self Esteem
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I have had positive experiences working with adults, couples, and children on issues related to identity, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relational struggles.
I have joy, passion, and success working with minority, biracial, and 1st generation/immigrants who experience challenges adjusting to blended families and new/blended cultures. I help my clients identify reasonable solutions to current challenges and we collaborate to create coping skills that build resilience and allow you to thrive. My clients appreciate the gentle, warm, and supportive work we do together. They enjoy being seen, heard, and challenged to deepen self-awareness and overcome sadness, low self-esteem, shame, guilt, and anxiety.
I have had positive experiences working with adults, couples, and children on issues related to identity, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relational struggles.
I have joy, passion, and success working with minority, biracial, and 1st generation/immigrants who experience challenges adjusting to blended families and new/blended cultures. I help my clients identify reasonable solutions to current challenges and we collaborate to create coping skills that build resilience and allow you to thrive. My clients appreciate the gentle, warm, and supportive work we do together. They enjoy being seen, heard, and challenged to deepen self-awareness and overcome sadness, low self-esteem, shame, guilt, and anxiety.
(310) 974-4865 View (310) 974-4865
Photo of Dr. Arlice Cleveland, PsyD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Arlice Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I work with children, adolescents, young adults, parents, individuals, couples, elders and families struggling with a broad range of anxiety, trauma, emotional and behavioral issues.
I can assist and support you with problem-solving skills, traumas, and collaboratively work with you in obtaining new coping strategies for issues such as: Depression, anxiety, relational disruptions, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, and more. Many of my clients have shared that attending therapy with myself has helped them learn new techniques in self-management and personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and some of life daily stressors. I can work with you in achieving a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and help you identify your true authentic self.
I work with children, adolescents, young adults, parents, individuals, couples, elders and families struggling with a broad range of anxiety, trauma, emotional and behavioral issues.
I can assist and support you with problem-solving skills, traumas, and collaboratively work with you in obtaining new coping strategies for issues such as: Depression, anxiety, relational disruptions, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, and more. Many of my clients have shared that attending therapy with myself has helped them learn new techniques in self-management and personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and some of life daily stressors. I can work with you in achieving a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and help you identify your true authentic self.
(424) 373-8129 View (424) 373-8129
Photo of Jill Howe-Vercos, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Howe-Vercos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I'm a Level II EMDR Therapist and trained in Clinical Hypnosis, and have experienced the profound difference utilizing these techniques can make in the lives of adults as well as adolescents and children.
Heal the past. Be present. Have a future. You are not broken -- you already have the tools you need. My goal is to help you access those tools and remove any obstacles that prevent you from feeling like yourself. Whether you're struggling with old wounds or need support for current life challenges, we'll work together to build on your strengths -- and uncover ones you may not yet know you have.
I'm a Level II EMDR Therapist and trained in Clinical Hypnosis, and have experienced the profound difference utilizing these techniques can make in the lives of adults as well as adolescents and children.
Heal the past. Be present. Have a future. You are not broken -- you already have the tools you need. My goal is to help you access those tools and remove any obstacles that prevent you from feeling like yourself. Whether you're struggling with old wounds or need support for current life challenges, we'll work together to build on your strengths -- and uncover ones you may not yet know you have.
(310) 945-2918 View (310) 945-2918
Photo of Rebekka Helford, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebekka Helford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Consider me your parenting partner from birth until your children launch, and even beyond!.
Countless clients have expressed this frustration to me: “I know I do this, and I know why I do it. But that hasn’t stopped me from doing it! I’ve been in therapy for ages. What am I doing wrong?” If this sounds like you, you’ve come to the right place. Although developing insight into your challenges is a great first step toward healing, unfortunately, it cannot transform your life because of one hard fact: you cannot out-think your pain!
Consider me your parenting partner from birth until your children launch, and even beyond!.
Countless clients have expressed this frustration to me: “I know I do this, and I know why I do it. But that hasn’t stopped me from doing it! I’ve been in therapy for ages. What am I doing wrong?” If this sounds like you, you’ve come to the right place. Although developing insight into your challenges is a great first step toward healing, unfortunately, it cannot transform your life because of one hard fact: you cannot out-think your pain!
(310) 846-8161 View (310) 846-8161
Photo of Phil Sayegh, PhD, MPH, Psychologist
Phil Sayegh
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405  (Online Only)
Welcome to Sayegh Psychology (https://sayeghpsychology.com/), a small psychological assessment private practice in Santa Monica, California. Dr. Phil Sayegh offers psychoeducational, neuropsychological, psychological, and personality assessments for adolescents (ages 16+), adults, and older adults. Assessments can help you understand yourself or your child better, identify strengths and weaknesses, and support access to appropriate accommodations at school and on standardized tests (e.g., SAT, ACT, GRE, MCAT, GMAT, LSAT, DAT, and State Bar). All assessments include outside consultation (e.g., speaking to schools and doctors) and completion of paperwork for academic and testing accommodations. Services available on weekends. Superbill can be provided upon request.
Welcome to Sayegh Psychology (https://sayeghpsychology.com/), a small psychological assessment private practice in Santa Monica, California. Dr. Phil Sayegh offers psychoeducational, neuropsychological, psychological, and personality assessments for adolescents (ages 16+), adults, and older adults. Assessments can help you understand yourself or your child better, identify strengths and weaknesses, and support access to appropriate accommodations at school and on standardized tests (e.g., SAT, ACT, GRE, MCAT, GMAT, LSAT, DAT, and State Bar). All assessments include outside consultation (e.g., speaking to schools and doctors) and completion of paperwork for academic and testing accommodations. Services available on weekends. Superbill can be provided upon request.
(424) 383-8335 View (424) 383-8335
Photo of undefined - Healista Holistic Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healista Holistic Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
At Healista, we have 20+ years of experience working with adults, families (including couples), and children of all ages to (re)establish healthy ways of coping with adversities they face, so they can get back to their true selves and the things that bring them joy.
At Healista, we believe everyone has the power within themselves to make a change in their lives. They just sometimes need a little help along the way. And that’s where we come in. We help our clients connect to their inner safety by nurturing their intuitive skills to cope with challenges, stressors, and traumas to feel more at ease and resilient in their daily lives. We believe in the power of slowing down and focusing on the whole picture of one’s socioemotional well being to regain embodied ease, overcome feelings of shame and loneliness, and find clarity on how to move forward.
At Healista, we have 20+ years of experience working with adults, families (including couples), and children of all ages to (re)establish healthy ways of coping with adversities they face, so they can get back to their true selves and the things that bring them joy.
At Healista, we believe everyone has the power within themselves to make a change in their lives. They just sometimes need a little help along the way. And that’s where we come in. We help our clients connect to their inner safety by nurturing their intuitive skills to cope with challenges, stressors, and traumas to feel more at ease and resilient in their daily lives. We believe in the power of slowing down and focusing on the whole picture of one’s socioemotional well being to regain embodied ease, overcome feelings of shame and loneliness, and find clarity on how to move forward.
(310) 499-2640 View (310) 499-2640
Photo of Lara Sando, PhD, Psychologist
Lara Sando
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Are you wondering how to best support your struggling child? You may find yourself at a loss after reading and researching, wishing you could optimize your parenting intuition and do what's best for YOUR child. The infancy, toddler, and childhood years provide a unique opportunity for families looking to rise above old patterns, and I gently support you in taking hold of this moment to set your child up for a lifetime of mental and relational wellness. Rather than someone to fix your child, you need an expert who can empower you to guide your child through the challenges of life.
Are you wondering how to best support your struggling child? You may find yourself at a loss after reading and researching, wishing you could optimize your parenting intuition and do what's best for YOUR child. The infancy, toddler, and childhood years provide a unique opportunity for families looking to rise above old patterns, and I gently support you in taking hold of this moment to set your child up for a lifetime of mental and relational wellness. Rather than someone to fix your child, you need an expert who can empower you to guide your child through the challenges of life.
(310) 363-0435 View (310) 363-0435
Photo of Alana Fineo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alana Fineo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405  (Online Only)
Alana supports children, teens, and adults to navigate tricky situations. She utilizes a holistic and trauma-informed approach to assist client’s at verbalizing thoughts and feelings, to gain insight into their functioning, their triggers and to develop healthy coping skills. Her kind and gentle nature facilitates a safe space where client’s feel empowered to commence their healing journey.
Alana supports children, teens, and adults to navigate tricky situations. She utilizes a holistic and trauma-informed approach to assist client’s at verbalizing thoughts and feelings, to gain insight into their functioning, their triggers and to develop healthy coping skills. Her kind and gentle nature facilitates a safe space where client’s feel empowered to commence their healing journey.
(310) 362-6545 View (310) 362-6545
Photo of Stacey Sampo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stacey Sampo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Hi, I’m Stacey. Whether your child has struggled for a while or has just recently started to exhibit certain behaviors, I know it's never easy to ask for help - which is why I'm so glad you're here. I believe children are always moving towards wholeness but sometimes need help from compassionate and knowledgeable adults. My work with your child will integrate the science of interpersonal neurobiology, child development, trauma-informed care, expressive arts, and play to strengthen the understanding, love, and security between you and your child.
Hi, I’m Stacey. Whether your child has struggled for a while or has just recently started to exhibit certain behaviors, I know it's never easy to ask for help - which is why I'm so glad you're here. I believe children are always moving towards wholeness but sometimes need help from compassionate and knowledgeable adults. My work with your child will integrate the science of interpersonal neurobiology, child development, trauma-informed care, expressive arts, and play to strengthen the understanding, love, and security between you and your child.
(424) 531-7837 View (424) 531-7837
Photo of Lori Shnorhokian, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori Shnorhokian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I have been helping children, adults, families and couples in Southern California learn to understand and respond to challenges such as anxiety, depression and addiction.
I provide a safe environment and compassionate, non-judgmental counseling to help you explore the personal and relationship challenges you are facing and begin working toward lasting solutions. Whether you are looking for personal growth, relationship healing or overall support, I can help you to more clearly understand why you are struggling and what steps you can take to feel more confident and in control of your life. When you develop new coping skills, you give yourself the resources and confidence you need to effectively manage challenges rather than giving into unhealthy compulsions and negative self-talk.
I have been helping children, adults, families and couples in Southern California learn to understand and respond to challenges such as anxiety, depression and addiction.
I provide a safe environment and compassionate, non-judgmental counseling to help you explore the personal and relationship challenges you are facing and begin working toward lasting solutions. Whether you are looking for personal growth, relationship healing or overall support, I can help you to more clearly understand why you are struggling and what steps you can take to feel more confident and in control of your life. When you develop new coping skills, you give yourself the resources and confidence you need to effectively manage challenges rather than giving into unhealthy compulsions and negative self-talk.
(424) 276-6330 View (424) 276-6330
Photo of undefined - Kaitlin Christy- Anxiety, OCD, Child/Teen, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kaitlin Christy- Anxiety, OCD, Child/Teen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
My work as a therapist is dedicated to empowering youth, strengthening families, and navigating life’s challenges together through empathy, connection, and the use of evidence-based practices. I work with children (3+), teens, young adults, and families on their journeys to grow, thrive, and create lasting change. Is your child or teen’s anxiety getting in the way of them completing tasks or going to school? Does your child have trouble expressing their feelings? It is easy to get stuck in survival mode; I enjoy supporting my clients by nurturing the mind-body connection, managing big emotions, and increasing adaptive coping skills.
My work as a therapist is dedicated to empowering youth, strengthening families, and navigating life’s challenges together through empathy, connection, and the use of evidence-based practices. I work with children (3+), teens, young adults, and families on their journeys to grow, thrive, and create lasting change. Is your child or teen’s anxiety getting in the way of them completing tasks or going to school? Does your child have trouble expressing their feelings? It is easy to get stuck in survival mode; I enjoy supporting my clients by nurturing the mind-body connection, managing big emotions, and increasing adaptive coping skills.
(818) 641-1492 View (818) 641-1492
Photo of Henry McCain, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Henry McCain
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
You find yourself here because you’ve finally reached the point where you need support with your child. You’ve spent hours researching common signs and symptoms of what the issue might be. Childhood is brief, yet the most significant period of life. I’m here to help you seize this opportunity to ensure your child's lifelong mental and relational well-being. Our strength-based assessments will reveal your child's unique strengths and areas for growth in all domains (including academically, emotionally, and socially). This will help you understand them better and make it easier to access support in school.
You find yourself here because you’ve finally reached the point where you need support with your child. You’ve spent hours researching common signs and symptoms of what the issue might be. Childhood is brief, yet the most significant period of life. I’m here to help you seize this opportunity to ensure your child's lifelong mental and relational well-being. Our strength-based assessments will reveal your child's unique strengths and areas for growth in all domains (including academically, emotionally, and socially). This will help you understand them better and make it easier to access support in school.
(310) 919-0619 View (310) 919-0619
Photo of Christopher E Getto, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher E Getto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I have additional experience working with adults and transitional age youth who have developmental disabilities with co-occuring disorders and helping families who have children with developmental disabilities.
Welcome. Sometimes things are complicated. We keep feeling a certain way or doing something and don't understand why. Sometimes things are more simple. We understand what we want, maybe even how to get there but just need a little support along the way. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them achieve the changes they wish to see in their lives, big or small, complicated or not.
I have additional experience working with adults and transitional age youth who have developmental disabilities with co-occuring disorders and helping families who have children with developmental disabilities.
Welcome. Sometimes things are complicated. We keep feeling a certain way or doing something and don't understand why. Sometimes things are more simple. We understand what we want, maybe even how to get there but just need a little support along the way. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them achieve the changes they wish to see in their lives, big or small, complicated or not.
(323) 431-5155 View (323) 431-5155
Elena Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I am a licensed psychotherapist with 20 years experience working with children, families and adults.
I believe in giving it to you straight wrapped with warmth and love. I believe we all have the power to make change but sometimes need a little help along the way. I provide individual, couples and family therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I have an array of experience from working to outpatient mental health clinics where I supervised psychology and social work interns to consulting at local schools to coordinating clinical programs. In addition I also enjoy weaving eastern and western philosophies into my practice.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with 20 years experience working with children, families and adults.
I believe in giving it to you straight wrapped with warmth and love. I believe we all have the power to make change but sometimes need a little help along the way. I provide individual, couples and family therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I have an array of experience from working to outpatient mental health clinics where I supervised psychology and social work interns to consulting at local schools to coordinating clinical programs. In addition I also enjoy weaving eastern and western philosophies into my practice.
(424) 570-1067 View (424) 570-1067
Photo of Karina Castaneda, MA, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Karina Castaneda
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Karina is a bilingual Spanish-speaking associate marriage and family therapist in Santa Monica, California, specializing in child development, including work with at-risk youth, neurodivergent disorders, and developmental delays. Working from an attachment-based lens, Karina is passionate about supporting families and children experiencing conflict and a variety of stressors, including high conflict family dynamics. Karina has a strong appreciation for the relationship between the body and the brain, thus integrating mindfulness, self-regulation, and other somatic-based modalities into her work.
Karina is a bilingual Spanish-speaking associate marriage and family therapist in Santa Monica, California, specializing in child development, including work with at-risk youth, neurodivergent disorders, and developmental delays. Working from an attachment-based lens, Karina is passionate about supporting families and children experiencing conflict and a variety of stressors, including high conflict family dynamics. Karina has a strong appreciation for the relationship between the body and the brain, thus integrating mindfulness, self-regulation, and other somatic-based modalities into her work.
(323) 766-6850 View (323) 766-6850
Photo of Jackson Varady, PsyD, Psychologist
Jackson Varady
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Building Emotional Resilience is key towards achieving a balanced life. You may be a parent dealing with the challenge of a defiant child, or a spouse suffering with a critical or distant partner. Perhaps you're a high-powered professional grappling with the demands of career and family, or a sensitive teenager navigating the precarious path towards young adulthood. In either case, whether it's relationship issues, difficult feelings, worrying thoughts, unwanted behaviors, or even just searching for answers to some of life's biggest questions, I can provide guidance, support, and wisdom towards realizing obtainable solutions.
Building Emotional Resilience is key towards achieving a balanced life. You may be a parent dealing with the challenge of a defiant child, or a spouse suffering with a critical or distant partner. Perhaps you're a high-powered professional grappling with the demands of career and family, or a sensitive teenager navigating the precarious path towards young adulthood. In either case, whether it's relationship issues, difficult feelings, worrying thoughts, unwanted behaviors, or even just searching for answers to some of life's biggest questions, I can provide guidance, support, and wisdom towards realizing obtainable solutions.
(424) 365-1106 View (424) 365-1106
Photo of Anna Selena Cho, LMFT, ATR, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Selena Cho
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Cho also works at the Reiss-Davis Child Study Center specializing in psychodiagnostic testing for children ages 4 to 18.
Dr. Anna Selena Cho, was born in Los Angeles and has personal experience living bi-culturally. Dr. Cho was traditionally trained in visual arts in her early developmental years and eventually obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, and her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Cho has developed programs with organizations wanting to further expand their learning standards towards socio-emotional integration.
Cho also works at the Reiss-Davis Child Study Center specializing in psychodiagnostic testing for children ages 4 to 18.
Dr. Anna Selena Cho, was born in Los Angeles and has personal experience living bi-culturally. Dr. Cho was traditionally trained in visual arts in her early developmental years and eventually obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, and her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Cho has developed programs with organizations wanting to further expand their learning standards towards socio-emotional integration.
(310) 340-2835 View (310) 340-2835
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.