Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Ryan Scott Brewer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
My clients are generally very smart and motivated people that are tired of being held back by their anxiety, depression, and past trauma. They are looking for immediate tools that can help them feel more empowered today, while also ready to do the work of healing these issues for good!
My clients are generally very smart and motivated people that are tired of being held back by their anxiety, depression, and past trauma. They are looking for immediate tools that can help them feel more empowered today, while also ready to do the work of healing these issues for good!
Ariana Kiefer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
My typical client is not looking for a one-size fits all approach, they are looking for a creative solution, one which they have not already tried themselves. Initially coming in for therapy my client may feel anxious, depressed, have insomnia, relationship troubles or struggle with putting their phone away. I enjoy working with teenagers who spend too much time on their phones and are showing signs of emotional instability. I enjoy helping families and couples who are drifting apart, yet want to earnestly work on mending their relationship.
My typical client is not looking for a one-size fits all approach, they are looking for a creative solution, one which they have not already tried themselves. Initially coming in for therapy my client may feel anxious, depressed, have insomnia, relationship troubles or struggle with putting their phone away. I enjoy working with teenagers who spend too much time on their phones and are showing signs of emotional instability. I enjoy helping families and couples who are drifting apart, yet want to earnestly work on mending their relationship.
Leyla S. Bell, Ph.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I work with those wanting to find a way forward from "stuckness" and inner conflicts, coping with disappointment, illness, loss, and grieving. I can help with better understanding and resolving your challenges, handling anxiety, alleviating depression, exploring their root causes and larger unconscious meaning, and feeling more at home with yourself, in your skin. I can help with making sense of the imprints left by your lived experiences and making the changes that you want in your life.
I work with those wanting to find a way forward from "stuckness" and inner conflicts, coping with disappointment, illness, loss, and grieving. I can help with better understanding and resolving your challenges, handling anxiety, alleviating depression, exploring their root causes and larger unconscious meaning, and feeling more at home with yourself, in your skin. I can help with making sense of the imprints left by your lived experiences and making the changes that you want in your life.
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.
Holly Hardgrove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Throughout the many years I have been practicing, the greatest reward has been to help clients better understand themselves and find their own voice. We work together to examine the role their family of origin plays in their current choices and relationships. I have a particular expertise in working with individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma. By providing a safe space to explore relationship issues and limiting thought patterns, I am able to assist clients to better understand and accept themselves, and reduce critical self beliefs.
Throughout the many years I have been practicing, the greatest reward has been to help clients better understand themselves and find their own voice. We work together to examine the role their family of origin plays in their current choices and relationships. I have a particular expertise in working with individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma. By providing a safe space to explore relationship issues and limiting thought patterns, I am able to assist clients to better understand and accept themselves, and reduce critical self beliefs.
Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
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.
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.
Tracy Kovacs Bevington
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
38 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I work to help you be the best person possible. I empower clients to recognize their choices in life and take advantage of them. I enjoy working with adults, families, and couples, but especially love working with teens/adolescents and parents. I've had success with anxiety, stress, depression, family problems, relationship problems, and work and school issues. I have an eclectic style where I utilize methods that best suit my client's needs. I treat my clients with the utmost respect to create and environment of safety and comfort. My clients grow through the partnership we create together.
I work to help you be the best person possible. I empower clients to recognize their choices in life and take advantage of them. I enjoy working with adults, families, and couples, but especially love working with teens/adolescents and parents. I've had success with anxiety, stress, depression, family problems, relationship problems, and work and school issues. I have an eclectic style where I utilize methods that best suit my client's needs. I treat my clients with the utmost respect to create and environment of safety and comfort. My clients grow through the partnership we create together.
Jessica M Hicks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I specialize in treating highly gifted & highly sensitive people, relationship issues, family systems, anxiety, depression, individuation, compulsion, trauma, and dream work. I have seen the depths of pain and shame in the therapy room. I have compassion for your struggle and am ready to be your ally on the path of healing. The process of psychotherapy is a deeply personal, introspective undertaking. Together we will recognize the wounds, trauma, and disappointments that have befallen you and begin the process of remedy, integration, and repair. In this emotionally safe harbor you can press up against your edges and find compassion.
I specialize in treating highly gifted & highly sensitive people, relationship issues, family systems, anxiety, depression, individuation, compulsion, trauma, and dream work. I have seen the depths of pain and shame in the therapy room. I have compassion for your struggle and am ready to be your ally on the path of healing. The process of psychotherapy is a deeply personal, introspective undertaking. Together we will recognize the wounds, trauma, and disappointments that have befallen you and begin the process of remedy, integration, and repair. In this emotionally safe harbor you can press up against your edges and find compassion.
Nic Harbeck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Not accepting new clients
Self-knowledge is a lifelong journey. The ideal client is one who has willingness to move inward toward deeper understanding. This most effectively occurs as we explore ourselves in relationship to others. The fit between you and your therapist is fundamental to this process. It is imperative for a client to feel safe and supported by their therapist in order to tolerate and receive the compassionate honesty and gentle confrontation, which are the keys to this transformative work. If you are willing and ready to confront your light and shadow, I welcome you to move inward, together. I provide psychotherapy and sex therapy.
Self-knowledge is a lifelong journey. The ideal client is one who has willingness to move inward toward deeper understanding. This most effectively occurs as we explore ourselves in relationship to others. The fit between you and your therapist is fundamental to this process. It is imperative for a client to feel safe and supported by their therapist in order to tolerate and receive the compassionate honesty and gentle confrontation, which are the keys to this transformative work. If you are willing and ready to confront your light and shadow, I welcome you to move inward, together. I provide psychotherapy and sex therapy.
Peyton Kline
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
Does your relationship need re-groovin? Are you not understanding each other? Are you speaking to each other from your head and not from your heart? Feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship can be painful. Good memories can fade and be replaced by more challenging ones. Are you ready to try a different way? Healthy relationships go through challenges. I work with couples, individuals, high sensitives who want more harmony in their lives and in their relationships. Relationship work can be an exploration into your values and beliefs.
Does your relationship need re-groovin? Are you not understanding each other? Are you speaking to each other from your head and not from your heart? Feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship can be painful. Good memories can fade and be replaced by more challenging ones. Are you ready to try a different way? Healthy relationships go through challenges. I work with couples, individuals, high sensitives who want more harmony in their lives and in their relationships. Relationship work can be an exploration into your values and beliefs.
Laurie A Foy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming for all of us at different times.... whether it's feeling worthy that you deserve good things, struggling in relationships, not knowing which direction to take next, or feeling like the weight of the baggage from childhood trauma or loss will never be released. There is never a need to struggle alone. I believe that we all have inner resilience and strength at our authentic core and that it's possible to release the trauma, self doubt, and negative patterns that keep us from living life to our fullest potential.
Life can be overwhelming for all of us at different times.... whether it's feeling worthy that you deserve good things, struggling in relationships, not knowing which direction to take next, or feeling like the weight of the baggage from childhood trauma or loss will never be released. There is never a need to struggle alone. I believe that we all have inner resilience and strength at our authentic core and that it's possible to release the trauma, self doubt, and negative patterns that keep us from living life to our fullest potential.
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Natalie Kazarian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Beginning therapy takes courage and you've already taken the first step. My goal is to help you create a more fulfilling life. I provide a safe space to work collaboratively with you. I will listen and use my knowledge base to help address the parts of your life that feel challenging. I work in both short term and long term treatment modalities.
Beginning therapy takes courage and you've already taken the first step. My goal is to help you create a more fulfilling life. I provide a safe space to work collaboratively with you. I will listen and use my knowledge base to help address the parts of your life that feel challenging. I work in both short term and long term treatment modalities.
Diana Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Therapy is a platform to identify and nurture your strengths, explore emotionally charged topics, and discover potentials in order to create a strong, loving relationship with yourself. I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and I work from an integrative framework, combining mindfulness, somatic interventions, and strengths based approaches.
Therapy is a platform to identify and nurture your strengths, explore emotionally charged topics, and discover potentials in order to create a strong, loving relationship with yourself. I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and I work from an integrative framework, combining mindfulness, somatic interventions, and strengths based approaches.
Araceli Hirtle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
I help women to better manage parenting, while maintaining her work/life balance. Is this you? Marriage and parenting are difficult. Often it is hard to find the energy to be patient, creative or loving. Do you struggle with solo parenting and feeling unseen? Do you want to feel more connected with your spouse? Do you want to feel like "you" again? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression and / or have experienced trauma but haven't "faced" it because "there is not enough time" or because you've "dealt with it this long", I get it and I can help you find the joy in your life again.
I help women to better manage parenting, while maintaining her work/life balance. Is this you? Marriage and parenting are difficult. Often it is hard to find the energy to be patient, creative or loving. Do you struggle with solo parenting and feeling unseen? Do you want to feel more connected with your spouse? Do you want to feel like "you" again? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression and / or have experienced trauma but haven't "faced" it because "there is not enough time" or because you've "dealt with it this long", I get it and I can help you find the joy in your life again.
Jasmine N Gibson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
I enjoy helping my clients become their authentic selves in a world that tries its best to control who you are and how you identify. I am here to help my clients live their truth and become comfortable with who they are. I will bring my authentic self to sessions as well, which I would describe as warm, thoughtful, friendly, and casual. I utilize an eclectic approach including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, trauma-focused, EMDR, and strength-based. Our past can shape us, but it doesn’t have to define who we are. I help my clients process past experiences that make them feel “stuck” in order to moving forward.
I enjoy helping my clients become their authentic selves in a world that tries its best to control who you are and how you identify. I am here to help my clients live their truth and become comfortable with who they are. I will bring my authentic self to sessions as well, which I would describe as warm, thoughtful, friendly, and casual. I utilize an eclectic approach including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, trauma-focused, EMDR, and strength-based. Our past can shape us, but it doesn’t have to define who we are. I help my clients process past experiences that make them feel “stuck” in order to moving forward.
Dr. Rachel Lauber
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Welcome. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My practice is centered around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches tailored to assist those dealing with depression and anxiety disorders. Additionally, I specialize in maternal mental health, supporting women through the delicate phases of pregnancy and postpartum. I also work extensively on relationship dynamics, career concerns, struggles with self-esteem, the transition to parenthood, and general life adjustments.
Welcome. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My practice is centered around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches tailored to assist those dealing with depression and anxiety disorders. Additionally, I specialize in maternal mental health, supporting women through the delicate phases of pregnancy and postpartum. I also work extensively on relationship dynamics, career concerns, struggles with self-esteem, the transition to parenthood, and general life adjustments.
Ian Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
I truly believe everyone deserves to have someone that they can easily talk to and that is in their corner. I provide a warm, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment that allows for all my clients to grow. My approach is empathetic, client centered, and attachment based. I truly love helping people develop new skills and insights, work through their traumas, and feel empowered and hopeful as they have met their goals.
I truly believe everyone deserves to have someone that they can easily talk to and that is in their corner. I provide a warm, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment that allows for all my clients to grow. My approach is empathetic, client centered, and attachment based. I truly love helping people develop new skills and insights, work through their traumas, and feel empowered and hopeful as they have met their goals.
Christina Stein
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
If you don't feel satisfied with your life then why not figure what would make you happy. You may not know what's missing or how to feel better, and that is where therapy is an amazing opportunity. I want to help you discover yourself, embrace your uniqueness, and appreciate why and how you do the things you do. In our work together we will explore your past and help make connections that will allow you to feel more autonomy and control in your life. We will uncover passions and embrace your skills and strengths as a person.
If you don't feel satisfied with your life then why not figure what would make you happy. You may not know what's missing or how to feel better, and that is where therapy is an amazing opportunity. I want to help you discover yourself, embrace your uniqueness, and appreciate why and how you do the things you do. In our work together we will explore your past and help make connections that will allow you to feel more autonomy and control in your life. We will uncover passions and embrace your skills and strengths as a person.
Lisa L Rakusin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an certified EMDR Therapist, experienced at treating trauma caused by all kinds of stressful and/or traumatic events, including grief and loss, as well as any related issues such as anxiety, depression, and substance use, that can develop as a result. I am passionate about creating a safe space and a compassionate, nonjudgmental relationship with my clients as I guide them, utilizing their strengths, to accomplish post-traumatic growth and healing. I also believe in the importance of including family members and significant others, when available, as part of the treatment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an certified EMDR Therapist, experienced at treating trauma caused by all kinds of stressful and/or traumatic events, including grief and loss, as well as any related issues such as anxiety, depression, and substance use, that can develop as a result. I am passionate about creating a safe space and a compassionate, nonjudgmental relationship with my clients as I guide them, utilizing their strengths, to accomplish post-traumatic growth and healing. I also believe in the importance of including family members and significant others, when available, as part of the treatment.
Maryann Newsom - California Telehealth Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSTIP , CCTP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
Hi, I am MaryAnn Newsom I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an emphasis in Child Development, and a Masters in is in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, Clinical Trauma Professional, and a Sex Therapy Informed Professional. I have Post-graduate training in a multitude of clinical areas, including, however, not limited to; Working with First Responders, Grief, Executive Functioning/Prefrontal Cortex issues (ADHD, ASD, ODD…), Gender, Sexuality, Telemental Health, EMDR, also Nutrition/lifestyle. I also have a blog sexloveandmarriage.com and I am on Instagram.
Hi, I am MaryAnn Newsom I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an emphasis in Child Development, and a Masters in is in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, Clinical Trauma Professional, and a Sex Therapy Informed Professional. I have Post-graduate training in a multitude of clinical areas, including, however, not limited to; Working with First Responders, Grief, Executive Functioning/Prefrontal Cortex issues (ADHD, ASD, ODD…), Gender, Sexuality, Telemental Health, EMDR, also Nutrition/lifestyle. I also have a blog sexloveandmarriage.com and I am on Instagram.
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$200
Therapists in Santa Monica, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
85% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Grief |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
58% | Aetna |
48% | Cigna and Evernorth |
42% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Santa Monica, CA see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
20% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Santa Monica?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.