Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Joy. A sense of peace and wellbeing. Loving and feeling loved. Wanting more of these? Gently opening the distress within, in a safe space--with someone who truly wants to help create new understanding--allows dots to connect and forgotten threads to be re-woven. A more confident and joyful you has the potential to grow, to be nurtured, and permeate. Working collaboratively, we will sift through old patterns to understand the current ones. Freedom to simply be YOU--creative, energetic, and loving yourself and those around you awaits. Are you ready...now?
Joy. A sense of peace and wellbeing. Loving and feeling loved. Wanting more of these? Gently opening the distress within, in a safe space--with someone who truly wants to help create new understanding--allows dots to connect and forgotten threads to be re-woven. A more confident and joyful you has the potential to grow, to be nurtured, and permeate. Working collaboratively, we will sift through old patterns to understand the current ones. Freedom to simply be YOU--creative, energetic, and loving yourself and those around you awaits. Are you ready...now?
Welcome to my practice! I specialize in state-of-the-art therapy to help persons recover from stressful life experiences (e.g., developmental/family-of-origin stress & trauma, child abuse, sexual trauma, violence/crime, accidents), through therapy that heals the mind, body, energy & spirit. I address all trauma reactions: Complex PTSD, Depression, Guilt/Shame & offer caring therapy that works by integrating research-validated & new leading-edge treatments. As a highly interactive therapist, I provide feedback & experiential exercises, & work hard to create a richer & more effective therapy experiencethan traditional talk therapy.
Welcome to my practice! I specialize in state-of-the-art therapy to help persons recover from stressful life experiences (e.g., developmental/family-of-origin stress & trauma, child abuse, sexual trauma, violence/crime, accidents), through therapy that heals the mind, body, energy & spirit. I address all trauma reactions: Complex PTSD, Depression, Guilt/Shame & offer caring therapy that works by integrating research-validated & new leading-edge treatments. As a highly interactive therapist, I provide feedback & experiential exercises, & work hard to create a richer & more effective therapy experiencethan traditional talk therapy.
Hello, my name is Gina Regalbuto, and I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California. My specialization is in healing trauma, depression, and anxiety and the symptoms and stressors that follow as a result. I have also worked extensively with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia. I primarily practice through the lens of psychodynamic theory and I am an eclectic provider who utilizes the modality that serves my client's the best.
Hello, my name is Gina Regalbuto, and I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California. My specialization is in healing trauma, depression, and anxiety and the symptoms and stressors that follow as a result. I have also worked extensively with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia. I primarily practice through the lens of psychodynamic theory and I am an eclectic provider who utilizes the modality that serves my client's the best.
It’s easy to feel stuck in your thoughts—constantly second-guessing yourself and worrying that nothing you do is quite enough. You might find yourself striving to please others, aiming for perfection, or wrestling with a critical inner voice. Trusting yourself can be challenging when past experiences and worries weigh heavily. At times, it may feel easier to push emotions aside or shut down, even when deep down, the desire is to feel confident, accepted, and connected. If you want to understand your emotions better, set healthy boundaries, and break free from old patterns, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
It’s easy to feel stuck in your thoughts—constantly second-guessing yourself and worrying that nothing you do is quite enough. You might find yourself striving to please others, aiming for perfection, or wrestling with a critical inner voice. Trusting yourself can be challenging when past experiences and worries weigh heavily. At times, it may feel easier to push emotions aside or shut down, even when deep down, the desire is to feel confident, accepted, and connected. If you want to understand your emotions better, set healthy boundaries, and break free from old patterns, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
During difficult times or circumstances fears and anxiety can be amplified and hard to manage. Even your typically most solid connections with those you love, may need shoring up. My focus is to work with the strengths, which are unique to each person to help metabolize experiences and understandable anxiety in these situations, and try to provide this in a flexible compassionate style with a focus on your individuality. I will also attend to your psychological history which may play a role in the challenges of today. I am available to work in a visual medium/online or via phone if an auditory connection is your preference.
During difficult times or circumstances fears and anxiety can be amplified and hard to manage. Even your typically most solid connections with those you love, may need shoring up. My focus is to work with the strengths, which are unique to each person to help metabolize experiences and understandable anxiety in these situations, and try to provide this in a flexible compassionate style with a focus on your individuality. I will also attend to your psychological history which may play a role in the challenges of today. I am available to work in a visual medium/online or via phone if an auditory connection is your preference.
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 trauma, 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 trauma, 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.
You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected—from yourself, your relationships, or your life’s direction. Maybe you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or a major transition. My clients often seek therapy to find clarity, deeper connections, heal old wounds, improve relationships, and reconnect with a deeper sense of self. Whether you're starting therapy for the first time or returning after a break, this can be a meaningful step toward insight, growth, and feeling more grounded and whole.
You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected—from yourself, your relationships, or your life’s direction. Maybe you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or a major transition. My clients often seek therapy to find clarity, deeper connections, heal old wounds, improve relationships, and reconnect with a deeper sense of self. Whether you're starting therapy for the first time or returning after a break, this can be a meaningful step toward insight, growth, and feeling more grounded and whole.
In Network with OPTUM, Optum EAP, Oscar, United Behavioral Health, Aetna, Cigna (Evernorth) BCBS (online virtual counseling only) When someone is in conflict, some common false beliefs are that my feelings, my worth, and my value come from outside of me, therefore someone else should take care of me. As a result are power struggles in which each person tries to control the other. The way out is to change the system by changing those beliefs. It is only when love becomes appreciation instead of dependence on the other person that this will happen.
In Network with OPTUM, Optum EAP, Oscar, United Behavioral Health, Aetna, Cigna (Evernorth) BCBS (online virtual counseling only) When someone is in conflict, some common false beliefs are that my feelings, my worth, and my value come from outside of me, therefore someone else should take care of me. As a result are power struggles in which each person tries to control the other. The way out is to change the system by changing those beliefs. It is only when love becomes appreciation instead of dependence on the other person that this will happen.
Are you struggling emotionally from a divorce or other challenging life transitions? Are you feeling like life just isn’t working for you? Whether you are experiencing deep loss, sadness, or other intrusive feelings, please know that therapy can help. It is my passion to assist people in working through the difficult times in their lives. Prior to becoming a psychologist, I worked for 16 years in Family Law & Mediation assisting clients through the divorce process. I offer individual psychotherapy, divorce support & recovery counseling, couples counseling, and divorce support groups. I would be honored to work with you.
Are you struggling emotionally from a divorce or other challenging life transitions? Are you feeling like life just isn’t working for you? Whether you are experiencing deep loss, sadness, or other intrusive feelings, please know that therapy can help. It is my passion to assist people in working through the difficult times in their lives. Prior to becoming a psychologist, I worked for 16 years in Family Law & Mediation assisting clients through the divorce process. I offer individual psychotherapy, divorce support & recovery counseling, couples counseling, and divorce support groups. I would be honored to work with you.
Dr. Niosha Sarfallah is a bilingual Clinical Psychologist licensed in California PSY31902 and a member of the American Psychological Association APA . For nearly a decade, she has been providing mental health assessments, diagnoses, treatment plans, and counseling. Although she has a wide range of experience working with diverse populations, Dr. Sarfallah primarily focuses her practice on adults and adolescents.
Dr. Niosha Sarfallah is a bilingual Clinical Psychologist licensed in California PSY31902 and a member of the American Psychological Association APA . For nearly a decade, she has been providing mental health assessments, diagnoses, treatment plans, and counseling. Although she has a wide range of experience working with diverse populations, Dr. Sarfallah primarily focuses her practice on adults and adolescents.
Sophie Halavy: Teen/Adult Anxiety & Depression
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
9 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
My clients are teens and adults overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, identity struggles, or relationship challenges. You may be tired of feeling stuck, misunderstood, or disconnected. Together, we’ll explore how past experiences shape your present and build tools for lasting change. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can show up authentically, navigate big emotions, and grow in resilience. I also support parents and families working to strengthen connection and communication during the challenges of adolescence.
My clients are teens and adults overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, identity struggles, or relationship challenges. You may be tired of feeling stuck, misunderstood, or disconnected. Together, we’ll explore how past experiences shape your present and build tools for lasting change. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can show up authentically, navigate big emotions, and grow in resilience. I also support parents and families working to strengthen connection and communication during the challenges of adolescence.
Welcome! I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 25 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 have specialized training in maternal mental health, providing compassionate support to women as they navigate the complexities of pregnancy and the postpartum period. I also work extensively on relationship dynamics, career concerns, struggles with self-esteem, and challenges related to major life transitions.
Welcome! I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 25 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 have specialized training in maternal mental health, providing compassionate support to women as they navigate the complexities of pregnancy and the postpartum period. I also work extensively on relationship dynamics, career concerns, struggles with self-esteem, and challenges related to major life transitions.
We try to make sense of our lives through telling our stories, but when we are unable to find the words, we express ourselves in other ways, such as in symptoms, dreams, and behaviors that we don't understand. My previous training in fine arts and filmmaking (MFA, USC School of Cinema) make an excellent fit with the type of in-depth therapy I provide. I have a wide range of professional experiences from my private practice, in residential and outpatient clinics, as an adjunct professor of psychology at Antioch University, and as a supervisor training other therapists.
We try to make sense of our lives through telling our stories, but when we are unable to find the words, we express ourselves in other ways, such as in symptoms, dreams, and behaviors that we don't understand. My previous training in fine arts and filmmaking (MFA, USC School of Cinema) make an excellent fit with the type of in-depth therapy I provide. I have a wide range of professional experiences from my private practice, in residential and outpatient clinics, as an adjunct professor of psychology at Antioch University, and as a supervisor training other therapists.
Rima Simon Individual and Couple Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBSR
Santa Monica, CA 90402
As a psychotherapist, I can help you sort through your feelings of confusion, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and/or life transitions so you can manage your unique circumstances with more understanding, and ease.
As a psychotherapist, I can help you sort through your feelings of confusion, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and/or life transitions so you can manage your unique circumstances with more understanding, and ease.
I'm told I'm warm, down-to-earth and that I have a good sense of humor. I specialize in helping people to fulfill their potential -- and how to get the most out of life. My approach combines Positive Psychology and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) with mindfulness and a creative mix of the best approaches known to modern psychology.
I'm told I'm warm, down-to-earth and that I have a good sense of humor. I specialize in helping people to fulfill their potential -- and how to get the most out of life. My approach combines Positive Psychology and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) with mindfulness and a creative mix of the best approaches known to modern psychology.
Vahe Vartan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Not accepting new clients
Hello. I work in a pretty specific and simple fashion: I focus on people's emotions and relationships. I verbalize my perception of your emotional pulse. This is a continued process which leads deeper and deeper into the heart of your feeling. I speak with you about what you want in your life. I am interested in understanding your experience within your family and your larger social environment - both historically and currently.
Hello. I work in a pretty specific and simple fashion: I focus on people's emotions and relationships. I verbalize my perception of your emotional pulse. This is a continued process which leads deeper and deeper into the heart of your feeling. I speak with you about what you want in your life. I am interested in understanding your experience within your family and your larger social environment - both historically and currently.
You are successful in your career, but a feeling of unease, anxiety, or emotional numbness seems to always be with you. The stress of your work has gotten to be too much, and maybe your physical health, and well as your happiness, has begun to suffer. You desire a meaningful relationship, but your reluctance to vulnerability, likely a result of past traumas, is getting in the way. You find yourself often plagued with a sense of emptiness, or lack of purpose in your life, despite your financial and professional success. You hold yourself to a high standard, but your harsh inner critic has left you feeling like you aren’t good enough.
You are successful in your career, but a feeling of unease, anxiety, or emotional numbness seems to always be with you. The stress of your work has gotten to be too much, and maybe your physical health, and well as your happiness, has begun to suffer. You desire a meaningful relationship, but your reluctance to vulnerability, likely a result of past traumas, is getting in the way. You find yourself often plagued with a sense of emptiness, or lack of purpose in your life, despite your financial and professional success. You hold yourself to a high standard, but your harsh inner critic has left you feeling like you aren’t good enough.
Jen Bloom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MFA
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Waitlist for new clients
Hello. Thanks for pausing here with me. ... Let's arrive at peace, strength, sweeter awareness, and joy. ... Let's live with less chaos, more freedom, and a lighter heart. I treat individuals navigating anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, collective trauma, grief, anger, ADD/ADHD, and dynamic mood patterns. My clients are often performing artists, and other creatives and professionals in the tech, medical, legal, education, and entertainment industries. They want to be more present for themselves and our world, and connected to people they care about. So do you! "Empathy emancipates ... Divided we cannot endure." (Amanda Gorman).
Hello. Thanks for pausing here with me. ... Let's arrive at peace, strength, sweeter awareness, and joy. ... Let's live with less chaos, more freedom, and a lighter heart. I treat individuals navigating anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, collective trauma, grief, anger, ADD/ADHD, and dynamic mood patterns. My clients are often performing artists, and other creatives and professionals in the tech, medical, legal, education, and entertainment industries. They want to be more present for themselves and our world, and connected to people they care about. So do you! "Empathy emancipates ... Divided we cannot endure." (Amanda Gorman).
Inner turmoil, stuckness, anxiousness, a sense that no thing is right, depression, relationship challenges, loss and grieving, the day to day demands– these experiences can feel discouraging, overwhelming, isolating, while also holding potential for profound understanding, meaning making and growth. My orientation is deeply rooted in Jungian psychoanalysis, creative expressive arts, and body-oriented modalities. It means that we will talk, draw on imagination, inner images and colors, explore the inner and outer worlds and night-dreams, pay attention to the body's intelligence and wisdom, place hands in the sand for Sandplay.
Inner turmoil, stuckness, anxiousness, a sense that no thing is right, depression, relationship challenges, loss and grieving, the day to day demands– these experiences can feel discouraging, overwhelming, isolating, while also holding potential for profound understanding, meaning making and growth. My orientation is deeply rooted in Jungian psychoanalysis, creative expressive arts, and body-oriented modalities. It means that we will talk, draw on imagination, inner images and colors, explore the inner and outer worlds and night-dreams, pay attention to the body's intelligence and wisdom, place hands in the sand for Sandplay.
New insights & experiences foster transformation, yet human beings tend to engage in predictable behavior that is familiar to them. A sudden moment of clarity that puts life into focus can be miraculous, but it’s difficult to see on your own what has been hidden for so long. That’s where I come in. Through a variety of approaches & interventions that are customized to you & your needs, we will move you in the direction of a new way of experiencing yourself & the world. At the end of our time together, it is my hope that you will feel stronger, more grounded, with a deeper understanding of yourself, valuing your mind, body, & spirit.
New insights & experiences foster transformation, yet human beings tend to engage in predictable behavior that is familiar to them. A sudden moment of clarity that puts life into focus can be miraculous, but it’s difficult to see on your own what has been hidden for so long. That’s where I come in. Through a variety of approaches & interventions that are customized to you & your needs, we will move you in the direction of a new way of experiencing yourself & the world. At the end of our time together, it is my hope that you will feel stronger, more grounded, with a deeper understanding of yourself, valuing your mind, body, & spirit.
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
2,000+
Average cost per session
$200
Therapists in Santa Monica, CA who prioritize treating:
| 93% | Anxiety |
| 87% | Depression |
| 82% | Relationship Issues |
| 75% | Self Esteem |
| 68% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 66% | Life Transitions |
| 65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 77% | Aetna |
| 63% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 57% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Santa Monica, CA see their clients
| 56% | In Person and Online | |
| 44% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 80% | Female | |
| 19% | 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.