Therapists in Santa Monica, CA

"YOUR VISION WILL BECOME CLEAR WHEN YOU LOOK INTO YOUR HEART. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens." Carl Jung. As a therapist, I am here to support each individual define his or her vision and life's purpose. When one feels stuck, sometimes the idea of change or transition can seem overwhelming. Issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship distress, loneliness and low-self esteem can be an indicator that a shift is imminent. I am here to provide gentle guidance, by providing a safe, warm and compassionate space to explore these issues.
"YOUR VISION WILL BECOME CLEAR WHEN YOU LOOK INTO YOUR HEART. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens." Carl Jung. As a therapist, I am here to support each individual define his or her vision and life's purpose. When one feels stuck, sometimes the idea of change or transition can seem overwhelming. Issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship distress, loneliness and low-self esteem can be an indicator that a shift is imminent. I am here to provide gentle guidance, by providing a safe, warm and compassionate space to explore these issues.

If you or your tween, teen, or young adult struggles with feelings of overwhelm or anxiety, I can provide the space and safety to process those big feelings and life experiences. Having support from someone outside your close circle of family and friends can be invaluable in giving perspective. Charged emotional situations for you and your child can affect all areas of your lives, and I want to help you feel truly seen and heard.
If you or your tween, teen, or young adult struggles with feelings of overwhelm or anxiety, I can provide the space and safety to process those big feelings and life experiences. Having support from someone outside your close circle of family and friends can be invaluable in giving perspective. Charged emotional situations for you and your child can affect all areas of your lives, and I want to help you feel truly seen and heard.

Welcome to my page! I imagine you are here because some form of pain, frustration or feeling stuck has caught your attention and you are ready to try something different. I am a licensed MFT who would like to come alongside you in this part of your journey toward change...recovery, healing, wholeness, peace. We will explore what is troubling you emotionally, relationally, spiritually, or professionally. We will sort out what you have already tried, how you understand your "problem" and discover the "invitation" to understand, practice or learn something different. Welcome to your own laboratory for personal growth and healing.
Welcome to my page! I imagine you are here because some form of pain, frustration or feeling stuck has caught your attention and you are ready to try something different. I am a licensed MFT who would like to come alongside you in this part of your journey toward change...recovery, healing, wholeness, peace. We will explore what is troubling you emotionally, relationally, spiritually, or professionally. We will sort out what you have already tried, how you understand your "problem" and discover the "invitation" to understand, practice or learn something different. Welcome to your own laboratory for personal growth and healing.

If you are struggling and feeling stuck in ways that make it difficult to enjoy and be present in your life and in your relationships; if you feel alone, lost, anxious, depressed, overwhelmed and under a lot of stress and want to make changes for yourself, one of my primary goals is to provide you a safe place in which to do this work. You don't have to try to find your way alone. This experience can be a transformative and empowering one for you. Asking for help comes from a place of strength, not of weakness.
If you are struggling and feeling stuck in ways that make it difficult to enjoy and be present in your life and in your relationships; if you feel alone, lost, anxious, depressed, overwhelmed and under a lot of stress and want to make changes for yourself, one of my primary goals is to provide you a safe place in which to do this work. You don't have to try to find your way alone. This experience can be a transformative and empowering one for you. Asking for help comes from a place of strength, not of weakness.

How would you like to WALK on the beach during therapy? Maria works with adults of all ages with a focus on young adults, ages 17-24. She is particularly sensitive to concerns about climate change and about world affairs; she helps clients cope with anxiety or grief about the current state of our planet; and she works with them to find the delicate balance between their inevitable difficult emotions and being at peace in their daily lives. She helps clients thrive academically, in their relationships, and in their careers and she teaches them practical coping skills in life transitions.
How would you like to WALK on the beach during therapy? Maria works with adults of all ages with a focus on young adults, ages 17-24. She is particularly sensitive to concerns about climate change and about world affairs; she helps clients cope with anxiety or grief about the current state of our planet; and she works with them to find the delicate balance between their inevitable difficult emotions and being at peace in their daily lives. She helps clients thrive academically, in their relationships, and in their careers and she teaches them practical coping skills in life transitions.

The psychotherapy work I offer creates a sacred relationship, built on the deep recognition of our essential humanness. The issues that bring you to therapy will guide our work, and with clarity, compassion, and tools gathered from 30 years in practice, I will become your companion on the healing journey. Each of us has within us the wisdom to resolve our issues. My purpose is to assist you in finding that wisdom, bringing your own loving to any places of pain within you, and in seeing clearly and stepping into your life's opportunities.
The psychotherapy work I offer creates a sacred relationship, built on the deep recognition of our essential humanness. The issues that bring you to therapy will guide our work, and with clarity, compassion, and tools gathered from 30 years in practice, I will become your companion on the healing journey. Each of us has within us the wisdom to resolve our issues. My purpose is to assist you in finding that wisdom, bringing your own loving to any places of pain within you, and in seeing clearly and stepping into your life's opportunities.

The folks I work with tend to be navigating unconventional paths toward personal growth and healing. Many of my clients are interested in the therapeutic potential of non-ordinary states of consciousness and they often incorporate body, breath & dream work, plant medicine, ceremony and other similar methods into their self-care routines.
The folks I work with tend to be navigating unconventional paths toward personal growth and healing. Many of my clients are interested in the therapeutic potential of non-ordinary states of consciousness and they often incorporate body, breath & dream work, plant medicine, ceremony and other similar methods into their self-care routines.

If you're honest, things have been off between you for a while. You can't picture your life without your partner which makes you feel even more Anxious. So you pretend things are fine and Ignore the raging fire of frustration and annoyance until you say something you don't mean to say in a tone you don't mean to use. And then sweep the emotional results under the rug, feeling angry, shameful and lonely.
If you're honest, things have been off between you for a while. You can't picture your life without your partner which makes you feel even more Anxious. So you pretend things are fine and Ignore the raging fire of frustration and annoyance until you say something you don't mean to say in a tone you don't mean to use. And then sweep the emotional results under the rug, feeling angry, shameful and lonely.

A psychological evaluation can help make sense of things when life feels confusing or overwhelming. It’s a way to better understand what might be behind challenges with focus, mood, or emotions—and whether a diagnosis like ADHD, anxiety, or something else might be part of the picture. Because many conditions can look similar, testing helps sort it out and point you toward the right kind of support. For some, it answers long-standing questions; for others, it helps guide next steps in treatment. Either way, it’s a meaningful step toward clarity and feeling more like yourself.
A psychological evaluation can help make sense of things when life feels confusing or overwhelming. It’s a way to better understand what might be behind challenges with focus, mood, or emotions—and whether a diagnosis like ADHD, anxiety, or something else might be part of the picture. Because many conditions can look similar, testing helps sort it out and point you toward the right kind of support. For some, it answers long-standing questions; for others, it helps guide next steps in treatment. Either way, it’s a meaningful step toward clarity and feeling more like yourself.

In therapy with me you will feel understood and supported. I utilize a compassionate strengths-based approach along with engaging, profound, and varied interventions such as mindfulness, art therapy, sand-tray and humour that increase a sense of self awareness and inner-wisdom leading to emotional well-being. ~ En terapia conmigo, usted se sentira' plenamente entendida/o y apoyada/o. Mi enfoque es compasivo, basado en hacer brillar las fortalezas de mis clientes. Utilizo intervenciones profundas y variadas, incluyendo arte y humor, que incrementan su consciencia personal para lograr un estado estable de bienestar emocional.
In therapy with me you will feel understood and supported. I utilize a compassionate strengths-based approach along with engaging, profound, and varied interventions such as mindfulness, art therapy, sand-tray and humour that increase a sense of self awareness and inner-wisdom leading to emotional well-being. ~ En terapia conmigo, usted se sentira' plenamente entendida/o y apoyada/o. Mi enfoque es compasivo, basado en hacer brillar las fortalezas de mis clientes. Utilizo intervenciones profundas y variadas, incluyendo arte y humor, que incrementan su consciencia personal para lograr un estado estable de bienestar emocional.

Hi, I’m Gina Regalbuto, a licensed clinical social worker in California. I specialize in healing trauma, anxiety, depression, and other stressors that can impact daily life. I also have extensive experience working with BPD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. My approach is psychodynamic, and I tailor evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, and mindfulness to your individual needs. As a certified yoga teacher, I offer breathwork and calming techniques to help with emotional regulation. You don’t have to go through this alone—let’s work together. Call or email me for a free consultation.
Hi, I’m Gina Regalbuto, a licensed clinical social worker in California. I specialize in healing trauma, anxiety, depression, and other stressors that can impact daily life. I also have extensive experience working with BPD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. My approach is psychodynamic, and I tailor evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, and mindfulness to your individual needs. As a certified yoga teacher, I offer breathwork and calming techniques to help with emotional regulation. You don’t have to go through this alone—let’s work together. Call or email me for a free consultation.

I am a licensed psychotherapist (MFT) specializing in hypnosis and NLP (Neuro- Linguistic Programming). I help people live the life they dream of, which includes removing unhealthy patterns and assisting in goal achievement. I work with individuals, couples and families. In a safe and warm environment I combine psychotherapy, hypnotherapy and/or neuro-linguistic programming with emotional support and tools to transform you into your highest potential self. I am proficient in eliminating or decreasing depression, anxiety, panic attacks and fears/phobias. In addition, I work with increasing healthy self-confidence.
I am a licensed psychotherapist (MFT) specializing in hypnosis and NLP (Neuro- Linguistic Programming). I help people live the life they dream of, which includes removing unhealthy patterns and assisting in goal achievement. I work with individuals, couples and families. In a safe and warm environment I combine psychotherapy, hypnotherapy and/or neuro-linguistic programming with emotional support and tools to transform you into your highest potential self. I am proficient in eliminating or decreasing depression, anxiety, panic attacks and fears/phobias. In addition, I work with increasing healthy self-confidence.

Hi there, I'm Svjetlana! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working in various settings, including medical facilities, and outpatient clinics, providing case management to diverse client populations. My preferred clients are the ones needing life coaching, experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship problems, and general life stress. I use a client-centered approach in therapy where we focus on identifying and enhancing current strengths, coping skills, resources, and support systems. I employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Mindfulness, and Strength Based modalities.
Hi there, I'm Svjetlana! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working in various settings, including medical facilities, and outpatient clinics, providing case management to diverse client populations. My preferred clients are the ones needing life coaching, experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship problems, and general life stress. I use a client-centered approach in therapy where we focus on identifying and enhancing current strengths, coping skills, resources, and support systems. I employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Mindfulness, and Strength Based modalities.

If you feel you are living a truncated life, overburdened by anxiety, depression or lacking a feeling of rich aliveness, connection and joy I hope we can work together. I offer an atmosphere of empathy and acceptance as we explore the individual and relational issues that are coming up for you. We will transform insight into actionable change.
If you feel you are living a truncated life, overburdened by anxiety, depression or lacking a feeling of rich aliveness, connection and joy I hope we can work together. I offer an atmosphere of empathy and acceptance as we explore the individual and relational issues that are coming up for you. We will transform insight into actionable change.

In your search for a therapist, you will want someone who both understands what you are going through, and who is passionately committed to working with you to figure out where you want to go and how to get there. Therapy is above all a process and journey of self discovery which requires a guide who is patient and supportive, and at the same time encouraging and persistent to help you understand your self and the often hidden patterns of your life and relationships that hold you back.
In your search for a therapist, you will want someone who both understands what you are going through, and who is passionately committed to working with you to figure out where you want to go and how to get there. Therapy is above all a process and journey of self discovery which requires a guide who is patient and supportive, and at the same time encouraging and persistent to help you understand your self and the often hidden patterns of your life and relationships that hold you back.

My goal as your therapist is to help you discover a deep sense of who you are so that you feel empowered to make choices for your life in line with your values. Together, we will explore root causes of current problems and work to change old patterns that are keeping you stuck. Throughout our work, you will learn new skills, gain self-awareness, and develop the courage to move towards greater freedom and joy.
My goal as your therapist is to help you discover a deep sense of who you are so that you feel empowered to make choices for your life in line with your values. Together, we will explore root causes of current problems and work to change old patterns that are keeping you stuck. Throughout our work, you will learn new skills, gain self-awareness, and develop the courage to move towards greater freedom and joy.

Are you looking for a psychotherapist during these tough times? I work with children and adults who struggle with behavioral issues, ADHD/learning disorders, divorce, depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic pain. Many believe disorders are a disability, but I know this to be wrong. They only make you stronger, and do not have to keep you from living a full and healthy life. It may be time to tap into your inner strength, and I am here to help.
Are you looking for a psychotherapist during these tough times? I work with children and adults who struggle with behavioral issues, ADHD/learning disorders, divorce, depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic pain. Many believe disorders are a disability, but I know this to be wrong. They only make you stronger, and do not have to keep you from living a full and healthy life. It may be time to tap into your inner strength, and I am here to help.

What we seek in our partner is connection. Deep, relaxed, secure connection is the springboard to passion. I help couples re-connect and stay connected by enhancing the positive, eliminating the negative and becoming each other's advocate. I help singles identify patterns that have haunted past relationships and help find and forge a new kind of loving partnership.
Anxiety, depression and addictions all stem from, or are fueled by, deficient early connections. Learning the skill and discipline to navigate a conscious romantic relationship can heal much of the past and free us from many restricting thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
What we seek in our partner is connection. Deep, relaxed, secure connection is the springboard to passion. I help couples re-connect and stay connected by enhancing the positive, eliminating the negative and becoming each other's advocate. I help singles identify patterns that have haunted past relationships and help find and forge a new kind of loving partnership.
Anxiety, depression and addictions all stem from, or are fueled by, deficient early connections. Learning the skill and discipline to navigate a conscious romantic relationship can heal much of the past and free us from many restricting thoughts, feelings and behaviors.

If you are reading this then you have already taken the first step to addressing whatever challenge you are facing or questions you may be asking yourself. Perhaps you are unsatisfied with your life and don’t know why or how to change it. Perhaps you know what the underlying issue is but are afraid to tackle it. Maybe you struggle with co-parenting after a divorce or your teenager is self-harming and you want to help but don’t know how. Maybe you struggle with addiction or self-medicate to avoid dealing with emotional pain.
If you are reading this then you have already taken the first step to addressing whatever challenge you are facing or questions you may be asking yourself. Perhaps you are unsatisfied with your life and don’t know why or how to change it. Perhaps you know what the underlying issue is but are afraid to tackle it. Maybe you struggle with co-parenting after a divorce or your teenager is self-harming and you want to help but don’t know how. Maybe you struggle with addiction or self-medicate to avoid dealing with emotional pain.

Life can be tough, especially recently, but how you handle challenge shows strength and courage. How are you coping and managing relationships during these times? Maybe you are feeling stuck or hopeless, worried or isolated. Are you or a loved one struggling to deal with these changes? Therapy can help you address these issues and strengthen yourself and your relationships in the process. I believe in human resiliency and welcome you to see how this process can help you work towards more fulfillment, joy, and hope for you, your child, or loved one.
Life can be tough, especially recently, but how you handle challenge shows strength and courage. How are you coping and managing relationships during these times? Maybe you are feeling stuck or hopeless, worried or isolated. Are you or a loved one struggling to deal with these changes? Therapy can help you address these issues and strengthen yourself and your relationships in the process. I believe in human resiliency and welcome you to see how this process can help you work towards more fulfillment, joy, and hope for you, your child, or loved one.
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 |
65% | Stress |
65% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
78% | Aetna |
64% | Cigna and Evernorth |
58% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Santa Monica, CA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | 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.