Male Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
I aim to help individuals and families empower themselves to find solutions that work for them. Therapy is a collaboration between the helper and those needing help. Over my many years of practice I have collaborated with my clients to help them reach their goals - whether it is to improve relationships, work through addiction/substance use issues, process trauma and grief, develop emotional resiliency, improve self-esteem and many other issues. When you come to therapy, you come in as a whole-person and that is how I view you. Not simply through your symptoms and problems, but also through your hopes and dreams.
I aim to help individuals and families empower themselves to find solutions that work for them. Therapy is a collaboration between the helper and those needing help. Over my many years of practice I have collaborated with my clients to help them reach their goals - whether it is to improve relationships, work through addiction/substance use issues, process trauma and grief, develop emotional resiliency, improve self-esteem and many other issues. When you come to therapy, you come in as a whole-person and that is how I view you. Not simply through your symptoms and problems, but also through your hopes and dreams.
Congratulations on taking action! We both know that if things are going to change for you in a positive direction, you will need to be brave, open-minded and willing to do things you have resisted doing for one reason or another. I can be most helpful in that regard. Now is the perfect time. Your life is about to change dramatically. Together, in a collaborative and supportive relationship, we will identify your critical needs, uncover and resolve resistances, and map out the incremental steps to getting your needs met. Make the call that will change your life.
Congratulations on taking action! We both know that if things are going to change for you in a positive direction, you will need to be brave, open-minded and willing to do things you have resisted doing for one reason or another. I can be most helpful in that regard. Now is the perfect time. Your life is about to change dramatically. Together, in a collaborative and supportive relationship, we will identify your critical needs, uncover and resolve resistances, and map out the incremental steps to getting your needs met. Make the call that will change your life.
As a result of working together, you'll learn to develop more satisfying relationships, navigate life transitions and clarify your wants and desires. By exploring what's most important in your life today, we will identify what you would like to see different in the future. By identifying themes and patterns of the past, you will feel more freedom and ease. Isn't it time to live your life to its fullest?
As a result of working together, you'll learn to develop more satisfying relationships, navigate life transitions and clarify your wants and desires. By exploring what's most important in your life today, we will identify what you would like to see different in the future. By identifying themes and patterns of the past, you will feel more freedom and ease. Isn't it time to live your life to its fullest?
I teach couples tools and I give homework. My background is in Positive Psychology. People describe me as warm, down-to-earth and they say I have a good sense of humor. I think couples therapy should be uplifting -- and show results. I help all kinds of couples: married and unmarried, straight, gay, and couples soon to marry. I'm dedicated to helping couples overcome their problems. I'm even-handed and I find solutions. (And on a personal note, I've been happily married for 30 years). I combine Positive Psychology, CBT, mindfulness, Gottman, and the best of contemporary psychology. I taught in the medical school at UCLA.
I teach couples tools and I give homework. My background is in Positive Psychology. People describe me as warm, down-to-earth and they say I have a good sense of humor. I think couples therapy should be uplifting -- and show results. I help all kinds of couples: married and unmarried, straight, gay, and couples soon to marry. I'm dedicated to helping couples overcome their problems. I'm even-handed and I find solutions. (And on a personal note, I've been happily married for 30 years). I combine Positive Psychology, CBT, mindfulness, Gottman, and the best of contemporary psychology. I taught in the medical school at UCLA.
My approach centers around exploring and understanding your motivations, history, and sense of self. With compassion and empathy we can recognize unconscious patterns, often established in childhood, and help you write a new story. We can appreciate the innate connection between mind and body, wherein psychological wounds can manifest in physical symptoms, and begin to heal. We can explore your defenses, the thoughts and behaviors which helped to keep you safe; we can even strengthen the ones that continue to serve you, and, with love and appreciation, learn to let go of the ones that don’t.
My approach centers around exploring and understanding your motivations, history, and sense of self. With compassion and empathy we can recognize unconscious patterns, often established in childhood, and help you write a new story. We can appreciate the innate connection between mind and body, wherein psychological wounds can manifest in physical symptoms, and begin to heal. We can explore your defenses, the thoughts and behaviors which helped to keep you safe; we can even strengthen the ones that continue to serve you, and, with love and appreciation, learn to let go of the ones that don’t.
My goal is to help you experience your life more fully. Sometimes it's by uncovering and changing old patterns of thinking; sometimes,it's by exploring old stories with unnamed parts, and learning to actually tolerate all of your feelings. It's hard to do that by yourself; we do that as a collaboration. By creating a safe and caring environment, I also help couples to become more comfortable talking to each other. I believe that a life together is a on-going process of listening and talking openly.
My goal is to help you experience your life more fully. Sometimes it's by uncovering and changing old patterns of thinking; sometimes,it's by exploring old stories with unnamed parts, and learning to actually tolerate all of your feelings. It's hard to do that by yourself; we do that as a collaboration. By creating a safe and caring environment, I also help couples to become more comfortable talking to each other. I believe that a life together is a on-going process of listening and talking openly.
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I meet every day with people who are overcoming worry, depression, dissatisfaction and conflict to find greater joy, and fulfillment in their life. My specialties include working with depression/anxiety, OCD/ADD, personality disorders, and addiction. I also have expertise in working with the LGBTQQI community. My approach to psychotherapy is practical and interactive, providing the support and insight to help you resolve current issues and historical patterns. Through empathy and direct communication, I assist you in finding the solutions to life's adversities, challenges, and mental health.
I meet every day with people who are overcoming worry, depression, dissatisfaction and conflict to find greater joy, and fulfillment in their life. My specialties include working with depression/anxiety, OCD/ADD, personality disorders, and addiction. I also have expertise in working with the LGBTQQI community. My approach to psychotherapy is practical and interactive, providing the support and insight to help you resolve current issues and historical patterns. Through empathy and direct communication, I assist you in finding the solutions to life's adversities, challenges, and mental health.
I believe people want to express who they are and pursue satisfying work and relationships, but have emotional and cognitive patterns that keep them stuck. These patterns often consolidate into a persona that leaves people feeling not quite themselves, with needs unrealized, feelings ignored, and potential unused. Symptoms of anxiety and depression, addictions, or low self-esteem, are often the only messengers trying to let us know that we are needing change. In a supportive and safe environment, therapy can help to bring these patterns into awareness and liberate needs to connect, create, and expand with fuller emotional support.
I believe people want to express who they are and pursue satisfying work and relationships, but have emotional and cognitive patterns that keep them stuck. These patterns often consolidate into a persona that leaves people feeling not quite themselves, with needs unrealized, feelings ignored, and potential unused. Symptoms of anxiety and depression, addictions, or low self-esteem, are often the only messengers trying to let us know that we are needing change. In a supportive and safe environment, therapy can help to bring these patterns into awareness and liberate needs to connect, create, and expand with fuller emotional support.
What’s holding you back from the life you envision? How do you want your life to change? Whether you’re seeking clarity, healing, or growth, I meet you where you are and help you move toward where you want to be. Together, we’ll uncover what’s been getting in your way and create a better path forward. With a blend of psychotherapy and life coaching, I will guide you in overcoming obstacles, building resilience, and becoming your best self. Are you ready to begin your journey? Go ahead and book a free 15-20 minute phone consultation through my link, or call the number listed on my profile now!
What’s holding you back from the life you envision? How do you want your life to change? Whether you’re seeking clarity, healing, or growth, I meet you where you are and help you move toward where you want to be. Together, we’ll uncover what’s been getting in your way and create a better path forward. With a blend of psychotherapy and life coaching, I will guide you in overcoming obstacles, building resilience, and becoming your best self. Are you ready to begin your journey? Go ahead and book a free 15-20 minute phone consultation through my link, or call the number listed on my profile now!
I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving clients across CA, NY and OH.,with almost 20 years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate complex emotional and relational challenges. My approach is warm, direct, and grounded in evidence-based practices. In addition to my private practice, I’m part of a specialized research team at UCLA focused on innovative approaches to mental health treatment. Whether you're facing anxiety, relationship stress, or life transitions, I offer a collaborative and focused space to support meaningful change.
I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving clients across CA, NY and OH.,with almost 20 years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate complex emotional and relational challenges. My approach is warm, direct, and grounded in evidence-based practices. In addition to my private practice, I’m part of a specialized research team at UCLA focused on innovative approaches to mental health treatment. Whether you're facing anxiety, relationship stress, or life transitions, I offer a collaborative and focused space to support meaningful change.
A potential SUD Counseling client struggles with substance dependence, emotional regulation, and co-occurring mental health issues, impacting their relationships and self-esteem. They need a strong support system, coping strategies, relapse prevention tools, accountability, and life skills development. Their goals are long-term sobriety, emotional health, healthy relationships, personal growth, and a stable life. They are motivated by a desire for freedom, fulfillment, better health, meaningful connections, and success, committed to a transformative recovery journey.
A potential SUD Counseling client struggles with substance dependence, emotional regulation, and co-occurring mental health issues, impacting their relationships and self-esteem. They need a strong support system, coping strategies, relapse prevention tools, accountability, and life skills development. Their goals are long-term sobriety, emotional health, healthy relationships, personal growth, and a stable life. They are motivated by a desire for freedom, fulfillment, better health, meaningful connections, and success, committed to a transformative recovery journey.
You’re stuck in the same destructive cycles-whether it’s toxic relationships, addiction, or emotional numbness-and no matter what you do, nothing seems to change. Maybe you keep attracting narcissistic or borderline partners, or you’re battling sex or porn addiction in secret. You might be carrying the weight of sexual trauma, struggling with self-worth, or using alcohol to cope. You’ve tried to “just move on,” but the past keeps pulling you back. You need real solutions, not just another therapist nodding along. I specialize in helping people break free from self-sabotaging patterns tied to addiction, relationships, and trauma.
You’re stuck in the same destructive cycles-whether it’s toxic relationships, addiction, or emotional numbness-and no matter what you do, nothing seems to change. Maybe you keep attracting narcissistic or borderline partners, or you’re battling sex or porn addiction in secret. You might be carrying the weight of sexual trauma, struggling with self-worth, or using alcohol to cope. You’ve tried to “just move on,” but the past keeps pulling you back. You need real solutions, not just another therapist nodding along. I specialize in helping people break free from self-sabotaging patterns tied to addiction, relationships, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in Colleges, Foster Care, Veteran’s Administration, Inpatient Hospital, and LGBTQIA, focusing on mental health services, crisis intervention, and counseling. My experience extends to years in the College setting (Undergraduate, Graduate, and Post-Graduate), and Inpatient Hospital environment. I work with adults navigating through substance/sex - addiction and recovery, family dynamics, cultural differences, cultural shame, LGBTQIA issues (race, identity, questioning), life changes, aging, stress, anxiety, fear.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in Colleges, Foster Care, Veteran’s Administration, Inpatient Hospital, and LGBTQIA, focusing on mental health services, crisis intervention, and counseling. My experience extends to years in the College setting (Undergraduate, Graduate, and Post-Graduate), and Inpatient Hospital environment. I work with adults navigating through substance/sex - addiction and recovery, family dynamics, cultural differences, cultural shame, LGBTQIA issues (race, identity, questioning), life changes, aging, stress, anxiety, fear.
You never know when anxiety will consume you. One moment everything is fine, and out of nowhere anxiety hits you. Overwhelming thoughts flood over you after an argument with your partner. You tell yourself over and over your boss is making work unbearable, and your partner is unsupportive. Time between peace and stress is getting shorter, and you wonder if there’s any way to break free from negative thoughts. It’s affecting every aspect of your life. Work is unfulfilling, your relationship is suffering, and your anxiety is high. Has stress and anxiety become your norm? Do you just keep going hoping for a solution?
You never know when anxiety will consume you. One moment everything is fine, and out of nowhere anxiety hits you. Overwhelming thoughts flood over you after an argument with your partner. You tell yourself over and over your boss is making work unbearable, and your partner is unsupportive. Time between peace and stress is getting shorter, and you wonder if there’s any way to break free from negative thoughts. It’s affecting every aspect of your life. Work is unfulfilling, your relationship is suffering, and your anxiety is high. Has stress and anxiety become your norm? Do you just keep going hoping for a solution?
Hello!
I'm happy you are taking steps to find the answers you seek!
And therapy should always be about what YOU want. Doing this human stuff can be messy! I understand many of the things that bring people to therapy; I've been a client myself! I’ve been in individual and group settings involving couples therapy, recovering from divorce, and just trying to be the best father and person I can be. I have personally known trauma, grief, loss, depression, anxiety.
Hello!
I'm happy you are taking steps to find the answers you seek!
And therapy should always be about what YOU want. Doing this human stuff can be messy! I understand many of the things that bring people to therapy; I've been a client myself! I’ve been in individual and group settings involving couples therapy, recovering from divorce, and just trying to be the best father and person I can be. I have personally known trauma, grief, loss, depression, anxiety.
Beckett Richards
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CPC
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Welcome! I focus my practice on helping people who feel overwhelmed with the pressures we face - personal, political and as a collective. Whether you are navigating your identity, trauma, or just trying to find some peace in a world that is constantly shifting, you don’t have to do it alone. In my work as a therapist, I create a safe space where you can explore the layers of who you are, what you are going through and your experience in the world. I believe there is a lot more to therapy than exploring your past or addressing symptoms, it is about finding your way through it all with a sense of wholeness and connection.
Welcome! I focus my practice on helping people who feel overwhelmed with the pressures we face - personal, political and as a collective. Whether you are navigating your identity, trauma, or just trying to find some peace in a world that is constantly shifting, you don’t have to do it alone. In my work as a therapist, I create a safe space where you can explore the layers of who you are, what you are going through and your experience in the world. I believe there is a lot more to therapy than exploring your past or addressing symptoms, it is about finding your way through it all with a sense of wholeness and connection.
Paul Carter - Anxiety, ADHD, Stress
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I support teens and adults with ADHD who feel weighed down by depression or anxiety. They report that our work together helps reduce overwhelm by providing a non-judgmental space to explore communication challenges, self-esteem issues, and daily executive functioning hurdles. I work from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy framework, which can help clients reframe negativity, develop long-term coping skills, and be more fully present in their lives. Clients can recognize that their thoughts and emotions do not have to get in the way of taking action toward meeting their goals and making meaningful connections.
I support teens and adults with ADHD who feel weighed down by depression or anxiety. They report that our work together helps reduce overwhelm by providing a non-judgmental space to explore communication challenges, self-esteem issues, and daily executive functioning hurdles. I work from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy framework, which can help clients reframe negativity, develop long-term coping skills, and be more fully present in their lives. Clients can recognize that their thoughts and emotions do not have to get in the way of taking action toward meeting their goals and making meaningful connections.
Perhaps no one can ever inhabit fully the lived experience of another, nor would I presume that I could know it, yet our therapeutic relationship can—without disrespecting the integrity of your lived experience—present the opportunity to take your perspective. I hope to imagine your experience because, as Carl Jung articulates: “Loneliness does not come from having no people around you but from being unable to communicate the things that seem important to you," and in the memory of childhood’s loneliness and solitude, creative power resides.
Perhaps no one can ever inhabit fully the lived experience of another, nor would I presume that I could know it, yet our therapeutic relationship can—without disrespecting the integrity of your lived experience—present the opportunity to take your perspective. I hope to imagine your experience because, as Carl Jung articulates: “Loneliness does not come from having no people around you but from being unable to communicate the things that seem important to you," and in the memory of childhood’s loneliness and solitude, creative power resides.
Feeling misunderstood and unable to effectively communicate with your partner is frustrating and painful, yet most couples were never taught how to really listen, communicate from the heart, and honor their nervous systems. Good news is... you can learn.
Feeling misunderstood and unable to effectively communicate with your partner is frustrating and painful, yet most couples were never taught how to really listen, communicate from the heart, and honor their nervous systems. Good news is... you can learn.
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
Nearby Male Therapists Searches for Santa Monica
- Baldwin Hills
- Beverly Hills
- Century City
- Culver City
- El Segundo
- Inglewood
- Marina Del Rey
- Pacific Palisades
- Playa Del Rey
- Venice
- West Hollywood
- West Los Angeles
Male Therapists
As a man, why might I want to see a male therapist?
There are many reasons a man might wish to work with a male therapist, including a degree of shared identity, which may help client and therapist connect to each other and allow for a more free-flowing discussion of issues that can be deeply personal. Some men may feel more comfortable talking to a male therapist about relationship concerns, the pressures they feel around the roles society and family place on men, career or job challenges, self-esteem, or anger problems. For some men who have not had a male role models in their lives, a good male therapist may be especially helpful.
How can I find out about a therapist’s experience treating men?
Individuals looking for treatment should feel comfortable directly asking a therapist about their history treating men overall and the issues that arise in therapy with men. A good therapist will be happy to discuss such matters as well as their educational background, approach to treatment, and how they think they can aid a prospective client.
Can clients benefit from having a therapist of the same gender?
Therapy is not gender-specific, but some men as well as women feel more comfortable opening up about their experiences and history with therapists of a specific gender. An individual may feel that they have to explain less background information and be on the same page more quickly, particularly when discussing gender-specific challenges. That said, a good clinician can transcend most if not all gender concerns. Ultimately, the most important factor in therapy is the connection and trust the client is able to build with the practitioner.
Would a male therapist have specific training in treating men?
Generally, no. There are no certifications for treating men specifically, but there are continuing education classes that therapists may take that focus on treating men as a group. There are many therapists who focus on men and male issues in their treatment and therefore have experience and expertise in this domain.