Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
As your therapist, I will work with you to achieve deep, lasting change. I am committed to helping you to recover from psychological distress and to renew and deepen connection, satisfaction, and joy in your relationships. In our work together, we will work to alleviate unwanted thoughts, distressing mood, and uncover and shift unhelpful patterns so that you overcome your current obstacles, improve your relationships, and feel freer, more joyful, and satisfied. I will give you tools and guide you through experiential processes to help you to relate to yourself and others with greater clarity and satisfaction.
As your therapist, I will work with you to achieve deep, lasting change. I am committed to helping you to recover from psychological distress and to renew and deepen connection, satisfaction, and joy in your relationships. In our work together, we will work to alleviate unwanted thoughts, distressing mood, and uncover and shift unhelpful patterns so that you overcome your current obstacles, improve your relationships, and feel freer, more joyful, and satisfied. I will give you tools and guide you through experiential processes to help you to relate to yourself and others with greater clarity and satisfaction.
With 27 years of experience in providing psychotherapy to young adults, adults, and seniors, I understand that life's challenges can often leave us feeling vulnerable. When it comes to couples therapy, the approach differs significantly from individual therapy. While the work itself can be straightforward, finding a skilled therapist who truly understands the dynamics of relationships can be a challenge.
With 27 years of experience in providing psychotherapy to young adults, adults, and seniors, I understand that life's challenges can often leave us feeling vulnerable. When it comes to couples therapy, the approach differs significantly from individual therapy. While the work itself can be straightforward, finding a skilled therapist who truly understands the dynamics of relationships can be a challenge.
Do you experience overwhelming thoughts and/or emotions? Do you experience inner-conflict and self doubt? Do you find yourself stuck in old patterns/behaviors and unsure of how to change them? For many these experiences can result in feeling frustrated, scared, hopeless and alone, often coping in self-damaging ways. These are normal responses to trauma and overwhelming/painful experiences. While I incorporate more traditional evidenced based modalities such as CBT, and DBT, I also recognize that emotions, implicit memories and trauma can get stuck in the body, which is why talk therapy alone often isn’t enough.
Do you experience overwhelming thoughts and/or emotions? Do you experience inner-conflict and self doubt? Do you find yourself stuck in old patterns/behaviors and unsure of how to change them? For many these experiences can result in feeling frustrated, scared, hopeless and alone, often coping in self-damaging ways. These are normal responses to trauma and overwhelming/painful experiences. While I incorporate more traditional evidenced based modalities such as CBT, and DBT, I also recognize that emotions, implicit memories and trauma can get stuck in the body, which is why talk therapy alone often isn’t enough.
If you are suffering from repeated patterns that are negatively impacting your life and desire freedom and space to heal and transform these patterns, I can help. I work with individuals, couples, groups and families who are overwhelmed by anxiety, suffering from depression, in a life transition, managing grief, having existential distress, and/or looking for deeper meaning and a stronger sense of Self. Often times being seen and understood by a nonjudgmental, compassionate therapist is a key factor in healing. The process is rich and ultimately empowering.
If you are suffering from repeated patterns that are negatively impacting your life and desire freedom and space to heal and transform these patterns, I can help. I work with individuals, couples, groups and families who are overwhelmed by anxiety, suffering from depression, in a life transition, managing grief, having existential distress, and/or looking for deeper meaning and a stronger sense of Self. Often times being seen and understood by a nonjudgmental, compassionate therapist is a key factor in healing. The process is rich and ultimately empowering.
Therapy is a unique space to explore and organize your internal emotional experiences, feel more satisfied in your interpersonal relationships, better manage and tolerate a broad range of emotions, and experience new ways of relating more meaningfully to yourself and others. Through carefully exploring your emotional and relational experiences, both past and present, you may develop a deeper sense of self-understanding, wholeness, and a renewed capacity for joy and purpose. I work from a primarily relational and psychodynamic orientation, though I am flexible in engaging with the specific needs of each client.
Therapy is a unique space to explore and organize your internal emotional experiences, feel more satisfied in your interpersonal relationships, better manage and tolerate a broad range of emotions, and experience new ways of relating more meaningfully to yourself and others. Through carefully exploring your emotional and relational experiences, both past and present, you may develop a deeper sense of self-understanding, wholeness, and a renewed capacity for joy and purpose. I work from a primarily relational and psychodynamic orientation, though I am flexible in engaging with the specific needs of each client.
People come to therapy at all different points in their life. Whether you're returning to better understand a new situation or coming for the first time to explore opportunities for growth, I am here to meet you where you're at. In my experience, people seek change when they are not fully aligned with the person they want to be. Our work together will be to identify these misalignments, to learn how to empathize with how they came to be, and to find strategies for letting go of things that that no longer serve in order to find a sense of self we can feel proud of.
People come to therapy at all different points in their life. Whether you're returning to better understand a new situation or coming for the first time to explore opportunities for growth, I am here to meet you where you're at. In my experience, people seek change when they are not fully aligned with the person they want to be. Our work together will be to identify these misalignments, to learn how to empathize with how they came to be, and to find strategies for letting go of things that that no longer serve in order to find a sense of self we can feel proud of.
Laressa Desmond,PhD, LMFT, Nothing hurts like constantly stumbling over the same old communication problems with your partner, when all you really want to do is be close. It’s hard to concentrate or have a lightness to the day when relationship struggles drag you down. We fall in love with people who are different enough from us to create a spark. It’s that “completion feeling” of interest & fascination. We feel sad & confused when the spark burns instead of warming us. It’s a baffling betrayal to our emotional logic that we can deeply love someone that we frequently fight with & sometimes emotionally dread.
Laressa Desmond,PhD, LMFT, Nothing hurts like constantly stumbling over the same old communication problems with your partner, when all you really want to do is be close. It’s hard to concentrate or have a lightness to the day when relationship struggles drag you down. We fall in love with people who are different enough from us to create a spark. It’s that “completion feeling” of interest & fascination. We feel sad & confused when the spark burns instead of warming us. It’s a baffling betrayal to our emotional logic that we can deeply love someone that we frequently fight with & sometimes emotionally dread.
We all go through times where we just don’t feel like ourselves, this may show up as anxiety, depression, body sensations or repeating unhealthy patterns. Some people need help untangling relationship dynamics rooted in unprocessed childhood trauma. If you are experiencing grief & loss there is a depth of pain that is difficult for others to understand. My practice is a place where we can work together to help you identify and process what is keeping you from having the kind of life you desire. You’ll learn how to put your thoughts and feelings and sensations into words, regulate your nervous system and re-connect with yourself.
We all go through times where we just don’t feel like ourselves, this may show up as anxiety, depression, body sensations or repeating unhealthy patterns. Some people need help untangling relationship dynamics rooted in unprocessed childhood trauma. If you are experiencing grief & loss there is a depth of pain that is difficult for others to understand. My practice is a place where we can work together to help you identify and process what is keeping you from having the kind of life you desire. You’ll learn how to put your thoughts and feelings and sensations into words, regulate your nervous system and re-connect with yourself.
I am an LCSW Therapist, a deep listener, and a believer in the power of your story. If you’re feeling stuck, anxious, or like no one gets it, you're not alone. I specialize in helping people move through transitions, untangle complicated relationships, and make sense of old patterns that no longer serve them. My style is warm, nonjudgmental, and deeply collaborative. Therapy with me feels like having a smart, grounded co-pilot who sees your strengths and gently challenges the stories that keep you stuck.
I am an LCSW Therapist, a deep listener, and a believer in the power of your story. If you’re feeling stuck, anxious, or like no one gets it, you're not alone. I specialize in helping people move through transitions, untangle complicated relationships, and make sense of old patterns that no longer serve them. My style is warm, nonjudgmental, and deeply collaborative. Therapy with me feels like having a smart, grounded co-pilot who sees your strengths and gently challenges the stories that keep you stuck.
I do individual and couples therapy dealing with: addictions; defensive communication; sexuality; aggression; parenting, and money. *I find that most couples during arguments or stressful times, communicate poorly--are reactive and quick to blame. I really value helping the individuals develop themselves and their skills as a way out of this cycle, and towards a loving relationship.
*In individual therapy we may deal with loneliness, anxiety, addictive patterns/substances or depression. We work together to set personal goals and on staying accountable. I focus on their maladaptive thoughts/feelings that can interfere with them retaking charge of their life.
I do individual and couples therapy dealing with: addictions; defensive communication; sexuality; aggression; parenting, and money. *I find that most couples during arguments or stressful times, communicate poorly--are reactive and quick to blame. I really value helping the individuals develop themselves and their skills as a way out of this cycle, and towards a loving relationship.
*In individual therapy we may deal with loneliness, anxiety, addictive patterns/substances or depression. We work together to set personal goals and on staying accountable. I focus on their maladaptive thoughts/feelings that can interfere with them retaking charge of their life.
Nakisa is a licensed psychotherapist and clinical supervisor at Feya Health, utilizing eclectic and holistic approaches to support clients in engaging in meaningful self discovery via effective clinical models alongside Ketamine and Oxytocin Assisted Psychotherapy. Nakisa believes in the efficacy of a holistic and client centered approach, utilizing compassion and non-judgment to guide individuals in healing and developing a strong relationship with themselves, others and their environments. Nakisa believes in the efficacy of a holistic and client centered approach.
Nakisa is a licensed psychotherapist and clinical supervisor at Feya Health, utilizing eclectic and holistic approaches to support clients in engaging in meaningful self discovery via effective clinical models alongside Ketamine and Oxytocin Assisted Psychotherapy. Nakisa believes in the efficacy of a holistic and client centered approach, utilizing compassion and non-judgment to guide individuals in healing and developing a strong relationship with themselves, others and their environments. Nakisa believes in the efficacy of a holistic and client centered approach.
Welcome to Safe Harbor Therapy. The great fires of 2025 has created emotional, physical and mental breakdowns.The loss of homes, lives & animals has created unimaginable grief, leaving many feeling isolated, lonely, anxious and depressed, questioning why. 2025 has created a future of uncertainty and helplessness. Let me help you see the light at the end of the tunnel. My therapy offers to navigate through these uncertain times, create hope and rise like the phoenix from the ashes.
Welcome to Safe Harbor Therapy. The great fires of 2025 has created emotional, physical and mental breakdowns.The loss of homes, lives & animals has created unimaginable grief, leaving many feeling isolated, lonely, anxious and depressed, questioning why. 2025 has created a future of uncertainty and helplessness. Let me help you see the light at the end of the tunnel. My therapy offers to navigate through these uncertain times, create hope and rise like the phoenix from the ashes.
Many of us struggle with anxieties, low moods, insecurities or ruminations that can really rob us of a sense of contentment in our lives.. Neurobiology and psychology suggest that these things are a direct result of traumas, big and small, in our early lives and/or in adulthood.. As a trauma therapist, I have found that EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a cutting edge therapy that works with the brain's natural ability to heal, has been the most effective way to bring relief and greater sense of wholeness to people.
Many of us struggle with anxieties, low moods, insecurities or ruminations that can really rob us of a sense of contentment in our lives.. Neurobiology and psychology suggest that these things are a direct result of traumas, big and small, in our early lives and/or in adulthood.. As a trauma therapist, I have found that EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a cutting edge therapy that works with the brain's natural ability to heal, has been the most effective way to bring relief and greater sense of wholeness to people.
Change is possible. With over 28 years of experience, I have successfully worked with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families to reduce anxiety, depression, and overall conflict. I have helped bring more joy into people's lives. In just 3-5 sessions, my clients often report feeling more confident, more ease, and more comfortable, while experiencing greater happiness across all areas of their lives. High stress can occur during times of change: birth, separation, divorce, or the death of a loved one. I will guide you through these difficult times. Each client's therapy is personalized, collaborative, and strengths-focused.
Change is possible. With over 28 years of experience, I have successfully worked with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families to reduce anxiety, depression, and overall conflict. I have helped bring more joy into people's lives. In just 3-5 sessions, my clients often report feeling more confident, more ease, and more comfortable, while experiencing greater happiness across all areas of their lives. High stress can occur during times of change: birth, separation, divorce, or the death of a loved one. I will guide you through these difficult times. Each client's therapy is personalized, collaborative, and strengths-focused.
L.A. Teen Therapist & Parenting Teens Coach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, MFT
Santa Monica, CA 90401
For adolescents with a history of anxiety, depression, substance-abuse, or ADD, the coping skills they may have developed could be hindering the attainment of their life goals. I help teens & young-adults reconcile their history and temperament -- with their future aspirations.
For adolescents with a history of anxiety, depression, substance-abuse, or ADD, the coping skills they may have developed could be hindering the attainment of their life goals. I help teens & young-adults reconcile their history and temperament -- with their future aspirations.
Dr. Ellyn Singer has been working in mental health for nearly 29 years. Throughout the course of her career, Dr. Singer has treated adults/adolescents, couples and families experiencing depression, suicidality, anxiety, personality disorders and addictive behaviors. She currently works in an intensive psychiatric facility as an individual/ family therapist. Dr. Singer also trains/supervises associates in Maternal Mental Health, Family/Child Therapy.
Dr. Ellyn Singer has been working in mental health for nearly 29 years. Throughout the course of her career, Dr. Singer has treated adults/adolescents, couples and families experiencing depression, suicidality, anxiety, personality disorders and addictive behaviors. She currently works in an intensive psychiatric facility as an individual/ family therapist. Dr. Singer also trains/supervises associates in Maternal Mental Health, Family/Child Therapy.
Throughout life, we all must examine painful feelings that complicate our lives and prevent us from finding satisfaction and joy. Obstacles may stand in the way of our leading more meaningful lives. We may feel stuck or powerless to take vital steps, make decisions, work toward goals, and improve relationships.
Throughout life, we all must examine painful feelings that complicate our lives and prevent us from finding satisfaction and joy. Obstacles may stand in the way of our leading more meaningful lives. We may feel stuck or powerless to take vital steps, make decisions, work toward goals, and improve relationships.
You seem calm on the outside, but inside there’s a constant anxiety. Maybe you grew up around conflict, or were even the target of violence yourself. Now, you scan others constantly... shifts in tone, rising tension, small changes in mood, and adjust to keep the peace. You notice everyone’s needs, but your own are hard to name, and even if you could, you wouldn’t want to burden anyone. This hypervigilance, and self-neglect leaves you e x h a u s t e d. You might not call it trauma, but your past still shapes you, and you’re ready for something different, (especially as you head home for the holidays). I want to help you get there.
You seem calm on the outside, but inside there’s a constant anxiety. Maybe you grew up around conflict, or were even the target of violence yourself. Now, you scan others constantly... shifts in tone, rising tension, small changes in mood, and adjust to keep the peace. You notice everyone’s needs, but your own are hard to name, and even if you could, you wouldn’t want to burden anyone. This hypervigilance, and self-neglect leaves you e x h a u s t e d. You might not call it trauma, but your past still shapes you, and you’re ready for something different, (especially as you head home for the holidays). I want to help you get there.
I am incredibly passionate about psychotherapy, and not only that, I believe in it with all my heart. I value the individuality of each and every one of my clients, and I believe the relationship we form is the basis for real change and growth. I am committed to understanding my clients very deeply, and in helping them understand themselves. In addition to gaining insight and awareness, I encourage clients to utilize skills and implement change to help them live life to their fullest. I give 100% of my effort, attention, and focus on my clients to provide the best care needed.
I am incredibly passionate about psychotherapy, and not only that, I believe in it with all my heart. I value the individuality of each and every one of my clients, and I believe the relationship we form is the basis for real change and growth. I am committed to understanding my clients very deeply, and in helping them understand themselves. In addition to gaining insight and awareness, I encourage clients to utilize skills and implement change to help them live life to their fullest. I give 100% of my effort, attention, and focus on my clients to provide the best care needed.
Has chronic pain or illness made it difficult to live the life you imagined? Are you grieving who you were before your diagnosis, struggling to reconnect with yourself? Are you trapped in cycles of anxiety or hopelessness, wondering if things will ever change? Chronic illness affects not just the body, but the mind and spirit as well. With a compassionate, holistic approach, I help adults and teens navigate the emotional toll of chronic illness and create a life that feels meaningful.
Has chronic pain or illness made it difficult to live the life you imagined? Are you grieving who you were before your diagnosis, struggling to reconnect with yourself? Are you trapped in cycles of anxiety or hopelessness, wondering if things will ever change? Chronic illness affects not just the body, but the mind and spirit as well. With a compassionate, holistic approach, I help adults and teens navigate the emotional toll of chronic illness and create a life that feels meaningful.
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 |
| 73% | Self Esteem |
| 69% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 65% | Grief |
| 65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 76% | Aetna |
| 58% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 50% | Other |
How Therapists in Santa Monica, CA see their clients
| 59% | In Person and Online | |
| 41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 80% | Female | |
| 19% | Male | |
| 1% | Non-Binary |