Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Kathryn Harrold
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
All of us create patterns of behavior in our formative years to help us survive real and perceived dangers. What are those patterns? How have those patterns inhibited our lives today? How can we break free from those patterns and develop a more alive and integrated sense of self?
All of us create patterns of behavior in our formative years to help us survive real and perceived dangers. What are those patterns? How have those patterns inhibited our lives today? How can we break free from those patterns and develop a more alive and integrated sense of self?
Bruce A Howard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I focus on three dimensions in my psychotherapeutic work. The first is awareness and insight into our development as individuals and how this development has shaped our current functioning. There are no perfect parents nor perfect family experience without unmet needs and injuries (purposeful or unintentional). In understanding what we had to do to maintain critical attachments and equally critical separation and autonomy growing up, we discover that who we are is not fixed and irrevocable. We begin to see that we now have a choice to see ourselves and the world in new healthier ways and function differently in our current life.
I focus on three dimensions in my psychotherapeutic work. The first is awareness and insight into our development as individuals and how this development has shaped our current functioning. There are no perfect parents nor perfect family experience without unmet needs and injuries (purposeful or unintentional). In understanding what we had to do to maintain critical attachments and equally critical separation and autonomy growing up, we discover that who we are is not fixed and irrevocable. We begin to see that we now have a choice to see ourselves and the world in new healthier ways and function differently in our current life.
The Saturday Center for Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
"Being listened to." That is the experience of being at the Saturday Center: intensely, deeply, actively, empathically listened to; seen, heard and understood. For over 30 years we have provided this type of counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. TSC is committed to dynamic psychotherapy and to providing treatment based on need rather than economics. The Center is staffed by advanced psychological interns, psychological assistants and marriage & family therapist interns who are supervised by a group of experienced, licensed private practitioners dedicated to the practice and teaching of psychotherapy.
"Being listened to." That is the experience of being at the Saturday Center: intensely, deeply, actively, empathically listened to; seen, heard and understood. For over 30 years we have provided this type of counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. TSC is committed to dynamic psychotherapy and to providing treatment based on need rather than economics. The Center is staffed by advanced psychological interns, psychological assistants and marriage & family therapist interns who are supervised by a group of experienced, licensed private practitioners dedicated to the practice and teaching of psychotherapy.
Austin Smythe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
——Currently accepting new clients—— Working with me is easy. We’ll have a conversation, but one that puts you into deeper touch with yourself: your thoughts, your feelings, your goals, your unhealed wounds. Together, we’ll talk about these and we’ll figure out what in your life is holding you back from feeling as good as you can. Then we’ll walk through the steps of healing and overcoming these.
——Currently accepting new clients—— Working with me is easy. We’ll have a conversation, but one that puts you into deeper touch with yourself: your thoughts, your feelings, your goals, your unhealed wounds. Together, we’ll talk about these and we’ll figure out what in your life is holding you back from feeling as good as you can. Then we’ll walk through the steps of healing and overcoming these.
Alison C Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating clients who have suffered from narcissistic and borderline abuse, with a concentration in healing that trauma, and helping clients to build the ability to identify and set good boundaries, and avoid further trauma. I have more than two decades of intensive training in mindfulness and meditation, and believe that training enables me to be very present. I believe in the power of human resilience and our unstoppable inclination to grow towards wellness, health and balance. We can heal and grow, no matter what obstacles we face.
I specialize in treating clients who have suffered from narcissistic and borderline abuse, with a concentration in healing that trauma, and helping clients to build the ability to identify and set good boundaries, and avoid further trauma. I have more than two decades of intensive training in mindfulness and meditation, and believe that training enables me to be very present. I believe in the power of human resilience and our unstoppable inclination to grow towards wellness, health and balance. We can heal and grow, no matter what obstacles we face.
Meggie Purpura
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Are you struggling to confidently engage in your life and relationships because of anxiety or a negative internal voice? My approach is kind, curious, and collaborative as we explore how you got here and identify the steps needed to make empowered changes in your life. We will challenge outdated belief systems and shift behavioral patterns that are negatively impacting your confidence and self-worth. I create a safe and trusting space to process and heal from past traumas, and to work through difficult relational dynamics. I'll be your compassionate and supportive guide as you build an independent and more meaningful life.
Are you struggling to confidently engage in your life and relationships because of anxiety or a negative internal voice? My approach is kind, curious, and collaborative as we explore how you got here and identify the steps needed to make empowered changes in your life. We will challenge outdated belief systems and shift behavioral patterns that are negatively impacting your confidence and self-worth. I create a safe and trusting space to process and heal from past traumas, and to work through difficult relational dynamics. I'll be your compassionate and supportive guide as you build an independent and more meaningful life.
Positive Psychology Ctr - Dr John Drimmer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Not accepting new clients
I use Positive Psychology to inspire and help people thrive. I'm told I'm warm, down to earth, and that I have a good sense of humor. I believe therapy needs to show results. Not years later — but soon. I see both individuals and couples. My approach combines Positive Psychology and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), with mindfulness and a powerful mix of the best approaches known to modern psychology. I take an uplifting holistic approach
I use Positive Psychology to inspire and help people thrive. I'm told I'm warm, down to earth, and that I have a good sense of humor. I believe therapy needs to show results. Not years later — but soon. I see both individuals and couples. My approach combines Positive Psychology and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), with mindfulness and a powerful mix of the best approaches known to modern psychology. I take an uplifting holistic approach
Crystal Nash
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
My clients like me because I am a very active therapist. You will not just get a "How does that make you feel?" question. Of course I want to know how something makes you feel, but I want for you to be able to get some answers and treatment that leads to a real change in your life. My website at Crystalnash.com states "Therapy can be intense, but it doesn't have to be drudgery. There is laughter through the tears, when we recognize our human frailty. The "Ah ha! Eureka!" moments give energy and hope for the future."
My clients like me because I am a very active therapist. You will not just get a "How does that make you feel?" question. Of course I want to know how something makes you feel, but I want for you to be able to get some answers and treatment that leads to a real change in your life. My website at Crystalnash.com states "Therapy can be intense, but it doesn't have to be drudgery. There is laughter through the tears, when we recognize our human frailty. The "Ah ha! Eureka!" moments give energy and hope for the future."
Adrienne Salick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I specialize in therapy with children, adolescents, parents, and families, dealing with life transitions and crises impacting social, emotional, academic, and interpersonal functioning. Goals may include working through a difficult transition, relieving specific troubling symptoms, building coping strategies to manage difficult feelings (anxiety, depression, frustration), improving communication, improving the quality of relationships, increasing social skills, reducing conflict, improving conflict resolution and problem solving skills, and gaining greater insight and awareness for personal growth.
I specialize in therapy with children, adolescents, parents, and families, dealing with life transitions and crises impacting social, emotional, academic, and interpersonal functioning. Goals may include working through a difficult transition, relieving specific troubling symptoms, building coping strategies to manage difficult feelings (anxiety, depression, frustration), improving communication, improving the quality of relationships, increasing social skills, reducing conflict, improving conflict resolution and problem solving skills, and gaining greater insight and awareness for personal growth.
Eri Nagai Ashlock
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I have joy, passion, and success working with minority, biracial, and 1st generation/immigrants who experience challenges adjusting to blended families and new/blended cultures. I help my clients identify reasonable solutions to current challenges and we collaborate to create coping skills that build resilience and allow you to thrive. My clients appreciate the gentle, warm, and supportive work we do together. They enjoy being seen, heard, and challenged to deepen self-awareness and overcome sadness, low self-esteem, shame, guilt, and anxiety.
I have joy, passion, and success working with minority, biracial, and 1st generation/immigrants who experience challenges adjusting to blended families and new/blended cultures. I help my clients identify reasonable solutions to current challenges and we collaborate to create coping skills that build resilience and allow you to thrive. My clients appreciate the gentle, warm, and supportive work we do together. They enjoy being seen, heard, and challenged to deepen self-awareness and overcome sadness, low self-esteem, shame, guilt, and anxiety.
Stephen A. Diamond
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Dr. Diamond has been practicing psychotherapy for 45 years and is a licensed clinical and forensic psychologist. He is the author of Anger, Madness, and the Daimonic: The Psychological Genesis of Violence, Evil and Creativity (1996), and contributed chapters to Meeting the Shadow (1990), Spirituality & Psychological Health (2005), Encyclopedia of Psychology & Religion (2009), and Contemporary Theory and Practice in Counseling & Psychotherapy (SAGE, 2015). Diamond's unique treatment approach (Existential Depth Psychology) is a fusion of psychodynamic and existential therapy, with an emphasis on C.G. Jung's analytical psychology.
Dr. Diamond has been practicing psychotherapy for 45 years and is a licensed clinical and forensic psychologist. He is the author of Anger, Madness, and the Daimonic: The Psychological Genesis of Violence, Evil and Creativity (1996), and contributed chapters to Meeting the Shadow (1990), Spirituality & Psychological Health (2005), Encyclopedia of Psychology & Religion (2009), and Contemporary Theory and Practice in Counseling & Psychotherapy (SAGE, 2015). Diamond's unique treatment approach (Existential Depth Psychology) is a fusion of psychodynamic and existential therapy, with an emphasis on C.G. Jung's analytical psychology.
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Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
How are you faring through the Coronavirus pandemic? Are you too busy taking care of others to know the answer to that question and perhaps feeling overwhelmed? Or are your normal personal challenges exacerbated now? More anxious, or depressed, struggling more with food and body issues... I am here to help now and when the crisis subsides and we are able to return to normal life. I offer telehealth so we can speak from the comfort of your home and when the virus passes you would have the choice to continue that way or meet in person.
How are you faring through the Coronavirus pandemic? Are you too busy taking care of others to know the answer to that question and perhaps feeling overwhelmed? Or are your normal personal challenges exacerbated now? More anxious, or depressed, struggling more with food and body issues... I am here to help now and when the crisis subsides and we are able to return to normal life. I offer telehealth so we can speak from the comfort of your home and when the virus passes you would have the choice to continue that way or meet in person.
Shimul Hyder
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you feeling totally overwhelmed and anxious in your relationship, work or life right now? Have you been showing up for everyone for so long, all the while feeling like you have been slowly losing parts of yourself in the process? Do you feel like you can no longer cope? You are unsure if therapy is really going to help you move out of this challenging place that can often feel so hopeless and lonely. The stress and uncertainties can leave you feeling frustrated and depleted. You feel disconnected, like you are just going through the motions, not feeling much, and neglecting what you truly need in order to feel alive again.
Are you feeling totally overwhelmed and anxious in your relationship, work or life right now? Have you been showing up for everyone for so long, all the while feeling like you have been slowly losing parts of yourself in the process? Do you feel like you can no longer cope? You are unsure if therapy is really going to help you move out of this challenging place that can often feel so hopeless and lonely. The stress and uncertainties can leave you feeling frustrated and depleted. You feel disconnected, like you are just going through the motions, not feeling much, and neglecting what you truly need in order to feel alive again.
Beverly Ibeh
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Thrive Psychology is the premier therapy & counseling center dedicated to women’s wellness. We empower clients to overcome life’s toughest challenges and reach their highest potential. Thrive has helped thousands of clients live their best lives through a growing network of in-person and online services. Thrive therapists are the top of their field and use on.
Thrive Psychology is the premier therapy & counseling center dedicated to women’s wellness. We empower clients to overcome life’s toughest challenges and reach their highest potential. Thrive has helped thousands of clients live their best lives through a growing network of in-person and online services. Thrive therapists are the top of their field and use on.
Jannell Greene Banchik
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Being human is exciting and beautiful... and challenging! My work is grounded in respect and empathy for how individuals, couples, and families pave a path in life. Together we make change possible by bringing your unique, personal knowledge and experience into awareness, and then moving through the stuckness of painful trauma, unkind thoughts, or feelings of powerlessness before problems. Together we will work to reconnect you to the whole experience of being human: feeling emotions, attuning to thoughts and beliefs, creating healthy relationships, and recognizing your whole life story in its complexity of joy, sorrow, and growth.
Being human is exciting and beautiful... and challenging! My work is grounded in respect and empathy for how individuals, couples, and families pave a path in life. Together we make change possible by bringing your unique, personal knowledge and experience into awareness, and then moving through the stuckness of painful trauma, unkind thoughts, or feelings of powerlessness before problems. Together we will work to reconnect you to the whole experience of being human: feeling emotions, attuning to thoughts and beliefs, creating healthy relationships, and recognizing your whole life story in its complexity of joy, sorrow, and growth.
Teal Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
With increasing levels of stress and anxiety in modern society I understand the debilitating effects of anxiety, and I'm here to help. I provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings, identify triggers, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you're struggling with panic attacks, social anxiety, or general unease, I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs. My goal is to empower you to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience. Take the first step towards a calmer, more fulfilling life by scheduling a consultation today.
With increasing levels of stress and anxiety in modern society I understand the debilitating effects of anxiety, and I'm here to help. I provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings, identify triggers, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you're struggling with panic attacks, social anxiety, or general unease, I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs. My goal is to empower you to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience. Take the first step towards a calmer, more fulfilling life by scheduling a consultation today.
Brittny McCarthy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
It takes courage to discover personal insight, to address current challenges, and/or to heal past wounds. And, we arrive to therapy for various reasons. Sometimes, we come as individuals, sometimes as a couple or a family. Together, we address your goals so that you can gain a better understanding of what may need to transform in order to live your best life-- whether it's a life transition, such as divorce or career change, the desire for different coping skills, addressing compulsions or addictions, experiencing loss and moving through the grief process, identifying a sense of purpose, or making sense of a traumatic experience.
It takes courage to discover personal insight, to address current challenges, and/or to heal past wounds. And, we arrive to therapy for various reasons. Sometimes, we come as individuals, sometimes as a couple or a family. Together, we address your goals so that you can gain a better understanding of what may need to transform in order to live your best life-- whether it's a life transition, such as divorce or career change, the desire for different coping skills, addressing compulsions or addictions, experiencing loss and moving through the grief process, identifying a sense of purpose, or making sense of a traumatic experience.
Phil Sayegh
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Welcome to Sayegh Psychology (https://sayeghpsychology.com/), a small psychological assessment private practice in Santa Monica, California. Dr. Phil Sayegh offers psychoeducational, neuropsychological, psychological, and personality assessments for adolescents (ages 16+), adults, and older adults. Assessments can help you understand yourself or your child better, identify strengths and weaknesses, and support access to appropriate accommodations at school and on standardized tests (e.g., SAT, ACT, GRE, MCAT, GMAT, LSAT, DAT, and State Bar). All assessments include outside consultation (e.g., speaking to schools and doctors) and completion of paperwork for academic and testing accommodations. Services available on weekends. Superbill can be provided upon request.
Welcome to Sayegh Psychology (https://sayeghpsychology.com/), a small psychological assessment private practice in Santa Monica, California. Dr. Phil Sayegh offers psychoeducational, neuropsychological, psychological, and personality assessments for adolescents (ages 16+), adults, and older adults. Assessments can help you understand yourself or your child better, identify strengths and weaknesses, and support access to appropriate accommodations at school and on standardized tests (e.g., SAT, ACT, GRE, MCAT, GMAT, LSAT, DAT, and State Bar). All assessments include outside consultation (e.g., speaking to schools and doctors) and completion of paperwork for academic and testing accommodations. Services available on weekends. Superbill can be provided upon request.
Megan Cser Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I am committed to helping clients formulate and realize their goals for their lives and relationships based on the values that are important to them. Grounded in research and clinical experience, I view the therapeutic relationship as an active partnership through which I assist clients with better understanding themselves and the ways in which they relate to others and the world. From there, I work with clients to identify opportunities for change and to develop and implement new tools in line with their distinct objectives.
I am committed to helping clients formulate and realize their goals for their lives and relationships based on the values that are important to them. Grounded in research and clinical experience, I view the therapeutic relationship as an active partnership through which I assist clients with better understanding themselves and the ways in which they relate to others and the world. From there, I work with clients to identify opportunities for change and to develop and implement new tools in line with their distinct objectives.
Sopagna Eap-Braje
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
I have a compassionate, science-based, and direct approach toward helping people find psychological relief. I am passionate about helping people achieve the most authentic version of themselves. By gently challenging you to question and shift your mental framework, I want to help you make decisions and take actions that are consistent with your values. The journey towards change must start with compassion. Only when we feel seen and heard, can we begin the process of transformation.
I have a compassionate, science-based, and direct approach toward helping people find psychological relief. I am passionate about helping people achieve the most authentic version of themselves. By gently challenging you to question and shift your mental framework, I want to help you make decisions and take actions that are consistent with your values. The journey towards change must start with compassion. Only when we feel seen and heard, can we begin the process of transformation.
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$200
Therapists in Santa Monica, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
85% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Grief |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
58% | Aetna |
48% | Cigna and Evernorth |
42% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Santa Monica, CA see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
20% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Santa Monica?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.