Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Healista Holistic Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
At Healista, we believe everyone has the power within themselves to make a change in their lives. They just sometimes need a little help along the way. And that’s where we come in. We help our clients connect to their inner safety by nurturing their intuitive skills to cope with challenges, stressors, and traumas to feel more at ease and resilient in their daily lives. We believe in the power of slowing down and focusing on the whole picture of one’s socioemotional well being to regain embodied ease, overcome feelings of shame and loneliness, and find clarity on how to move forward.
At Healista, we believe everyone has the power within themselves to make a change in their lives. They just sometimes need a little help along the way. And that’s where we come in. We help our clients connect to their inner safety by nurturing their intuitive skills to cope with challenges, stressors, and traumas to feel more at ease and resilient in their daily lives. We believe in the power of slowing down and focusing on the whole picture of one’s socioemotional well being to regain embodied ease, overcome feelings of shame and loneliness, and find clarity on how to move forward.
Tracy A. Pollack
Psychologist, PsyD, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with many years of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, couples and families. I offer a warm, collaborative and confidential place where you will feel heard and understood while working together to identify issues of conflict and remove the obstacles that are getting in the way of your life. My specialties include eating disorders and body image issues, also self-injurious behaviors. My practice also focuses on women's issues such as those related to beginning a family, fertility challenges and perinatal and postpartum anxiety and depression. I am EMDR trained and incorporate as needed
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with many years of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, couples and families. I offer a warm, collaborative and confidential place where you will feel heard and understood while working together to identify issues of conflict and remove the obstacles that are getting in the way of your life. My specialties include eating disorders and body image issues, also self-injurious behaviors. My practice also focuses on women's issues such as those related to beginning a family, fertility challenges and perinatal and postpartum anxiety and depression. I am EMDR trained and incorporate as needed
Couples And Relationship Therapy Lexi Berard
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Are you struggling to feel understood by your partner? Do you ever feel like you’re having the same argument over-and-over again, and wonder why it can’t be resolved? Has your relationship been affected by infidelity, betrayal, or addiction? Do you hope that you could feel more connected to your partner, but are unsure how to move past things that have happened between you? Now, more than ever, couples are feeling more and more disconnected. The stress of dual careers, the distraction of our online lives and social media, and the demands of parenthood, all contribute to this feeling of being alone in your relationship.
Are you struggling to feel understood by your partner? Do you ever feel like you’re having the same argument over-and-over again, and wonder why it can’t be resolved? Has your relationship been affected by infidelity, betrayal, or addiction? Do you hope that you could feel more connected to your partner, but are unsure how to move past things that have happened between you? Now, more than ever, couples are feeling more and more disconnected. The stress of dual careers, the distraction of our online lives and social media, and the demands of parenthood, all contribute to this feeling of being alone in your relationship.
Brooke Baldwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. It is hard asking for help and it can be scary to think about finding the right therapist, but it does not have to be. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I create space to explore with care, kindness and collaboration.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. It is hard asking for help and it can be scary to think about finding the right therapist, but it does not have to be. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I create space to explore with care, kindness and collaboration.
Ekaterini Constantine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Feeling fatigued, burnout, overwhelmed, or even confused are very common issues my clients describe as their chief complaint. These symptoms may have underlying causes that lead to the need to seek healing and the wish to carve one's own path in life in a safe and caring environment. I have extensive experience working with teens and adults who want to understand and overcome their issues related to post-traumatic stress disorder, attachment wounds, depression, anxiety, performance anxiety, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, grief and loss, low self-esteem, stress management.
Feeling fatigued, burnout, overwhelmed, or even confused are very common issues my clients describe as their chief complaint. These symptoms may have underlying causes that lead to the need to seek healing and the wish to carve one's own path in life in a safe and caring environment. I have extensive experience working with teens and adults who want to understand and overcome their issues related to post-traumatic stress disorder, attachment wounds, depression, anxiety, performance anxiety, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, grief and loss, low self-esteem, stress management.
Justin Dragos
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
I have experience with a diversity of issues including anxiety, depression and relationship concerns. I am a trained depth psychotherapist (Jungian-oriented), and am concerned with addressing symptoms at their root cause. I balance this approach by offering avenues of relief from symptoms in the present. Easing the burden of suffering in the here-and-now allows us to engage more fully with the work of addressing original causes, and thereby contributes to long-term resolution.
I have experience with a diversity of issues including anxiety, depression and relationship concerns. I am a trained depth psychotherapist (Jungian-oriented), and am concerned with addressing symptoms at their root cause. I balance this approach by offering avenues of relief from symptoms in the present. Easing the burden of suffering in the here-and-now allows us to engage more fully with the work of addressing original causes, and thereby contributes to long-term resolution.
Mary Vertinski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
My clinical practice centers around forming an open and genuine relationship. I like to work with my patients flexibly and collaboratively and take time to clarify how they can benefit from our work. I look for strengths and areas of resilience and am a strong believer in the capacity for life-long growth. I consider it a privilege to be a part of my patients' journeys.
My clinical practice centers around forming an open and genuine relationship. I like to work with my patients flexibly and collaboratively and take time to clarify how they can benefit from our work. I look for strengths and areas of resilience and am a strong believer in the capacity for life-long growth. I consider it a privilege to be a part of my patients' journeys.
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.
Nancy Hyland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Life is challenging, especially when you are overwhelmed by distressing thoughts and feelings. Whether you're dealing with a past trauma or current stressor, I can help relieve persistent sadness, grief or anxiety. I have extensive experience utilizing the latest techniques, based in neuroscience, to assist people struggling with emotional distress, low self esteem, relationship issues, trauma & violence, disordered eating & substance abuse. I can help ensure your past doesn't dictate your future, as together we address the underlying causes of your distress, in a safe and supportive environment that honors your individual needs, values, beliefs, and goals.
Life is challenging, especially when you are overwhelmed by distressing thoughts and feelings. Whether you're dealing with a past trauma or current stressor, I can help relieve persistent sadness, grief or anxiety. I have extensive experience utilizing the latest techniques, based in neuroscience, to assist people struggling with emotional distress, low self esteem, relationship issues, trauma & violence, disordered eating & substance abuse. I can help ensure your past doesn't dictate your future, as together we address the underlying causes of your distress, in a safe and supportive environment that honors your individual needs, values, beliefs, and goals.
Tracy R Zemansky
Psychologist, PhD, CSAT-S, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Sex Addiction Therapist - Supervisor, and licensed MFT with a private practice in Santa Monica, California since 1994. I offer interpersonal psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups as well as psychological testing and assessment. My areas of expertise include: substance and process addictions, trauma/abuse, positive psychology, impaired professionals and first-responders, as well as grief/loss, disfigurement, and cross-cultural issues. I provide traditional, forensic, and pre-employment psychological assessment as well as Collaborative/Therapeutic evaluations.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Sex Addiction Therapist - Supervisor, and licensed MFT with a private practice in Santa Monica, California since 1994. I offer interpersonal psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups as well as psychological testing and assessment. My areas of expertise include: substance and process addictions, trauma/abuse, positive psychology, impaired professionals and first-responders, as well as grief/loss, disfigurement, and cross-cultural issues. I provide traditional, forensic, and pre-employment psychological assessment as well as Collaborative/Therapeutic evaluations.
Theodora Blanchfield
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Hi, thank you for being here! Working on your mental health is one of the bravest and most important things you can do for yourself. There are things in your life — from the present or, often, from the past — that might not feel great. These things can leak through —affecting your future. It takes courage to look what's not working in your life and make positive change. I want to support you in moving towards the life you want!
Hi, thank you for being here! Working on your mental health is one of the bravest and most important things you can do for yourself. There are things in your life — from the present or, often, from the past — that might not feel great. These things can leak through —affecting your future. It takes courage to look what's not working in your life and make positive change. I want to support you in moving towards the life you want!
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Marion Anderson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you looking for help to change a situation in your life that has become intolerable? I help people to find a different understanding and new perspectives to approach old problems. Examining symbols in dreams, fantasies and creative productions as well as Sandplay are powerful ways to express feelings that have no words yet. Representing these unnamed feelings in a playful, creative way can help to reach a deeper understanding of yourself and your current difficulties in life. Finding your own inner resources and discover unknown potentials from within provides a new, unique direction that ultimately may transform your life.
Are you looking for help to change a situation in your life that has become intolerable? I help people to find a different understanding and new perspectives to approach old problems. Examining symbols in dreams, fantasies and creative productions as well as Sandplay are powerful ways to express feelings that have no words yet. Representing these unnamed feelings in a playful, creative way can help to reach a deeper understanding of yourself and your current difficulties in life. Finding your own inner resources and discover unknown potentials from within provides a new, unique direction that ultimately may transform your life.
Robin Olesen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
I help clients change in directions desirable to them and to gain sustainable tools to break free and become unstuck on their road to fulfillment. Many experience shame which can impede progress. Supportive therapy that's practical as well as creative and spiritual can afford clients the opportunity for deep, ongoing growth.
I help clients change in directions desirable to them and to gain sustainable tools to break free and become unstuck on their road to fulfillment. Many experience shame which can impede progress. Supportive therapy that's practical as well as creative and spiritual can afford clients the opportunity for deep, ongoing growth.
Melanie Handelsman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you struggling with behavior patterns that no longer serve you? Are feelings of stress and anxiety overwhelming you? Are you immersed in persistent negative thoughts? Let’s collaborate to ease these obstacles, and help you move towards well-being, calm, and more fulfillment.
Are you struggling with behavior patterns that no longer serve you? Are feelings of stress and anxiety overwhelming you? Are you immersed in persistent negative thoughts? Let’s collaborate to ease these obstacles, and help you move towards well-being, calm, and more fulfillment.
Kenneth Rasmussen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
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.
Peyton Kline
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
Does your relationship need re-groovin? Are you not understanding each other? Are you speaking to each other from your head and not from your heart? Feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship can be painful. Good memories can fade and be replaced by more challenging ones. Are you ready to try a different way? Healthy relationships go through challenges. I work with couples, individuals, high sensitives who want more harmony in their lives and in their relationships. Relationship work can be an exploration into your values and beliefs.
Does your relationship need re-groovin? Are you not understanding each other? Are you speaking to each other from your head and not from your heart? Feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship can be painful. Good memories can fade and be replaced by more challenging ones. Are you ready to try a different way? Healthy relationships go through challenges. I work with couples, individuals, high sensitives who want more harmony in their lives and in their relationships. Relationship work can be an exploration into your values and beliefs.
Seana Diemer Iwanyk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
We all have a story, but when burnout spirals into deeper struggles like anxiety, depression, exhaustion, and compassion fatigue, we can lose sight of that narrative. Pressures like work stress, relationship issues, societal expectations, identity struggles, or pursuit of perfection can engulf us to the point that we can't handle the burden. This impacts our creativity, relationships, and sense of direction. But burnout isn't the end of the story; with support, a new chapter can unfold. I love stories because they foster understanding. Throughout history, stories have been our tools for making sense of ourselves and the world.
We all have a story, but when burnout spirals into deeper struggles like anxiety, depression, exhaustion, and compassion fatigue, we can lose sight of that narrative. Pressures like work stress, relationship issues, societal expectations, identity struggles, or pursuit of perfection can engulf us to the point that we can't handle the burden. This impacts our creativity, relationships, and sense of direction. But burnout isn't the end of the story; with support, a new chapter can unfold. I love stories because they foster understanding. Throughout history, stories have been our tools for making sense of ourselves and the world.
Richard J Lautenbacher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Therapeutic orientation in the integration of psychoanalytic, cognitive, and humanistic approaches exploring collaboratively with clients various issues, including anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, etc. The approach is to build rapport and explore past experiences, current cognitions, and patterns of behavior with a focus on the client's unique needs. The therapeutic goal is to help gain insights and catharsis (“ah-ha” moments) with the client toward their psychological improvement and well-being.
Therapeutic orientation in the integration of psychoanalytic, cognitive, and humanistic approaches exploring collaboratively with clients various issues, including anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, etc. The approach is to build rapport and explore past experiences, current cognitions, and patterns of behavior with a focus on the client's unique needs. The therapeutic goal is to help gain insights and catharsis (“ah-ha” moments) with the client toward their psychological improvement and well-being.
Annie Armstrong Miyao
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
As a psychotherapist I work from a compassionate and practical perspective. My work is holistic and includes a creative exploration of the client's life experience, building awareness and mindfulness, reconnecting to the cues the body gives, and reinforcing positive experiences. I help clients to identify undiscovered potential, create change, and work through a myriad of issues. These issues range from depression and anxiety to questions about where to go next in career and, "Why do I keep dating the wrong person?". Clients come to me to work through trauma, eating disorders, substance abuse, low self-esteem, loss of meaning, and relationship issues.
As a psychotherapist I work from a compassionate and practical perspective. My work is holistic and includes a creative exploration of the client's life experience, building awareness and mindfulness, reconnecting to the cues the body gives, and reinforcing positive experiences. I help clients to identify undiscovered potential, create change, and work through a myriad of issues. These issues range from depression and anxiety to questions about where to go next in career and, "Why do I keep dating the wrong person?". Clients come to me to work through trauma, eating disorders, substance abuse, low self-esteem, loss of meaning, and relationship issues.
Angela Repetti Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Life's pressure cooker keeps cooking, and the stew is a blend of fatigue, uncertainty, & quiet sadness. You may want to talk about this and more but don't know to whom or what to say. I’m Angela, and I’m compassionately curious how your lived experience has shaped you and what you're up against. Consider me an emotional escort lending support + care in the form of warm conversations, intentional questions, + encouragement to stretch as you make your way through this exigent time. The therapy relationship can be a powerfully healing, transformative tool when you feel safe, heard + valued. Sessions are tailored to your unique needs.
Life's pressure cooker keeps cooking, and the stew is a blend of fatigue, uncertainty, & quiet sadness. You may want to talk about this and more but don't know to whom or what to say. I’m Angela, and I’m compassionately curious how your lived experience has shaped you and what you're up against. Consider me an emotional escort lending support + care in the form of warm conversations, intentional questions, + encouragement to stretch as you make your way through this exigent time. The therapy relationship can be a powerfully healing, transformative tool when you feel safe, heard + valued. Sessions are tailored to your unique needs.
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.