Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Katy O'Donnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Anxiety and depression are on the rise. We are regularly flooded with images of climate crisis, war, violence, homelessness... leaving us feeling overwhelmed and powerless. The strain of these events can intensify ongoing stressors on every front; relationships, finances, physical and mental health. It's hard to know where to turn or how to help ourselves. As a trauma therapist, I integrate psychotherapy and Attachment-Focused EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a cutting edge therapy that works with the brain's natural ability to heal.
Anxiety and depression are on the rise. We are regularly flooded with images of climate crisis, war, violence, homelessness... leaving us feeling overwhelmed and powerless. The strain of these events can intensify ongoing stressors on every front; relationships, finances, physical and mental health. It's hard to know where to turn or how to help ourselves. As a trauma therapist, I integrate psychotherapy and Attachment-Focused EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a cutting edge therapy that works with the brain's natural ability to heal.
Jill Howe-Vercos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Heal the past. Be present. Have a future. You are not broken -- you already have the tools you need. My goal is to help you access those tools and remove any obstacles that prevent you from feeling like yourself. Whether you're struggling with old wounds or need support for current life challenges, we'll work together to build on your strengths -- and uncover ones you may not yet know you have.
Heal the past. Be present. Have a future. You are not broken -- you already have the tools you need. My goal is to help you access those tools and remove any obstacles that prevent you from feeling like yourself. Whether you're struggling with old wounds or need support for current life challenges, we'll work together to build on your strengths -- and uncover ones you may not yet know you have.
Triva Ponder
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Are you feeling stuck or having a hard time coping? I specialize in working with women in their 30s and 40s who are struggling with anxiety, depression and self-confidence issues that may be preventing them from enjoying life to its fullest. In our work together, we may also focus on processing unresolved trauma and attachment issues that may be impacting your current relationships. We'll discuss how to navigate dating, relationship issues, and breakups. My goal is to help you connect with your emotions, navigate overwhelming feelings, and increase your coping skills in order to improve your relationship with yourself and others.
Are you feeling stuck or having a hard time coping? I specialize in working with women in their 30s and 40s who are struggling with anxiety, depression and self-confidence issues that may be preventing them from enjoying life to its fullest. In our work together, we may also focus on processing unresolved trauma and attachment issues that may be impacting your current relationships. We'll discuss how to navigate dating, relationship issues, and breakups. My goal is to help you connect with your emotions, navigate overwhelming feelings, and increase your coping skills in order to improve your relationship with yourself and others.
William G Valdivia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
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.
Diana Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Therapy is a platform to identify and nurture your strengths, explore emotionally charged topics, and discover potentials in order to create a strong, loving relationship with yourself. I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and I work from an integrative framework, combining mindfulness, somatic interventions, and strengths based approaches.
Therapy is a platform to identify and nurture your strengths, explore emotionally charged topics, and discover potentials in order to create a strong, loving relationship with yourself. I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and I work from an integrative framework, combining mindfulness, somatic interventions, and strengths based approaches.
Ashlee Petersen
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCI
Not Verified Not Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My focus is to assist my clients with identifying purpose and passion in their lives. Sobriety can be a challenging road to walk however having a purpose in your life and additional motivation to grow and change can help to become the best version of yourself. After many years of struggling with my own personal addiction and successfully sustaining sobriety I became a believer in reinventing your life. I specialize in drug and alcohol counseling , wrap around Case Management support for the client and if need be the family. I utilize in person and remote support for the client and family.
My focus is to assist my clients with identifying purpose and passion in their lives. Sobriety can be a challenging road to walk however having a purpose in your life and additional motivation to grow and change can help to become the best version of yourself. After many years of struggling with my own personal addiction and successfully sustaining sobriety I became a believer in reinventing your life. I specialize in drug and alcohol counseling , wrap around Case Management support for the client and if need be the family. I utilize in person and remote support for the client and family.
Teresa Liaw Chung
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you stuck in a rut? Do you feel like you can get more out of life? Mamas, have you recently had a baby-- and your life has been turned upside down? You are not alone and I am here to help. My strength lies in understanding your unique struggles and formulating a plan of action to overcome these obstacles. I generally use CBT, which examines the problematic patterns in your thoughts and behaviors that impact your mood. I work predominantly with professional women who are challenged by life's major milestones and transitions.
Are you stuck in a rut? Do you feel like you can get more out of life? Mamas, have you recently had a baby-- and your life has been turned upside down? You are not alone and I am here to help. My strength lies in understanding your unique struggles and formulating a plan of action to overcome these obstacles. I generally use CBT, which examines the problematic patterns in your thoughts and behaviors that impact your mood. I work predominantly with professional women who are challenged by life's major milestones and transitions.
Flow House Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Yay! You’re thinking about trying therapy, but going through these profiles is A LOT. Life is overwhelming enough, let us help make this part easy. Schedule a free consult call, have a nice little chat, and get matched immediately with someone personally chosen for you. There are 8 of us - with different styles, personalities, specialities, and schedules - so odds are high of finding a good match.
Yay! You’re thinking about trying therapy, but going through these profiles is A LOT. Life is overwhelming enough, let us help make this part easy. Schedule a free consult call, have a nice little chat, and get matched immediately with someone personally chosen for you. There are 8 of us - with different styles, personalities, specialities, and schedules - so odds are high of finding a good match.
Marlu Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Marlu Harris offers loving support, kindness, guidance and education. Licensed for over 30 years, Marlu provides mindful psychotherapy to help people move through pain to self-love by assisting them in healing their emotional wounds while providing tools for self-help. She specializes in working with young adults who are carving out their identities as they separate from their family of origin, and anyone concentrating on creativity and identity, both spiritual and career development through bibliotherapy (reading) and journaling (writing) for those interested in expanding into the best version of themselves.
Marlu Harris offers loving support, kindness, guidance and education. Licensed for over 30 years, Marlu provides mindful psychotherapy to help people move through pain to self-love by assisting them in healing their emotional wounds while providing tools for self-help. She specializes in working with young adults who are carving out their identities as they separate from their family of origin, and anyone concentrating on creativity and identity, both spiritual and career development through bibliotherapy (reading) and journaling (writing) for those interested in expanding into the best version of themselves.
Leah Matson Ph.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
Welcome on your search for a therapist. I love being a part of your experience, and I have spent my life training for and providing deep participation in improving the quality of life for my clients. Having been a teacher of psychology for years at Antioch University, Los Angeles, I will provide a full spectrum of theory and tools to use for your new life choices and design. I have had a private practice since 1990, and have seen the inspiring efforts that clients make, often in the face of great difficulty, to wrestle with their problems of living.
Welcome on your search for a therapist. I love being a part of your experience, and I have spent my life training for and providing deep participation in improving the quality of life for my clients. Having been a teacher of psychology for years at Antioch University, Los Angeles, I will provide a full spectrum of theory and tools to use for your new life choices and design. I have had a private practice since 1990, and have seen the inspiring efforts that clients make, often in the face of great difficulty, to wrestle with their problems of living.
Grey Interventions • Pat Potter Interventionist
CSAC, BS, MS, JD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Pat Potter is a seasoned Interventionist with 30 years of expertise in addiction and mental health crisis management. Known as the "last resort" in challenging cases, Pat leads Grey Interventions, advocating a non-judgmental, 'grey hat' approach. This philosophy recognizes the diversity in healing paths, focusing on personalized strategies for recovery and well-being, tailored to each individual's unique situation, needs, and strengths.
Pat Potter is a seasoned Interventionist with 30 years of expertise in addiction and mental health crisis management. Known as the "last resort" in challenging cases, Pat leads Grey Interventions, advocating a non-judgmental, 'grey hat' approach. This philosophy recognizes the diversity in healing paths, focusing on personalized strategies for recovery and well-being, tailored to each individual's unique situation, needs, and strengths.
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Stacey Sampo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Hi, I’m Stacey. Whether your child has struggled for a while or has just recently started to exhibit certain behaviors, I know it's never easy to ask for help - which is why I'm so glad you're here. I believe children are always moving towards wholeness but sometimes need help from compassionate and knowledgeable adults. My work with your child will integrate the science of interpersonal neurobiology, child development, trauma-informed care, expressive arts, and play to strengthen the understanding, love, and security between you and your child.
Hi, I’m Stacey. Whether your child has struggled for a while or has just recently started to exhibit certain behaviors, I know it's never easy to ask for help - which is why I'm so glad you're here. I believe children are always moving towards wholeness but sometimes need help from compassionate and knowledgeable adults. My work with your child will integrate the science of interpersonal neurobiology, child development, trauma-informed care, expressive arts, and play to strengthen the understanding, love, and security between you and your child.
Sarah Segal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Have you noticed that it's in the places you are supposed to be most relaxed (meditation, vacation, weekends, sleep) that your mind feels louder than ever? It might feel like the idea of letting your thoughts go is meant for “normal” people and that does not include you. Maybe you stand guard to keep yourself from your worst case, as if your attention to your thoughts keeps you from descending into unimaginable fear. All the advice you get from those closest to you feels so out of touch with the agony of daily doubts around the things that matter most. I can help you sift through the noise and regain your confidence in yourself.
Have you noticed that it's in the places you are supposed to be most relaxed (meditation, vacation, weekends, sleep) that your mind feels louder than ever? It might feel like the idea of letting your thoughts go is meant for “normal” people and that does not include you. Maybe you stand guard to keep yourself from your worst case, as if your attention to your thoughts keeps you from descending into unimaginable fear. All the advice you get from those closest to you feels so out of touch with the agony of daily doubts around the things that matter most. I can help you sift through the noise and regain your confidence in yourself.
Sally Gibbons Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
At different times in life, many of us find ourselves feeling stuck, uncertain about who we have become, feeling hopeless or anxious as we confront the challenges of our life. Entering therapy can be a courageous and creative way to find support in transforming the pain of these experiences into an opportunity for healing and growth. The therapeutic relationship allows client and therapist together to engage in a dialogue that fosters understanding and acceptance, while encouraging emotional growth and shifting old patterns that may be keeping us stuck and suffering.
At different times in life, many of us find ourselves feeling stuck, uncertain about who we have become, feeling hopeless or anxious as we confront the challenges of our life. Entering therapy can be a courageous and creative way to find support in transforming the pain of these experiences into an opportunity for healing and growth. The therapeutic relationship allows client and therapist together to engage in a dialogue that fosters understanding and acceptance, while encouraging emotional growth and shifting old patterns that may be keeping us stuck and suffering.
Westside Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
If you are looking for long-term change and a team of highly effective therapists, look no further. We believe that therapy begins with finding the right fit with the perfect therapist who takes a collaborative and holistic approach. Our team incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational therapy. Please contact Shannon Kalberg, LMFT to book a free 20-minute phone consultation.
If you are looking for long-term change and a team of highly effective therapists, look no further. We believe that therapy begins with finding the right fit with the perfect therapist who takes a collaborative and holistic approach. Our team incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational therapy. Please contact Shannon Kalberg, LMFT to book a free 20-minute phone consultation.
Dr. Karen Shore
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, CGP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Online Only)
QUALITY & EXPERIENCE I strive to be the most well-trained therapist I can be, and provide an atmosphere of privacy, safety, and trust. Beyond my Ph.D., I have certificates in Psychoanalysis, Group Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT). I am a Certified EFT Supervisor. My experience with couples and individuals includes hetero and same-sex clients. After years in Santa Monica, I now work only via Zoom, serving people in CA and NY (Licensed in both states). Fee range for 2024: individuals, 45 minutes ($225-280), 60 min ($310-370); Couples and Adult Children & Parent(s), 75 min ($385-445) or 90 min ($480-540).
QUALITY & EXPERIENCE I strive to be the most well-trained therapist I can be, and provide an atmosphere of privacy, safety, and trust. Beyond my Ph.D., I have certificates in Psychoanalysis, Group Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT). I am a Certified EFT Supervisor. My experience with couples and individuals includes hetero and same-sex clients. After years in Santa Monica, I now work only via Zoom, serving people in CA and NY (Licensed in both states). Fee range for 2024: individuals, 45 minutes ($225-280), 60 min ($310-370); Couples and Adult Children & Parent(s), 75 min ($385-445) or 90 min ($480-540).
Mary Ann Abosch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, TMF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
You have your share of life stress. There's almost no way to get around it in our fast-paced culture where work is exhausting, relationships and family require attention, and to-do lists are endless. You're going through the daily grind, juggling lots of balls, and trying to keep people satisfied. Meanwhile, you're coming unglued. You start losing your cool with others, become paralyzed with fear, or want to run away from it all. You might be exhausted, edgy, or have trouble concentrating. Maybe you self-soothe in unhealthy ways. You're tired of this but don't know what to do. This is where I come in and our work together begins.
You have your share of life stress. There's almost no way to get around it in our fast-paced culture where work is exhausting, relationships and family require attention, and to-do lists are endless. You're going through the daily grind, juggling lots of balls, and trying to keep people satisfied. Meanwhile, you're coming unglued. You start losing your cool with others, become paralyzed with fear, or want to run away from it all. You might be exhausted, edgy, or have trouble concentrating. Maybe you self-soothe in unhealthy ways. You're tired of this but don't know what to do. This is where I come in and our work together begins.
Angie Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Angie is an alternative Latina therapist from the Salvadorean diaspora, first-generation born and bred in Santa Monica (Tongva land), child of immigrants, and the big sister in her family. Angie earned a Master's in Social Work from UCLA, specializing in School Social Work, and a B.A. in Sociology with a minor in Chicanx Studies at CSUN. For nearly a decade, Angie has been working with children, youth and families in community mental health and K-12 schools. The last two years serving as Manager of School-based Services, Clinical Supervisor to MSWs, Coordinator of Reflective Parenting Groups and in Private Practice for QTBIPOC/ WOC.
Angie is an alternative Latina therapist from the Salvadorean diaspora, first-generation born and bred in Santa Monica (Tongva land), child of immigrants, and the big sister in her family. Angie earned a Master's in Social Work from UCLA, specializing in School Social Work, and a B.A. in Sociology with a minor in Chicanx Studies at CSUN. For nearly a decade, Angie has been working with children, youth and families in community mental health and K-12 schools. The last two years serving as Manager of School-based Services, Clinical Supervisor to MSWs, Coordinator of Reflective Parenting Groups and in Private Practice for QTBIPOC/ WOC.
Katrina Paulino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Utilizing EMDR & other approaches, I work with individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and those going through life transitions looking for change. Because healing and growth occur interpersonally, therapy can be an impactful addition to one's life during difficult and challenging times. If you're feeling overwhelmed by emotions or stress, or feel like you're current life is being impacted by past events, there is absolutely hope out there. Many of the leading brain-body therapies now available are targeted for these types of experiences.
Utilizing EMDR & other approaches, I work with individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and those going through life transitions looking for change. Because healing and growth occur interpersonally, therapy can be an impactful addition to one's life during difficult and challenging times. If you're feeling overwhelmed by emotions or stress, or feel like you're current life is being impacted by past events, there is absolutely hope out there. Many of the leading brain-body therapies now available are targeted for these types of experiences.
Dr. Cate Vogl
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Online Only)
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space where we can work collaboratively to decrease your symptoms and reach your goals. Together, we can develop awareness of patterns that might be creating stuck points in your life, as well as process things from your past that may be impacting your present. My style is compassionate, interactive and direct when needed. Ultimately, my goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and authentic life.
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space where we can work collaboratively to decrease your symptoms and reach your goals. Together, we can develop awareness of patterns that might be creating stuck points in your life, as well as process things from your past that may be impacting your present. My style is compassionate, interactive and direct when needed. Ultimately, my goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and authentic life.
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
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | 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.