Photo of Jamie Feldstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Jamie Feldstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My specialties include Relationship Issues and Codependency, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Addiction, Chronic Illness and Life Transitions.
Are you looking for a safe place where you can access and explore your emotions without shame or judgment? Are you feeling frustrated, stuck or disappointed with the quality of your life? I can help you learn how to access your inner wisdom, build and bolster resiliency and connect more effectively with yourself and others.
My specialties include Relationship Issues and Codependency, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Addiction, Chronic Illness and Life Transitions.
Are you looking for a safe place where you can access and explore your emotions without shame or judgment? Are you feeling frustrated, stuck or disappointed with the quality of your life? I can help you learn how to access your inner wisdom, build and bolster resiliency and connect more effectively with yourself and others.
(805) 669-9917 View (805) 669-9917
Photo of Sarah Dihmes, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Sarah Dihmes
Psychologist, PhD, BCB
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist one of the few board certified biofeedback psychologists in Northern California. With specialties in life stressors, executive coaching, psychophysiology, and teens, she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California and New York!
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist one of the few board certified biofeedback psychologists in Northern California. With specialties in life stressors, executive coaching, psychophysiology, and teens, she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California and New York!
(415) 799-5164 View (415) 799-5164
Photo of Natalie Kazarian, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Natalie Kazarian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Beginning therapy takes courage and you've already taken the first step. My goal is to help you create a more fulfilling life. I provide a safe space to work collaboratively with you. I will listen and use my knowledge base to help address the parts of your life that feel challenging. I work in both short term and long term treatment modalities.
Beginning therapy takes courage and you've already taken the first step. My goal is to help you create a more fulfilling life. I provide a safe space to work collaboratively with you. I will listen and use my knowledge base to help address the parts of your life that feel challenging. I work in both short term and long term treatment modalities.
(559) 761-1474 View (559) 761-1474
Photo of Elizabeth Lauber, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Elizabeth Lauber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Throughout life, we all must examine painful feelings that complicate our lives and prevent us from finding satisfaction and joy. Obstacles may stand in the way of our leading more meaningful lives. We may feel stuck or powerless to take vital steps, make decisions, work toward goals, and improve relationships.
Throughout life, we all must examine painful feelings that complicate our lives and prevent us from finding satisfaction and joy. Obstacles may stand in the way of our leading more meaningful lives. We may feel stuck or powerless to take vital steps, make decisions, work toward goals, and improve relationships.
(424) 419-2097 View (424) 419-2097
Photo of Dr. Rachel Lauber, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Dr. Rachel Lauber
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Welcome. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My practice is centered around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches tailored to assist those dealing with depression and anxiety disorders. Additionally, I specialize in maternal mental health, supporting women through the delicate phases of pregnancy and postpartum. I also work extensively on relationship dynamics, career concerns, struggles with self-esteem, the transition to parenthood, and general life adjustments.
Welcome. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My practice is centered around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches tailored to assist those dealing with depression and anxiety disorders. Additionally, I specialize in maternal mental health, supporting women through the delicate phases of pregnancy and postpartum. I also work extensively on relationship dynamics, career concerns, struggles with self-esteem, the transition to parenthood, and general life adjustments.
(424) 247-5436 View (424) 247-5436
Photo of Cari Ginger Smulyan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Cari Ginger Smulyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
“Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up.” Brene Brown -Putting yourself first can be scary. Showing up in life can be overwhelming but I believe showing up is half the battle and from there we can create a collaborative therapeutic relationship to help you on your path of healing and self-discovery. I integrate principles of psychodynamic, attachment, mindfulness and humanistic theoretical approaches into my work. I believe that by looking at events and relationships in our past can help us understand patterns in our present that no longer serve us or have made us feel stuck.
“Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up.” Brene Brown -Putting yourself first can be scary. Showing up in life can be overwhelming but I believe showing up is half the battle and from there we can create a collaborative therapeutic relationship to help you on your path of healing and self-discovery. I integrate principles of psychodynamic, attachment, mindfulness and humanistic theoretical approaches into my work. I believe that by looking at events and relationships in our past can help us understand patterns in our present that no longer serve us or have made us feel stuck.
(424) 317-7709 View (424) 317-7709
Photo of Dr. Sarika Seth , Psychologist in 90403, CA
Dr. Sarika Seth
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Challenging life circumstances, traumatic experiences, unanticipated changes, opposing messages, and /or oppressive forces can knock us off our course. We may find ourselves having difficulty navigating through heightened states of anxiety and the depths of depression. Or, we just need to be seen and heard. In this instance, therapy can be a refuge- a place to explore, observe, make sense of, find meaning in, and heal from pain we have long been carrying. We may experience a newfound state of peace as we gradually sit with, accept, let go, move forward, and reconnect with the sweetness of life.
Challenging life circumstances, traumatic experiences, unanticipated changes, opposing messages, and /or oppressive forces can knock us off our course. We may find ourselves having difficulty navigating through heightened states of anxiety and the depths of depression. Or, we just need to be seen and heard. In this instance, therapy can be a refuge- a place to explore, observe, make sense of, find meaning in, and heal from pain we have long been carrying. We may experience a newfound state of peace as we gradually sit with, accept, let go, move forward, and reconnect with the sweetness of life.
(310) 947-8614 View (310) 947-8614
Photo of David Ibrahim, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(805) 420-7531 View (805) 420-7531
Photo of KD Farris, Pastoral Counselor in 90403, CA
KD Farris
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My roots as a therapist and healer have seeded over the past thirty-five years, bringing substance and depth to my one-on-one sessions with couples and individuals. During this time, I have maintained a private practice, which has always consisted of process-oriented consciousness work -- a means by which to enter safely and deeply into the inner landscape of the psyche for positive and real world change. My results-oriented approach to psychology is derived from the commitment to a conscious process and the intrapsychic relationship one can access when choosing to turn toward--and look at--oneself.
My roots as a therapist and healer have seeded over the past thirty-five years, bringing substance and depth to my one-on-one sessions with couples and individuals. During this time, I have maintained a private practice, which has always consisted of process-oriented consciousness work -- a means by which to enter safely and deeply into the inner landscape of the psyche for positive and real world change. My results-oriented approach to psychology is derived from the commitment to a conscious process and the intrapsychic relationship one can access when choosing to turn toward--and look at--oneself.
(310) 889-0677 View (310) 889-0677
Photo of Judith Crane Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Judith Crane Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Strength Hope Resiliency Positivity Gratitude Healing These are key concepts that I highlight in my work as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working over 15 years as a clinician with people from age 14 to 90 and their families. The issues brought to me most often include substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, grief and loss and difficulties in relationships. My approach is one of collaboration and a compassionate attitude toward the person to develop a good rapport and a mutual understanding of the goals for treatment. My techniques are tailored to the person
Strength Hope Resiliency Positivity Gratitude Healing These are key concepts that I highlight in my work as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working over 15 years as a clinician with people from age 14 to 90 and their families. The issues brought to me most often include substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, grief and loss and difficulties in relationships. My approach is one of collaboration and a compassionate attitude toward the person to develop a good rapport and a mutual understanding of the goals for treatment. My techniques are tailored to the person
(562) 354-8182 View (562) 354-8182
Photo of Megan Cser Smith, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Megan Cser Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
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.
(310) 861-3372 View (310) 861-3372
Photo of Lisa Chester-Schyman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Lisa Chester-Schyman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I provide a safe and compassionate environment to support you in your life journey and its many challenges. Through our work together you will develop a deeper understanding of yourself, which will allow you to navigate the murky waters of life, manage transitions, and live a life filled with meaning. Together we will explore your true nature and I will support you to find more comfort in your life by teaching you tools to overcome obstacles to your emotional well-being. Our collaboration will allow you to move through the more challenging times in your life with a greater sense of ease. I work with adults, teens, and adolescents.
I provide a safe and compassionate environment to support you in your life journey and its many challenges. Through our work together you will develop a deeper understanding of yourself, which will allow you to navigate the murky waters of life, manage transitions, and live a life filled with meaning. Together we will explore your true nature and I will support you to find more comfort in your life by teaching you tools to overcome obstacles to your emotional well-being. Our collaboration will allow you to move through the more challenging times in your life with a greater sense of ease. I work with adults, teens, and adolescents.
(424) 532-8592 View (424) 532-8592
Photo of Lisa L Rakusin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Lisa L Rakusin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an certified EMDR Therapist, experienced at treating trauma caused by all kinds of stressful and/or traumatic events, including grief and loss, as well as any related issues such as anxiety, depression, and substance use, that can develop as a result. I am passionate about creating a safe space and a compassionate, nonjudgmental relationship with my clients as I guide them, utilizing their strengths, to accomplish post-traumatic growth and healing. I also believe in the importance of including family members and significant others, when available, as part of the treatment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an certified EMDR Therapist, experienced at treating trauma caused by all kinds of stressful and/or traumatic events, including grief and loss, as well as any related issues such as anxiety, depression, and substance use, that can develop as a result. I am passionate about creating a safe space and a compassionate, nonjudgmental relationship with my clients as I guide them, utilizing their strengths, to accomplish post-traumatic growth and healing. I also believe in the importance of including family members and significant others, when available, as part of the treatment.
(323) 844-8827 View (323) 844-8827
Chronic Illness Therapists

How does therapy for chronic illness work?

Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?

Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?

No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?

There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.