Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Don M Goodman Inc
Psychologist, PhD, CCHt, CDMHRS
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I am on staff at UCLA as chief pain psychologist in the Orofacial pain department and I have offices in Santa Monica and Thousand Oaks.
I believe anxiety and stress to be the foundation of many issues we all face. My first goal is to help my patients reduce stress thereby decreasing chronic pain, depression and even the ravages of disease and illness. By developing rapport and trust and then utilizing healthy coping skills, the goal of anxiety reduction can be achieved. Its important to remember that we are engaged in a collaborative process where we learn to accept, resolve, move on and let go. I find that mindfulness, meditation and breathing is highly effective in decreasing anxiety and depression.
I am on staff at UCLA as chief pain psychologist in the Orofacial pain department and I have offices in Santa Monica and Thousand Oaks.
I believe anxiety and stress to be the foundation of many issues we all face. My first goal is to help my patients reduce stress thereby decreasing chronic pain, depression and even the ravages of disease and illness. By developing rapport and trust and then utilizing healthy coping skills, the goal of anxiety reduction can be achieved. Its important to remember that we are engaged in a collaborative process where we learn to accept, resolve, move on and let go. I find that mindfulness, meditation and breathing is highly effective in decreasing anxiety and depression.
Carol Fred
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I continue to see people diagnosed with cancer and other serious illness.
I have had over 25 years of experience helping people deal with anxiety, depression and traumatic experiences. Creating a safe, trusting relationship is the basis of productive therapy and healing. I am an empathetic listener who uses a variety of approaches to help people reach their goals.
I continue to see people diagnosed with cancer and other serious illness.
I have had over 25 years of experience helping people deal with anxiety, depression and traumatic experiences. Creating a safe, trusting relationship is the basis of productive therapy and healing. I am an empathetic listener who uses a variety of approaches to help people reach their goals.
Denise Maratos
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, EdM
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Do you need support finding your life’s purpose? Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you find it difficult to feel pain and face your shadows? While considering the whole person- heart, soul, mind and body, I trust that you enter therapy having the insight you need to navigate your distress. I use the term "depth emergence" to explain my orientation and approach. It stems from depth psychology, which emphasizes gaining access to the unconscious and bringing it into consciousness. While increasing awareness we derive meaning, evolve, and transform.
Do you need support finding your life’s purpose? Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you find it difficult to feel pain and face your shadows? While considering the whole person- heart, soul, mind and body, I trust that you enter therapy having the insight you need to navigate your distress. I use the term "depth emergence" to explain my orientation and approach. It stems from depth psychology, which emphasizes gaining access to the unconscious and bringing it into consciousness. While increasing awareness we derive meaning, evolve, and transform.
Eve Nadel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Some of my specialties are Trauma, Adolescents and Young Adults, Chronic Pain, Couples and Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
No one goes unscathed in this life, and sometimes we need help from a professional. My job is to provide a safe place to begin the path of psychotherapy. I have 26 years of experience providing psychotherapy to clients with a variety of challenges. I listen, provide support, empathize and care for my clients. Often we feel that we have not been heard or seen in a deep way. I aim to offer a different and corrective experience and help clients gain insight and change behaviors.
Some of my specialties are Trauma, Adolescents and Young Adults, Chronic Pain, Couples and Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
No one goes unscathed in this life, and sometimes we need help from a professional. My job is to provide a safe place to begin the path of psychotherapy. I have 26 years of experience providing psychotherapy to clients with a variety of challenges. I listen, provide support, empathize and care for my clients. Often we feel that we have not been heard or seen in a deep way. I aim to offer a different and corrective experience and help clients gain insight and change behaviors.
Shaina McPhetridge
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
As a real human person who has suffered, and an EMDRIA-trained integrative therapist, I have successfully helped clients heal from a wide variety of anxieties, painful images and memories, shock traumas, sexual/emotional/physical abuse, chronic health and pain issues, shame, and fears.
Life can lead us down some pretty confusing paths sometimes, leaving us feeling crazy, unsettled, and totally lost. You don't have to feel like this forever. I work with individuals, couples, and teens who are really going through it - anxiety, panic and stress, relationship issues, PTSD, and unresolved issues that continue to impact current life. Many of my clients are insightful, curious, growth-oriented people who are seeking something beyond traditional therapy. My focus is on helping you to UN-learn all the crap you've taken on over the years that is weighing you down and freeing up whatever it is that seems to be stuck.
As a real human person who has suffered, and an EMDRIA-trained integrative therapist, I have successfully helped clients heal from a wide variety of anxieties, painful images and memories, shock traumas, sexual/emotional/physical abuse, chronic health and pain issues, shame, and fears.
Life can lead us down some pretty confusing paths sometimes, leaving us feeling crazy, unsettled, and totally lost. You don't have to feel like this forever. I work with individuals, couples, and teens who are really going through it - anxiety, panic and stress, relationship issues, PTSD, and unresolved issues that continue to impact current life. Many of my clients are insightful, curious, growth-oriented people who are seeking something beyond traditional therapy. My focus is on helping you to UN-learn all the crap you've taken on over the years that is weighing you down and freeing up whatever it is that seems to be stuck.
Allan Silverstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
), but I also have much experience dealing with trauma, parenting concerns, chronic pain, the elderly, and the psychological impact of medical conditions.
A good therapist has wisdom, compassion and the ability to connect deeply with you, while creating a safe healing environment. These are among the strengths that my patients ascribed to me during my many years as a Pediatrician... and that ultimately led me to a career in psychotherapy. Having raised two preadolescent daughters after my wife died, I have experienced many of life's tragedies, celebrations, anxieties and fears. With empathy, expertise, and kindness, I've helped countless individuals and families work through their issues. I would look forward to doing the same with you. I employ HUMOR when appropriate and useful.
), but I also have much experience dealing with trauma, parenting concerns, chronic pain, the elderly, and the psychological impact of medical conditions.
A good therapist has wisdom, compassion and the ability to connect deeply with you, while creating a safe healing environment. These are among the strengths that my patients ascribed to me during my many years as a Pediatrician... and that ultimately led me to a career in psychotherapy. Having raised two preadolescent daughters after my wife died, I have experienced many of life's tragedies, celebrations, anxieties and fears. With empathy, expertise, and kindness, I've helped countless individuals and families work through their issues. I would look forward to doing the same with you. I employ HUMOR when appropriate and useful.
Ashley Alpert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you looking for a psychotherapist during these tough times? I work with children and adults who struggle with behavioral issues, ADHD/learning disorders, divorce, depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic pain. Many believe disorders are a disability, but I know this to be wrong. They only make you stronger, and do not have to keep you from living a full and healthy life. It may be time to tap into your inner strength, and I am here to help.
Are you looking for a psychotherapist during these tough times? I work with children and adults who struggle with behavioral issues, ADHD/learning disorders, divorce, depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic pain. Many believe disorders are a disability, but I know this to be wrong. They only make you stronger, and do not have to keep you from living a full and healthy life. It may be time to tap into your inner strength, and I am here to help.
Brittni Brooks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, ERP, KAP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
Do you struggle with low self-worth, addiction, or intrusive thoughts? EMDR helps to process trauma, negative self-talk, reduces cravings, and allows you to live your life with more ease and regulation. I work with adults and teens to relieve symptoms of PTSD, OCD, addiction, and insomnia. I utilize internal family systems/ego-state parts work and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy as needed. Throughout the healing process, you will notice increased self-trust and a release of old coping strategies. You deserve to live life fully, free from the distraction and pain of old wounds.
Do you struggle with low self-worth, addiction, or intrusive thoughts? EMDR helps to process trauma, negative self-talk, reduces cravings, and allows you to live your life with more ease and regulation. I work with adults and teens to relieve symptoms of PTSD, OCD, addiction, and insomnia. I utilize internal family systems/ego-state parts work and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy as needed. Throughout the healing process, you will notice increased self-trust and a release of old coping strategies. You deserve to live life fully, free from the distraction and pain of old wounds.
Kristin Sheehan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck in patterns of anxious thoughts, disordered eating, or unhealthy relationships? Do you feel unsafe in your body due to trauma or chronic illness? I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Somatic Therapy to help clients get unstuck and reconnect to the wisdom and safety of their body. I use an attachment-based and trauma-informed approach to help clients identify their unhelpful narratives, challenge them, and take healthy risks. If you are ready to go deeper than traditional talk therapy and crave a healing connection with your mind, body, and spirit, I am here to help.
Do you feel stuck in patterns of anxious thoughts, disordered eating, or unhealthy relationships? Do you feel unsafe in your body due to trauma or chronic illness? I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Somatic Therapy to help clients get unstuck and reconnect to the wisdom and safety of their body. I use an attachment-based and trauma-informed approach to help clients identify their unhelpful narratives, challenge them, and take healthy risks. If you are ready to go deeper than traditional talk therapy and crave a healing connection with your mind, body, and spirit, I am here to help.
Meredith Edwards
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Life's shadows and waves come in many different forms. You might try to run, fight, avoid, or make it make sense to find relief and stability. You may have found ways to cope and survive that worked for you in the past but don't anymore. Waves might come in the form of emotional overwhelm, fear of abandonment or rejection, toxic shame or guilt, chronic pain or grief, or debilitating anxiety that keeps you from joy and rest. You may understand the "why," but your nervous system still responds in a way that prevents you from living the life you deserve. You want to feel secure and worthy in your mind and body from the inside out.
Life's shadows and waves come in many different forms. You might try to run, fight, avoid, or make it make sense to find relief and stability. You may have found ways to cope and survive that worked for you in the past but don't anymore. Waves might come in the form of emotional overwhelm, fear of abandonment or rejection, toxic shame or guilt, chronic pain or grief, or debilitating anxiety that keeps you from joy and rest. You may understand the "why," but your nervous system still responds in a way that prevents you from living the life you deserve. You want to feel secure and worthy in your mind and body from the inside out.
Su Jin Feuer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
Additionally, I work well with clients and families impacted by illness, grief and loss.
For over 20 years, I have counseled individuals, couples and families on health, relationships, career and life transitions. Licensed in New York and California, I am a psychotherapist and consultant providing virtual therapy. Rooted in attachment theory, I see adults seeking individual therapy and couples therapy. I am a graduate of Columbia University and Ackerman Institute for the Family. I practice relational, psychodynamic therapy, family systems, and EMDR. My areas of specialty are health psychology, relationships, life and career transitions, self esteem and performance.
Additionally, I work well with clients and families impacted by illness, grief and loss.
For over 20 years, I have counseled individuals, couples and families on health, relationships, career and life transitions. Licensed in New York and California, I am a psychotherapist and consultant providing virtual therapy. Rooted in attachment theory, I see adults seeking individual therapy and couples therapy. I am a graduate of Columbia University and Ackerman Institute for the Family. I practice relational, psychodynamic therapy, family systems, and EMDR. My areas of specialty are health psychology, relationships, life and career transitions, self esteem and performance.
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Dianne Porchia
MA, DMBM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Dianne Porchia is featured in HEAL Documentary film for her successful healing work with advance stage cancer client who remains cancer free over 5 years after diagnosis with stage IV colorectal cancer. Porchia's unique holistic approach to healing integrates the principles and practice of mind-body-heart-soul energy medicine, epigenetics, psychoneuroimmunology and heart-centered communication skills to reduce mental-emotional stress, support immune function and create and maintain successful and loving relationships through high stress life challenges such as divorce, death, loss of job, serious illness, disease and cancer.
Dianne Porchia is featured in HEAL Documentary film for her successful healing work with advance stage cancer client who remains cancer free over 5 years after diagnosis with stage IV colorectal cancer. Porchia's unique holistic approach to healing integrates the principles and practice of mind-body-heart-soul energy medicine, epigenetics, psychoneuroimmunology and heart-centered communication skills to reduce mental-emotional stress, support immune function and create and maintain successful and loving relationships through high stress life challenges such as divorce, death, loss of job, serious illness, disease and cancer.
Jo Ann McKarus
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, FIPA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
"Not until we are lost, do we begin to understand ourselves." -- Henry David Thoreau. I believe this statement is an essential truth about the human condition. Paradoxically, as other great intellects have attested to, it is precisely through self-understanding that one achieves emotional healing, wisdom and maturity. Through insight and self-awareness, one also gains an increased capacity for deep and meaningful relationships, a potent tonic for whatever ails, be it depression or anxiety, grief or trauma, aging or illness.... Resolving inner conflicts leads to healthier choices and the vanquishing of self-defeating patterns.
"Not until we are lost, do we begin to understand ourselves." -- Henry David Thoreau. I believe this statement is an essential truth about the human condition. Paradoxically, as other great intellects have attested to, it is precisely through self-understanding that one achieves emotional healing, wisdom and maturity. Through insight and self-awareness, one also gains an increased capacity for deep and meaningful relationships, a potent tonic for whatever ails, be it depression or anxiety, grief or trauma, aging or illness.... Resolving inner conflicts leads to healthier choices and the vanquishing of self-defeating patterns.
Mary Nakata
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Seeking this form of treatment for emotional pain, self discovery and personal growth is a treatment modality that is a more in depth exploration and investigation of a person's unique, subjective experiences.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist offering individual, couples and group therapy for 35 years. My private practice is located in Brentwood in West Los Angeles, adjacent to Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, California. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I help people with problems relating to anxiety, depression, relationships, grief and loss, eating disorders, abuse, major life transitions, addiction early life trauma and chronic and life threatening illnesses.
Seeking this form of treatment for emotional pain, self discovery and personal growth is a treatment modality that is a more in depth exploration and investigation of a person's unique, subjective experiences.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist offering individual, couples and group therapy for 35 years. My private practice is located in Brentwood in West Los Angeles, adjacent to Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, California. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I help people with problems relating to anxiety, depression, relationships, grief and loss, eating disorders, abuse, major life transitions, addiction early life trauma and chronic and life threatening illnesses.
Bahar Yaghoubian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
My name is Bahar, and I provide counseling for Anxiety, Trauma, and Pain virtually to anyone living in San Francisco, Bay Area, & Los Angeles, CA.
Before your day starts, your heart and mind are already racing, your back and neck feel tense, and your stomach feels queasy. You have this feeling that you are stuck and not sure how to get out of this situation. You think to yourself, “What is happening to my life? Why do I feel this way?” Worry, fear, avoidance, racing heart and negative thoughts. In other words, Anxiety!!! It’s taking up all your energy and controlling your thoughts, emotions, and body. It feels like the anxiety is running your life.
My name is Bahar, and I provide counseling for Anxiety, Trauma, and Pain virtually to anyone living in San Francisco, Bay Area, & Los Angeles, CA.
Before your day starts, your heart and mind are already racing, your back and neck feel tense, and your stomach feels queasy. You have this feeling that you are stuck and not sure how to get out of this situation. You think to yourself, “What is happening to my life? Why do I feel this way?” Worry, fear, avoidance, racing heart and negative thoughts. In other words, Anxiety!!! It’s taking up all your energy and controlling your thoughts, emotions, and body. It feels like the anxiety is running your life.
Psychotherapy Office of Jessica Karas LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
My office is located in the heart of Claremont. I am walking distance or a bike ride away from the (5C's). I also offer zoom virtual sessions to people living anywhere in California. I specialize in the treatment of adults who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues, adjustment difficulties, chronic pain, sports related issues.
My office is located in the heart of Claremont. I am walking distance or a bike ride away from the (5C's). I also offer zoom virtual sessions to people living anywhere in California. I specialize in the treatment of adults who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues, adjustment difficulties, chronic pain, sports related issues.
Sarah Minas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
For over a decade, I've assisted clients navigate a broad spectrum of life obstacles such as academic/occupational stress, interpersonal relationships, guilt/shame, personality disorders, mood and anxiety issues, life threatening illness, end-of-life, grief, loss and bereavement, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and more.
My philosophy is simple: Make the most of life's transitions and challenges to develop insight and tools for the future. My practice provides a safe and judgment-free space to explore those things most important to you.
For over a decade, I've assisted clients navigate a broad spectrum of life obstacles such as academic/occupational stress, interpersonal relationships, guilt/shame, personality disorders, mood and anxiety issues, life threatening illness, end-of-life, grief, loss and bereavement, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and more.
My philosophy is simple: Make the most of life's transitions and challenges to develop insight and tools for the future. My practice provides a safe and judgment-free space to explore those things most important to you.
Megan Sherer
CCH, RTTP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
My passion for these topics run deep as I draw from many years of profound personal experience, having recovered from eating disorders, anxiety and depression, toxic relationships, codependence, chronic illness, and childhood trauma.
My mission is to help women connect to the most authentic expression of love in their lives in order to have more self-confidence, healthier relationships, and a stronger sense of purpose. My clients want to have a better relationship with themselves, as well as to attract and experience healthy romantic love, and to break any patterns, beliefs or habits that are standing in the way of that. As a Holistic Therapist who specializes in love, relationships/breakups, self-worth and personal health, my goal is to help you get there.
My passion for these topics run deep as I draw from many years of profound personal experience, having recovered from eating disorders, anxiety and depression, toxic relationships, codependence, chronic illness, and childhood trauma.
My mission is to help women connect to the most authentic expression of love in their lives in order to have more self-confidence, healthier relationships, and a stronger sense of purpose. My clients want to have a better relationship with themselves, as well as to attract and experience healthy romantic love, and to break any patterns, beliefs or habits that are standing in the way of that. As a Holistic Therapist who specializes in love, relationships/breakups, self-worth and personal health, my goal is to help you get there.
Kenneth M. Sabel
Psychologist, PsyD , SEP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I understand the importance of needing to feel understood and seen. When therapy is successful, we often will experience a greater sense of spaciousness inside ourselves, freedom from our own judgments, and are reminded that confronting our pain won’t destroy us. The goal is not a short-term fix but instead a long-term shift that brings forth feelings of empowerment, resiliency, and a confidence that our brains and our lives can change. As a consequence of shifting our relationship to ourselves and to our pain, the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with anxiety, trauma, and depression begin to dissolve and loosen their grip.
I understand the importance of needing to feel understood and seen. When therapy is successful, we often will experience a greater sense of spaciousness inside ourselves, freedom from our own judgments, and are reminded that confronting our pain won’t destroy us. The goal is not a short-term fix but instead a long-term shift that brings forth feelings of empowerment, resiliency, and a confidence that our brains and our lives can change. As a consequence of shifting our relationship to ourselves and to our pain, the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with anxiety, trauma, and depression begin to dissolve and loosen their grip.
Jean Jho
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Online Only)
You are not alone and you do not have to navigate through your pain all on your own.
Are you known for being a perfectionist, but in reality, underneath the perfectionist mask, you feel anxious, emotional chaotic, and overwhelmed? The thought of making mistakes or showing flaws brings up fear of rejection and judgment. Imposter syndrome seems to rear its ugly head all the time. You just want to be able to feel safe and relax, but you just cannot allow yourself to relax and enjoy. You're exhausted, but feel like there is no other option but to keep pushing on. You just want to be happy, damnit!
You are not alone and you do not have to navigate through your pain all on your own.
Are you known for being a perfectionist, but in reality, underneath the perfectionist mask, you feel anxious, emotional chaotic, and overwhelmed? The thought of making mistakes or showing flaws brings up fear of rejection and judgment. Imposter syndrome seems to rear its ugly head all the time. You just want to be able to feel safe and relax, but you just cannot allow yourself to relax and enjoy. You're exhausted, but feel like there is no other option but to keep pushing on. You just want to be happy, damnit!
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Santa Monica
- Beverly Hills
- Century City
- Culver City
- El Segundo
- Inglewood
- Marina Del Rey
- Pacific Palisades
- Playa Del Rey
- Venice
- West Hollywood
- West Los Angeles
- Westchester
Chronic Pain Therapists
How does chronic pain therapy work?
Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.
What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?
Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.
Are there new treatments for chronic pain?
Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.
How long does therapy for chronic pain take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.