Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
I provide a nonjudgmental space to navigate and make sense of one’s patterns and experiences. Allowing curiosity and constructive self-reflection to occur—we uncover and integrate one’s authentic truth. This creates a bedrock for lasting & effective healing and transformation. Become unstuck. Become self-empowered.
I provide a nonjudgmental space to navigate and make sense of one’s patterns and experiences. Allowing curiosity and constructive self-reflection to occur—we uncover and integrate one’s authentic truth. This creates a bedrock for lasting & effective healing and transformation. Become unstuck. Become self-empowered.
The Procrastination Doctor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Not accepting new clients
For the best sense of me, along with info about insurance & rates, please go to procrastinationdoctor.com. I help adults with time mgmt., disorganization, & ADD/ADHD via coaching and psychotherapy. Having ADHD myself, I understand the frustration, shame, and hit it can take on self-esteem. I cannot prescribe meds, (you need an MD/psychiatrist for that), but I can help you achieve your goals. Together, we'll learn about your brain, develop strategies to increase productivity, decrease inconsistency, and in so doing, improve self-esteem and secondary depression and anxiety if present.
For the best sense of me, along with info about insurance & rates, please go to procrastinationdoctor.com. I help adults with time mgmt., disorganization, & ADD/ADHD via coaching and psychotherapy. Having ADHD myself, I understand the frustration, shame, and hit it can take on self-esteem. I cannot prescribe meds, (you need an MD/psychiatrist for that), but I can help you achieve your goals. Together, we'll learn about your brain, develop strategies to increase productivity, decrease inconsistency, and in so doing, improve self-esteem and secondary depression and anxiety if present.
OCD & Anxiety Program of Southern California
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I am a clinical psychologist and Co-Director of the OCD & Anxiety Program of Southern California. We are a group of compassionate clinicians who understand how difficult it can be to live with OCD and anxiety disorders. We specialize in providing effective treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, OC Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and depression. We utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (E/RP), which is considered to be the gold standard for the treatment of anxiety disorders. We also utilize other effective interventions, such as mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I am a clinical psychologist and Co-Director of the OCD & Anxiety Program of Southern California. We are a group of compassionate clinicians who understand how difficult it can be to live with OCD and anxiety disorders. We specialize in providing effective treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, OC Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and depression. We utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (E/RP), which is considered to be the gold standard for the treatment of anxiety disorders. We also utilize other effective interventions, such as mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Kathryn Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
The techniques I have discovered and found useful on my own healing journey have become the foundation for my practice as a holistic psychotherapist. I aim to create a sacred and compassionate space where individuals can embark on a transformative exploration of their inner worlds, healing past trauma or negative beliefs so that they can fully live in the present moment. My approach is deeply rooted in empathy, recognizing the uniqueness of each person's experience and honoring the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
The techniques I have discovered and found useful on my own healing journey have become the foundation for my practice as a holistic psychotherapist. I aim to create a sacred and compassionate space where individuals can embark on a transformative exploration of their inner worlds, healing past trauma or negative beliefs so that they can fully live in the present moment. My approach is deeply rooted in empathy, recognizing the uniqueness of each person's experience and honoring the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
Paul Carter - Anxiety, ADHD
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
My teenage clients report that I have greatly helped in reducing depression and anxiety by providing a non-judgmental space where they can explore communication challenges, self-esteem issues and work on difficulties that create a challenge in their day-to-day life. I work from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy framework, which can help teens reframe negativity, develop long-term coping skills, and be more fully present in their lives. Clients can recognize that their thoughts and emotions do not have to get in the way of taking action toward meeting their goals and making meaningful connections.
My teenage clients report that I have greatly helped in reducing depression and anxiety by providing a non-judgmental space where they can explore communication challenges, self-esteem issues and work on difficulties that create a challenge in their day-to-day life. I work from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy framework, which can help teens reframe negativity, develop long-term coping skills, and be more fully present in their lives. Clients can recognize that their thoughts and emotions do not have to get in the way of taking action toward meeting their goals and making meaningful connections.
Sara Gillooly
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Did you grow up feeling "too sensitive" or not "good enough"? Maybe it felt like you had to walk on eggshells at home and couldn't truly be yourself? Now that you're an adult, it feels hard not to sacrifice your own needs in order to keep others comfortable or to even identify what they are in the first place. Relationships can feel anxiety provoking and setting boundaries is hard. If any of this sounds like you, I understand. I specialize in working with adults healing from complex trauma, emotionally immature parents, and narcissistic abuse. The majority of my clients also identify as LGBTQ+ and/or neurodivergent as I do myself.
Did you grow up feeling "too sensitive" or not "good enough"? Maybe it felt like you had to walk on eggshells at home and couldn't truly be yourself? Now that you're an adult, it feels hard not to sacrifice your own needs in order to keep others comfortable or to even identify what they are in the first place. Relationships can feel anxiety provoking and setting boundaries is hard. If any of this sounds like you, I understand. I specialize in working with adults healing from complex trauma, emotionally immature parents, and narcissistic abuse. The majority of my clients also identify as LGBTQ+ and/or neurodivergent as I do myself.
Katrina Paulino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Utilizing EMDR and other approaches, I specialize in adults with histories of childhood trauma who present with symptoms of PTSD and CPTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociative symptoms and disorders, emotional regulation issues, self-esteem issues, and codependence. My clients often have done years of therapy, yet still report feeling “stuck.” If any of this sounds like what you might be experiencing, and you're looking for a new approach to truly heal from these nagging wounds, please reach out for a consultation (no charge). I'm always happy to learn more about a potential client and discuss what working together might look like.
Utilizing EMDR and other approaches, I specialize in adults with histories of childhood trauma who present with symptoms of PTSD and CPTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociative symptoms and disorders, emotional regulation issues, self-esteem issues, and codependence. My clients often have done years of therapy, yet still report feeling “stuck.” If any of this sounds like what you might be experiencing, and you're looking for a new approach to truly heal from these nagging wounds, please reach out for a consultation (no charge). I'm always happy to learn more about a potential client and discuss what working together might look like.
I specialize in coaching adolescents and young adults working in the entertainment and show business industries. Please reach out for on-set inquiries.
I specialize in coaching adolescents and young adults working in the entertainment and show business industries. Please reach out for on-set inquiries.
I am accepting new patients via Telemedicine as the need for mental health support is stronger today than ever. My style is grounded in empathy, listening, and compassion, with a dash of humor central to building a trusting alliance. I work with adults and couples; my doctoral project focused on treating violent couples in highly conflictual relationships in a conjoint setting examining the role of aggression and masochism in relationships. Another area of my expertise is working with individuals and families who are struggling with addiction and addiction-related predicaments.
I am accepting new patients via Telemedicine as the need for mental health support is stronger today than ever. My style is grounded in empathy, listening, and compassion, with a dash of humor central to building a trusting alliance. I work with adults and couples; my doctoral project focused on treating violent couples in highly conflictual relationships in a conjoint setting examining the role of aggression and masochism in relationships. Another area of my expertise is working with individuals and families who are struggling with addiction and addiction-related predicaments.
Miriam Conde
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with extensive experience providing individual, family, and group psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Prior to working in mental health , I worked with children with special needs and developed skills to help families, parents and caregivers support their children to create a balanced environment.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with extensive experience providing individual, family, and group psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Prior to working in mental health , I worked with children with special needs and developed skills to help families, parents and caregivers support their children to create a balanced environment.
Lisa Lipton
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common and uncomfortable emotions experienced in life. My counseling and treatment is designed to facilitate your recovery, reigniting the motivation, perspective, and joy you once had. After enduring painful and traumatic circumstances in our lives, many individuals struggle with lingering symptoms. My objective is to support you in addressing these symptoms and guiding you toward healing and being present.
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common and uncomfortable emotions experienced in life. My counseling and treatment is designed to facilitate your recovery, reigniting the motivation, perspective, and joy you once had. After enduring painful and traumatic circumstances in our lives, many individuals struggle with lingering symptoms. My objective is to support you in addressing these symptoms and guiding you toward healing and being present.
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We collaborate to identify areas of “stuck-ness” to create actionable steps towards change, and process the emotions that come up along the way. We are not often taught how to tolerate discomfort, but I want to help you reshape those feelings into pathways towards growth, self-esteem and fulfillment. Using evidenced based techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family Systems Therapy, I hope to create a safe and goal-oriented environment with a strong emphasis on the client’s wellbeing and context.
We collaborate to identify areas of “stuck-ness” to create actionable steps towards change, and process the emotions that come up along the way. We are not often taught how to tolerate discomfort, but I want to help you reshape those feelings into pathways towards growth, self-esteem and fulfillment. Using evidenced based techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family Systems Therapy, I hope to create a safe and goal-oriented environment with a strong emphasis on the client’s wellbeing and context.
Amada Battista
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will collaborate with you in developing problem-solving skills to enhance the coping strategies that will help you deal with depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and other anxiety-producing experiences. I focus on understanding your symptoms within the context of your interpersonal relationships.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will collaborate with you in developing problem-solving skills to enhance the coping strategies that will help you deal with depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and other anxiety-producing experiences. I focus on understanding your symptoms within the context of your interpersonal relationships.
Pantea Shahbazi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
I am a holistic psychotherapist with extensive training and experience in using trauma-informed approaches and evidence-based practices to transform the lives of my clients. I provide individual therapy and couples therapy. My approach is focused on treating the whole person. I believe this multi-dimensional approach is a key to developing long-lasting change that allows my clients to live fulfilling lives. Life is a mysterious journey of experiences and learning. My purpose is to help others make their life sacred by holding it as a masterpiece. I empower clients through education as well as introspection.
I am a holistic psychotherapist with extensive training and experience in using trauma-informed approaches and evidence-based practices to transform the lives of my clients. I provide individual therapy and couples therapy. My approach is focused on treating the whole person. I believe this multi-dimensional approach is a key to developing long-lasting change that allows my clients to live fulfilling lives. Life is a mysterious journey of experiences and learning. My purpose is to help others make their life sacred by holding it as a masterpiece. I empower clients through education as well as introspection.
Liz Corpstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Life can be challenging and overwhelming. You are not alone if you are longing to feel deeper satisfaction with yourself and your relationships. Life feels very different when you feel confident, empowered, and fulfilled. I will help you uncover paths to attain or reconnect you with these parts of yourself. I have helped many women and men transform their feelings of shame, disappointment, and desperation into self-confidence, happiness and hope. After working with me you will be able to make better choices in all areas of your life, including love, work and family relationships.
Life can be challenging and overwhelming. You are not alone if you are longing to feel deeper satisfaction with yourself and your relationships. Life feels very different when you feel confident, empowered, and fulfilled. I will help you uncover paths to attain or reconnect you with these parts of yourself. I have helped many women and men transform their feelings of shame, disappointment, and desperation into self-confidence, happiness and hope. After working with me you will be able to make better choices in all areas of your life, including love, work and family relationships.
Rachel Sillman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
In my work with clients, I create a safe and nurturing environment for you to find your way back to a sense of wholeness and fulfillment in life. It's not about fixing what's broken or changing your identity but helping you remember what it's like to feel in balance and connected. I support you in letting go of what's blocking you from finding that core, creative and joyful self within. My specialities for treatment include: addiction, trauma, grief processing, anxiety, stress management and relational challenges.
In my work with clients, I create a safe and nurturing environment for you to find your way back to a sense of wholeness and fulfillment in life. It's not about fixing what's broken or changing your identity but helping you remember what it's like to feel in balance and connected. I support you in letting go of what's blocking you from finding that core, creative and joyful self within. My specialities for treatment include: addiction, trauma, grief processing, anxiety, stress management and relational challenges.
Julia K Pham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Please note: I am only available for Telehealth video sessions. Many times, the experience of being seen and understood fully by another human being is the core of healing. I will nurture an environment and container of trust and support as you build the relationship and deepen your understanding and sense of self. I believe all people have the innate capacity for knowing the direction their own lives should take; I will join you as you explore the potential blocks standing in the way of living a fuller and more meaningful, authentic life.
Please note: I am only available for Telehealth video sessions. Many times, the experience of being seen and understood fully by another human being is the core of healing. I will nurture an environment and container of trust and support as you build the relationship and deepen your understanding and sense of self. I believe all people have the innate capacity for knowing the direction their own lives should take; I will join you as you explore the potential blocks standing in the way of living a fuller and more meaningful, authentic life.
Seth Schulweis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist with over 32 years experience helping clients through life transitions. I bring good judgment and experience to the challenges that accompany such transitions and personal crises. I am a problem-solver and specialize in periods of change so that you are at your best as you work to achieve your goals. If you are seeking supportive, safe and productive therapy for yourself or someone in your family, I am ready to meet, talk and help. My practice focuses on transitions facing adults, adolescents, and children, as well as working with families and teams.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist with over 32 years experience helping clients through life transitions. I bring good judgment and experience to the challenges that accompany such transitions and personal crises. I am a problem-solver and specialize in periods of change so that you are at your best as you work to achieve your goals. If you are seeking supportive, safe and productive therapy for yourself or someone in your family, I am ready to meet, talk and help. My practice focuses on transitions facing adults, adolescents, and children, as well as working with families and teams.
Dr. Arlice Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I can assist and support you with problem-solving skills, traumas, and collaboratively work with you in obtaining new coping strategies for issues such as: Depression, anxiety, relational disruptions, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, and more. Many of my clients have shared that attending therapy with myself has helped them learn new techniques in self-management and personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and some of life daily stressors. I can work with you in achieving a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and help you identify your true authentic self.
I can assist and support you with problem-solving skills, traumas, and collaboratively work with you in obtaining new coping strategies for issues such as: Depression, anxiety, relational disruptions, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, and more. Many of my clients have shared that attending therapy with myself has helped them learn new techniques in self-management and personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and some of life daily stressors. I can work with you in achieving a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and help you identify your true authentic self.
Matthew Shapiro
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you having the dawning realization that you aren’t living life as fully as you could be? Are you experiencing troubled relationships, a narrowing sense of possibility, or wounded self-esteem? Or maybe you simply have the gnawing sense that it’s time for a change, but no idea how to make it happen. If so, this is a great time to step into therapy. I use a collaborative, depth-oriented approach to help individuals and couples overcome obstacles, build on their strengths, and move through a variety of challenges.
Are you having the dawning realization that you aren’t living life as fully as you could be? Are you experiencing troubled relationships, a narrowing sense of possibility, or wounded self-esteem? Or maybe you simply have the gnawing sense that it’s time for a change, but no idea how to make it happen. If so, this is a great time to step into therapy. I use a collaborative, depth-oriented approach to help individuals and couples overcome obstacles, build on their strengths, and move through a variety of challenges.
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 |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Stress |
65% | Grief |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
63% | Aetna |
50% | 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
80% | Female | |
19% | 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.