Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Pamela J. Warren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404
"YOUR VISION WILL BECOME CLEAR WHEN YOU LOOK INTO YOUR HEART. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens." Carl Jung. As a therapist, I am here to support each individual define his or her vision and life's purpose. When one feels stuck, sometimes the idea of change or transition can seem overwhelming. Issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship distress, loneliness and low-self esteem can be an indicator that a shift is imminent. I am here to provide gentle guidance, by providing a safe, warm and compassionate space to explore these issues.
"YOUR VISION WILL BECOME CLEAR WHEN YOU LOOK INTO YOUR HEART. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens." Carl Jung. As a therapist, I am here to support each individual define his or her vision and life's purpose. When one feels stuck, sometimes the idea of change or transition can seem overwhelming. Issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship distress, loneliness and low-self esteem can be an indicator that a shift is imminent. I am here to provide gentle guidance, by providing a safe, warm and compassionate space to explore these issues.
Dr. Alan E Clark
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 35 years of private practice experience. I trained within APA-accredited doctoral programs and internship programs. I am licensed to practice psychology in both California and Colorado. I specialize in treating couples and individual adults presenting with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, substance abuse, and relational conflict and dissatisfaction. I am trained in psycho-dynamic psychotherapy, but I also apply cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and interpersonal psychotherapy techniques to address the best methods for each individual and his or her issues and needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 35 years of private practice experience. I trained within APA-accredited doctoral programs and internship programs. I am licensed to practice psychology in both California and Colorado. I specialize in treating couples and individual adults presenting with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, substance abuse, and relational conflict and dissatisfaction. I am trained in psycho-dynamic psychotherapy, but I also apply cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and interpersonal psychotherapy techniques to address the best methods for each individual and his or her issues and needs.
Gwen Grigsby
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Online Only)
I believe we are born with the resiliency to handle life’s challenges. Early on, we develop coping strategies that don't always serve us in the long run. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, a life transition, a traumatic experience, grief, or relationship difficulties, we all need a supportive and compassionate other to join us as we untangle what's no longer working and discover new ways to access our inner strength and authenticity. I’d love to be this person for you.
I believe we are born with the resiliency to handle life’s challenges. Early on, we develop coping strategies that don't always serve us in the long run. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, a life transition, a traumatic experience, grief, or relationship difficulties, we all need a supportive and compassionate other to join us as we untangle what's no longer working and discover new ways to access our inner strength and authenticity. I’d love to be this person for you.
Robin Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Life will sometimes nudge and then shout at us when we need to pause and look within ourselves. It often comes at times when we feel sad, hurt, anxious, or depressed. It may be at times when relationship struggles, self-doubt, or loss arise. Whether you are returning to therapy or preparing to enter it for the first time, with this step change is already underway. As I see it, the therapy process is a journey to resolve painful experiences, gain insight, and develop strengths and new abilities, all which help to navigate life’s challenges. Healing is possible as well as clarity on how to move forward.
Life will sometimes nudge and then shout at us when we need to pause and look within ourselves. It often comes at times when we feel sad, hurt, anxious, or depressed. It may be at times when relationship struggles, self-doubt, or loss arise. Whether you are returning to therapy or preparing to enter it for the first time, with this step change is already underway. As I see it, the therapy process is a journey to resolve painful experiences, gain insight, and develop strengths and new abilities, all which help to navigate life’s challenges. Healing is possible as well as clarity on how to move forward.
Jessica Roux
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I help individuals struggling with unhealed trauma and addiction reconnect to their bodies and resilience. My clients are interested in a holistic approach, deepening their spiritual connection, and reducing automatic survival responses to create more emotional regulation, sense of safety and connection.
I help individuals struggling with unhealed trauma and addiction reconnect to their bodies and resilience. My clients are interested in a holistic approach, deepening their spiritual connection, and reducing automatic survival responses to create more emotional regulation, sense of safety and connection.
Kathryn Sparks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
With a background in the entertainment business, I have always been fascinated with other people and their stories. I see therapy as a creative, collaborative process in which I work closely with individuals, couples and families to find new ways of understanding their unique narrative. I believe I can help clients find acceptance, empowerment and purpose.
With a background in the entertainment business, I have always been fascinated with other people and their stories. I see therapy as a creative, collaborative process in which I work closely with individuals, couples and families to find new ways of understanding their unique narrative. I believe I can help clients find acceptance, empowerment and purpose.
Marriage Help Couples Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CPC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Laressa Desmond,PhD, LMFT, Nothing hurts like constantly stumbling over the same old communication problems with your partner, when all you really want to do is be close. It’s hard to concentrate or have a lightness to the day when relationship struggles drag you down. We fall in love with people who are different enough from us to create a spark. It’s that “completion feeling” of interest & fascination. We feel sad & confused when the spark burns instead of warming us. It’s a baffling betrayal to our emotional logic that we can deeply love someone that we frequently fight with & sometimes emotionally dread.
Laressa Desmond,PhD, LMFT, Nothing hurts like constantly stumbling over the same old communication problems with your partner, when all you really want to do is be close. It’s hard to concentrate or have a lightness to the day when relationship struggles drag you down. We fall in love with people who are different enough from us to create a spark. It’s that “completion feeling” of interest & fascination. We feel sad & confused when the spark burns instead of warming us. It’s a baffling betrayal to our emotional logic that we can deeply love someone that we frequently fight with & sometimes emotionally dread.
Leonie Nahamia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I am an LMFT. I have worked with people from different walks of life doing couples education, helping with employment transitions, individuals suffering from substance abuse and families whose children are in foster care or at risk of entering foster care. Much of the latter mentioned, was working with individuals through their anxieties and maladaptive behaviors.
I am an LMFT. I have worked with people from different walks of life doing couples education, helping with employment transitions, individuals suffering from substance abuse and families whose children are in foster care or at risk of entering foster care. Much of the latter mentioned, was working with individuals through their anxieties and maladaptive behaviors.
Sourena Haj-Mohamadi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Life can be challenging at times with the demands of today’s day and age. Therapy can be the place to tackle those challenges in order to improve overall health and well-being through personal development. Through therapy, one can process and focus on what is most important to them, which will help guide and create a healthy lifestyle.
Life can be challenging at times with the demands of today’s day and age. Therapy can be the place to tackle those challenges in order to improve overall health and well-being through personal development. Through therapy, one can process and focus on what is most important to them, which will help guide and create a healthy lifestyle.
Danielle Faye Jonas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Located in Santa Monica, CA and licensed in CA, NY, CO and CT, we offer in-person and virtual sessions! Our team specializes in working with children of all ages, families and adults, focusing on emotion regulation, building socialization skills and making meaningful friendships, improving communication patterns and building boundaries, improving relationships with friends, family, co-workers and partners, building self-esteem and confidence, and boundary setting. Our team also work with people of all ages facing chronic/serious illness, caregiving and grief, loss and bereavement.
Located in Santa Monica, CA and licensed in CA, NY, CO and CT, we offer in-person and virtual sessions! Our team specializes in working with children of all ages, families and adults, focusing on emotion regulation, building socialization skills and making meaningful friendships, improving communication patterns and building boundaries, improving relationships with friends, family, co-workers and partners, building self-esteem and confidence, and boundary setting. Our team also work with people of all ages facing chronic/serious illness, caregiving and grief, loss and bereavement.
Tracy R Zemansky
Psychologist, PhD, CSAT-S, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Sex Addiction Therapist - Supervisor, and licensed MFT with a private practice in Santa Monica, California since 1994. I offer interpersonal psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups as well as psychological testing and assessment. My areas of expertise include: substance and process addictions, trauma/abuse, positive psychology, impaired professionals and first-responders, as well as grief/loss, disfigurement, and cross-cultural issues. I provide traditional, forensic, and pre-employment psychological assessment as well as Collaborative/Therapeutic evaluations.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Sex Addiction Therapist - Supervisor, and licensed MFT with a private practice in Santa Monica, California since 1994. I offer interpersonal psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups as well as psychological testing and assessment. My areas of expertise include: substance and process addictions, trauma/abuse, positive psychology, impaired professionals and first-responders, as well as grief/loss, disfigurement, and cross-cultural issues. I provide traditional, forensic, and pre-employment psychological assessment as well as Collaborative/Therapeutic evaluations.
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Unwritten Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC, BSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
It is a passion of mine to work with others toward becoming better versions of themselves, and live a life that fulfills them. Taking that first step in starting therapy can be intimidating, but so worth it. I work with young and middle-aged adults focusing on anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic/career stress, self-esteem and self worth, dating/relational challenges, queer/LGBTQIA+ identity and experience, and desire for individual growth. I also work with therapist trainees and associates, offering support for imposter syndrome, work and life balance, burnout, and systemic challenges in mental healthcare.
It is a passion of mine to work with others toward becoming better versions of themselves, and live a life that fulfills them. Taking that first step in starting therapy can be intimidating, but so worth it. I work with young and middle-aged adults focusing on anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic/career stress, self-esteem and self worth, dating/relational challenges, queer/LGBTQIA+ identity and experience, and desire for individual growth. I also work with therapist trainees and associates, offering support for imposter syndrome, work and life balance, burnout, and systemic challenges in mental healthcare.
Denise Cooney
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family psychotherapist providing. I have a 20 year career working with adults and couples throughout California. Resolving and processing trauma by utilizing EMDR, recognizing and changing communication patterns, addressing and supporting recovery from addiction, relationship struggles and learning how to emotionally regulate in a more productive and healthy way are my clinical strengths.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family psychotherapist providing. I have a 20 year career working with adults and couples throughout California. Resolving and processing trauma by utilizing EMDR, recognizing and changing communication patterns, addressing and supporting recovery from addiction, relationship struggles and learning how to emotionally regulate in a more productive and healthy way are my clinical strengths.
Kevin Stolper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Greetings. Are you feeling stuck in life, wanting something different but unsure what it is or how to get there? Is the pressure to be perfect or be seen as "good enough" leaving you with anxiety, stress or depression and taking a toll on your emotional and physical wellbeing? You are not alone and things can be different. Therapy provides a safe space to express and develop your true self. I can help you identify what you are wanting or needing, what is keeping you stuck, and build the confidence to take action towards joy and long-term change. Start living the life you want to live and become the person you want to be.
Greetings. Are you feeling stuck in life, wanting something different but unsure what it is or how to get there? Is the pressure to be perfect or be seen as "good enough" leaving you with anxiety, stress or depression and taking a toll on your emotional and physical wellbeing? You are not alone and things can be different. Therapy provides a safe space to express and develop your true self. I can help you identify what you are wanting or needing, what is keeping you stuck, and build the confidence to take action towards joy and long-term change. Start living the life you want to live and become the person you want to be.
Karen Stewart
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
We have all had times where we are struggling, feel low or "off", may not even have a real "reason" why these feelings are coming up for us. Or those times where an event, situation, loss, change in our daily functioning has lead us to not feel that we have the right skills to live our best lives and we just don't know what to do. Therapy is an answer for someone who wants to explore these feelings, to work through the difficult times and to learn about oneself in an unbiased, non-judgmental environment.
We have all had times where we are struggling, feel low or "off", may not even have a real "reason" why these feelings are coming up for us. Or those times where an event, situation, loss, change in our daily functioning has lead us to not feel that we have the right skills to live our best lives and we just don't know what to do. Therapy is an answer for someone who wants to explore these feelings, to work through the difficult times and to learn about oneself in an unbiased, non-judgmental environment.
Lauryn J. Hunter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Our goal at Hunter Therapy Family Counseling is to create a safe and playful environment where your child can discuss and process stressful situations. We offer a wide range of activities, including art therapy, painting, sand tray, athletic psychology, jewelry, and gardening, designed to help your child develop coping mechanisms and build a strong emotional foundation. Looking for a creative and fun way for your child to talk about their thoughts, behaviors, and feelings? Hunter Therapy Family Counseling uses different expressive techniques to help your child learn healthy ways of coping with stress.
Our goal at Hunter Therapy Family Counseling is to create a safe and playful environment where your child can discuss and process stressful situations. We offer a wide range of activities, including art therapy, painting, sand tray, athletic psychology, jewelry, and gardening, designed to help your child develop coping mechanisms and build a strong emotional foundation. Looking for a creative and fun way for your child to talk about their thoughts, behaviors, and feelings? Hunter Therapy Family Counseling uses different expressive techniques to help your child learn healthy ways of coping with stress.
Crystal Nash
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
My clients like me because I am a very active therapist. You will not just get a "How does that make you feel?" question. Of course I want to know how something makes you feel, but I want for you to be able to get some answers and treatment that leads to a real change in your life. My website at Crystalnash.com states "Therapy can be intense, but it doesn't have to be drudgery. There is laughter through the tears, when we recognize our human frailty. The "Ah ha! Eureka!" moments give energy and hope for the future."
My clients like me because I am a very active therapist. You will not just get a "How does that make you feel?" question. Of course I want to know how something makes you feel, but I want for you to be able to get some answers and treatment that leads to a real change in your life. My website at Crystalnash.com states "Therapy can be intense, but it doesn't have to be drudgery. There is laughter through the tears, when we recognize our human frailty. The "Ah ha! Eureka!" moments give energy and hope for the future."
Monica Farassat, Psy.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CGP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Many people shy away from asking for help when in emotional and psychological pain. It is not easy to ask for help. Perhaps there are feelings of shame underlying the recognition of one's vulnerability. But in essence these are the times that important and life-altering changes can occur. I am invested in establishing a safe, supportive, and truthful interaction with you towards improving your life, your choices, and your relationships, & have over 25 years of experience as proof. The concerns that I have worked with extensively include depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, substance-abuse, adjustment, crisis intervention, & individuation.
Many people shy away from asking for help when in emotional and psychological pain. It is not easy to ask for help. Perhaps there are feelings of shame underlying the recognition of one's vulnerability. But in essence these are the times that important and life-altering changes can occur. I am invested in establishing a safe, supportive, and truthful interaction with you towards improving your life, your choices, and your relationships, & have over 25 years of experience as proof. The concerns that I have worked with extensively include depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, substance-abuse, adjustment, crisis intervention, & individuation.
Allison Duplechain
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychotherapist currently in private practice in Santa Monica. I have been working with patients since 2010 and am currently a Ph.D. candidate at Pacifica Graduate Institute where I also earned an M.A. in Counseling Psychology. My therapeutic style integrates my academic education with training and experience in various modalities. I draw from a diverse clinical background to meet the particular needs and goals of each individual. While I am most influenced by Jungian and Buddhist psychology, intersubjective and attachment theory as well as somatic approaches highly inform my work.
I am a psychotherapist currently in private practice in Santa Monica. I have been working with patients since 2010 and am currently a Ph.D. candidate at Pacifica Graduate Institute where I also earned an M.A. in Counseling Psychology. My therapeutic style integrates my academic education with training and experience in various modalities. I draw from a diverse clinical background to meet the particular needs and goals of each individual. While I am most influenced by Jungian and Buddhist psychology, intersubjective and attachment theory as well as somatic approaches highly inform my work.
Joseph R McCowan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Psychotherapist and researcher drawing from humanistic, mindfulness-based, and holistic approaches to help individuals discover their inner capacity to heal and grow.
Psychotherapist and researcher drawing from humanistic, mindfulness-based, and holistic approaches to help individuals discover their inner capacity to heal and grow.
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$200
Therapists in Santa Monica, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
85% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Grief |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
58% | Aetna |
48% | Cigna and Evernorth |
42% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Santa Monica, CA see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
20% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Santa Monica?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.