Photo of Alexandra Afanasyeva, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Alexandra Afanasyeva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
I am a supportive, compassionate and empathetic therapist with years of experience working with a diverse population of individuals largely specializing in developmental trauma, PTSD, many other traumas, anxiety and depression. My approach is eclectic; mostly influenced by Gestalt psychology, Pesso Boyden System Psychomotor (PBSP) therapy with their shared roots in existential phenomenology, person-centered attitude, and body -mind awareness.
I am a supportive, compassionate and empathetic therapist with years of experience working with a diverse population of individuals largely specializing in developmental trauma, PTSD, many other traumas, anxiety and depression. My approach is eclectic; mostly influenced by Gestalt psychology, Pesso Boyden System Psychomotor (PBSP) therapy with their shared roots in existential phenomenology, person-centered attitude, and body -mind awareness.
(323) 746-0235 View (323) 746-0235
Photo of Michael Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Michael Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 23 years of experience helping individuals, couples and families find their path to greater well-being and fulfillment. I draw from cognitive-behavioral, existential and psychodynamic models. I have extensive experience in cognitive-behavioral therapy for OCD, panic disorder and depression.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 23 years of experience helping individuals, couples and families find their path to greater well-being and fulfillment. I draw from cognitive-behavioral, existential and psychodynamic models. I have extensive experience in cognitive-behavioral therapy for OCD, panic disorder and depression.
(206) 279-4815 View (206) 279-4815
Photo of Alan Schweizer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Alan Schweizer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001
My name is Alan Schweizer and I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA and PA. The focus of my practice is to help clients to identify and overcome the barriers in their personal lives and relationships needed to experience more happiness. In helping you I use evidence-based practices such as Integrative and Systemic Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems, Existential, Emotion Focused, Mindfulness, and Mind-Body practices that are action-oriented and according to your specific needs.
My name is Alan Schweizer and I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA and PA. The focus of my practice is to help clients to identify and overcome the barriers in their personal lives and relationships needed to experience more happiness. In helping you I use evidence-based practices such as Integrative and Systemic Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems, Existential, Emotion Focused, Mindfulness, and Mind-Body practices that are action-oriented and according to your specific needs.
(213) 642-2034 View (213) 642-2034
Photo of Lawrence Marcucci, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Lawrence Marcucci
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045  (Online Only)
Professionally speaking, I operate from a Cognitive-Behavioral standpoint but I also incorporate Existential Psychology, Positive Psychology, and Humanistic Psychology.
Have you ever wondered why you do the things you do, or think the way that you think? Or have you been feeling stuck in a feeling and want to make a change? I do my very best to create a safe space for my patients and make authentic observations about lifestyle, thinking patterns, relationship/attachment styles, and clinical symptoms so that you can understand yourself better. Sometimes starting therapy with a new clinician can be a challenging and/or intimidating process, and I try to be as realistic as possible. I also understand that no one is perfect, and I come from a person-centered non-judgmental approach to therapy.
Professionally speaking, I operate from a Cognitive-Behavioral standpoint but I also incorporate Existential Psychology, Positive Psychology, and Humanistic Psychology.
Have you ever wondered why you do the things you do, or think the way that you think? Or have you been feeling stuck in a feeling and want to make a change? I do my very best to create a safe space for my patients and make authentic observations about lifestyle, thinking patterns, relationship/attachment styles, and clinical symptoms so that you can understand yourself better. Sometimes starting therapy with a new clinician can be a challenging and/or intimidating process, and I try to be as realistic as possible. I also understand that no one is perfect, and I come from a person-centered non-judgmental approach to therapy.
(424) 400-8906 View (424) 400-8906
Photo of Oliver Viboolkij & Associates, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Oliver Viboolkij & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
I draw from Psychoanalytic, Existential and Cognitive therapy to inform and direct treatment.
Unlike psychiatry where medication is prescribed to prevent your feelings from being experienced, my practice is designed to make sense and make use of the sensations we are receiving from ourselves. Professionally bringing our attention to psychological symptoms puts us in direct contact with the core of our conflict(s) and sets forth a personal resolution.
I draw from Psychoanalytic, Existential and Cognitive therapy to inform and direct treatment.
Unlike psychiatry where medication is prescribed to prevent your feelings from being experienced, my practice is designed to make sense and make use of the sensations we are receiving from ourselves. Professionally bringing our attention to psychological symptoms puts us in direct contact with the core of our conflict(s) and sets forth a personal resolution.
(323) 430-9062 View (323) 430-9062
Photo of Jesse Berkin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jesse Berkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
My approach is trauma-informed, relational, existential, and psychodynamic.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD/C-PTSD, relationship/intimacy issues, family issues, grief/loss, life transitions, mood/personality disorders, co-occurring disorders, and I have experience working with clients of culturally diverse backgrounds. I bring forward a compassionate and inquisitive presence to create a safe space for the more intimate and vulnerable parts of yourself to be explored.
My approach is trauma-informed, relational, existential, and psychodynamic.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD/C-PTSD, relationship/intimacy issues, family issues, grief/loss, life transitions, mood/personality disorders, co-occurring disorders, and I have experience working with clients of culturally diverse backgrounds. I bring forward a compassionate and inquisitive presence to create a safe space for the more intimate and vulnerable parts of yourself to be explored.
(424) 352-8521 View (424) 352-8521
Photo of Self Care Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Self Care Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
The treatment models used are: art therapy, attachment based, existential, Gottman Method, person-centered, play therapy, short term (solution focused therapy), various cognitive behavioral therapies and mindfulness therapies.
We meet you where you're at and build on your resilience. We welcome you and invite you to start on your self care. We value diversity and acceptance; we work with all faiths, LBGTQ+, and all backgrounds.
The treatment models used are: art therapy, attachment based, existential, Gottman Method, person-centered, play therapy, short term (solution focused therapy), various cognitive behavioral therapies and mindfulness therapies.
We meet you where you're at and build on your resilience. We welcome you and invite you to start on your self care. We value diversity and acceptance; we work with all faiths, LBGTQ+, and all backgrounds.
(323) 576-4491 x002 View (323) 576-4491 x002
Photo of Terri James, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Terri James
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
My framework is grounded in psychodynamic principles, and I also draw from humanistic, existential, and cognitive-behavioral orientations.
Is something holding you back from living at your full potential? Are you overwhelmed with intense feelings of sadness, anger, fear or frustration? If you are feeling stuck in patterns that are limiting you, or are navigating through a difficult life challenge, therapy can help you realize your true potential and reach your life goals. With assistance and support there can be healing and an increased level of awareness to self and the environment. You can feel better about yourself, and thrive in your relationships.
My framework is grounded in psychodynamic principles, and I also draw from humanistic, existential, and cognitive-behavioral orientations.
Is something holding you back from living at your full potential? Are you overwhelmed with intense feelings of sadness, anger, fear or frustration? If you are feeling stuck in patterns that are limiting you, or are navigating through a difficult life challenge, therapy can help you realize your true potential and reach your life goals. With assistance and support there can be healing and an increased level of awareness to self and the environment. You can feel better about yourself, and thrive in your relationships.
(323) 282-7393 View (323) 282-7393
Photo of Melinda D Meshad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Melinda D Meshad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045
Each person is different; I find it best to practice various approaches such as CBT, family systems, relationship methods, narrative, and trauma-focused therapy, with an existential perspective to address individual purpose.
Wonderful! You are taking the time to care for yourself. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience, and am here to assist adults who desire personal satisfaction, healthy relationships, emotional balance, goals, and purpose. I help with issues related to adjusting to life transitions, depression, anxiety, mood cycling, relationship issues, blending families, transition into adulthood, spiritual questioning, and childhood or past trauma. I can help you understand your family dynamics and heal from being wounded by those you love. I work in-person and through telemedicine with video.
Each person is different; I find it best to practice various approaches such as CBT, family systems, relationship methods, narrative, and trauma-focused therapy, with an existential perspective to address individual purpose.
Wonderful! You are taking the time to care for yourself. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience, and am here to assist adults who desire personal satisfaction, healthy relationships, emotional balance, goals, and purpose. I help with issues related to adjusting to life transitions, depression, anxiety, mood cycling, relationship issues, blending families, transition into adulthood, spiritual questioning, and childhood or past trauma. I can help you understand your family dynamics and heal from being wounded by those you love. I work in-person and through telemedicine with video.
(805) 774-1767 View (805) 774-1767
Photo of Jeremy Fain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jeremy Fain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90014  (Online Only)
As an existential therapist, I am passionate about working with professionals, especially creatives (artists, designers, entrepreneurs), who feel like they are “not good enough” or who worry about living up to others’ expectations. We can work together to help you learn to love yourself for who you are, and not for what you accomplish. My speciality also extends to treating issues associated with trauma, particularly those of Traumatic Brain Injury. I have successfully helped clients with TBI to reclaim a sense of agency in their relationships and careers.
As an existential therapist, I am passionate about working with professionals, especially creatives (artists, designers, entrepreneurs), who feel like they are “not good enough” or who worry about living up to others’ expectations. We can work together to help you learn to love yourself for who you are, and not for what you accomplish. My speciality also extends to treating issues associated with trauma, particularly those of Traumatic Brain Injury. I have successfully helped clients with TBI to reclaim a sense of agency in their relationships and careers.
(213) 354-8175 View (213) 354-8175
Photo of Kevin Stansbury, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kevin Stansbury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90033
I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, existential issues, spirituality issues, sexual issues, and foundational identity issues (really getting at who you are, what you want, and how you operate).
Hi, I’m Kevin. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working in the mental health field. I’m passionate about helping my clients come to a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships with others, their perception of life and the world, and discover how to move forward on their own path into an ever-expanding sense of connectivity, meaning, purpose, and fulfillment.
I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, existential issues, spirituality issues, sexual issues, and foundational identity issues (really getting at who you are, what you want, and how you operate).
Hi, I’m Kevin. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working in the mental health field. I’m passionate about helping my clients come to a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships with others, their perception of life and the world, and discover how to move forward on their own path into an ever-expanding sense of connectivity, meaning, purpose, and fulfillment.
(323) 616-2406 View (323) 616-2406
Photo of Claudia Miles, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Claudia Miles
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035  (Online Only)
I work with clients on issues ranging from depression, anxiety, OCD, addiction to relationship, career and identity issues and I work with couples. I’ve had a specialty in hair pulling and skin picking since 2001: See my website.  I use many theories in my work—psychodynamic, Jungian dreamwork and mindfulness practice to name a few—but my style is existential humanistic, working in the present. I see the ultimate goal as supporting you in living from an authentic, empowered place, feeling a sense of inner security, hearing and trusting your true inner voice—not the inner critic—and having a strong sense of self to guide you in life.
I work with clients on issues ranging from depression, anxiety, OCD, addiction to relationship, career and identity issues and I work with couples. I’ve had a specialty in hair pulling and skin picking since 2001: See my website.  I use many theories in my work—psychodynamic, Jungian dreamwork and mindfulness practice to name a few—but my style is existential humanistic, working in the present. I see the ultimate goal as supporting you in living from an authentic, empowered place, feeling a sense of inner security, hearing and trusting your true inner voice—not the inner critic—and having a strong sense of self to guide you in life.
(628) 500-8235 View (628) 500-8235
Photo of Jamie Mishler, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Jamie Mishler
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90047
I use an existential lens to help conceptualize the goals for therapy and work with my client to tailor an individual approach to reach those goals.
My name is Dr. Jamie Mishler and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years' experience in the mental health field. I'm passionate about supporting my clients as they grow through life's changes and transitions. I work with adults over the age of 18. I specialize in helping my clients through life transitions, depression, anxiety, and grief. I focus on my clients' unique strengths as they learn to navigate and grow during periods of challenge.
I use an existential lens to help conceptualize the goals for therapy and work with my client to tailor an individual approach to reach those goals.
My name is Dr. Jamie Mishler and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years' experience in the mental health field. I'm passionate about supporting my clients as they grow through life's changes and transitions. I work with adults over the age of 18. I specialize in helping my clients through life transitions, depression, anxiety, and grief. I focus on my clients' unique strengths as they learn to navigate and grow during periods of challenge.
(213) 660-4664 View (213) 660-4664
Photo of Laura Orozco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Laura Orozco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Greetings, My focus of care is on Patient centered care. Therapy is a journey of healing. Goals of care written by client leads the way. Existential client care, driven by clinical skills developed over 20 years experience in various settings. Expertise in addressing trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, couples work, life transitions, support in life changing events whereby skills needed to move forward.
Greetings, My focus of care is on Patient centered care. Therapy is a journey of healing. Goals of care written by client leads the way. Existential client care, driven by clinical skills developed over 20 years experience in various settings. Expertise in addressing trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, couples work, life transitions, support in life changing events whereby skills needed to move forward.
(562) 337-3864 View (562) 337-3864
Photo of Penelope Sargent, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Penelope Sargent
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Greetings! My name is Penelope Sargent and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I regularly work with individual clients on identifying and exploring issues that keep them from moving forward in their lives. My approach is collaborative and client-centered. I come from an Existential/ Humanistic background. I'm here to be supportive when needed and gently challenging when you require motivation. I believe in encouraging clients to work at finding meaning in their lives.
Greetings! My name is Penelope Sargent and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I regularly work with individual clients on identifying and exploring issues that keep them from moving forward in their lives. My approach is collaborative and client-centered. I come from an Existential/ Humanistic background. I'm here to be supportive when needed and gently challenging when you require motivation. I believe in encouraging clients to work at finding meaning in their lives.
(213) 799-5349 View (213) 799-5349
Photo of Patrick Griffiths, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Patrick Griffiths
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90018
The approaches I tend to favor include Solution-Focused Therapy, Existential, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Cognitive Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy.
My name is Patrick Griffiths. I am currently licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I provide telehealth services to anyone living in California. My approach to therapy is that I am your guide on this journey. My focused area of practice is providing services to individuals, couples, and families. I have 18 years of experience as a therapist, working with a variety of clients. The clients I typically see struggle with symptoms of depression, anxiety, low self-worth, difficulty controlling impulses, lack of purpose and meaning, and job and/or family stress.
The approaches I tend to favor include Solution-Focused Therapy, Existential, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Cognitive Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy.
My name is Patrick Griffiths. I am currently licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I provide telehealth services to anyone living in California. My approach to therapy is that I am your guide on this journey. My focused area of practice is providing services to individuals, couples, and families. I have 18 years of experience as a therapist, working with a variety of clients. The clients I typically see struggle with symptoms of depression, anxiety, low self-worth, difficulty controlling impulses, lack of purpose and meaning, and job and/or family stress.
(323) 827-7570 View (323) 827-7570
Photo of Jessica Cervantes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jessica Cervantes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
I have recently transitioned from in person to virtual therapy offering Existential and Experiential therapy to individuals in California.
Welcome, I'm Jessica (LMFT) and have been providing individual and family therapy in the Central Valley area for the past 6 years.
I have recently transitioned from in person to virtual therapy offering Existential and Experiential therapy to individuals in California.
Welcome, I'm Jessica (LMFT) and have been providing individual and family therapy in the Central Valley area for the past 6 years.
(562) 561-2118 View (562) 561-2118
Photo of Desiree Golbahar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Desiree Golbahar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90011
Although she primarily orients from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, Desiree often incorporates psychodynamic, family systems, existential, and dialectical behavioral approaches, as well.
Desiree Golbahar is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in the field of addiction and recovery. She received her bachelor's degree in psychology from UC San Diego and her master's degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University of Los Angeles. Over the past 10 years, Desiree has gained experience within a wide range of populations and issues impacting children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families.
Although she primarily orients from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, Desiree often incorporates psychodynamic, family systems, existential, and dialectical behavioral approaches, as well.
Desiree Golbahar is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in the field of addiction and recovery. She received her bachelor's degree in psychology from UC San Diego and her master's degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University of Los Angeles. Over the past 10 years, Desiree has gained experience within a wide range of populations and issues impacting children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families.
(424) 339-1275 View (424) 339-1275
Photo of Taylor Harris, Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Taylor Harris
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Welcome to Flourish Mindset! I'm Taylor Harris, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a passion for guiding individuals, couples, and families through their journey to healing, growth, and self-discovery. I bring an integrative, somatic, and systems-oriented approach to therapy, drawing from humanistic, existential, and transpersonal schools. I am dedicated to creating a safe space for clients to explore the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. My therapeutic style is rooted in compassion, empathy, and creating a non-judgmental space where you can be your authentic self.
Welcome to Flourish Mindset! I'm Taylor Harris, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a passion for guiding individuals, couples, and families through their journey to healing, growth, and self-discovery. I bring an integrative, somatic, and systems-oriented approach to therapy, drawing from humanistic, existential, and transpersonal schools. I am dedicated to creating a safe space for clients to explore the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. My therapeutic style is rooted in compassion, empathy, and creating a non-judgmental space where you can be your authentic self.
(323) 312-3893 View (323) 312-3893
Photo of Gita Donovan, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Gita Donovan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90014
I work with depression and anxiety, both specific and existential.
We all have ideals-- how we think we should feel, how we feel we should think, how we want others to behave towards us, how we want our life to unfold. When reality doesn’t match our ideals, it can bring confusion, frustration, even despair. We may feel trapped between our ideals and reality, leading us to believe we are spinning in circles. I see the therapeutic process as one that allows for an exploration of these ideals and an opportunity to understand how they play a role in one’s relationship with self and with others. My hope is that, through this process, you will find a deeper clarity of your values, wants, and needs.
I work with depression and anxiety, both specific and existential.
We all have ideals-- how we think we should feel, how we feel we should think, how we want others to behave towards us, how we want our life to unfold. When reality doesn’t match our ideals, it can bring confusion, frustration, even despair. We may feel trapped between our ideals and reality, leading us to believe we are spinning in circles. I see the therapeutic process as one that allows for an exploration of these ideals and an opportunity to understand how they play a role in one’s relationship with self and with others. My hope is that, through this process, you will find a deeper clarity of your values, wants, and needs.
(818) 839-0079 View (818) 839-0079

Existential Therapists

How does existential therapy work?

Existential therapy focuses on a patient’s inner experiences. The therapist tries to help the individual comprehend and alleviate symptoms by exploring their interior life. By confronting negative disquiet and emotions, the individual will hopefully become more open to finding meaning and purpose. This therapy can be administered to individuals or groups.

Is existential therapy evidence-based?

Existential therapy is an evidence-based practice. Research has determined that existential therapy can lead to significant improvement in the mental health of patients, and for some people it can be just as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy. The benefits of existential therapy are enduring, even long after treatment has ended.

How long does existential therapy last?

The goal of existential therapy is to understand a person’s internal experiences, which may sound like a lengthy process, but it does not have to be so in-depth. However, sessions are not short-term, and therapy can continue for months or up to a year. And because patients learn the theory behind existential therapy during treatment, they can also practice its tenets throughout life after therapy sessions have been completed.

Is existential therapy effective?

According to research, many patients find success with existential therapy. Researchers note that the therapy is particularly useful in improving feelings of isolation, feelings of purposelessness, as well as conditions such as anxiety and depression. Improvements in problem areas can persist even after the end of existential therapy, as individuals can continue working on themselves by using the tools they’ve developed during treatment.