Existential Therapists in California
I work through an Existential lens to understand your concerns and use a variety of interventions from ACT, Narrative, Interpersonal, Trauma-informed, Multicultural therapies, and more that are designed to meet you where you are.
Life has been challenging. Enduring injustices, trauma, relationship struggles, and personal losses may leave you feeling overwhelmed, like you're navigating rough waters. As a Latina, who has faced many of these challenges, I recognize the profound impact they have on your mental health. My focus in therapy is to explore what barriers keeps you from having the quality of life you want. I believe that people do the best they can within the context of their lives. Support is available to guide you through this process.
I work through an Existential lens to understand your concerns and use a variety of interventions from ACT, Narrative, Interpersonal, Trauma-informed, Multicultural therapies, and more that are designed to meet you where you are.
Life has been challenging. Enduring injustices, trauma, relationship struggles, and personal losses may leave you feeling overwhelmed, like you're navigating rough waters. As a Latina, who has faced many of these challenges, I recognize the profound impact they have on your mental health. My focus in therapy is to explore what barriers keeps you from having the quality of life you want. I believe that people do the best they can within the context of their lives. Support is available to guide you through this process.
Justin McGahan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Mine uses mindfulness (noticing moment-to-moment experience), somatic (body-based) awareness, existential philosophy, and an understanding of the physiological effects on neurological well-being.
A good therapist helps us get to know ourselves fully. Better understanding our motivations, thoughts and feelings reveals more fulfilling, effective choices. Exploring what is getting in our way of having deeply satisfying relationships is essential to living a full life. I often address issues of: understanding a partner's motivations, life purpose & transition, transparent vulnerable & authentic communication, finding/creating fulfilling relationship, confidence & leadership, men in relationship, trauma, and integrating presence in daily living.
Mine uses mindfulness (noticing moment-to-moment experience), somatic (body-based) awareness, existential philosophy, and an understanding of the physiological effects on neurological well-being.
A good therapist helps us get to know ourselves fully. Better understanding our motivations, thoughts and feelings reveals more fulfilling, effective choices. Exploring what is getting in our way of having deeply satisfying relationships is essential to living a full life. I often address issues of: understanding a partner's motivations, life purpose & transition, transparent vulnerable & authentic communication, finding/creating fulfilling relationship, confidence & leadership, men in relationship, trauma, and integrating presence in daily living.
My name is Dr. Luke Rex, licensed clinical psychologist in California. Originally from Sydney, Australia, I moved to New York in 2006 to pursue my entertainment career, and have been a Los Angeleno since 2009. I am dedicated to assisting you in your personal growth and struggles in this life. Whether you are seeking help for depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, parenting woes, adolescent woes, existential crisis, or in need of support in your day-to-day life - if you are willing, I am here to help you!
My name is Dr. Luke Rex, licensed clinical psychologist in California. Originally from Sydney, Australia, I moved to New York in 2006 to pursue my entertainment career, and have been a Los Angeleno since 2009. I am dedicated to assisting you in your personal growth and struggles in this life. Whether you are seeking help for depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, parenting woes, adolescent woes, existential crisis, or in need of support in your day-to-day life - if you are willing, I am here to help you!
I utilize a blend of evidence based treatments including cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and existential therapy to help you identify your strengths, achieve greater acceptance, reduce emotional distress and work towards achieving your personal goals.
Are you searching to find meaning and struggle with negative thoughts about yourself and your life? I believe that given an environment of dignity, respect, compassion and unconditional positive regard, every person can tap into their own resiliency, achieve personal growth and realize their own unique potential.I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 12 years experience working as a therapist, researcher and educator. I see both individuals and couples with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, interpersonal problems, grief and loss, aging issues, substance abuse, gender, sexuality, sexual health and out of control sexual behavior.
I utilize a blend of evidence based treatments including cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and existential therapy to help you identify your strengths, achieve greater acceptance, reduce emotional distress and work towards achieving your personal goals.
Are you searching to find meaning and struggle with negative thoughts about yourself and your life? I believe that given an environment of dignity, respect, compassion and unconditional positive regard, every person can tap into their own resiliency, achieve personal growth and realize their own unique potential.I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 12 years experience working as a therapist, researcher and educator. I see both individuals and couples with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, interpersonal problems, grief and loss, aging issues, substance abuse, gender, sexuality, sexual health and out of control sexual behavior.
Jeff Pellegrino
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
I operate out of an existential lens and work with each client individually to determine which additional modalities may be most helpful for them and their goals.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, behavioral/ lifestyle issues, performance, and interpersonal communications. My goal is to help clients gain insight and understanding about themselves and others, helping them take back the power to live the fulfilling and meaningful life they were meant to live. Teamwork is key in this process and I believe together we can identify and conquer the challenges you are facing.
I operate out of an existential lens and work with each client individually to determine which additional modalities may be most helpful for them and their goals.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, behavioral/ lifestyle issues, performance, and interpersonal communications. My goal is to help clients gain insight and understanding about themselves and others, helping them take back the power to live the fulfilling and meaningful life they were meant to live. Teamwork is key in this process and I believe together we can identify and conquer the challenges you are facing.
Connelly Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94401
I commonly draw from the following theoretical orientations/modalities: attachment and psychodynamic theories, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, narrative therapy, positive psychology and humanistic/ existential theories.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT 78886) and have been practicing in the Bay Area since 2006. After completing my undergrad at Stanford University, I obtained my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. In the years following, I have worked with individuals, families and groups, across the lifespan. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues, parenting challenges, life transitions and personal growth/exploratory work. I provide affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community as well.
I commonly draw from the following theoretical orientations/modalities: attachment and psychodynamic theories, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, narrative therapy, positive psychology and humanistic/ existential theories.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT 78886) and have been practicing in the Bay Area since 2006. After completing my undergrad at Stanford University, I obtained my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. In the years following, I have worked with individuals, families and groups, across the lifespan. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues, parenting challenges, life transitions and personal growth/exploratory work. I provide affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community as well.
My practice offers ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP) for individual clients, couples, and in group therapy formats. KAP is a novel, legal, and safe therapy modality that is highly effective in relieving suffering associated with chronic anxiety conditions, treatment resistant depression, developmental trauma, and existential distress. I approach KAP in a manner that places emphasis on building a trusting well-developed therapy relationship that is grounded in authenticity, depth, and humor. Our wounding most often arises in the context of relationship failures, I believe it must also be healed in relationship as well.
My practice offers ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP) for individual clients, couples, and in group therapy formats. KAP is a novel, legal, and safe therapy modality that is highly effective in relieving suffering associated with chronic anxiety conditions, treatment resistant depression, developmental trauma, and existential distress. I approach KAP in a manner that places emphasis on building a trusting well-developed therapy relationship that is grounded in authenticity, depth, and humor. Our wounding most often arises in the context of relationship failures, I believe it must also be healed in relationship as well.
Alban Lesne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MBA, CADC-I, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94107 (Online Only)
I specialize in existential and meaning-centered therapy, helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My ideal client may struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking deeper understanding and a path to healing. They need a safe space to explore their experiences and a supportive partner in finding meaning, purpose, and fulfillment in their lives. My approach integrates existential and meaning-centered therapy, focusing on aligning actions with values. I work with individuals of all backgrounds, recognizing that my perspective enriches our therapeutic relationship. Ultimately, my goal is to help clients find meaning, purpose, and fulfillment.
I specialize in existential and meaning-centered therapy, helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My ideal client may struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking deeper understanding and a path to healing. They need a safe space to explore their experiences and a supportive partner in finding meaning, purpose, and fulfillment in their lives. My approach integrates existential and meaning-centered therapy, focusing on aligning actions with values. I work with individuals of all backgrounds, recognizing that my perspective enriches our therapeutic relationship. Ultimately, my goal is to help clients find meaning, purpose, and fulfillment.
Matthew Zavala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825 (Online Only)
Currently Not Accepting New Clients - I work with clients who are motivated, responsible, diligent and seeking a deeper transformational experience of themselves. My clients are seekers of personal truth and existential wisdom that not only fosters personal growth but deepens their connection to those they love and to a grounded sense of presence in their lives. My clients are looking to re-establish a unified experience of the heart, mind and spirit to heal and soften the issues they are currently facing in their lives.
Currently Not Accepting New Clients - I work with clients who are motivated, responsible, diligent and seeking a deeper transformational experience of themselves. My clients are seekers of personal truth and existential wisdom that not only fosters personal growth but deepens their connection to those they love and to a grounded sense of presence in their lives. My clients are looking to re-establish a unified experience of the heart, mind and spirit to heal and soften the issues they are currently facing in their lives.
Leah Stryer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 (Online Only)
My approach integrates concepts from CBT, DBT, Existential, Gestalt, solution-focused, and psychodynamic therapy to create individualized treatments for my clients.
I became a psychotherapist because everyone needs “that person” in their life who will always believe in them, support them, and not judge them based on their past. As we all continue to navigate life’s transitions and changes, there are points where we find ourselves needing extra guidance and support. Whether you are currently thriving or struggling in life, deciding to seek therapy can be a challenging, rewarding, and life-changing experience. As a therapist, I strive to be “that person” by providing a non-judgmental, warm, and compassionate environment that fosters growth.
My approach integrates concepts from CBT, DBT, Existential, Gestalt, solution-focused, and psychodynamic therapy to create individualized treatments for my clients.
I became a psychotherapist because everyone needs “that person” in their life who will always believe in them, support them, and not judge them based on their past. As we all continue to navigate life’s transitions and changes, there are points where we find ourselves needing extra guidance and support. Whether you are currently thriving or struggling in life, deciding to seek therapy can be a challenging, rewarding, and life-changing experience. As a therapist, I strive to be “that person” by providing a non-judgmental, warm, and compassionate environment that fosters growth.
Lukas Dziemidok
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604 (Online Only)
As a therapist, I am rooted in a cognitive approach based on insight. However, I also incorporate a psychodynamic, humanistic- existential, and trauma-focused perspective in my work. My main goal is to help you get unstuck and achieve your potential for a fulfilling and meaningful life. I aim to make our sessions inclusive and focused, while also bringing in some humor and lightness to enhance our therapeutic journey.
As a therapist, I am rooted in a cognitive approach based on insight. However, I also incorporate a psychodynamic, humanistic- existential, and trauma-focused perspective in my work. My main goal is to help you get unstuck and achieve your potential for a fulfilling and meaningful life. I aim to make our sessions inclusive and focused, while also bringing in some humor and lightness to enhance our therapeutic journey.
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Les Wielstein, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that each person is entitled to live to their fullest potential and believe in a partnership to enable that. I utilize a Cognitive-Behavioral framework in therapy which is infused with Humanistic, Eastern, and Existential metaphors and stories to provide a caring, direct, and thoughtful approach. I am also Trauma-Informed and understand that by using both written and verbal activities I provide a pathway to a sensitive and meaningful understanding of this lived experience.
Les Wielstein, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that each person is entitled to live to their fullest potential and believe in a partnership to enable that. I utilize a Cognitive-Behavioral framework in therapy which is infused with Humanistic, Eastern, and Existential metaphors and stories to provide a caring, direct, and thoughtful approach. I am also Trauma-Informed and understand that by using both written and verbal activities I provide a pathway to a sensitive and meaningful understanding of this lived experience.
I work through different techniques including, CBT, Gestalt , systemic, solution focus, EMDR , attachment theory , existential and humanistic psychology.
I'm a bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist and psychologist. I work with children, teens, adults , couples and families. I believe that the human being is capable to change if he has the adequate tools. These tools can be found in therapy and other healthy environments. Soy un psicoterapeuta y psicologo bilingue y bicultural. Trabajo con ninios , adolescentes, adultos, parejas y familias. Creo que el ser humano es capaz de cambiar si tiene las herramientas adecuadas que puede encontrar a traves de la terapia y otros medios.
I work through different techniques including, CBT, Gestalt , systemic, solution focus, EMDR , attachment theory , existential and humanistic psychology.
I'm a bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist and psychologist. I work with children, teens, adults , couples and families. I believe that the human being is capable to change if he has the adequate tools. These tools can be found in therapy and other healthy environments. Soy un psicoterapeuta y psicologo bilingue y bicultural. Trabajo con ninios , adolescentes, adultos, parejas y familias. Creo que el ser humano es capaz de cambiar si tiene las herramientas adecuadas que puede encontrar a traves de la terapia y otros medios.
Laura Langley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, and major life changes. I use a blend of psychodynamic, humanistic, and existential modalities with an emphasis on developing mindfulness and increasing distress tolerance and emotional regulation.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, and major life changes. I use a blend of psychodynamic, humanistic, and existential modalities with an emphasis on developing mindfulness and increasing distress tolerance and emotional regulation.
Alonso J. Dominguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90232
Increased life stressors are pushing us to reach out for support and care. I offer a safe space to process transitions. I come with a three decades of experience providing direct therapeutic care to diverse populations. As we process and develop skills, together we will build strength, resilience, and new meaning. I approach therapy from an existential len incorporating both depth and somatic practices including Brainspotting and grief work. As a person of color I offer understanding of varied cultural dynamics. I work primarily with adults navigating changes, loss, and new perspectives.
Increased life stressors are pushing us to reach out for support and care. I offer a safe space to process transitions. I come with a three decades of experience providing direct therapeutic care to diverse populations. As we process and develop skills, together we will build strength, resilience, and new meaning. I approach therapy from an existential len incorporating both depth and somatic practices including Brainspotting and grief work. As a person of color I offer understanding of varied cultural dynamics. I work primarily with adults navigating changes, loss, and new perspectives.
Forty two years ago my 3-year-old-middle son was asked, "What does your Daddy do?" He smiled and answered, "He helps people find their feelings." I still do. I work with individuals, couples and families across the life span (but not with children younger than 13). I facilitate change through dialogue and the existential process of defining life through purposeful, authentic, and clearly authored choi
Forty two years ago my 3-year-old-middle son was asked, "What does your Daddy do?" He smiled and answered, "He helps people find their feelings." I still do. I work with individuals, couples and families across the life span (but not with children younger than 13). I facilitate change through dialogue and the existential process of defining life through purposeful, authentic, and clearly authored choi
Common issues typically include life/career transition, ADHD, perfectionism, fear of failure, professional/creative burnout, and existential topics such as living an authentic, fulfilling life.
I want to help you reach your potential. Your life story is filled with possibilities. I am interested in who you are and who you want to be, lifelong dreams and creative ambitions, and the mental hurdles and emotional baggage that are holding you back. You may find yourself feeling stuck. You may feel depressed and anxious about your situation but have a deep yearning to do more with your life. You may not know where or how to start. As your therapist, I'm here to guide you through this difficult time. We will examine all the cards you were dealt with and find the best hands for you.
Common issues typically include life/career transition, ADHD, perfectionism, fear of failure, professional/creative burnout, and existential topics such as living an authentic, fulfilling life.
I want to help you reach your potential. Your life story is filled with possibilities. I am interested in who you are and who you want to be, lifelong dreams and creative ambitions, and the mental hurdles and emotional baggage that are holding you back. You may find yourself feeling stuck. You may feel depressed and anxious about your situation but have a deep yearning to do more with your life. You may not know where or how to start. As your therapist, I'm here to guide you through this difficult time. We will examine all the cards you were dealt with and find the best hands for you.
My process includes existential discovery, problem identification via the irrational "pathetic" passions, & recovery skills via the development of rational virtues.
My clients typically fall into three categories: 1) individuals with existential angst, questioning their trajectory in relationships, careers, and/or life; 2) individuals suffering from a myriad of compulsive behaviors/addictions; and 3) couples experiencing communication difficulties, misaligned values, discordant desires, or desiring archetypal reconstructions. My work emphasizes identifying & isolating troubling emotions that lead to negative thinking and behaving, and learning to think & act according to reason. I am offering in-person sessions and teletherapy.
My process includes existential discovery, problem identification via the irrational "pathetic" passions, & recovery skills via the development of rational virtues.
My clients typically fall into three categories: 1) individuals with existential angst, questioning their trajectory in relationships, careers, and/or life; 2) individuals suffering from a myriad of compulsive behaviors/addictions; and 3) couples experiencing communication difficulties, misaligned values, discordant desires, or desiring archetypal reconstructions. My work emphasizes identifying & isolating troubling emotions that lead to negative thinking and behaving, and learning to think & act according to reason. I am offering in-person sessions and teletherapy.
I have additionally worked in community mental health with caregivers and older adults coping with stress and existential issues.
Hello, I am Jane Winston Doman a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in the state of California. I have worked with adults, couples, older adults, and caregivers. I specialize in coping with life transitions including stress, anxiety, depression, loss, grief, relationship, and aging issues. I work collaboratively with you to find appropriate strategies and insight to help you with your goals. I have found that my life experience has led me to be helpful with the transitions of life. I returned to Graduate School as an adult later in life.
I have additionally worked in community mental health with caregivers and older adults coping with stress and existential issues.
Hello, I am Jane Winston Doman a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in the state of California. I have worked with adults, couples, older adults, and caregivers. I specialize in coping with life transitions including stress, anxiety, depression, loss, grief, relationship, and aging issues. I work collaboratively with you to find appropriate strategies and insight to help you with your goals. I have found that my life experience has led me to be helpful with the transitions of life. I returned to Graduate School as an adult later in life.
I can also facilitate working with spiritual and existential concerns, in ways that enable you to connect with your spiritual nature.
For over 33 years I have been blessed to work with individuals and couples who put their trust in me to facilitate their own personal healing. Clients have relied on my devotion, warmth, insights and authentic presence to hold them in a safe, sacred space. Through a collaborative exploration, we explore the thoughts, feelings, belief systems that are at the root of life-long patterns. Awareness of these patterns is crucial. However, lasting change requires more than insight. We need to directly experience and release the underlying energies and wounds that block your life force, so you can live and express your authentic gifts.
I can also facilitate working with spiritual and existential concerns, in ways that enable you to connect with your spiritual nature.
For over 33 years I have been blessed to work with individuals and couples who put their trust in me to facilitate their own personal healing. Clients have relied on my devotion, warmth, insights and authentic presence to hold them in a safe, sacred space. Through a collaborative exploration, we explore the thoughts, feelings, belief systems that are at the root of life-long patterns. Awareness of these patterns is crucial. However, lasting change requires more than insight. We need to directly experience and release the underlying energies and wounds that block your life force, so you can live and express your authentic gifts.
See more therapy options for California
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.