Photo of Sara R. van Koningsveld, Counselor in 90036, CA
Sara R. van Koningsveld
Counselor, MA, LPCC, BC-DMT, GL-CMA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
My practice integrates: CBT, positive psychology, mindfulness, and holistic approaches.
Life gets difficult. -Our distress may make us uncomfortable, overwhelmed, anxious, angry, sad and/or depressed. -Maybe we experienced a job loss, have to move, had a significant relationship end, or experienced a major shift, change, or transition in our life. -Really, we want to feel "better" and "happier", but how do we get there? Short-term counseling or coaching can help and sometimes we needed to address deeper issues and patterns through psychotherapy. Each of us is different, but maybe you found your way here because you are ready to let go, ready to grow, and ready for something new, different, and better for your life.
My practice integrates: CBT, positive psychology, mindfulness, and holistic approaches.
Life gets difficult. -Our distress may make us uncomfortable, overwhelmed, anxious, angry, sad and/or depressed. -Maybe we experienced a job loss, have to move, had a significant relationship end, or experienced a major shift, change, or transition in our life. -Really, we want to feel "better" and "happier", but how do we get there? Short-term counseling or coaching can help and sometimes we needed to address deeper issues and patterns through psychotherapy. Each of us is different, but maybe you found your way here because you are ready to let go, ready to grow, and ready for something new, different, and better for your life.
(323) 210-4786 View (323) 210-4786
Photo of Elizabeth M Goetchius, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90036, CA
Elizabeth M Goetchius
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I am trained in EMDR and utilize mindfulness based stress reduction strategies along with cognitive behavioral therapy to identify and redirect faulty beliefs and change undermining behavior patterns, while providing oneself with a sense of comfort and east.
Therapy is an opportunity to gain objectivity and insight to what is working and what isn't working. Using a strength based approach, I support individuals, couples and families who are challenged with; relationships, career, parenting, depression, anxiety or substance use. I understand how daunting it can be to enact change. It takes support, strategy and a safe space to flush out ideas and process feelings. I have over 30 years of experience and have cultivated a unique and effective intuitive style as a therapist that only comes with practical knowledge and years of application .
I am trained in EMDR and utilize mindfulness based stress reduction strategies along with cognitive behavioral therapy to identify and redirect faulty beliefs and change undermining behavior patterns, while providing oneself with a sense of comfort and east.
Therapy is an opportunity to gain objectivity and insight to what is working and what isn't working. Using a strength based approach, I support individuals, couples and families who are challenged with; relationships, career, parenting, depression, anxiety or substance use. I understand how daunting it can be to enact change. It takes support, strategy and a safe space to flush out ideas and process feelings. I have over 30 years of experience and have cultivated a unique and effective intuitive style as a therapist that only comes with practical knowledge and years of application .
(323) 894-0651 View (323) 894-0651
Photo of Jill Levenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90036, CA
Jill Levenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
My approach to therapy is grounded in the integration of art, mindfulness, and somatic experience with authentic talk therapy.
At some point in our lives we may feel lost, overwhelmed, or stuck in repetitive patterns. We could be struggling with waves of anxiety, depression, or the ongoing echoes of traumatic experiences. Alternatively, we might be feeling confused during one of life’s many transitions. In therapy, we start by creating safety in the room and ourselves. We learn to recognize what is happening inside and out. We cultivate feelings of self-acceptance. We get curious about our internal and external experience. We discover self-nurturing techniques in order to survive, repair, heal and thrive. This is the therapeutic experience in my practice.
My approach to therapy is grounded in the integration of art, mindfulness, and somatic experience with authentic talk therapy.
At some point in our lives we may feel lost, overwhelmed, or stuck in repetitive patterns. We could be struggling with waves of anxiety, depression, or the ongoing echoes of traumatic experiences. Alternatively, we might be feeling confused during one of life’s many transitions. In therapy, we start by creating safety in the room and ourselves. We learn to recognize what is happening inside and out. We cultivate feelings of self-acceptance. We get curious about our internal and external experience. We discover self-nurturing techniques in order to survive, repair, heal and thrive. This is the therapeutic experience in my practice.
(310) 818-7768 View (310) 818-7768
Photo of Kendal Maxwell, Psychologist in 90036, CA
Kendal Maxwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I am accepting new clients via private pay. My background is neuropsychology and health psychology, therefore, I specialize with understanding the complexity of interactions between neurological illnesses and psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, etc. I have worked with several illnesses such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke, TBI & adjustment to these medical conditions. Additionally, I believe in mindfulness meditation. You can access my "21 day Positive Mindfulness Meditation Challenge" on Spotify, Apple podcast, as well as Google podcasts.
I am accepting new clients via private pay. My background is neuropsychology and health psychology, therefore, I specialize with understanding the complexity of interactions between neurological illnesses and psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, etc. I have worked with several illnesses such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke, TBI & adjustment to these medical conditions. Additionally, I believe in mindfulness meditation. You can access my "21 day Positive Mindfulness Meditation Challenge" on Spotify, Apple podcast, as well as Google podcasts.
(734) 339-2170 View (734) 339-2170
Photo of Adele Bent, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90036, CA
Adele Bent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
Our work together will be based on evidence-based treatments (meaning, there's research to show they work) such as: mindfulness, DBT, ACT, Compassion Focused Therapy, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
You're putting one foot in front of the other and you still feel lost, stuck, or overwhelmed by events and emotions in your life. Or, perhaps it's become hard to tackle the day-to-day and you're longing to reconnect with the person you used to be. Maybe you feel caught in the past or tangled up in the future, disconnected from all that your life has to offer in this moment. Whether you know exactly how you want your life to shift as a result of being in therapy, or, you know only that you want to feel better than you do now, there is the possibility of living the life that feels best for you.
Our work together will be based on evidence-based treatments (meaning, there's research to show they work) such as: mindfulness, DBT, ACT, Compassion Focused Therapy, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
You're putting one foot in front of the other and you still feel lost, stuck, or overwhelmed by events and emotions in your life. Or, perhaps it's become hard to tackle the day-to-day and you're longing to reconnect with the person you used to be. Maybe you feel caught in the past or tangled up in the future, disconnected from all that your life has to offer in this moment. Whether you know exactly how you want your life to shift as a result of being in therapy, or, you know only that you want to feel better than you do now, there is the possibility of living the life that feels best for you.
(323) 433-5130 View (323) 433-5130
Photo of Caitlin J. Buys, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90036, CA
Caitlin J. Buys
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
I utilize eclectic, humanistic, mindfulness, and collaborative approaches by assisting clients in creating a deeper understanding of themself by moving toward an integrated well-being with psychological and emotional flexibility.
Do you ever feel like your life is moving too fast? Do you feel like your emotions or thoughts are running your daily life? Are you looking for a stronger connection with yourself, your mind, your body, your emotions, and others around you? I can help, I take the time to get to know each individual with a focus on building a trusting therapeutic relationship. Together, we can identify the challenging life moments that have sparked your courage to seek support. We will work on nurturing your strengths, increasing resiliency, and creating opportunities for self-discovery and growth.
I utilize eclectic, humanistic, mindfulness, and collaborative approaches by assisting clients in creating a deeper understanding of themself by moving toward an integrated well-being with psychological and emotional flexibility.
Do you ever feel like your life is moving too fast? Do you feel like your emotions or thoughts are running your daily life? Are you looking for a stronger connection with yourself, your mind, your body, your emotions, and others around you? I can help, I take the time to get to know each individual with a focus on building a trusting therapeutic relationship. Together, we can identify the challenging life moments that have sparked your courage to seek support. We will work on nurturing your strengths, increasing resiliency, and creating opportunities for self-discovery and growth.
(310) 872-5149 View (310) 872-5149
Photo of Andrea L Jamison, Psychologist in 90036, CA
Andrea L Jamison
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
I draw mainly from trauma-informed psychodynamic, mindfulness, and somatic techniques, as well as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
It can be tough to manage relationships, health, work or school pressures, and the day-to-day stresses of life that come our way. If you find yourself struggling due to past experiences or childhood trauma, I'm here to help. Maybe you overthink, can't sleep, or worry too much. Maybe you've struggled with alcohol or other substance use. Maybe you're looking for clarity to figure out what you want. As your therapist, I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can feel safe. Within this trusted relationship, you can cultivate new coping skills and mindsets that open up new possibilities, at any stage of life.
I draw mainly from trauma-informed psychodynamic, mindfulness, and somatic techniques, as well as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
It can be tough to manage relationships, health, work or school pressures, and the day-to-day stresses of life that come our way. If you find yourself struggling due to past experiences or childhood trauma, I'm here to help. Maybe you overthink, can't sleep, or worry too much. Maybe you've struggled with alcohol or other substance use. Maybe you're looking for clarity to figure out what you want. As your therapist, I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can feel safe. Within this trusted relationship, you can cultivate new coping skills and mindsets that open up new possibilities, at any stage of life.
(323) 405-8116 View (323) 405-8116
Photo of Lauren Steffel, Psychologist in 90036, CA
Lauren Steffel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
Are you looking for an active, evidence-based approach to address trauma, overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or addiction? If you feel stuck in sadness, fear, worry, or shame, we will use proven techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness to not just reduce your symptoms, but help you build a life worth living. Together, we will identify and understand beliefs or patterns of response that hold you back. With compassion and humor, I will help you stop avoiding, face your fears, and live according to the values and goals that matter most to you. I am licensed in CA (30891), NY (021345), and Florida (TPPY1954).
Are you looking for an active, evidence-based approach to address trauma, overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or addiction? If you feel stuck in sadness, fear, worry, or shame, we will use proven techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness to not just reduce your symptoms, but help you build a life worth living. Together, we will identify and understand beliefs or patterns of response that hold you back. With compassion and humor, I will help you stop avoiding, face your fears, and live according to the values and goals that matter most to you. I am licensed in CA (30891), NY (021345), and Florida (TPPY1954).
(310) 904-6013 View (310) 904-6013
Photo of Dr. Molly Kierein, Psychologist in 90036, CA
Dr. Molly Kierein
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
I incorporate mindfulness-based treatments (MBTs) which help you strengthen your ability to observe uncomfortable thoughts/feelings/sensations without clinging to them or avoiding them.
After 14 years of higher education in psychology, I use a variety of evidence-based methods to address a broad spectrum of challenges for adults and teens from diverse backgrounds. Some people require a more structured approach with homework and skill-based work to enact change. Others require a more fluid and exploratory approach to develop insights used to improve outcomes. We usually need a combination of both. Regardless of the course of treatment, I am active and engaged in your process and always adapt my approach to you. I am outcome focused and work diligently along side you to grow and meet your goals in a timely way.
I incorporate mindfulness-based treatments (MBTs) which help you strengthen your ability to observe uncomfortable thoughts/feelings/sensations without clinging to them or avoiding them.
After 14 years of higher education in psychology, I use a variety of evidence-based methods to address a broad spectrum of challenges for adults and teens from diverse backgrounds. Some people require a more structured approach with homework and skill-based work to enact change. Others require a more fluid and exploratory approach to develop insights used to improve outcomes. We usually need a combination of both. Regardless of the course of treatment, I am active and engaged in your process and always adapt my approach to you. I am outcome focused and work diligently along side you to grow and meet your goals in a timely way.
(415) 855-3451 View (415) 855-3451
Photo of Karyl Draper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90036, CA
Karyl Draper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSN
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I believe psychotherapy is a mutual journey between the therapist and the client. Though the waters can be rough, the adventure can be exciting and rewarding. It is an opportunity for the client to create a different way of being in the world and discover new narratives of their personal story. Whether depression, addiction, relational, or crisis, we will unpack the problem and find a solution. Specialized in trauma work with mindfulness and EMDR.
I believe psychotherapy is a mutual journey between the therapist and the client. Though the waters can be rough, the adventure can be exciting and rewarding. It is an opportunity for the client to create a different way of being in the world and discover new narratives of their personal story. Whether depression, addiction, relational, or crisis, we will unpack the problem and find a solution. Specialized in trauma work with mindfulness and EMDR.
(323) 844-0227 View (323) 844-0227
Photo of Kari Gila Sacks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90036, CA
Kari Gila Sacks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral techniques and Pet Therapy are evidence-based ways to manage stress, grief and chronic pain.
I believe you've arrived here for a reason, and we're about to find out why. Together, we can explore the issues that are sacred to you and hopefully release you to a better emotional place. The basis of living strong is having a consciousness of purpose and meaning. I'm here to support this process of discovering heightened meaning within you. I have walked alongside folks facing deeply painful human challenges: grief over loss of all kinds, life transitions, aging, caregiver stress, single motherhood, overcoming depression and anxiety and trauma. I look forward to working with you to make your life better.
Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral techniques and Pet Therapy are evidence-based ways to manage stress, grief and chronic pain.
I believe you've arrived here for a reason, and we're about to find out why. Together, we can explore the issues that are sacred to you and hopefully release you to a better emotional place. The basis of living strong is having a consciousness of purpose and meaning. I'm here to support this process of discovering heightened meaning within you. I have walked alongside folks facing deeply painful human challenges: grief over loss of all kinds, life transitions, aging, caregiver stress, single motherhood, overcoming depression and anxiety and trauma. I look forward to working with you to make your life better.
(424) 346-8955 View (424) 346-8955
Photo of Elenor Daneshvar, Psychologist in 90036, CA
Elenor Daneshvar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I have acquired extensive training with evidence based treatments and work from a psychodynamic, mindfulness based, and cognitive-behavioral therapeutic orientation.
Make time for yourself today. Painful symptoms from depression, anxiety, and/or relationship problems can cause great difficulty as we try to navigate through daily life. You don't have to go through difficult times alone. Talking about what you are experiencing is the first step to feeling better. I listen carefully and openly to current and past struggles to help promote self-awareness and understanding. I work closely with my clients to alleviate problematic symptoms and promote overall well-being.
I have acquired extensive training with evidence based treatments and work from a psychodynamic, mindfulness based, and cognitive-behavioral therapeutic orientation.
Make time for yourself today. Painful symptoms from depression, anxiety, and/or relationship problems can cause great difficulty as we try to navigate through daily life. You don't have to go through difficult times alone. Talking about what you are experiencing is the first step to feeling better. I listen carefully and openly to current and past struggles to help promote self-awareness and understanding. I work closely with my clients to alleviate problematic symptoms and promote overall well-being.
(310) 707-1526 View (310) 707-1526
Photo of Kathryn Lubow, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90036, CA
Kathryn Lubow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
My clinical approach is drawn from my training in trauma informed somatic and mindfulness based therapies.
I am an integrative psychotherapist who utilizes mindfulness and compassion based approaches woven together with Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing and EMDR. I offer an attachment based approach and work collaboratively with you to help you gain awareness of patterns from your past and present that are impacting your life, and to experience insights that can foster change and promote an increase in self-regulation and well being. Strengths and resources can be accessed and the negative experiences from the past that continue to affect the present can be processed and resolved.
My clinical approach is drawn from my training in trauma informed somatic and mindfulness based therapies.
I am an integrative psychotherapist who utilizes mindfulness and compassion based approaches woven together with Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing and EMDR. I offer an attachment based approach and work collaboratively with you to help you gain awareness of patterns from your past and present that are impacting your life, and to experience insights that can foster change and promote an increase in self-regulation and well being. Strengths and resources can be accessed and the negative experiences from the past that continue to affect the present can be processed and resolved.
(323) 745-2235 View (323) 745-2235
Photo of Larisa Southerland, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90036, CA
Larisa Southerland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
I also incorporate elements of Gottman Therapy, Mindfulness, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT145725) at Relationship Wisdom. Supervised by Brad Byrum, LMFT118448. Navigating relationships can be tricky, to say the least. I believe the most important element of any relationship is communication. Breakdowns in communication are common and may go undetected for months, or even years. Becoming aware of how we communicate and adjusting appropriately can make all the difference in our interactions moving forward. My goal is to help you and your partner become effective communicators. My therapeutic style is down to Earth and compassionately curious.
I also incorporate elements of Gottman Therapy, Mindfulness, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT145725) at Relationship Wisdom. Supervised by Brad Byrum, LMFT118448. Navigating relationships can be tricky, to say the least. I believe the most important element of any relationship is communication. Breakdowns in communication are common and may go undetected for months, or even years. Becoming aware of how we communicate and adjusting appropriately can make all the difference in our interactions moving forward. My goal is to help you and your partner become effective communicators. My therapeutic style is down to Earth and compassionately curious.
(323) 894-0768 View (323) 894-0768
Photo of Angela An, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90036, CA
Angela An
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I have training in addiction, anger management, highly sensitive persons, mindfulness, suicide ideation, psychedelic integration, and truama.
Does anxiety, depression, stress, grief and/or addiction get in your way of living a full life? Is it affecting your health, family, work, school or relationships? When you are faced with such challenges, you may feel stuck, isolated, overwhelmed, hopeless or lost. You are not alone. We all feel like that sometimes. You can have your life back but it can be hard to do it alone. I'm here for you to provide a safe space and support you need. I will be the guiding light to help you move towards the positive changes. Together, we can find ways to reclaim your life.
I have training in addiction, anger management, highly sensitive persons, mindfulness, suicide ideation, psychedelic integration, and truama.
Does anxiety, depression, stress, grief and/or addiction get in your way of living a full life? Is it affecting your health, family, work, school or relationships? When you are faced with such challenges, you may feel stuck, isolated, overwhelmed, hopeless or lost. You are not alone. We all feel like that sometimes. You can have your life back but it can be hard to do it alone. I'm here for you to provide a safe space and support you need. I will be the guiding light to help you move towards the positive changes. Together, we can find ways to reclaim your life.
(323) 476-0901 View (323) 476-0901
Photo of Devora Hecht, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90036, CA
Devora Hecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
My work with individuals is rooted in mindfulness, attachment, and the occasional nudge. I support clients in connecting with themselves while helping them understand how their history impacts their current relationships and their sense of self. Together, I work with clients on creating a healing, safe, and non-judgmental environment where vulnerability, laughter, and silence are all welcome.
My work with individuals is rooted in mindfulness, attachment, and the occasional nudge. I support clients in connecting with themselves while helping them understand how their history impacts their current relationships and their sense of self. Together, I work with clients on creating a healing, safe, and non-judgmental environment where vulnerability, laughter, and silence are all welcome.
(213) 319-4743 View (213) 319-4743
Photo of Danielle G. Sheppard, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 90036, CA
Danielle G. Sheppard
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CSEP, BC-TMH, JCTC, JCDC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Danielle Sheppard is a licensed clinician who helps individuals and couples realize and achieve their true potential. She recognizes that every person or couple is different in terms of goals, aspirations, and the pursuit of happiness, and that everyone’s path to peace of mind is different. As such, she strives to help each of her clients realize their strengths, values, and ultimate potential. She takes a holistic approach to therapy, often encouraging her clients to incorporate meditation and mindfulness into their self care ritual.
Danielle Sheppard is a licensed clinician who helps individuals and couples realize and achieve their true potential. She recognizes that every person or couple is different in terms of goals, aspirations, and the pursuit of happiness, and that everyone’s path to peace of mind is different. As such, she strives to help each of her clients realize their strengths, values, and ultimate potential. She takes a holistic approach to therapy, often encouraging her clients to incorporate meditation and mindfulness into their self care ritual.
(323) 909-5143 View (323) 909-5143
Photo of Inna Zavadsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90036, CA
Inna Zavadsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I utilize a trauma-informed approach and integrate Cognitive Behavioral, Somatic, Mindfulness, Emotionally Focused and Psychodynamic therapies.
I believe the connection you have with your therapist is essential to having a positive experience in therapy. People seek therapy for many reasons. You notice feeling sad, stressed, worried or overwhelmed; you experienced a traumatic event or a great loss; you are trying to change certain patterns in your life; you want more fulfilling relationships. Whether I am working with individuals, couples or families, I am empathic, collaborative, and provide suggestions and feedback in a safe, respectful and supportive environment. I have worked with different cultures, backgrounds, ages and professions, and love learning from my clients.
I utilize a trauma-informed approach and integrate Cognitive Behavioral, Somatic, Mindfulness, Emotionally Focused and Psychodynamic therapies.
I believe the connection you have with your therapist is essential to having a positive experience in therapy. People seek therapy for many reasons. You notice feeling sad, stressed, worried or overwhelmed; you experienced a traumatic event or a great loss; you are trying to change certain patterns in your life; you want more fulfilling relationships. Whether I am working with individuals, couples or families, I am empathic, collaborative, and provide suggestions and feedback in a safe, respectful and supportive environment. I have worked with different cultures, backgrounds, ages and professions, and love learning from my clients.
(424) 999-1087 View (424) 999-1087
Photo of Gina Porter, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90036, CA
Gina Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
I utilize a blend of mindfulness, person-centered, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, among a variety of other approaches, including creative-arts therapy, to fit your individual needs.
I believe therapy should be a place to process your experiences, as well as receive helpful feedback and tangible ways to help make changes in your life. My role is to be active and involved, while supporting you to figure out the personal and structural changes you can make to live the life you want. My style is empathetic, non-judgmental, creative, and direct. My intention is for my clients to not only feel heard, but understood. I will collaborate with you to support you in developing personalized goals, while also challenging you to find and utilize your strengths to heal and grow.
I utilize a blend of mindfulness, person-centered, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, among a variety of other approaches, including creative-arts therapy, to fit your individual needs.
I believe therapy should be a place to process your experiences, as well as receive helpful feedback and tangible ways to help make changes in your life. My role is to be active and involved, while supporting you to figure out the personal and structural changes you can make to live the life you want. My style is empathetic, non-judgmental, creative, and direct. My intention is for my clients to not only feel heard, but understood. I will collaborate with you to support you in developing personalized goals, while also challenging you to find and utilize your strengths to heal and grow.
(323) 313-0156 View (323) 313-0156
Photo of Debbie Summers, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90036, CA
Debbie Summers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCAPT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
  I draw upon therapeutic modalities including Reality Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and, especially with children, creative expression through art and play.
Are you going through a hard time, in a difficult relationship or feeling overwhelmed, confused, anxious, or depressed? Are you a parent seeking support for yourself or for your child who is struggling emotionally at school or home?
  I draw upon therapeutic modalities including Reality Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and, especially with children, creative expression through art and play.
Are you going through a hard time, in a difficult relationship or feeling overwhelmed, confused, anxious, or depressed? Are you a parent seeking support for yourself or for your child who is struggling emotionally at school or home?
(310) 947-8226 View (310) 947-8226
Female Therapists

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.