Therapists in 90403
Max Fay
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
My areas of focus include: the LGBTQ+ community, anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem, complex trauma, relationships (with self & others), and people pleasing.
I believe everyone is capable of living their fullest, most vibrant life and it is my passion to help them achieve it. I help clients foster insight by processing their past experiences and gently uncovering the ways their pasts connect with their current struggles. I teach clients to discover the patterns and rules that keep them stuck and then support them in cultivating a life that brings them joy and fulfillment. I invite my clients on a journey of self-compassion and teach them how to prioritize gentleness and self-care. I believe therapy can be silly and even fun while still being impactful and effective.
My areas of focus include: the LGBTQ+ community, anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem, complex trauma, relationships (with self & others), and people pleasing.
I believe everyone is capable of living their fullest, most vibrant life and it is my passion to help them achieve it. I help clients foster insight by processing their past experiences and gently uncovering the ways their pasts connect with their current struggles. I teach clients to discover the patterns and rules that keep them stuck and then support them in cultivating a life that brings them joy and fulfillment. I invite my clients on a journey of self-compassion and teach them how to prioritize gentleness and self-care. I believe therapy can be silly and even fun while still being impactful and effective.
Seana Diemer Iwanyk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Specializing in supporting creatives, LGBTQ+ individuals, and "former gifted kids," I understand the unique stressors these groups face and the burnout that can result.
We all have a story, but when burnout spirals into deeper struggles like anxiety, depression, exhaustion, and compassion fatigue, we can lose sight of that narrative. Pressures like work stress, relationship issues, societal expectations, identity struggles, or pursuit of perfection can engulf us to the point that we can't handle the burden. This impacts our creativity, relationships, and sense of direction. But burnout isn't the end of the story; with support, a new chapter can unfold. I love stories because they foster understanding. Throughout history, stories have been our tools for making sense of ourselves and the world.
Specializing in supporting creatives, LGBTQ+ individuals, and "former gifted kids," I understand the unique stressors these groups face and the burnout that can result.
We all have a story, but when burnout spirals into deeper struggles like anxiety, depression, exhaustion, and compassion fatigue, we can lose sight of that narrative. Pressures like work stress, relationship issues, societal expectations, identity struggles, or pursuit of perfection can engulf us to the point that we can't handle the burden. This impacts our creativity, relationships, and sense of direction. But burnout isn't the end of the story; with support, a new chapter can unfold. I love stories because they foster understanding. Throughout history, stories have been our tools for making sense of ourselves and the world.
Jennifer Hackney
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
In an often unwelcoming world, it can be challenging for us to live authentically as LGBTQ+ people. Heteronormativity, cisnormativity, and homo/bi/transphobia can impact our sense of self, relationships, and quality of life. As an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, I aim to provide compassionate and affirming therapy for teens and adults who are seeking support with sexual identity, gender identity, coming out, self-esteem, self-acceptance, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. I mindfully work to create an inviting space that respects, affirms, and values your identities and lived experiences.
In an often unwelcoming world, it can be challenging for us to live authentically as LGBTQ+ people. Heteronormativity, cisnormativity, and homo/bi/transphobia can impact our sense of self, relationships, and quality of life. As an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, I aim to provide compassionate and affirming therapy for teens and adults who are seeking support with sexual identity, gender identity, coming out, self-esteem, self-acceptance, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. I mindfully work to create an inviting space that respects, affirms, and values your identities and lived experiences.
Laura Kay Mclauchlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I have worked with many clients in the LGBT community.
Are you struggling with DEPRESSION or ANXIETY? Is your RELATIONSHIP stuck in negative patterns?Is SUBSTANCE USE getting in your way, or you're needing extra support in RECOVERY? Are you going through a stressful LIFE TRANSITION? If you answered "yes" to any these questions, or even "maybe", I might be the help you are looking for. I've been told by my clients that I take a more active, direct approach to therapy, and I believe humor is a great healer. It is my 1st job to help you feel accepted, and listened to. I want to help you achieve your therapeutic goals by learning about what motivates you as a unique individual.
I have worked with many clients in the LGBT community.
Are you struggling with DEPRESSION or ANXIETY? Is your RELATIONSHIP stuck in negative patterns?Is SUBSTANCE USE getting in your way, or you're needing extra support in RECOVERY? Are you going through a stressful LIFE TRANSITION? If you answered "yes" to any these questions, or even "maybe", I might be the help you are looking for. I've been told by my clients that I take a more active, direct approach to therapy, and I believe humor is a great healer. It is my 1st job to help you feel accepted, and listened to. I want to help you achieve your therapeutic goals by learning about what motivates you as a unique individual.
Denise Maratos
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, EdM
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I also have a special interest in transpersonal and depth psychology, including spiritual & transpersonal emergence, expressive arts therapies, ecotherapy, sexuality, LGBTQIA concerns, and transitional age youth (TAY).
Do you need support finding your life’s purpose? Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you find it difficult to feel pain and face your shadows? While considering the whole person- heart, soul, mind and body, I trust that you enter therapy having the insight you need to navigate your distress. I use the term "depth emergence" to explain my orientation and approach. It stems from depth psychology, which emphasizes gaining access to the unconscious and bringing it into consciousness. While increasing awareness we derive meaning, evolve, and transform.
I also have a special interest in transpersonal and depth psychology, including spiritual & transpersonal emergence, expressive arts therapies, ecotherapy, sexuality, LGBTQIA concerns, and transitional age youth (TAY).
Do you need support finding your life’s purpose? Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you find it difficult to feel pain and face your shadows? While considering the whole person- heart, soul, mind and body, I trust that you enter therapy having the insight you need to navigate your distress. I use the term "depth emergence" to explain my orientation and approach. It stems from depth psychology, which emphasizes gaining access to the unconscious and bringing it into consciousness. While increasing awareness we derive meaning, evolve, and transform.
Kristen Welke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Whether a client is grappling with anger, depression, anxiety, substance-related concerns, identity issues, grief/loss, LGBTQIA-specific topics, or relationship issues, I am here to collaboratively address and support my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals.
Life can be really hard and oftentimes we need additional support. I love working with individuals through life's transitions and challenges. A belief and dedication to growth, resilience, and well-being, I prioritize trauma-informed care and social justice in my practice. I emphasize authenticity and genuine connections by integrating empathy, creativity, and humor into sessions using Gestalt Therapy. Whether guiding teens or adults through various life’s transitions or focusing on improving a client’s mental well-being, my approach remains culturally conscious and sensitive to individual experiences in the broader societal context
Whether a client is grappling with anger, depression, anxiety, substance-related concerns, identity issues, grief/loss, LGBTQIA-specific topics, or relationship issues, I am here to collaboratively address and support my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals.
Life can be really hard and oftentimes we need additional support. I love working with individuals through life's transitions and challenges. A belief and dedication to growth, resilience, and well-being, I prioritize trauma-informed care and social justice in my practice. I emphasize authenticity and genuine connections by integrating empathy, creativity, and humor into sessions using Gestalt Therapy. Whether guiding teens or adults through various life’s transitions or focusing on improving a client’s mental well-being, my approach remains culturally conscious and sensitive to individual experiences in the broader societal context
Iordana Gaytan Gamiz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My specializations include LGBTQAI+ affirmative therapy with a focus on Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, their families and partners, but I welcome individuals from all backgrounds and experiences.
Navigating life can be really challenging and my goal is to provide a warm, safe, judgement free, and collaborative environment to assist you navigate these challenges. In my work I recognize the importance of each individual’s intersecting identities such as race, gender identity, gender expression, culture of origin, immigration status, sexual orientation, primary language and disability. It is through the exploration and comprehension of these different parts, as well as live adversities, that we can have a more complete understanding of who we are and why we act the way we do.
My specializations include LGBTQAI+ affirmative therapy with a focus on Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, their families and partners, but I welcome individuals from all backgrounds and experiences.
Navigating life can be really challenging and my goal is to provide a warm, safe, judgement free, and collaborative environment to assist you navigate these challenges. In my work I recognize the importance of each individual’s intersecting identities such as race, gender identity, gender expression, culture of origin, immigration status, sexual orientation, primary language and disability. It is through the exploration and comprehension of these different parts, as well as live adversities, that we can have a more complete understanding of who we are and why we act the way we do.
Sascha Goldhor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
My practice is body positive, sex positive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, in solidarity with BIPOC, and is informed by Jungian and depth psychology + Gestalt therapy.
Our sessions together will transform your life. One of my main aims is to support you to trust your Self. You'll learn how to attune to the unconscious, both to alleviate your suffering and to guide your Self towards wholeness. We'll focus on your emergent somatic experience and incorporate imaginal practices. Throughout, we gain insights into your relationship patterns and nurture your creative function. My style is collaborative + curious. I hold this profound, rewarding process with care and integrity. Many clients express how our sessions have led to lasting change in their lives.
My practice is body positive, sex positive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, in solidarity with BIPOC, and is informed by Jungian and depth psychology + Gestalt therapy.
Our sessions together will transform your life. One of my main aims is to support you to trust your Self. You'll learn how to attune to the unconscious, both to alleviate your suffering and to guide your Self towards wholeness. We'll focus on your emergent somatic experience and incorporate imaginal practices. Throughout, we gain insights into your relationship patterns and nurture your creative function. My style is collaborative + curious. I hold this profound, rewarding process with care and integrity. Many clients express how our sessions have led to lasting change in their lives.
Jamie Rudden
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
People come to therapy at all different points in their life. Whether you're returning to better understand a new situation or coming for the first time to explore opportunities for growth, I am here to meet you where you're at. In my experience, people seek change when they are not fully aligned with the person they want to be. Our work together will be to identify these misalignments, to learn how to empathize with how they came to be, and to find strategies for letting go of things that that no longer serve in order to find a sense of self we can feel proud of.
People come to therapy at all different points in their life. Whether you're returning to better understand a new situation or coming for the first time to explore opportunities for growth, I am here to meet you where you're at. In my experience, people seek change when they are not fully aligned with the person they want to be. Our work together will be to identify these misalignments, to learn how to empathize with how they came to be, and to find strategies for letting go of things that that no longer serve in order to find a sense of self we can feel proud of.
Eric Windell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
If you find yourself feeling stuck, anxious, depressed, angry, or blocked from harnessing your full potential, I can help. In therapy, we will work together to discover how you can live the life you want. It’s important to be seen for your authentic self and I will strive to create a space where you can examine all aspects of your identity. Some things therapy can include are processing past hurts, changing unwanted behaviors, gaining greater insight into oneself, or exploring a career change. I will adapt to your needs so you can develop the skills needed to enact your desired change.
If you find yourself feeling stuck, anxious, depressed, angry, or blocked from harnessing your full potential, I can help. In therapy, we will work together to discover how you can live the life you want. It’s important to be seen for your authentic self and I will strive to create a space where you can examine all aspects of your identity. Some things therapy can include are processing past hurts, changing unwanted behaviors, gaining greater insight into oneself, or exploring a career change. I will adapt to your needs so you can develop the skills needed to enact your desired change.
Dr. Joseph Lancaster
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
You are feeling like life is full of chaos and no matter what you do, you can’t seem to get a handle on what is happening. Your relationships are broken, or strained and not only is it affecting you, but others are pulling away. You feel lost as if you have no purpose in life. You are tired of the spinning wheel. Depression, anxiety, anger, relationship challenges and much more keep you stuck and unable to grow. ENOUGH! You're ready for answers to start a new Holistic, healthy journey and become that whole person you were meant to be - Mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually - whole!
You are feeling like life is full of chaos and no matter what you do, you can’t seem to get a handle on what is happening. Your relationships are broken, or strained and not only is it affecting you, but others are pulling away. You feel lost as if you have no purpose in life. You are tired of the spinning wheel. Depression, anxiety, anger, relationship challenges and much more keep you stuck and unable to grow. ENOUGH! You're ready for answers to start a new Holistic, healthy journey and become that whole person you were meant to be - Mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually - whole!
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Adriana Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Change is possible and I believe therapy is a place where you can explore the challenges and achievements that make our lives feel more fulfilled. My approach to therapy is one of empathy, collaboration and practicality. I like to make therapy fun, engaging, and a safe place for you to comfortably explore your emotions and learn new healthy coping skills to support your growth. I have a passion for helping others achieve more fulfillment and balance in their lives. My goal is to provide a safe space to explore feelings that may contribute to ongoing difficulties, re-process experiences, and ultimately co-create your next chapter.
Change is possible and I believe therapy is a place where you can explore the challenges and achievements that make our lives feel more fulfilled. My approach to therapy is one of empathy, collaboration and practicality. I like to make therapy fun, engaging, and a safe place for you to comfortably explore your emotions and learn new healthy coping skills to support your growth. I have a passion for helping others achieve more fulfillment and balance in their lives. My goal is to provide a safe space to explore feelings that may contribute to ongoing difficulties, re-process experiences, and ultimately co-create your next chapter.
Maxine J Dusig, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It is a privilege to work with you. I am committed to assist you in discovering any emotional issues that may be troubling. Some of the issues may be relationships, depression, anxiety or any crisis. I am understanding of life's difficulties. I will help you discover how they are affecting you. You will gain more knowledge about yourself as well as others. You may need to learn new tools in managing difficult situations. I will help you to grow, gain more knowledge of yourself, and to set better boundaries In communication. I look forward to meeting with you and establishing a good working relationship.
It is a privilege to work with you. I am committed to assist you in discovering any emotional issues that may be troubling. Some of the issues may be relationships, depression, anxiety or any crisis. I am understanding of life's difficulties. I will help you discover how they are affecting you. You will gain more knowledge about yourself as well as others. You may need to learn new tools in managing difficult situations. I will help you to grow, gain more knowledge of yourself, and to set better boundaries In communication. I look forward to meeting with you and establishing a good working relationship.
Joe Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
We try to make sense of our lives through telling our stories, but when we are unable to find the words, we express ourselves in other ways, such as in symptoms, dreams, and behaviors that we don't understand. My previous training in fine arts and filmmaking (MFA, USC School of Cinema) make an excellent fit with the type of in-depth therapy I provide. I have a wide range of professional experiences from my private practice, in residential and outpatient clinics, as an adjunct professor of psychology at Antioch University, and as a supervisor training other therapists.
We try to make sense of our lives through telling our stories, but when we are unable to find the words, we express ourselves in other ways, such as in symptoms, dreams, and behaviors that we don't understand. My previous training in fine arts and filmmaking (MFA, USC School of Cinema) make an excellent fit with the type of in-depth therapy I provide. I have a wide range of professional experiences from my private practice, in residential and outpatient clinics, as an adjunct professor of psychology at Antioch University, and as a supervisor training other therapists.
Holly Hardgrove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Throughout the many years I have been practicing, the greatest reward has been to help clients better understand themselves and find their own voice. We work together to examine the role their family of origin plays in their current choices and relationships. I have a particular expertise in working with individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma. By providing a safe space to explore relationship issues and limiting thought patterns, I am able to assist clients to better understand and accept themselves, and reduce critical self beliefs.
Throughout the many years I have been practicing, the greatest reward has been to help clients better understand themselves and find their own voice. We work together to examine the role their family of origin plays in their current choices and relationships. I have a particular expertise in working with individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma. By providing a safe space to explore relationship issues and limiting thought patterns, I am able to assist clients to better understand and accept themselves, and reduce critical self beliefs.
Ali (Alexandria) Wolfe-Grady
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACP, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
I find the best way for me to help people reach their goals is to work collaboratively and to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust, honesty, and openness. An individualized therapeutic approach is imperative for helping explore my clients’ unique life experiences. We work together utilizing an eclectic interactive approach that encourages feedback and collaboration to shape treatment to meet a client's individual needs. Together we formulate a plan to address achieving specific short-term goals aimed at improving daily life in addition to long term growth focusing on personal development.
I find the best way for me to help people reach their goals is to work collaboratively and to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust, honesty, and openness. An individualized therapeutic approach is imperative for helping explore my clients’ unique life experiences. We work together utilizing an eclectic interactive approach that encourages feedback and collaboration to shape treatment to meet a client's individual needs. Together we formulate a plan to address achieving specific short-term goals aimed at improving daily life in addition to long term growth focusing on personal development.
Erica Arnold
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, AMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I work with young adults and adolescents seeking support in navigating the challenges of life. I help my clients to improve various relationships in their lives by strengthening self-esteem and confidence, working on setting boundaries, and focusing on self-care. I also provide support for people experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety, trauma, major life changes/transitions, and co-dependency. I do so by helping my clients gain awareness of patterns and providing tools for shifting into healthier patterns aligned with each individual's goals.
I work with young adults and adolescents seeking support in navigating the challenges of life. I help my clients to improve various relationships in their lives by strengthening self-esteem and confidence, working on setting boundaries, and focusing on self-care. I also provide support for people experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety, trauma, major life changes/transitions, and co-dependency. I do so by helping my clients gain awareness of patterns and providing tools for shifting into healthier patterns aligned with each individual's goals.
Michael Najera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Relationships are problematic. You’re up late at night researching your partner’s behavior online – learning new terms like narcissist abuse, gaslighting, boundaries, and how to be happy. You fantasize this search will make your partner say, “Thank you for this enlightening information. Now I understand my alcoholic mother and chaotic childhood caused my behavior in relationships.” Realistically, you know that late-night research got you nowhere. You might think, “I will find a therapist and get to the roots of my personality, why I act the way I do, and work on myself.” Unfortunately, this is not likely to happen without a plan.
Relationships are problematic. You’re up late at night researching your partner’s behavior online – learning new terms like narcissist abuse, gaslighting, boundaries, and how to be happy. You fantasize this search will make your partner say, “Thank you for this enlightening information. Now I understand my alcoholic mother and chaotic childhood caused my behavior in relationships.” Realistically, you know that late-night research got you nowhere. You might think, “I will find a therapist and get to the roots of my personality, why I act the way I do, and work on myself.” Unfortunately, this is not likely to happen without a plan.
Niaz Khani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I understand that seeking therapy may be a very difficult process, however what you can gain from the process is limitless. If you are feeling stuck and interested in making some changes in your life or just need some support right now, this may be a good time to give therapy a try. It's very important to feel safe and connected to your therapist and I encourage you to shop around for the "best-fit." I welcome you to contact me in order to determine whether we would be a good match.
I understand that seeking therapy may be a very difficult process, however what you can gain from the process is limitless. If you are feeling stuck and interested in making some changes in your life or just need some support right now, this may be a good time to give therapy a try. It's very important to feel safe and connected to your therapist and I encourage you to shop around for the "best-fit." I welcome you to contact me in order to determine whether we would be a good match.
Natalie Kazarian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Beginning therapy takes courage and you've already taken the first step. My goal is to help you create a more fulfilling life. I provide a safe space to work collaboratively with you. I will listen and use my knowledge base to help address the parts of your life that feel challenging. I work in both short term and long term treatment modalities.
Beginning therapy takes courage and you've already taken the first step. My goal is to help you create a more fulfilling life. I provide a safe space to work collaboratively with you. I will listen and use my knowledge base to help address the parts of your life that feel challenging. I work in both short term and long term treatment modalities.
See more therapy options for 90403
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.