Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Tamala J. Poljak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
I specialize in working LGBTQ+ folks and/or artists/creative folks.
People seek therapy for so many reasons, but mostly we all want to feel loved, safe and understood. We want to feel a sense purpose & feel good enough as we are, and yet so many of us struggle to feel these ways. Sometimes our lives look very different than we imagined & we need help making sense out of things. We might be feeling numb or disconnected, uncertain or alone. We might be questioning the direction we are heading and need to find some hope or clarity. Self compassion & radical self-acceptance are cornerstones of my work. I'd like to explore these concepts with you and help you make meaning of your life and sense of self.
I specialize in working LGBTQ+ folks and/or artists/creative folks.
People seek therapy for so many reasons, but mostly we all want to feel loved, safe and understood. We want to feel a sense purpose & feel good enough as we are, and yet so many of us struggle to feel these ways. Sometimes our lives look very different than we imagined & we need help making sense out of things. We might be feeling numb or disconnected, uncertain or alone. We might be questioning the direction we are heading and need to find some hope or clarity. Self compassion & radical self-acceptance are cornerstones of my work. I'd like to explore these concepts with you and help you make meaning of your life and sense of self.
Monique Merritt Romick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I am a client-centered, Black, queer therapist.
Welcome! As a therapist, I strive to reflect upon and understand the needs of my clients. Navigating life and all its challenges can be tough - we can all use a bit of support from time to time. Managing our moods, our needs, and learning to express them effectively is no easy task. I believe we all seek understanding, kindness, and compassion in our lives. Increasing our sense of confidence in living a life aligned with our goals and desires is the key to improved well-being.
I am a client-centered, Black, queer therapist.
Welcome! As a therapist, I strive to reflect upon and understand the needs of my clients. Navigating life and all its challenges can be tough - we can all use a bit of support from time to time. Managing our moods, our needs, and learning to express them effectively is no easy task. I believe we all seek understanding, kindness, and compassion in our lives. Increasing our sense of confidence in living a life aligned with our goals and desires is the key to improved well-being.
Nicole David
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
I work from a blend of modalities including LGBTQ+ Affirmative therapy, Jungian theories, Mindfulness and Somatic techniques.
Society often projects certain beliefs onto individuals, which can lead us to feel disconnected from ourselves and others. We can find ourselves lost in the sea of expectations how we should or should not act, feel, love, do, pursue, or be. This can develop into debilitating symptoms of never feeling good enough or always striving for perfection that does not exist. We are all human. We all deserve to be heard, seen and to be a little messy. Your emotions, thoughts, dreams are not a burden. This is your space. Your time.
I work from a blend of modalities including LGBTQ+ Affirmative therapy, Jungian theories, Mindfulness and Somatic techniques.
Society often projects certain beliefs onto individuals, which can lead us to feel disconnected from ourselves and others. We can find ourselves lost in the sea of expectations how we should or should not act, feel, love, do, pursue, or be. This can develop into debilitating symptoms of never feeling good enough or always striving for perfection that does not exist. We are all human. We all deserve to be heard, seen and to be a little messy. Your emotions, thoughts, dreams are not a burden. This is your space. Your time.
Unwritten Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC, BSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
It is a passion of mine to work with others toward becoming better versions of themselves, and live a life that fulfills them. Taking that first step in starting therapy can be intimidating, but so worth it. I work with young and middle-aged adults focusing on anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic/career stress, self-esteem and self worth, dating/relational challenges, queer/LGBTQIA+ identity and experience, and desire for individual growth. I also work with therapist trainees and associates, offering support for imposter syndrome, work and life balance, burnout, and systemic challenges in mental healthcare.
It is a passion of mine to work with others toward becoming better versions of themselves, and live a life that fulfills them. Taking that first step in starting therapy can be intimidating, but so worth it. I work with young and middle-aged adults focusing on anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic/career stress, self-esteem and self worth, dating/relational challenges, queer/LGBTQIA+ identity and experience, and desire for individual growth. I also work with therapist trainees and associates, offering support for imposter syndrome, work and life balance, burnout, and systemic challenges in mental healthcare.
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.
Casey Weitzman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
At the core of my practice, Gender Wellness of Los Angeles (GWLA), I provide counseling for the transgender & non-binary community and their families.
Welcome to my practice, where I've dedicated over 30 years supporting individuals navigating the complexities of gender and sexual identity. Today, our world has expanded to include a beautiful spectrum of gender-diverse experiences. I embrace a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional binaries of Male-to-Female (MtF) and Female-to-Male (FtM) transitions. Whether you resonate with terms like "trans," "non-binary," or use your own unique identifier, I'm here to walk alongside you. Everyone's path is uniquely challenging, and self-acceptance is the compass guiding us forward.
At the core of my practice, Gender Wellness of Los Angeles (GWLA), I provide counseling for the transgender & non-binary community and their families.
Welcome to my practice, where I've dedicated over 30 years supporting individuals navigating the complexities of gender and sexual identity. Today, our world has expanded to include a beautiful spectrum of gender-diverse experiences. I embrace a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional binaries of Male-to-Female (MtF) and Female-to-Male (FtM) transitions. Whether you resonate with terms like "trans," "non-binary," or use your own unique identifier, I'm here to walk alongside you. Everyone's path is uniquely challenging, and self-acceptance is the compass guiding us forward.
Christina Castorena
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
As a queer, woman of color I've had my fair share of life adventures and introspection to know that therapy can be difficult but very rewarding.
Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost - J.R.R. Tolkien. Therapy is a unique type of wandering. It's a journey that begins by taking a step inward with an understanding that self-reflection and introspection have purpose. Your purpose and motivation is unique to you. You could be motivated by growth, healing, connection, love or pain. Knowing your motivation will help you stay focused and persevere through your journey.
As a queer, woman of color I've had my fair share of life adventures and introspection to know that therapy can be difficult but very rewarding.
Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost - J.R.R. Tolkien. Therapy is a unique type of wandering. It's a journey that begins by taking a step inward with an understanding that self-reflection and introspection have purpose. Your purpose and motivation is unique to you. You could be motivated by growth, healing, connection, love or pain. Knowing your motivation will help you stay focused and persevere through your journey.
Viktoria Cicolli
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
My therapeutic approach is rooted in the celebration of LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships, fostering a positive and nurturing environment for all.
I'd like to begin by praising you for reaching this juncture in your journey. Embarking on the quest to find the right therapist can often be fraught with stress and anxiety, and the task of discovering a suitable match can sometimes appear insurmountable. In my perspective, one of the fundamental tenets of psychotherapy is the creation of a secure, collaborative, and mutually respectful partnership where significant personal development can flourish.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in the celebration of LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships, fostering a positive and nurturing environment for all.
I'd like to begin by praising you for reaching this juncture in your journey. Embarking on the quest to find the right therapist can often be fraught with stress and anxiety, and the task of discovering a suitable match can sometimes appear insurmountable. In my perspective, one of the fundamental tenets of psychotherapy is the creation of a secure, collaborative, and mutually respectful partnership where significant personal development can flourish.
Dr. Shelby Solomon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Online Only)
Solomon is an ally to the LGBTQ+ communities, disabled communities, and BIPOC communities, and works with adults of all ages.
Dr. Shelby Solomon is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. Dr. Solomon recognizes therapy is an uplifting, supportive, and sometimes challenging experience, and believes establishing trust, safety, and open communication is essential to the process. She utilizes a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, which explores how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors often work in a cycle and can be difficult to break or re-shape, even when they are causing stress, anxiety, or sadness. Through techniques and exercises worked on in/out of sessions, many clients are able to strengthen their awareness and find relief.
Solomon is an ally to the LGBTQ+ communities, disabled communities, and BIPOC communities, and works with adults of all ages.
Dr. Shelby Solomon is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. Dr. Solomon recognizes therapy is an uplifting, supportive, and sometimes challenging experience, and believes establishing trust, safety, and open communication is essential to the process. She utilizes a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, which explores how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors often work in a cycle and can be difficult to break or re-shape, even when they are causing stress, anxiety, or sadness. Through techniques and exercises worked on in/out of sessions, many clients are able to strengthen their awareness and find relief.
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.
Dani Reisbaum
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Online Only)
I offer an open, non-judgemental space where you can speak honestly about your thoughts and experiences while working towards your personal goals. As a queer, trauma-informed sex therapist, I enjoy working together to deconstruct the social scripts, pressures and ‘shoulds’ that often get in the way of our growth, healing and liberation. Some areas that I am especially passionate about working with are anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, gender identity, sexuality, relationship dynamics, existential questioning, sexual trauma and chronic pain.
I offer an open, non-judgemental space where you can speak honestly about your thoughts and experiences while working towards your personal goals. As a queer, trauma-informed sex therapist, I enjoy working together to deconstruct the social scripts, pressures and ‘shoulds’ that often get in the way of our growth, healing and liberation. Some areas that I am especially passionate about working with are anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, gender identity, sexuality, relationship dynamics, existential questioning, sexual trauma and chronic pain.
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Joe Pelzman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I have considerable experience working in the LGBTQ community.
I use a variety of practices and therapies, including: EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Informed Therapy. My process is always to ask you, the client, what it is you want, what would that look like, and what is in your way. Then we collaborate to get you there!
I have considerable experience working in the LGBTQ community.
I use a variety of practices and therapies, including: EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Informed Therapy. My process is always to ask you, the client, what it is you want, what would that look like, and what is in your way. Then we collaborate to get you there!
Gloria De La Mora
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
My clients seek out therapy recognizing that they have endured unsafe, harmful, violating, and/or invalidating experiences and are unsure how to navigate their healing journey. I aim to provide LGBTQIA+ BIPoC folx culturally relevant and affirmative mental health services where we may explore how larger systems of oppression have contributed to their distress. As we navigate your healing journey together, you can expect that I will utilize a trauma-focused integrative approach, where we balance fostering insight into how your past influences your present distress and coping.
My clients seek out therapy recognizing that they have endured unsafe, harmful, violating, and/or invalidating experiences and are unsure how to navigate their healing journey. I aim to provide LGBTQIA+ BIPoC folx culturally relevant and affirmative mental health services where we may explore how larger systems of oppression have contributed to their distress. As we navigate your healing journey together, you can expect that I will utilize a trauma-focused integrative approach, where we balance fostering insight into how your past influences your present distress and coping.
Elaine Godoy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
My specialties include serving the LGBTQ community, helping parents who have a child with special needs, relationship issues, and grief.
Life is hard, finding a therapist shouldn’t be this challenging… you're finally ready to give this therapy thing a try so you can stop feeling stuck, unhappy and unable to live a fulfilling life. That’s where I come in. My experience allows me to understand the best ways to address each client’s needs in an effective manner. I am flexible in my approach and use collaboration as the basis of my therapy.
My specialties include serving the LGBTQ community, helping parents who have a child with special needs, relationship issues, and grief.
Life is hard, finding a therapist shouldn’t be this challenging… you're finally ready to give this therapy thing a try so you can stop feeling stuck, unhappy and unable to live a fulfilling life. That’s where I come in. My experience allows me to understand the best ways to address each client’s needs in an effective manner. I am flexible in my approach and use collaboration as the basis of my therapy.
Chris Sanchez Lascurain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy helping youth, college students, adults, and older adults learn to manage emotional stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, Trauma, and LGBTQ+ issues. Collaborating with clients on goals helps them tap into their authentic selves, helping them identify personalized self-care skills to restructure negative thinking patterns. I think it is important to meet people where they are focusing on their strengths to inspire and motivate them to meet their particular needs or goals. I help my clients find inner happiness through a positive mindset.
I enjoy helping youth, college students, adults, and older adults learn to manage emotional stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, Trauma, and LGBTQ+ issues. Collaborating with clients on goals helps them tap into their authentic selves, helping them identify personalized self-care skills to restructure negative thinking patterns. I think it is important to meet people where they are focusing on their strengths to inspire and motivate them to meet their particular needs or goals. I help my clients find inner happiness through a positive mindset.
Alexander Yoo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I specializing in families, relationships, children, youth, elders, trauma, abuse, grief, faith, spirituality, and LGBTQ.
I believe we could all use compassionate, focused empathy, supportive insight, and unconditional acceptance. Whatever your background, occupation, culture, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, relationships, worldview, politics. I am uniquely equipped to help you find and express your best self and create solutions. I offer the first session free, and I provide telehealth throughout California.
I specializing in families, relationships, children, youth, elders, trauma, abuse, grief, faith, spirituality, and LGBTQ.
I believe we could all use compassionate, focused empathy, supportive insight, and unconditional acceptance. Whatever your background, occupation, culture, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, relationships, worldview, politics. I am uniquely equipped to help you find and express your best self and create solutions. I offer the first session free, and I provide telehealth throughout California.
Saeromi Kim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
In addition to my mental health specialties, I have significant experience working with LGBTQ individuals, college and graduate students, transnational people, and Latinx families.
Some of the questions my clients often grapple with in therapy include: What has served me in the past that no longer serves me? Which choices help me open to experience rather than withdraw? How can I rely on my strengths to overcome obstacles? How do I grow from connections and disconnections in my relationships? I am primarily guided by the unique qualities and needs of each person or couple, and work collaboratively towards their desired outcomes. When appropriate, I provide suggestions for behavioral practices between sessions, in order to bridge what we do in therapy to your everyday life.
In addition to my mental health specialties, I have significant experience working with LGBTQ individuals, college and graduate students, transnational people, and Latinx families.
Some of the questions my clients often grapple with in therapy include: What has served me in the past that no longer serves me? Which choices help me open to experience rather than withdraw? How can I rely on my strengths to overcome obstacles? How do I grow from connections and disconnections in my relationships? I am primarily guided by the unique qualities and needs of each person or couple, and work collaboratively towards their desired outcomes. When appropriate, I provide suggestions for behavioral practices between sessions, in order to bridge what we do in therapy to your everyday life.
Stara Shakti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you seeking a safe space where your unique identity is understood and celebrated? Do you find yourself straddling the complexities of many marginalized identities: POC/BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ADHD/neurodivergent, 1st-gen American/adult child of immigrant parents? The weight from the social pressure to conform to immigrant family roles / expectations—especially the “minority model” stereotype and resulting perfectionism—can leave you feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed. Navigating these challenges can be daunting, but you’ll find answers and guidance here.
Are you seeking a safe space where your unique identity is understood and celebrated? Do you find yourself straddling the complexities of many marginalized identities: POC/BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ADHD/neurodivergent, 1st-gen American/adult child of immigrant parents? The weight from the social pressure to conform to immigrant family roles / expectations—especially the “minority model” stereotype and resulting perfectionism—can leave you feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed. Navigating these challenges can be daunting, but you’ll find answers and guidance here.
Robert William Frashure
Psychologist, PhD, MFA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
Dr. Robert Frashure is a licensed clinical psychologist with a particular specialty in working with creative professionals, writers, and artists. With a BA from Harvard College and an MFA from the California Institute of the Arts, he has deep experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals, trauma, and parenting. His therapy sessions are a warm, engaging, and creative experience.
Dr. Robert Frashure is a licensed clinical psychologist with a particular specialty in working with creative professionals, writers, and artists. With a BA from Harvard College and an MFA from the California Institute of the Arts, he has deep experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals, trauma, and parenting. His therapy sessions are a warm, engaging, and creative experience.
Joseph Mauch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
I'm experienced with relational and emotional issues including depression, anxiety, transition, LGBTQ issues, complex trauma, spirituality, substance abuse and identity issues.
I’m a clinical psychologist and I specialize in therapy for adults. If you’re here, I’m guessing it’s because you are struggling with something in your life and feel like you need help. I know how hard it can be to reach out and ask for help, and I’m glad that you’ve made it this far. Therapy doesn’t have to be daunting and mysterious. At the most basic level, therapy is just two people relating with one another in a relaxed, safe, and supportive atmosphere. What makes it different from other relationships is that we keep the focus on you, and I have specialized training that enables me to foster the conditions necessary for change.
I'm experienced with relational and emotional issues including depression, anxiety, transition, LGBTQ issues, complex trauma, spirituality, substance abuse and identity issues.
I’m a clinical psychologist and I specialize in therapy for adults. If you’re here, I’m guessing it’s because you are struggling with something in your life and feel like you need help. I know how hard it can be to reach out and ask for help, and I’m glad that you’ve made it this far. Therapy doesn’t have to be daunting and mysterious. At the most basic level, therapy is just two people relating with one another in a relaxed, safe, and supportive atmosphere. What makes it different from other relationships is that we keep the focus on you, and I have specialized training that enables me to foster the conditions necessary for change.
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
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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.