Photo of Eleanor Haspel-Portner, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Eleanor Haspel-Portner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you at an important crossroad in your life? Has your marriage/relationship lost its luster? Learn the skills of Imago Dialogue to rekindle your love and feel the joy of love in your life again. I effectively blend therapies so you'll get results. When you focus on connecting with your inner wisdom and knowing, you achieve balance in all areas of your life with a sense of conscious fulfillment that turns your dreams into reality. Achieve your goals and thrive. Change your choices, change your life. Call me now: (310) 403-4347.
Are you at an important crossroad in your life? Has your marriage/relationship lost its luster? Learn the skills of Imago Dialogue to rekindle your love and feel the joy of love in your life again. I effectively blend therapies so you'll get results. When you focus on connecting with your inner wisdom and knowing, you achieve balance in all areas of your life with a sense of conscious fulfillment that turns your dreams into reality. Achieve your goals and thrive. Change your choices, change your life. Call me now: (310) 403-4347.
(424) 312-0550 View (424) 312-0550
Photo of Natalia Boucher, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Natalia Boucher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My training includes Gottman Method Couples Therapy; Imago Clinical Training; Sex and Therapy Track, 2016 CAMFT Annual Conference; Saturday Series at the Krevoy Institute for Eating Disorders and EMDR.
Welcome! The challenges of everyday living can seem overwhelming. Life at times presents us with struggles and setbacks, but sometimes the same problems will keep on recurring unless you make a change. Therapy can help you find the underlying causes of why you feel the way you do and finally move towards relief. I would be honored to work together with you on your journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. My therapy style offers a safe, warm and compassionate environment while encouraging my clients to recognize their strengths and weaknesses within themselves.
My training includes Gottman Method Couples Therapy; Imago Clinical Training; Sex and Therapy Track, 2016 CAMFT Annual Conference; Saturday Series at the Krevoy Institute for Eating Disorders and EMDR.
Welcome! The challenges of everyday living can seem overwhelming. Life at times presents us with struggles and setbacks, but sometimes the same problems will keep on recurring unless you make a change. Therapy can help you find the underlying causes of why you feel the way you do and finally move towards relief. I would be honored to work together with you on your journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. My therapy style offers a safe, warm and compassionate environment while encouraging my clients to recognize their strengths and weaknesses within themselves.
(310) 775-2655 View (310) 775-2655
Photo of Jane Bryson, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Jane Bryson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I provide a caring & objective atmosphere to encourage your self-awareness and emotional growth. One rare, unifying finding among all specialities of psychotherapy is that a strong therapeutic relationship is vital to success. Therefore, I will be your partner throughout the process, both supporting & challenging you along the way. During the over 35 years I have provided therapy, I have developed many approaches tailored to the unique needs of each client. Originally trained in psychodynamic therapy, my therapeutic approach now is eclectic and includes cognitive behavior therapy to facilitate observable change.
I provide a caring & objective atmosphere to encourage your self-awareness and emotional growth. One rare, unifying finding among all specialities of psychotherapy is that a strong therapeutic relationship is vital to success. Therefore, I will be your partner throughout the process, both supporting & challenging you along the way. During the over 35 years I have provided therapy, I have developed many approaches tailored to the unique needs of each client. Originally trained in psychodynamic therapy, my therapeutic approach now is eclectic and includes cognitive behavior therapy to facilitate observable change.
(310) 935-4521 View (310) 935-4521
Photo of Mary Ann Abosch, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Mary Ann Abosch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, TMF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
You have your share of life stress. There's almost no way to get around it in our fast-paced culture where work is exhausting, relationships and family require attention, and to-do lists are endless. You're going through the daily grind, juggling lots of balls, and trying to keep people satisfied. Meanwhile, you're coming unglued. You start losing your cool with others, become paralyzed with fear, or want to run away from it all. You might be exhausted, edgy, or have trouble concentrating. Maybe you self-soothe in unhealthy ways. You're tired of this but don't know what to do. This is where I come in and our work together begins.
You have your share of life stress. There's almost no way to get around it in our fast-paced culture where work is exhausting, relationships and family require attention, and to-do lists are endless. You're going through the daily grind, juggling lots of balls, and trying to keep people satisfied. Meanwhile, you're coming unglued. You start losing your cool with others, become paralyzed with fear, or want to run away from it all. You might be exhausted, edgy, or have trouble concentrating. Maybe you self-soothe in unhealthy ways. You're tired of this but don't know what to do. This is where I come in and our work together begins.
(424) 353-2465 View (424) 353-2465
Photo of Amada Battista, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Amada Battista
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will collaborate with you in developing problem-solving skills to enhance the coping strategies that will help you deal with depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and other anxiety-producing experiences. I focus on understanding your symptoms within the context of your interpersonal relationships.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will collaborate with you in developing problem-solving skills to enhance the coping strategies that will help you deal with depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and other anxiety-producing experiences. I focus on understanding your symptoms within the context of your interpersonal relationships.
(424) 383-7690 View (424) 383-7690
Photo of Sarah Dihmes, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Sarah Dihmes
Psychologist, PhD, BCB
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist one of the few board certified biofeedback psychologists in Northern California. With specialties in life stressors, executive coaching, psychophysiology, and teens, she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California and New York!
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist one of the few board certified biofeedback psychologists in Northern California. With specialties in life stressors, executive coaching, psychophysiology, and teens, she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California and New York!
(415) 799-5164 View (415) 799-5164
Photo of Tara Vatankhah, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90403, CA
Tara Vatankhah
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
The natural ebb and flow of life can keep us flowing between a state of connection & disconnection to our authentic selves. Often times, the disconnection sparks the desire to seek therapy, subsequently leading to an inward journey back to our essence. I would feel honored to be part of your journey. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is based on the idea that wisdom lives within all of us. My hope is to help you tap into & live from that place of connection to your own unique inner compass. I utilize mindfulness, somatic, narrative, CBT & family systems theoretical frameworks to help you create & lead a more fulfilling life.
The natural ebb and flow of life can keep us flowing between a state of connection & disconnection to our authentic selves. Often times, the disconnection sparks the desire to seek therapy, subsequently leading to an inward journey back to our essence. I would feel honored to be part of your journey. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is based on the idea that wisdom lives within all of us. My hope is to help you tap into & live from that place of connection to your own unique inner compass. I utilize mindfulness, somatic, narrative, CBT & family systems theoretical frameworks to help you create & lead a more fulfilling life.
(213) 376-3065 View (213) 376-3065
Photo of KD Farris, Pastoral Counselor in 90403, CA
KD Farris
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My roots as a therapist and healer have seeded over the past thirty-five years, bringing substance and depth to my one-on-one sessions with couples and individuals. During this time, I have maintained a private practice, which has always consisted of process-oriented consciousness work -- a means by which to enter safely and deeply into the inner landscape of the psyche for positive and real world change. My results-oriented approach to psychology is derived from the commitment to a conscious process and the intrapsychic relationship one can access when choosing to turn toward--and look at--oneself.
My roots as a therapist and healer have seeded over the past thirty-five years, bringing substance and depth to my one-on-one sessions with couples and individuals. During this time, I have maintained a private practice, which has always consisted of process-oriented consciousness work -- a means by which to enter safely and deeply into the inner landscape of the psyche for positive and real world change. My results-oriented approach to psychology is derived from the commitment to a conscious process and the intrapsychic relationship one can access when choosing to turn toward--and look at--oneself.
(310) 889-0677 View (310) 889-0677
Photo of Dr. Margie Mirell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Dr. Margie Mirell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AASECT, Imago
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Struggling with conflicts within yourself and with others? To help you recover and gain a sense of healthy self-esteem, I have specialized techniques for dealing with complex trauma, PTSD, sexual issues, addiction, relationship issues, disordered eating, and grief. Sometimes we need to talk it out. Not for sympathy, but to find truth that guides us to our purpose and peace within ourselves. Discover satisfaction in every aspect of your life. I can teach you to avoid pain, change behavior patterns, and dialogue for more creative, productive, and healing solutions.
Struggling with conflicts within yourself and with others? To help you recover and gain a sense of healthy self-esteem, I have specialized techniques for dealing with complex trauma, PTSD, sexual issues, addiction, relationship issues, disordered eating, and grief. Sometimes we need to talk it out. Not for sympathy, but to find truth that guides us to our purpose and peace within ourselves. Discover satisfaction in every aspect of your life. I can teach you to avoid pain, change behavior patterns, and dialogue for more creative, productive, and healing solutions.
(310) 773-0391 View (310) 773-0391
Photo of Janet Croteau, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Janet Croteau
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY: You are one of a kind. There has never been anyone like you and never will be again. Therapy is a place where you have the opportunity to know yourself in a deep and intimate way. The journey towards wholeness begins with embracing (and discovering) our many and often rejected parts that comprise our authentic self. Wounds, triggers and defenses exist for a reason and represent the internal maps that lead to healing. COUPLES THERAPY: Relationships are the path to knowing who we are and I believe that what needs to be healed presents itself through the struggles and dynamics that get activated in partnership.
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY: You are one of a kind. There has never been anyone like you and never will be again. Therapy is a place where you have the opportunity to know yourself in a deep and intimate way. The journey towards wholeness begins with embracing (and discovering) our many and often rejected parts that comprise our authentic self. Wounds, triggers and defenses exist for a reason and represent the internal maps that lead to healing. COUPLES THERAPY: Relationships are the path to knowing who we are and I believe that what needs to be healed presents itself through the struggles and dynamics that get activated in partnership.
(831) 346-1958 View (831) 346-1958
Photo of Deanna Gale Emad, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Deanna Gale Emad
Marriage & Family Therapist, Deanna, Emad, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California . I offer counseling to adults, couples, parenting support for families, teens and groups. I am blessed to be doing a profession I love. I have over twenty-five years of experience in personal transformation and treatment. It is my passion to facilitate and support growth and healing in others. I have supported many Families, Couples and Individuals in taking their next steps in living a more authentic, abundant and fulfilling life.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California . I offer counseling to adults, couples, parenting support for families, teens and groups. I am blessed to be doing a profession I love. I have over twenty-five years of experience in personal transformation and treatment. It is my passion to facilitate and support growth and healing in others. I have supported many Families, Couples and Individuals in taking their next steps in living a more authentic, abundant and fulfilling life.
(424) 360-2765 View (424) 360-2765
Photo of Rebecca Branda, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Rebecca Branda
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
The desire to start therapy often begins when you realize something needs to change. When you feel anxious, lost, out of control. If this is you, I am here to help. I specialize in women’s mental health, ADHD, and trauma. I understand that your past experiences shape your present reality. Together, we will work understand the root cause of your challenges, find success and fulfillment in your relationships and career, heal from traumatic or dysfunctional relationships, and process guilt and shame. I’ll meet you with curiosity, warmth, and respect, creating an environment where you can reconnect with your best self.
The desire to start therapy often begins when you realize something needs to change. When you feel anxious, lost, out of control. If this is you, I am here to help. I specialize in women’s mental health, ADHD, and trauma. I understand that your past experiences shape your present reality. Together, we will work understand the root cause of your challenges, find success and fulfillment in your relationships and career, heal from traumatic or dysfunctional relationships, and process guilt and shame. I’ll meet you with curiosity, warmth, and respect, creating an environment where you can reconnect with your best self.
(213) 322-0689 View (213) 322-0689
Photo of Charlotte Haigh, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Charlotte Haigh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
You are fed up with repeating patterns that feel self-destructive. You are tired of being so reactive to the same triggers. You are ready for change, for relationships that fill your cup, and for a life that is purposeful and passionate. And you are probably totally overwhelmed right now. I get it. Wading through pages of therapist bios when you're already stressed, sad, and/or confused can be kind of the worst thing ever. But I'm here to help! I support clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, relationship issues, low self-esteem, stress and lack of clarity that big life transitions can kick up.
You are fed up with repeating patterns that feel self-destructive. You are tired of being so reactive to the same triggers. You are ready for change, for relationships that fill your cup, and for a life that is purposeful and passionate. And you are probably totally overwhelmed right now. I get it. Wading through pages of therapist bios when you're already stressed, sad, and/or confused can be kind of the worst thing ever. But I'm here to help! I support clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, relationship issues, low self-esteem, stress and lack of clarity that big life transitions can kick up.
(805) 504-8731 View (805) 504-8731
Photo of Carter Christian Wilkes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90403, CA
Carter Christian Wilkes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Life can be unpredictable and the challenges that come with it can leave lasting impacts that leave us feeling disconnected. Many of these challenges come without choice, these individual experiences can be arduous and demanding. I approach therapy with this in mind, undertaking an honest understanding of how your feelings and behaviors have changed in response to your lived experiences. I want to foster a safe space for you to process your journey, acknowledge your experiences, and best support your individual needs.
Life can be unpredictable and the challenges that come with it can leave lasting impacts that leave us feeling disconnected. Many of these challenges come without choice, these individual experiences can be arduous and demanding. I approach therapy with this in mind, undertaking an honest understanding of how your feelings and behaviors have changed in response to your lived experiences. I want to foster a safe space for you to process your journey, acknowledge your experiences, and best support your individual needs.
(310) 307-5137 View (310) 307-5137
Photo of J. Lancaster, Psychologist in 90403, CA
J. Lancaster
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Generally, I treat groups, couples, and individuals--21 years of age or older. I am best suited to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, alcohol/drug issues, personality disorders, anger, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorders, grief/loss, employment difficulties, military/veterans, spiritual issues, and relationship problems.
Generally, I treat groups, couples, and individuals--21 years of age or older. I am best suited to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, alcohol/drug issues, personality disorders, anger, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorders, grief/loss, employment difficulties, military/veterans, spiritual issues, and relationship problems.
(661) 349-9328 View (661) 349-9328
Photo of Jeffrey Nord, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Jeffrey Nord
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Not accepting new clients
Every couple is different, every couple is complicated, and every couple has trouble talking about one or more key issues. In your first session I will quickly assess what isn't working in your relationship and build a plan to eliminate the problem. I will help facilitate effective communication, make sure the sessions are emotionally safe, and teach practical methods for getting your thoughts and feelings across. My job is not to figure out who is right and who is wrong, my job is to help. ​I tend to work with couples each week for 8-12 weeks.
Every couple is different, every couple is complicated, and every couple has trouble talking about one or more key issues. In your first session I will quickly assess what isn't working in your relationship and build a plan to eliminate the problem. I will help facilitate effective communication, make sure the sessions are emotionally safe, and teach practical methods for getting your thoughts and feelings across. My job is not to figure out who is right and who is wrong, my job is to help. ​I tend to work with couples each week for 8-12 weeks.
(424) 373-6636 View (424) 373-6636

Imago Therapists

How does Imago therapy work?

Imago relationship therapy is a form of couples counseling meant to help partners address conflict, communication problems, and related issues. Imago sessions typically involve couples sitting facing each other and participating in guided conversations. Therapy will also involve exercises such as re-imagining one’s partner as a wounded child; re-romanticizing a relationship through appreciation, surprises, and even gift-giving and restructuring frustrations by transforming complaints into requests. The ultimate goal is to re-envision the relationship as a source of safety and happiness.

What is the Imago method?

A core technique of Imago therapy is the Imago dialogue, in which partners learn to avoid hurtful statements and establish ways to interact based on each having equal space and power. In the dialogue, partners take turns as the “sender,” who shares their thoughts, and the “receiver.” The receiver is asked to “mirror,” or paraphrase, what their partner has said, without response or rebuttal, and then validate their statements, acknowledging understanding even if they do not personally agree with it. Finally, the receiver displays empathy by stating what they imagine the other is feeling, and showing appreciation for it.

How long does Imago therapy take?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for Imago therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core techniques of Imago coaching, some couples quickly make progress, but most should expect sessions to extend for months, encompassing at least 12 to 20 sessions, along with extensive “homework” from their therapist.

Does Imago therapy work?

There is limited empirical evidence to support the benefits of Imago therapy, but some smaller studies suggest that it does help couples, at least in the short-term. A 2017 study found that marital satisfaction increased significantly after couples completed 12 sessions of Imago therapy, and remained higher for some time after that, but did not always result in “complete recovery.” Other studies found greater empathy and fewer feelings of relationship burnout in couples after therapy. Some research suggests that Imago therapy can aid individuals as well as couples; people with ADHD in particular may benefit from the development of communication, self-control, and listening skills that form the basis of the technique.