Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Sam Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
The relationship between client and therapist is essential for meaningful work to take place. To honor your process, I will approach our discussions with warmth, empathy, sometimes humor, and realness, all with the intent to challenge you as we create the space to face your experience of the world. My therapeutic approach is integrative and relational, rooted in the idea that our past experiences influence our reflexive responses to the world around us as we continue to grow. In our work we will focus on the present and past to discover and adapt what hasn’t historically worked, as you navigate relationships, stressors, and change.
The relationship between client and therapist is essential for meaningful work to take place. To honor your process, I will approach our discussions with warmth, empathy, sometimes humor, and realness, all with the intent to challenge you as we create the space to face your experience of the world. My therapeutic approach is integrative and relational, rooted in the idea that our past experiences influence our reflexive responses to the world around us as we continue to grow. In our work we will focus on the present and past to discover and adapt what hasn’t historically worked, as you navigate relationships, stressors, and change.
Shimul Hyder
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you feeling totally overwhelmed and anxious in your relationship, work or life right now? Have you been showing up for everyone for so long, all the while feeling like you have been slowly losing parts of yourself in the process? Do you feel like you can no longer cope? You are unsure if therapy is really going to help you move out of this challenging place that can often feel so hopeless and lonely. The stress and uncertainties can leave you feeling frustrated and depleted. You feel disconnected, like you are just going through the motions, not feeling much, and neglecting what you truly need in order to feel alive again.
Are you feeling totally overwhelmed and anxious in your relationship, work or life right now? Have you been showing up for everyone for so long, all the while feeling like you have been slowly losing parts of yourself in the process? Do you feel like you can no longer cope? You are unsure if therapy is really going to help you move out of this challenging place that can often feel so hopeless and lonely. The stress and uncertainties can leave you feeling frustrated and depleted. You feel disconnected, like you are just going through the motions, not feeling much, and neglecting what you truly need in order to feel alive again.
Madeleine (Maddie) Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
Clients who work with me realize how they can be in the driver's seat of their life and challenge the guilt, shame and pain that keeps them stuck. Many of my clients overlook their well-being due to exhausting themselves with work or have difficulties managing relationships, boundaries and handling big emotions. As most folks have their vices, whether it is social media, alcohol, drugs, shopping or porn, I have been able to compassionately support clients in identifying alternative strategies that promote safety, decrease harm, and manage or abstain from consumption.
Clients who work with me realize how they can be in the driver's seat of their life and challenge the guilt, shame and pain that keeps them stuck. Many of my clients overlook their well-being due to exhausting themselves with work or have difficulties managing relationships, boundaries and handling big emotions. As most folks have their vices, whether it is social media, alcohol, drugs, shopping or porn, I have been able to compassionately support clients in identifying alternative strategies that promote safety, decrease harm, and manage or abstain from consumption.
Jacob Kajiwara
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
You love this person and want to believe they love you too. Yet seemingly small and insignificant issues explode into verbal attacks and defensiveness that escalates to questioning if the relationship is worth it. You’re left feeling resentful, lonely, confused, and frustrated. The hardest part? After months or years of making up and recommitting to each other, not much has changed. While apologies and time seem to help, the same pattern continues to happen- only under different circumstances. The love is there and all you want is a healthy relationship. My passion is supporting couples and families to get to where they want to be.
You love this person and want to believe they love you too. Yet seemingly small and insignificant issues explode into verbal attacks and defensiveness that escalates to questioning if the relationship is worth it. You’re left feeling resentful, lonely, confused, and frustrated. The hardest part? After months or years of making up and recommitting to each other, not much has changed. While apologies and time seem to help, the same pattern continues to happen- only under different circumstances. The love is there and all you want is a healthy relationship. My passion is supporting couples and families to get to where they want to be.
Tara Vatankhah
Marriage & Family Therapist, 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.
James Alexander Nicholas
Pre-Licensed Professional, JD, ACSW, CBP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Not accepting new clients
James Nicholas is a Certified Bodynamic Psychoanalyst serving Southern California and is one of the North American training coordinators for Bodynamic International. James is an attorney and member in good standing of the California Bar as well as an associate clinical social worker licensed in California. He received his B.A. in philosophy and history from UCLA, his J.D. from Northwestern University, and his M.S.W. from USC.
James Nicholas is a Certified Bodynamic Psychoanalyst serving Southern California and is one of the North American training coordinators for Bodynamic International. James is an attorney and member in good standing of the California Bar as well as an associate clinical social worker licensed in California. He received his B.A. in philosophy and history from UCLA, his J.D. from Northwestern University, and his M.S.W. from USC.
The Procrastination Doctor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Not accepting new clients
For the best sense of me, along with info about insurance & rates, please go to procrastinationdoctor.com. I help adults with time mgmt., disorganization, & ADD/ADHD via coaching and psychotherapy. Having ADHD myself, I understand the frustration, shame, and hit it can take on self-esteem. I cannot prescribe meds, (you need an MD/psychiatrist for that), but I can help you achieve your goals. Together, we'll learn about your brain, develop strategies to increase productivity, decrease inconsistency, and in so doing, improve self-esteem and secondary depression and anxiety if present.
For the best sense of me, along with info about insurance & rates, please go to procrastinationdoctor.com. I help adults with time mgmt., disorganization, & ADD/ADHD via coaching and psychotherapy. Having ADHD myself, I understand the frustration, shame, and hit it can take on self-esteem. I cannot prescribe meds, (you need an MD/psychiatrist for that), but I can help you achieve your goals. Together, we'll learn about your brain, develop strategies to increase productivity, decrease inconsistency, and in so doing, improve self-esteem and secondary depression and anxiety if present.
Leyla S. Bell, Ph.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I work with those wanting to find a way forward from "stuckness" and inner conflicts, coping with disappointment, illness, loss, and grieving. I can help with better understanding and resolving your challenges, handling anxiety, alleviating depression, exploring their root causes and larger unconscious meaning, and feeling more at home with yourself, in your skin. I can help with making sense of the imprints left by your lived experiences and making the changes that you want in your life.
I work with those wanting to find a way forward from "stuckness" and inner conflicts, coping with disappointment, illness, loss, and grieving. I can help with better understanding and resolving your challenges, handling anxiety, alleviating depression, exploring their root causes and larger unconscious meaning, and feeling more at home with yourself, in your skin. I can help with making sense of the imprints left by your lived experiences and making the changes that you want in your life.
Brittni Brooks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, ERP, KAP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
Do you struggle with low self-worth, addiction, or intrusive thoughts? EMDR helps to process trauma, negative self-talk, reduces cravings, and allows you to live your life with more ease and regulation. I work with adults and teens to relieve symptoms of PTSD, OCD, addiction, and insomnia. I utilize internal family systems/ego-state parts work and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy as needed. Throughout the healing process, you will notice increased self-trust and a release of old coping strategies. You deserve to live life fully, free from the distraction and pain of old wounds.
Do you struggle with low self-worth, addiction, or intrusive thoughts? EMDR helps to process trauma, negative self-talk, reduces cravings, and allows you to live your life with more ease and regulation. I work with adults and teens to relieve symptoms of PTSD, OCD, addiction, and insomnia. I utilize internal family systems/ego-state parts work and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy as needed. Throughout the healing process, you will notice increased self-trust and a release of old coping strategies. You deserve to live life fully, free from the distraction and pain of old wounds.
Lisa Lipton
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common and uncomfortable emotions experienced in life. Our counseling and treatment are designed to facilitate your recovery, reigniting the motivation, perspective, and joy you once had. After enduring painful and traumatic circumstances in our lives, many individuals struggle with lingering symptoms. Our objective is to support you in addressing these symptoms and guiding you toward healing.
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common and uncomfortable emotions experienced in life. Our counseling and treatment are designed to facilitate your recovery, reigniting the motivation, perspective, and joy you once had. After enduring painful and traumatic circumstances in our lives, many individuals struggle with lingering symptoms. Our objective is to support you in addressing these symptoms and guiding you toward healing.
Erica Sanborn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Are you dissatisfied with or disengaged from your life and relationships? Or do you just feel like something is getting in the way of living the life you really want? Therapy can help you understand why these difficulties arise and help you discover what you can do to cope with these challenges now. I use a collaborative relational approach to engage your curiosity about how early experiences, unconscious motivations, thoughts, or fears may contribute to your life today. Together, we will work to foster compassion for your struggles and motivation to create the life you desire.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Are you dissatisfied with or disengaged from your life and relationships? Or do you just feel like something is getting in the way of living the life you really want? Therapy can help you understand why these difficulties arise and help you discover what you can do to cope with these challenges now. I use a collaborative relational approach to engage your curiosity about how early experiences, unconscious motivations, thoughts, or fears may contribute to your life today. Together, we will work to foster compassion for your struggles and motivation to create the life you desire.
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Dr. Theodora Harvey Couples Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I help couples cultivate kindness, empathy, appreciation, and eroticism to renew and strengthen their connections. With my unique approach that combines evidence-based therapy and mind/body practices, I assist couples in overcoming negative patterns and embarking on a journey of personal growth and relational fulfillment. My ultimate goal is to provide couples with a powerful framework that enables them to heal past wounds, enhance communication, and deepen their intimacy.
I help couples cultivate kindness, empathy, appreciation, and eroticism to renew and strengthen their connections. With my unique approach that combines evidence-based therapy and mind/body practices, I assist couples in overcoming negative patterns and embarking on a journey of personal growth and relational fulfillment. My ultimate goal is to provide couples with a powerful framework that enables them to heal past wounds, enhance communication, and deepen their intimacy.
Regina Anne Cavanagh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Therapy is a wonderful opportunity to explore habituated patterns as well as the stories we tell ourselves. We all have a choice in how we make meaning in our lives, and I believe that with a compassionate exploration of one's inner life comes the ability to find more wonder and joy and connection in our daily life.
Therapy is a wonderful opportunity to explore habituated patterns as well as the stories we tell ourselves. We all have a choice in how we make meaning in our lives, and I believe that with a compassionate exploration of one's inner life comes the ability to find more wonder and joy and connection in our daily life.
Arezou Costello
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is collaborative and driven by your unique goals for personal growth and well-being. I often use CBT approaches that help to increase emotional understanding, identify types of thinking and behaviors that may no longer be working for you, and develop and strengthen coping skills. My goal as a psychologist is for you to feel a greater sense of freedom in your life to make choices and to live in a way that is consistent with your values.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and driven by your unique goals for personal growth and well-being. I often use CBT approaches that help to increase emotional understanding, identify types of thinking and behaviors that may no longer be working for you, and develop and strengthen coping skills. My goal as a psychologist is for you to feel a greater sense of freedom in your life to make choices and to live in a way that is consistent with your values.
The Saturday Center for Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
"Being listened to." That is the experience of being at the Saturday Center: intensely, deeply, actively, empathically listened to; seen, heard and understood. For over 30 years we have provided this type of counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. TSC is committed to dynamic psychotherapy and to providing treatment based on need rather than economics. The Center is staffed by advanced psychological interns, psychological assistants and marriage & family therapist interns who are supervised by a group of experienced, licensed private practitioners dedicated to the practice and teaching of psychotherapy.
"Being listened to." That is the experience of being at the Saturday Center: intensely, deeply, actively, empathically listened to; seen, heard and understood. For over 30 years we have provided this type of counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. TSC is committed to dynamic psychotherapy and to providing treatment based on need rather than economics. The Center is staffed by advanced psychological interns, psychological assistants and marriage & family therapist interns who are supervised by a group of experienced, licensed private practitioners dedicated to the practice and teaching of psychotherapy.
Meggie Purpura
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Are you struggling to confidently engage in your life and relationships because of anxiety or a negative internal voice? My approach is kind, curious, and collaborative as we explore how you got here and identify the steps needed to make empowered changes in your life. We will challenge outdated belief systems and shift behavioral patterns that are negatively impacting your confidence and self-worth. I create a safe and trusting space to process and heal from past traumas, and to work through difficult relational dynamics. I'll be your compassionate and supportive guide as you build an independent and more meaningful life.
Are you struggling to confidently engage in your life and relationships because of anxiety or a negative internal voice? My approach is kind, curious, and collaborative as we explore how you got here and identify the steps needed to make empowered changes in your life. We will challenge outdated belief systems and shift behavioral patterns that are negatively impacting your confidence and self-worth. I create a safe and trusting space to process and heal from past traumas, and to work through difficult relational dynamics. I'll be your compassionate and supportive guide as you build an independent and more meaningful life.
A Safe Place to Talk - Helen Landon , Psychologist
PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Many of my clients are young working adults, who moved to the LA area for work, school or a relationship . It can be helpful to have someone other than friends or family to talk with about personal struggles. Some of the issues we might address include coping with life transitions, finding and maintaining friendships and relationships, increasing communication skills, managing depression and anxiety, improving self care, and increasing self compassion. Let me help you to find balance and increase your coping skills in a safe, warm, non-judgmental and confidential space.
Many of my clients are young working adults, who moved to the LA area for work, school or a relationship . It can be helpful to have someone other than friends or family to talk with about personal struggles. Some of the issues we might address include coping with life transitions, finding and maintaining friendships and relationships, increasing communication skills, managing depression and anxiety, improving self care, and increasing self compassion. Let me help you to find balance and increase your coping skills in a safe, warm, non-judgmental and confidential space.
Shaina McPhetridge
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Life can lead us down some pretty confusing paths sometimes, leaving us feeling crazy, unsettled, and totally lost. You don't have to feel like this forever. I work with individuals, couples, and teens who are really going through it - anxiety, panic and stress, relationship issues, PTSD, and unresolved issues that continue to impact current life. Many of my clients are insightful, curious, growth-oriented people who are seeking something beyond traditional therapy. My focus is on helping you to UN-learn all the crap you've taken on over the years that is weighing you down and freeing up whatever it is that seems to be stuck.
Life can lead us down some pretty confusing paths sometimes, leaving us feeling crazy, unsettled, and totally lost. You don't have to feel like this forever. I work with individuals, couples, and teens who are really going through it - anxiety, panic and stress, relationship issues, PTSD, and unresolved issues that continue to impact current life. Many of my clients are insightful, curious, growth-oriented people who are seeking something beyond traditional therapy. My focus is on helping you to UN-learn all the crap you've taken on over the years that is weighing you down and freeing up whatever it is that seems to be stuck.
William G Valdivia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
I meet every day with people who are overcoming worry, depression, dissatisfaction and conflict to find greater joy, and fulfillment in their life. My specialties include working with depression/anxiety, OCD/ADD, personality disorders, and addiction. I also have expertise in working with the LGBTQQI community. My approach to psychotherapy is practical and interactive, providing the support and insight to help you resolve current issues and historical patterns. Through empathy and direct communication, I assist you in finding the solutions to life's adversities, challenges, and mental health.
I meet every day with people who are overcoming worry, depression, dissatisfaction and conflict to find greater joy, and fulfillment in their life. My specialties include working with depression/anxiety, OCD/ADD, personality disorders, and addiction. I also have expertise in working with the LGBTQQI community. My approach to psychotherapy is practical and interactive, providing the support and insight to help you resolve current issues and historical patterns. Through empathy and direct communication, I assist you in finding the solutions to life's adversities, challenges, and mental health.
Darcy Lubbers
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
My work as a marriage and family therapist, clinical art therapist and somatic psychotherapist is integrative, interactive, and holistic. Drawing from over 30 years of experience in private practice, residential and outpatient treatment, I offer pathways to healing and well-being within the context of a safe and supportive environment. In my work with individuals, couples and families, treatment specialties include the healing of communication and relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, family and personal illness, grief and loss.
My work as a marriage and family therapist, clinical art therapist and somatic psychotherapist is integrative, interactive, and holistic. Drawing from over 30 years of experience in private practice, residential and outpatient treatment, I offer pathways to healing and well-being within the context of a safe and supportive environment. In my work with individuals, couples and families, treatment specialties include the healing of communication and relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, family and personal illness, grief and loss.
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$200
Therapists in Santa Monica, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
85% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Grief |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
58% | Aetna |
48% | Cigna and Evernorth |
42% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Santa Monica, CA see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
20% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Santa Monica?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.