Photo of Jo Ann McKarus, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Jo Ann McKarus
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, FIPA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
I have a master's degree in marriage and family therapy, a doctorate in psychoanalysis and a fellowship in the IPA.
"Not until we are lost, do we begin to understand ourselves." -- Henry David Thoreau. I believe this statement is an essential truth about the human condition. Paradoxically, as other great intellects have attested to, it is precisely through self-understanding that one achieves emotional healing, wisdom and maturity. Through insight and self-awareness, one also gains an increased capacity for deep and meaningful relationships, a potent tonic for whatever ails, be it depression or anxiety, grief or trauma, aging or illness.... Resolving inner conflicts leads to healthier choices and the vanquishing of self-defeating patterns.
I have a master's degree in marriage and family therapy, a doctorate in psychoanalysis and a fellowship in the IPA.
"Not until we are lost, do we begin to understand ourselves." -- Henry David Thoreau. I believe this statement is an essential truth about the human condition. Paradoxically, as other great intellects have attested to, it is precisely through self-understanding that one achieves emotional healing, wisdom and maturity. Through insight and self-awareness, one also gains an increased capacity for deep and meaningful relationships, a potent tonic for whatever ails, be it depression or anxiety, grief or trauma, aging or illness.... Resolving inner conflicts leads to healthier choices and the vanquishing of self-defeating patterns.
(424) 400-7784 View (424) 400-7784
Photo of Abeer A Othman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Abeer A Othman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
, in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage & Family therapy, and I am Licensed in sunny southern California.
I work collaboratively, my style is active and engaged with the intention of creating a safe environment to empower understanding, growth, and healing. I guide my clients by helping them modify their lives according to their needs and lifestyle.
, in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage & Family therapy, and I am Licensed in sunny southern California.
I work collaboratively, my style is active and engaged with the intention of creating a safe environment to empower understanding, growth, and healing. I guide my clients by helping them modify their lives according to their needs and lifestyle.
(818) 835-4149 View (818) 835-4149
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)
I am a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in Los Angeles, CA.
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.
I am a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in Los Angeles, CA.
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 David Ibrahim, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(805) 420-7531 View (805) 420-7531
Photo of Sam Hopper, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Sam Hopper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My ideal client is aware that some primary positive feeling has changed. The positive feeling has suddenly, or over time, become negative and painful. Because of this change, he or she may have reluctantly given up on a long term goal, or may be in the midsts of a divorce where there was once loving contentment that has disappeared. Sometimes the pain is so severe that the Client considers ending his or her life. No matter what the circumstance, this Client is longing for relief from the pain. The Client needs a Therapist who can, incrementally over time, help to alleviate the pain and begin a more positive approach to living life.
My ideal client is aware that some primary positive feeling has changed. The positive feeling has suddenly, or over time, become negative and painful. Because of this change, he or she may have reluctantly given up on a long term goal, or may be in the midsts of a divorce where there was once loving contentment that has disappeared. Sometimes the pain is so severe that the Client considers ending his or her life. No matter what the circumstance, this Client is longing for relief from the pain. The Client needs a Therapist who can, incrementally over time, help to alleviate the pain and begin a more positive approach to living life.
(424) 252-3280 View (424) 252-3280
Photo of Joe Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
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.
(310) 879-5964 View (310) 879-5964
Photo of Rebekah Tayebi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Rebekah Tayebi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I work with motivated, loving clients and with folks who are ready to heal from childhood wounding. My clients engage in self-study, discovering who they are and how to love and re-parent themselves. I work with teens, young adults, and families. I offer parent coaching to parents who want to learn how to effectively communicate and intervene with their children. My style is warm, curious, direct, and relationship focused. In the course of our work together, my clients learn skills that are accessible yet powerful. I've been in the field over eighteen years and feel lucky to support such incredible people on their healing path.
I work with motivated, loving clients and with folks who are ready to heal from childhood wounding. My clients engage in self-study, discovering who they are and how to love and re-parent themselves. I work with teens, young adults, and families. I offer parent coaching to parents who want to learn how to effectively communicate and intervene with their children. My style is warm, curious, direct, and relationship focused. In the course of our work together, my clients learn skills that are accessible yet powerful. I've been in the field over eighteen years and feel lucky to support such incredible people on their healing path.
(657) 306-5712 View (657) 306-5712
Photo of Rachel Goldstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Rachel Goldstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you struggling to figure out how to best support your child? The early childhood years can be trying for parents who don’t want to repeat family patterns, and yet question their own intuition. When the answers can’t be found in the parenting books, you may benefit from guidance specific to your family’s needs. Finding someone to connect with and help deepen your understanding of your child’s inner-experiences can strengthen your relationship with your child, and also provide the empathy and support you need to feel less overwhelmed.
Are you struggling to figure out how to best support your child? The early childhood years can be trying for parents who don’t want to repeat family patterns, and yet question their own intuition. When the answers can’t be found in the parenting books, you may benefit from guidance specific to your family’s needs. Finding someone to connect with and help deepen your understanding of your child’s inner-experiences can strengthen your relationship with your child, and also provide the empathy and support you need to feel less overwhelmed.
(833) 963-2579 View (833) 963-2579
Photo of Nicole Evans, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Nicole Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you struggling to find the motivation or focus to get through daily tasks? Do you feel like you are going through life alone or unsure about who you are? Or do you simply just need someone to listen and talk to? If so, I am here to help you. I specialize in working with young adults, and adults with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, I also provide therapy for grief/loss, relationship issues, and self-acceptance.
Are you struggling to find the motivation or focus to get through daily tasks? Do you feel like you are going through life alone or unsure about who you are? Or do you simply just need someone to listen and talk to? If so, I am here to help you. I specialize in working with young adults, and adults with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, I also provide therapy for grief/loss, relationship issues, and self-acceptance.
(323) 498-1297 View (323) 498-1297
Photo of Niaz Khani, Psychologist in 90403, CA
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.
(323) 617-4383 View (323) 617-4383
Photo of Westside Therapy Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Westside Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
If you are looking for long-term change and a team of highly effective therapists, look no further. We believe that therapy begins with finding the right fit with the perfect therapist who takes a collaborative and holistic approach. Our team incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational therapy. Please contact Shannon Kalberg, LMFT to book a free 20-minute phone consultation.
If you are looking for long-term change and a team of highly effective therapists, look no further. We believe that therapy begins with finding the right fit with the perfect therapist who takes a collaborative and holistic approach. Our team incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational therapy. Please contact Shannon Kalberg, LMFT to book a free 20-minute phone consultation.
(844) 592-0133 View (844) 592-0133
Photo of Lisa Osborn, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Lisa Osborn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you struggling to put your life back to together after the birth of your baby? Are you just not feeling the way you expected? Or, like yourself? Are you iritable and overwhelmed? Possibly your relationship with your partner is suffering as well. Are these feelings robbing you of the joy of being with your infant? If so, you may be suffering from postpartum stress.
Are you struggling to put your life back to together after the birth of your baby? Are you just not feeling the way you expected? Or, like yourself? Are you iritable and overwhelmed? Possibly your relationship with your partner is suffering as well. Are these feelings robbing you of the joy of being with your infant? If so, you may be suffering from postpartum stress.
(310) 579-2867 View (310) 579-2867
Photo of Mary Starks, Counselor in 90403, CA
Mary Starks
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am a psychotherapist licensed therapist in California and Arizona with over 15 years of experience. My approach is psychoanalytic and collaborative in nature and I have an enduring interest in psychological crises and struggles within relationships. I'm interested in how our attachment histories can contribute to our current states and how they've shaped who we are.
I am a psychotherapist licensed therapist in California and Arizona with over 15 years of experience. My approach is psychoanalytic and collaborative in nature and I have an enduring interest in psychological crises and struggles within relationships. I'm interested in how our attachment histories can contribute to our current states and how they've shaped who we are.
(310) 388-6796 View (310) 388-6796
Photo of Sule Ozler, Licensed Psychoanalyst in 90403, CA
Sule Ozler
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
If you are experiencing challenges in your life, or struggling emotionally, do not wait until your suffering gets worse. Seeking help is a sign of inner strength and courage. My specialties are psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. Evidence shows that individuals who undertake psychodynamic psychotherapy preserve therapeutic gains and continue improvement even after the end of the treatment. For over 19 years I helped individuals or couples on their different types of challenges, including relationship difficulties, career or school difficulties, anxiety and depression, trauma, loss, separation.
If you are experiencing challenges in your life, or struggling emotionally, do not wait until your suffering gets worse. Seeking help is a sign of inner strength and courage. My specialties are psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. Evidence shows that individuals who undertake psychodynamic psychotherapy preserve therapeutic gains and continue improvement even after the end of the treatment. For over 19 years I helped individuals or couples on their different types of challenges, including relationship difficulties, career or school difficulties, anxiety and depression, trauma, loss, separation.
(424) 344-4964 View (424) 344-4964
Photo of Holly Hardgrove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
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.
(424) 404-6721 View (424) 404-6721
Photo of Tracy A. Pollack, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Tracy A. Pollack
Psychologist, PsyD, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with many years of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, couples and families. I offer a warm, collaborative and confidential place where you will feel heard and understood while working together to identify issues of conflict and remove the obstacles that are getting in the way of your life. My specialties include eating disorders and body image issues, also self-injurious behaviors. My practice also focuses on women's issues such as those related to beginning a family, fertility challenges and perinatal and postpartum anxiety and depression. I am EMDR trained and incorporate as needed
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with many years of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, couples and families. I offer a warm, collaborative and confidential place where you will feel heard and understood while working together to identify issues of conflict and remove the obstacles that are getting in the way of your life. My specialties include eating disorders and body image issues, also self-injurious behaviors. My practice also focuses on women's issues such as those related to beginning a family, fertility challenges and perinatal and postpartum anxiety and depression. I am EMDR trained and incorporate as needed
(424) 322-6709 View (424) 322-6709
Photo of Ellyn Singer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Ellyn Singer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Dr. Ellyn Singer has been working in mental health for nearly 29 years. Throughout the course of her career, Dr. Singer has treated adults/adolescents, couples and families experiencing depression, suicidality, anxiety, personality disorders and addictive behaviors. She currently works in an intensive psychiatric facility as an individual/ family therapist. Dr. Singer also trains/supervises associates in Maternal Mental Health, Family/Child Therapy.
Dr. Ellyn Singer has been working in mental health for nearly 29 years. Throughout the course of her career, Dr. Singer has treated adults/adolescents, couples and families experiencing depression, suicidality, anxiety, personality disorders and addictive behaviors. She currently works in an intensive psychiatric facility as an individual/ family therapist. Dr. Singer also trains/supervises associates in Maternal Mental Health, Family/Child Therapy.
(310) 956-4034 View (310) 956-4034
Photo of Natalie Badawy, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in 90403, CA
Natalie Badawy
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Many of us carry our emotional wounds in our bodies and only when we create a connection between the mind and the body can we feel whole again. I utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques that include shadow work, inner child healing, internal family systems (IFS), somatic therapy, and reparenting in order to create a safe connection within the body and mind. When you are in connection with your whole self you are then equipped to heal your relationship with others and the planet. I help clients struggling with sexual trauma, grief, codependency, depression, and relationship challenges.
Many of us carry our emotional wounds in our bodies and only when we create a connection between the mind and the body can we feel whole again. I utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques that include shadow work, inner child healing, internal family systems (IFS), somatic therapy, and reparenting in order to create a safe connection within the body and mind. When you are in connection with your whole self you are then equipped to heal your relationship with others and the planet. I help clients struggling with sexual trauma, grief, codependency, depression, and relationship challenges.
(310) 564-7308 View (310) 564-7308
Photo of Elise Corvo, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Elise Corvo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Therapy is a brave step often taken out of necessity and hope. Whether you are thinking of therapy as a way to resolve conflict, address emotional pain, or come to terms with behavior patterns you wish to change, you will discover that this work we do together will allow you to begin to explore who you truly are, embarking on the journey of self-discovery.
Therapy is a brave step often taken out of necessity and hope. Whether you are thinking of therapy as a way to resolve conflict, address emotional pain, or come to terms with behavior patterns you wish to change, you will discover that this work we do together will allow you to begin to explore who you truly are, embarking on the journey of self-discovery.
(310) 292-0722 View (310) 292-0722
Photo of Sheherezad Shashaani, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Sheherezad Shashaani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Is life too stressful for you? Is your relationship suffering? Do you feel depressed, anxious, or angry due to individual, relationship, family or career issues? Are you concerned about achieving your goals, and wonder about meaning of your life? Has this affected your self esteem and hope for resolving your issues? If so, you will find me compassionate, understanding, comfortable and safe in helping you connect to the strength within you. Together we will work to bring about healing and improve the quality of your life. I am a Jungian oriented psychotherapist specializing in working with individuals, couples, and children.
Is life too stressful for you? Is your relationship suffering? Do you feel depressed, anxious, or angry due to individual, relationship, family or career issues? Are you concerned about achieving your goals, and wonder about meaning of your life? Has this affected your self esteem and hope for resolving your issues? If so, you will find me compassionate, understanding, comfortable and safe in helping you connect to the strength within you. Together we will work to bring about healing and improve the quality of your life. I am a Jungian oriented psychotherapist specializing in working with individuals, couples, and children.
(424) 329-6941 View (424) 329-6941
Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.