Photo of Ariel Schoolsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Ariel Schoolsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My clinical work spans seventeen years, covering issues including grief and loss, trauma, infertility, creative blocks, divorce, childhood abuse, anxiety and depression, marital conflict and parenting challenges.
Our lives are constructed from many roles and stories. We, as human beings, are the teller of those tales. Is your narrative one, as Plato stated, flowing from "three sources: desire, emotion, and knowledge?" Is it rich in self-care, dignity, and compassion? Or, are the stories and thoughts you carry heartless, punitive, or corrosive?
My clinical work spans seventeen years, covering issues including grief and loss, trauma, infertility, creative blocks, divorce, childhood abuse, anxiety and depression, marital conflict and parenting challenges.
Our lives are constructed from many roles and stories. We, as human beings, are the teller of those tales. Is your narrative one, as Plato stated, flowing from "three sources: desire, emotion, and knowledge?" Is it rich in self-care, dignity, and compassion? Or, are the stories and thoughts you carry heartless, punitive, or corrosive?
(424) 332-5933 View (424) 332-5933
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 Rachel Brous, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90403, CA
Rachel Brous
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
The first step in creating meaningful change, is the desire for things to be different followed by the courage to take action to make it happen. You've already taken that first step by seeking therapy and I honor you for that, and gladly meet you there! Together, we we will co-create a safe and supportive space for you to feel seen, heard and honored where you will feel held as you enter a more deep exploration of self. Here we will identify patterns, themes and the source of which have brought your to your current reality and identify how and where you can make conscious shifts to create the change you want to see in your life.
The first step in creating meaningful change, is the desire for things to be different followed by the courage to take action to make it happen. You've already taken that first step by seeking therapy and I honor you for that, and gladly meet you there! Together, we we will co-create a safe and supportive space for you to feel seen, heard and honored where you will feel held as you enter a more deep exploration of self. Here we will identify patterns, themes and the source of which have brought your to your current reality and identify how and where you can make conscious shifts to create the change you want to see in your life.
(310) 818-7358 View (310) 818-7358
Photo of Brandon Gross, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Brandon Gross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” ― C.G. Jung. I specialize in helping creatives and high-performing individuals in their 20s and 30s navigate emotional challenges, major life changes, and live their most authentic lives. I address issues that include: Isolation and Loneliness, Grief and Loss, Existential Crises, Values Clarification (i.e. figuring out “what matters”), Navigating Life Transitions (e.g. College to Career, Parenting)l, Anxiety and Depression, Communication Breakdown, Creative Block, Career Gridlock and Relationship Challenges. I also specialize in Men's Issues.
“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” ― C.G. Jung. I specialize in helping creatives and high-performing individuals in their 20s and 30s navigate emotional challenges, major life changes, and live their most authentic lives. I address issues that include: Isolation and Loneliness, Grief and Loss, Existential Crises, Values Clarification (i.e. figuring out “what matters”), Navigating Life Transitions (e.g. College to Career, Parenting)l, Anxiety and Depression, Communication Breakdown, Creative Block, Career Gridlock and Relationship Challenges. I also specialize in Men's Issues.
(424) 373-4939 View (424) 373-4939
Photo of Eve Nadel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Eve Nadel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
No one goes unscathed in this life, and sometimes we need help from a professional. My job is to provide a safe place to begin the path of psychotherapy. I have 26 years of experience providing psychotherapy to clients with a variety of challenges. I listen, provide support, empathize and care for my clients. Often we feel that we have not been heard or seen in a deep way. I aim to offer a different and corrective experience and help clients gain insight and change behaviors.
No one goes unscathed in this life, and sometimes we need help from a professional. My job is to provide a safe place to begin the path of psychotherapy. I have 26 years of experience providing psychotherapy to clients with a variety of challenges. I listen, provide support, empathize and care for my clients. Often we feel that we have not been heard or seen in a deep way. I aim to offer a different and corrective experience and help clients gain insight and change behaviors.
(424) 473-1531 View (424) 473-1531
Photo of Allan Silverstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Allan Silverstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
A good therapist has wisdom, compassion and the ability to connect deeply with you, while creating a safe healing environment. These are among the strengths that my patients ascribed to me during my many years as a Pediatrician... and that ultimately led me to a career in psychotherapy. Having raised two preadolescent daughters after my wife died, I have experienced many of life's tragedies, celebrations, anxieties and fears. With empathy, expertise, and kindness, I've helped countless individuals and families work through their issues. I would look forward to doing the same with you. I employ HUMOR when appropriate and useful.
A good therapist has wisdom, compassion and the ability to connect deeply with you, while creating a safe healing environment. These are among the strengths that my patients ascribed to me during my many years as a Pediatrician... and that ultimately led me to a career in psychotherapy. Having raised two preadolescent daughters after my wife died, I have experienced many of life's tragedies, celebrations, anxieties and fears. With empathy, expertise, and kindness, I've helped countless individuals and families work through their issues. I would look forward to doing the same with you. I employ HUMOR when appropriate and useful.
(424) 324-5167 View (424) 324-5167
Photo of Jamie Rudden, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90403, CA
Jamie Rudden
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
People come to therapy at all different points in their life. Whether you're returning to better understand a new situation or coming for the first time to explore opportunities for growth, I am here to meet you where you're at. In my experience, people seek change when they are not fully aligned with the person they want to be. Our work together will be to identify these misalignments, to learn how to empathize with how they came to be, and to find strategies for letting go of things that that no longer serve in order to find a sense of self we can feel proud of.
People come to therapy at all different points in their life. Whether you're returning to better understand a new situation or coming for the first time to explore opportunities for growth, I am here to meet you where you're at. In my experience, people seek change when they are not fully aligned with the person they want to be. Our work together will be to identify these misalignments, to learn how to empathize with how they came to be, and to find strategies for letting go of things that that no longer serve in order to find a sense of self we can feel proud of.
(424) 728-5431 View (424) 728-5431
Photo of Lauren J Auerbach, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Lauren J Auerbach
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Does anxiety, fear, sadness, grief, confusion, helplessness, anger, or shame overwhelm you? Maybe a recent loss or previous trauma affects the way you are coping. Perhaps you struggle to navigate your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, or relationships. Let me help you find meaning, patterns, and ultimately relief, with compassion, insight, and tools to heal. Through this process, I hope you will find a greater sense of calm, clarity, and agency.
Does anxiety, fear, sadness, grief, confusion, helplessness, anger, or shame overwhelm you? Maybe a recent loss or previous trauma affects the way you are coping. Perhaps you struggle to navigate your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, or relationships. Let me help you find meaning, patterns, and ultimately relief, with compassion, insight, and tools to heal. Through this process, I hope you will find a greater sense of calm, clarity, and agency.
(323) 775-9882 View (323) 775-9882
Photo of Max Fay, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90403, CA
Max Fay
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
I believe everyone is capable of living their fullest, most vibrant life and it is my passion to help them achieve it. I help clients foster insight by processing their past experiences and gently uncovering the ways their pasts connect with their current struggles. I teach clients to discover the patterns and rules that keep them stuck and then support them in cultivating a life that brings them joy and fulfillment. I invite my clients on a journey of self-compassion and teach them how to prioritize gentleness and self-care. I believe therapy can be silly and even fun while still being impactful and effective.
I believe everyone is capable of living their fullest, most vibrant life and it is my passion to help them achieve it. I help clients foster insight by processing their past experiences and gently uncovering the ways their pasts connect with their current struggles. I teach clients to discover the patterns and rules that keep them stuck and then support them in cultivating a life that brings them joy and fulfillment. I invite my clients on a journey of self-compassion and teach them how to prioritize gentleness and self-care. I believe therapy can be silly and even fun while still being impactful and effective.
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Photo of Felicia Andrews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Felicia Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
If you’re struggling and feel stuck and you know it's not sustainable - you're not alone, relief is possible and I would love to help you find a way forward. When you feel lonely, depleted and pushed to and past your limits, there's opportunity for healing, looking inward, growth and realigning priorities. In therapy we explore how to develop the ability to cope better, make meaningful change and be more present and connected. Coping well is important not only for your relationship with yourself but also your relationships with others. I offer compassionate care with practical, actionable strategies to cultivate a fulfilling life.
If you’re struggling and feel stuck and you know it's not sustainable - you're not alone, relief is possible and I would love to help you find a way forward. When you feel lonely, depleted and pushed to and past your limits, there's opportunity for healing, looking inward, growth and realigning priorities. In therapy we explore how to develop the ability to cope better, make meaningful change and be more present and connected. Coping well is important not only for your relationship with yourself but also your relationships with others. I offer compassionate care with practical, actionable strategies to cultivate a fulfilling life.
(424) 344-4166 View (424) 344-4166
Photo of Dr. Joseph Lancaster, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Dr. Joseph Lancaster
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
You are feeling like life is full of chaos and no matter what you do, you can’t seem to get a handle on what is happening. Your relationships are broken, or strained and not only is it affecting you, but others are pulling away. You feel lost as if you have no purpose in life. You are tired of the spinning wheel. Depression, anxiety, anger, relationship challenges and much more keep you stuck and unable to grow. ENOUGH! You're ready for answers to start a new Holistic, healthy journey and become that whole person you were meant to be - Mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually - whole!
You are feeling like life is full of chaos and no matter what you do, you can’t seem to get a handle on what is happening. Your relationships are broken, or strained and not only is it affecting you, but others are pulling away. You feel lost as if you have no purpose in life. You are tired of the spinning wheel. Depression, anxiety, anger, relationship challenges and much more keep you stuck and unable to grow. ENOUGH! You're ready for answers to start a new Holistic, healthy journey and become that whole person you were meant to be - Mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually - whole!
(818) 483-9968 View (818) 483-9968
Photo of Miri Jedeikin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Miri Jedeikin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
You’re looking for tools to deal with life’s challenges. Stronger coping skills and more meaningful relationships. More authenticity and personal empowerment. Less anxiety and fear. A safe, judgment-free space where you can gain awareness and grow. I help people process and heal from the harmful stories that have dominated and shaped their experiences. In our work together, you'll learn how to cope with feelings of overwhelm, set better boundaries and limit unhealthy relationships. You’ll discover how to navigate life’s ups and downs while gaining insight and taking active, effective steps to embody your deepest, truest self.
You’re looking for tools to deal with life’s challenges. Stronger coping skills and more meaningful relationships. More authenticity and personal empowerment. Less anxiety and fear. A safe, judgment-free space where you can gain awareness and grow. I help people process and heal from the harmful stories that have dominated and shaped their experiences. In our work together, you'll learn how to cope with feelings of overwhelm, set better boundaries and limit unhealthy relationships. You’ll discover how to navigate life’s ups and downs while gaining insight and taking active, effective steps to embody your deepest, truest self.
(323) 593-4352 View (323) 593-4352
Photo of Bonnie Banafsheh Shayeg, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Bonnie Banafsheh Shayeg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Hi there lovers. You want to feel understood and connected socially and personally. It's important for you to explore your raw self without guilt or shame, yet most of us don't have that luxury. The goal of therapy is self exploration and awareness, recognizing conditionings, traumas, and learned patterns keeping you looping. People feel most benefit from therapy when they are ready to put in work outside the session as much as in the session. I use humor, empathy and directness to give you a stable yet direct support system to help navigate your life towards satisfaction and feeling fulfilled.
Hi there lovers. You want to feel understood and connected socially and personally. It's important for you to explore your raw self without guilt or shame, yet most of us don't have that luxury. The goal of therapy is self exploration and awareness, recognizing conditionings, traumas, and learned patterns keeping you looping. People feel most benefit from therapy when they are ready to put in work outside the session as much as in the session. I use humor, empathy and directness to give you a stable yet direct support system to help navigate your life towards satisfaction and feeling fulfilled.
(424) 552-4598 View (424) 552-4598
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 Vanessa Katz, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Vanessa Katz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Even though therapy can be challenging and often a painful process of self-discovery, when done in a supportive and empathic environment it can be immensely life changing. Together we will explore how the past has influenced you and make changes in the present, so you can create a more gratifying future. I have extensive experience in treating depression, life transitions, anxiety, relationship & family issues, loss & trauma and sexual abuse.
Even though therapy can be challenging and often a painful process of self-discovery, when done in a supportive and empathic environment it can be immensely life changing. Together we will explore how the past has influenced you and make changes in the present, so you can create a more gratifying future. I have extensive experience in treating depression, life transitions, anxiety, relationship & family issues, loss & trauma and sexual abuse.
(323) 870-7225 View (323) 870-7225
Photo of LA Psychotherapy Group, Psychologist in 90403, CA
LA Psychotherapy Group
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, loneliness, stress, guilt, grief, disappointment, sadness, displaced anger, intimacy issues, trouble with communication, disconnection in your relationships, being overwhelmed, or just a feeling of being stuck, we are here for you! We specialize in working with BBIPOC clients and are committed to creating a culture of inclusion and connectedness. We embrace the unique contributions and diverse life experiences that our therapists bring to our team surrounding culture, ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, religion, and beliefs.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, loneliness, stress, guilt, grief, disappointment, sadness, displaced anger, intimacy issues, trouble with communication, disconnection in your relationships, being overwhelmed, or just a feeling of being stuck, we are here for you! We specialize in working with BBIPOC clients and are committed to creating a culture of inclusion and connectedness. We embrace the unique contributions and diverse life experiences that our therapists bring to our team surrounding culture, ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, religion, and beliefs.
(310) 807-6194 View (310) 807-6194
Photo of Michael Lushing, Pre-Licensed Professional in 90403, CA
Michael Lushing
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Life has never been more challenging. Surviving the pandemic, inflation, climate change, and an uncertain world. Just know you are not alone! I pride myself on being an empathic human being that feels what others are feeling which makes it easier for me to connect with you. At 67 years old, I've made plenty of mistakes...and have learned valuable lessons from those mistakes. I'm here for you. Looking forward to connecting.
Life has never been more challenging. Surviving the pandemic, inflation, climate change, and an uncertain world. Just know you are not alone! I pride myself on being an empathic human being that feels what others are feeling which makes it easier for me to connect with you. At 67 years old, I've made plenty of mistakes...and have learned valuable lessons from those mistakes. I'm here for you. Looking forward to connecting.
(310) 872-2708 View (310) 872-2708
Photo of Pauline Lalezari, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Pauline Lalezari
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Welcome! Therapy should be practical and approachable. As a relationship specialist, my collaborative focus is on the "why" of where you are. When we understand why, we can navigate the hurdles getting in your way with insight and healthy coping skills that are effective. You will not be alone in this; we will be working together on expanding awareness of your thoughts, feelings and ways that you engage with the world. This process opens up space for healthier, more intentional relationships that you can actually enjoy (including the one with yourself)! At the core of my practice is an authentic, warm and compassionate presence.
Welcome! Therapy should be practical and approachable. As a relationship specialist, my collaborative focus is on the "why" of where you are. When we understand why, we can navigate the hurdles getting in your way with insight and healthy coping skills that are effective. You will not be alone in this; we will be working together on expanding awareness of your thoughts, feelings and ways that you engage with the world. This process opens up space for healthier, more intentional relationships that you can actually enjoy (including the one with yourself)! At the core of my practice is an authentic, warm and compassionate presence.
(424) 286-4825 View (424) 286-4825
Photo of Jamie Feldstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Jamie Feldstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you looking for a safe place where you can access and explore your emotions without shame or judgment? Are you feeling frustrated, stuck or disappointed with the quality of your life? I can help you learn how to access your inner wisdom, build and bolster resiliency and connect more effectively with yourself and others.
Are you looking for a safe place where you can access and explore your emotions without shame or judgment? Are you feeling frustrated, stuck or disappointed with the quality of your life? I can help you learn how to access your inner wisdom, build and bolster resiliency and connect more effectively with yourself and others.
(805) 669-9917 View (805) 669-9917
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.