Relational Therapists in West Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Ilissa E Greenberg, Psychologist in West Los Angeles, CA
Ilissa E Greenberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
My practice is based on the belief that people have potential for self-awareness, growth and positive change. Psychotherapy can be tremendously helpful, whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship conflicts, traumatic experiences, or any other life challenges. Taking into consideration early development, peer and family relationships, health, mind, finances, relational contexts, and work/career satisfaction, can help understand your current concerns. I believe deeply in the therapeutic dialogue as a means for understanding and integrating these aspects of oneself. Awareness of this unique information can increase insight, enhance personal growth, create life satisfaction and happiness, and provide a resolution of conflicts.
My practice is based on the belief that people have potential for self-awareness, growth and positive change. Psychotherapy can be tremendously helpful, whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship conflicts, traumatic experiences, or any other life challenges. Taking into consideration early development, peer and family relationships, health, mind, finances, relational contexts, and work/career satisfaction, can help understand your current concerns. I believe deeply in the therapeutic dialogue as a means for understanding and integrating these aspects of oneself. Awareness of this unique information can increase insight, enhance personal growth, create life satisfaction and happiness, and provide a resolution of conflicts.
(310) 871-0042 View (310) 871-0042
Photo of Anne Isaacs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Anne Isaacs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
In addition to the developmental, somatic relational work that is my primary orientation, I am also trained in AEDP, EMDR , and several trauma modalities.
I'd love to help you become the best of yourself. Together we create a safe space to expand the resources you already have to create change. Our focus is on the present day challenges reflecting earlier disruptions. We update old patterns of behavior to ground you in today's possibilities for greater satisfaction. My experience as a somatic therapist can help you to recognize the resources that already exist in your body. People I work with often suffer from relationship problems, low self esteem, shame, anxiety, depression, PTSD. I enjoy being fully present with you so you can be fully present with yourself.
In addition to the developmental, somatic relational work that is my primary orientation, I am also trained in AEDP, EMDR , and several trauma modalities.
I'd love to help you become the best of yourself. Together we create a safe space to expand the resources you already have to create change. Our focus is on the present day challenges reflecting earlier disruptions. We update old patterns of behavior to ground you in today's possibilities for greater satisfaction. My experience as a somatic therapist can help you to recognize the resources that already exist in your body. People I work with often suffer from relationship problems, low self esteem, shame, anxiety, depression, PTSD. I enjoy being fully present with you so you can be fully present with yourself.
(310) 945-2392 View (310) 945-2392
Photo of Marilyn McCabe Seeman, Psychologist in West Los Angeles, CA
Marilyn McCabe Seeman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a licensed psychologist and health service provider in private practice and work with individuals, couples, groups, and families. I specialize in grief, traumatic experience, anxiety, depression, interpersonal problems, and also enjoy working with issues of creativity and optimal self development over the lifespan. I practice from an integrative perspective that includes psychoanalytic, humanistic, and experiential approaches. My book, The Paradox of Loss: Toward a Relational Theory of Grief, describes my nonlinear, non-pathologizing, and relational understanding of grief. I am offering four groups this coming year: Recent Bereavement; Longer-Term Grief; Creative Writing and Loss; and Enhancing Communication and Connection for Improved Functioning.
I am a licensed psychologist and health service provider in private practice and work with individuals, couples, groups, and families. I specialize in grief, traumatic experience, anxiety, depression, interpersonal problems, and also enjoy working with issues of creativity and optimal self development over the lifespan. I practice from an integrative perspective that includes psychoanalytic, humanistic, and experiential approaches. My book, The Paradox of Loss: Toward a Relational Theory of Grief, describes my nonlinear, non-pathologizing, and relational understanding of grief. I am offering four groups this coming year: Recent Bereavement; Longer-Term Grief; Creative Writing and Loss; and Enhancing Communication and Connection for Improved Functioning.
(424) 320-5916 View (424) 320-5916
Photo of Sarah Jane Cella Kutrumbos, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Sarah Jane Cella Kutrumbos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
In my work with children and teenagers, I see behavior as having meaning. Difficult behaviors such as defiance, tantrums, aggression, and isolation are often the youth’s maladaptive attempts at communicating emotions. I see my role as a facilitator of effective communication, collaborating with youth to understand their experiences and identify/verbalize their thoughts and feelings. With a decade of working with kids in a variety of settings, I work primarily from a relational and attachment-based foundation, which utilizes compassion, attunement, and co-regulation to promote wellbeing through enhanced relationships and self-worth.
In my work with children and teenagers, I see behavior as having meaning. Difficult behaviors such as defiance, tantrums, aggression, and isolation are often the youth’s maladaptive attempts at communicating emotions. I see my role as a facilitator of effective communication, collaborating with youth to understand their experiences and identify/verbalize their thoughts and feelings. With a decade of working with kids in a variety of settings, I work primarily from a relational and attachment-based foundation, which utilizes compassion, attunement, and co-regulation to promote wellbeing through enhanced relationships and self-worth.
(475) 256-5321 View (475) 256-5321
Photo of Craig M. Hands, Psychologist in West Los Angeles, CA
Craig M. Hands
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Self-destructive lifestyle patterns? Can't find a meaningful relationship? My emphasis is on addressing the underlying meanings that generate personal distress while interpreting how these meanings produce and perpetuate less than optimal life circumstances. We will focus on issues related to your unique life situation by employing non-judgmental insight, relational and cognitive therapeutic approaches.
Self-destructive lifestyle patterns? Can't find a meaningful relationship? My emphasis is on addressing the underlying meanings that generate personal distress while interpreting how these meanings produce and perpetuate less than optimal life circumstances. We will focus on issues related to your unique life situation by employing non-judgmental insight, relational and cognitive therapeutic approaches.
(424) 254-0170 View (424) 254-0170
Photo of Diem M. Nguyen, Psy.D., Psychologist in West Los Angeles, CA
Diem M. Nguyen, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My warm, yet direct and compassionate relational approach is one that seeks to uncover the underlying causes of psychic pain.
People thrive when they feel a sense of purpose and connection to themselves and others. Most people come to see me when something is missing from their lives, be it purpose, connection, or both. Depression and/or anxiety may be at work. Anger or grief could consume more of their time and focus. Others feel stagnant, confused, expressing a lack of motivation and self-worth. Finding a safe place to explore your current struggles is possible in therapy. To achieve the meaningful changes you desire, seeking professional help is an effective option.
My warm, yet direct and compassionate relational approach is one that seeks to uncover the underlying causes of psychic pain.
People thrive when they feel a sense of purpose and connection to themselves and others. Most people come to see me when something is missing from their lives, be it purpose, connection, or both. Depression and/or anxiety may be at work. Anger or grief could consume more of their time and focus. Others feel stagnant, confused, expressing a lack of motivation and self-worth. Finding a safe place to explore your current struggles is possible in therapy. To achieve the meaningful changes you desire, seeking professional help is an effective option.
(323) 379-0827 View (323) 379-0827
Photo of Mary E Barbour, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Mary E Barbour
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS, KAP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Persistent feelings of anxiety and insecurity are impacting your personal relationships and professional life, making it challenging to form and maintain meaningful connections. Your struggles with trust, vulnerability, and self-doubt prevent you from achieving a higher level of mental, emotional, and relational well-being. You're looking to seek clarity about who you are by understanding and addressing your challenges that prevent you from moving forward. Working with me can be healing and transformational, cultivating connection, confidence, and compassion with others and yourself.
Persistent feelings of anxiety and insecurity are impacting your personal relationships and professional life, making it challenging to form and maintain meaningful connections. Your struggles with trust, vulnerability, and self-doubt prevent you from achieving a higher level of mental, emotional, and relational well-being. You're looking to seek clarity about who you are by understanding and addressing your challenges that prevent you from moving forward. Working with me can be healing and transformational, cultivating connection, confidence, and compassion with others and yourself.
(323) 621-3389 View (323) 621-3389
Photo of Daniel Fenton, Psychologist in West Los Angeles, CA
Daniel Fenton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Fenton works from a trauma-informed and relational perspective, promoting recovery narratives as ways to empower his clients and build self-efficacy.
Currently licensed in California (In-Person & Virtual) and Nevada (Virtual Only). Dr. Daniel Fenton is a Neuropsychologist and Psychotherapist who works with individuals across the lifespan. He provides neurocognitive and psychological evaluation, in addition to psychotherapy. His specialty is the interaction between medical illness and psychological symptoms/conditions such as, depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. He is passionate about working with individuals experiencing chronic and acute medical conditions, marital and relational conflict, career stress, as well as challenging life transitions.
Fenton works from a trauma-informed and relational perspective, promoting recovery narratives as ways to empower his clients and build self-efficacy.
Currently licensed in California (In-Person & Virtual) and Nevada (Virtual Only). Dr. Daniel Fenton is a Neuropsychologist and Psychotherapist who works with individuals across the lifespan. He provides neurocognitive and psychological evaluation, in addition to psychotherapy. His specialty is the interaction between medical illness and psychological symptoms/conditions such as, depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. He is passionate about working with individuals experiencing chronic and acute medical conditions, marital and relational conflict, career stress, as well as challenging life transitions.
(626) 723-3934 View (626) 723-3934
Photo of Unwritten Therapy Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Unwritten Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC, BSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I use an eclectic therapeutic approach, drawing from relational, somatic, and cognitive frameworks while validating the unique experience of each individual.
It is a passion of mine to work with others toward becoming better versions of themselves, and live a life that fulfills them. Taking that first step in starting therapy can be intimidating, but so worth it. I work with young and middle-aged adults focusing on anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic/career stress, self-esteem and self worth, dating/relational challenges, queer/LGBTQIA+ identity and experience, and desire for individual growth. I also work with therapist trainees and associates, offering support for imposter syndrome, work and life balance, burnout, and systemic challenges in mental healthcare.
I use an eclectic therapeutic approach, drawing from relational, somatic, and cognitive frameworks while validating the unique experience of each individual.
It is a passion of mine to work with others toward becoming better versions of themselves, and live a life that fulfills them. Taking that first step in starting therapy can be intimidating, but so worth it. I work with young and middle-aged adults focusing on anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic/career stress, self-esteem and self worth, dating/relational challenges, queer/LGBTQIA+ identity and experience, and desire for individual growth. I also work with therapist trainees and associates, offering support for imposter syndrome, work and life balance, burnout, and systemic challenges in mental healthcare.
(310) 905-6976 View (310) 905-6976
Photo of Emily Sculthorpe, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Emily Sculthorpe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Integrating this with a deep knowledge of biopsychology allows my clients to understand both the emotional and physiological contributors to their mental, sexual, and relational health.
I'm Emily, LGBTQ-affirmative sex therapist with a passion for fostering healthy relationships. My practice is rooted in deep empathy, respect, and a commitment to understanding the diverse backgrounds and identities that shape each person's story. You are the expert in your own experience, and I’m here to support you on your journey.
Integrating this with a deep knowledge of biopsychology allows my clients to understand both the emotional and physiological contributors to their mental, sexual, and relational health.
I'm Emily, LGBTQ-affirmative sex therapist with a passion for fostering healthy relationships. My practice is rooted in deep empathy, respect, and a commitment to understanding the diverse backgrounds and identities that shape each person's story. You are the expert in your own experience, and I’m here to support you on your journey.
(424) 855-0784 View (424) 855-0784
Photo of Ruth Sze, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in West Los Angeles, CA
Ruth Sze
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m glad you’re here! I’m an Asian American therapist who supports individuals, couples, and families during times of relational conflicts, mental health distress, and overwhelming life transitions. I value creating a space where you feel comfortable coming as you are during times of pain, questioning, and loneliness, as well as celebrating the moments of hope, triumph, and joy! In therapy, we’ll creatively work together to explore the complexity of your story and develop practices that can support you in living according to the values that make your life meaningful.
Hi! I’m glad you’re here! I’m an Asian American therapist who supports individuals, couples, and families during times of relational conflicts, mental health distress, and overwhelming life transitions. I value creating a space where you feel comfortable coming as you are during times of pain, questioning, and loneliness, as well as celebrating the moments of hope, triumph, and joy! In therapy, we’ll creatively work together to explore the complexity of your story and develop practices that can support you in living according to the values that make your life meaningful.
(424) 379-5780 View (424) 379-5780
Photo of Gemma C. Quick, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Gemma C. Quick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
We all have many layers of past experience that affect our present feelings, self-worth and relationships. Therapy is a unique experience where we can explore these connections, develop greater self-awareness and make meaningful changes. I work closely with my clients to help them develop more self-agency and compassion, so that they can address their current circumstances and move forward with a greater sense of meaning, clarity and purpose. I have a genuine interest in how people have developed their personal and relational patterns and I look forward to hearing your story and helping you make positive changes in your life.
We all have many layers of past experience that affect our present feelings, self-worth and relationships. Therapy is a unique experience where we can explore these connections, develop greater self-awareness and make meaningful changes. I work closely with my clients to help them develop more self-agency and compassion, so that they can address their current circumstances and move forward with a greater sense of meaning, clarity and purpose. I have a genuine interest in how people have developed their personal and relational patterns and I look forward to hearing your story and helping you make positive changes in your life.
(310) 736-2783 View (310) 736-2783
Photo of Kristin Herbert, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Kristin Herbert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
As we explore your relational patterns and work to increase self-compassion, I will support your most authentic way of being in the world.
Therapy can be a dynamic, interactive process of deepening your connection with yourself and others, exploring your identity, and redefining your life’s purpose. I am committed to supporting people who have decided to look inward, which can be a fascinating, challenging, and rewarding ongoing experience. I work with individuals and couples as they navigate transitions, consider life choices, search for meaning, process relational trauma, and learn to communicate more deeply. Many of my clients identify as highly sensitive and/or are impacted by neurodiversity (ND individuals, ND/NT couples, and parents of ND kids/teens).
As we explore your relational patterns and work to increase self-compassion, I will support your most authentic way of being in the world.
Therapy can be a dynamic, interactive process of deepening your connection with yourself and others, exploring your identity, and redefining your life’s purpose. I am committed to supporting people who have decided to look inward, which can be a fascinating, challenging, and rewarding ongoing experience. I work with individuals and couples as they navigate transitions, consider life choices, search for meaning, process relational trauma, and learn to communicate more deeply. Many of my clients identify as highly sensitive and/or are impacted by neurodiversity (ND individuals, ND/NT couples, and parents of ND kids/teens).
(213) 212-5829 View (213) 212-5829
Photo of Ellie Adhami, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Ellie Adhami
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I'm a Relational Therapist, specializing in high-conflict relational dynamics. Whether you are seeking therapeutic help with your family, spouse, partner, or individually, therapy can be effective in helping you navigate and change difficult relational patterns. My areas of expertise include Family, Marital and Relational Conflict, Marital and Premarital Counseling, Infertility and Family Planning, Parenting, Coparenting, Blended Families, Life Transitions including Divorce Support, Attachment Trauma, Fear and Anxiety, Depression and Grief, Self-Esteem, Self-Confidence, and Creative Artists.
I'm a Relational Therapist, specializing in high-conflict relational dynamics. Whether you are seeking therapeutic help with your family, spouse, partner, or individually, therapy can be effective in helping you navigate and change difficult relational patterns. My areas of expertise include Family, Marital and Relational Conflict, Marital and Premarital Counseling, Infertility and Family Planning, Parenting, Coparenting, Blended Families, Life Transitions including Divorce Support, Attachment Trauma, Fear and Anxiety, Depression and Grief, Self-Esteem, Self-Confidence, and Creative Artists.
(424) 369-0616 View (424) 369-0616
Photo of Martha 'Marty' Simpson, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Martha 'Marty' Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I'm a PACT-2 Therapist based on the work of Stan Tatkin, PhD and have completed RLT-3 Relational Life Therapy created by Terry Real.
Specializing in recovery from infidelity for more than a decade, I see addicts, & partners, and those involved in single affairs. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, California. I LOVE to work with couples because I believe we heal & transform in healthy relationships! I run weekly groups for betrayed partners with a trauma model and personal empowerment approach. I am often called to teach or present locally and nationally about treating betrayal, problematic sexual behavior & creating secure functioning relationships. Fill out a form on my website and my assistant will schedule a time for us to talk!
I'm a PACT-2 Therapist based on the work of Stan Tatkin, PhD and have completed RLT-3 Relational Life Therapy created by Terry Real.
Specializing in recovery from infidelity for more than a decade, I see addicts, & partners, and those involved in single affairs. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, California. I LOVE to work with couples because I believe we heal & transform in healthy relationships! I run weekly groups for betrayed partners with a trauma model and personal empowerment approach. I am often called to teach or present locally and nationally about treating betrayal, problematic sexual behavior & creating secure functioning relationships. Fill out a form on my website and my assistant will schedule a time for us to talk!
View
Photo of Martin C Novell, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Martin C Novell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
You will not experience the silent treatment. I am a board certified psychotherapist providing evidence based skills made for individuals and couples. We can develop a plan to improve relationships, difficult situations, depression, anxiety, and career issues. It is now known what makes a successful relationship. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and research based on John Gottman, couples can ease into conversations and move their discussions from disappointment to growth. Individuals, couples can gain the skills to re-position their thoughts and feelings to create a better place for themselves in this world.
You will not experience the silent treatment. I am a board certified psychotherapist providing evidence based skills made for individuals and couples. We can develop a plan to improve relationships, difficult situations, depression, anxiety, and career issues. It is now known what makes a successful relationship. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and research based on John Gottman, couples can ease into conversations and move their discussions from disappointment to growth. Individuals, couples can gain the skills to re-position their thoughts and feelings to create a better place for themselves in this world.
(424) 254-5179 View (424) 254-5179
Photo of Lilyan W.j. Campbell, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Lilyan W.j. Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCBA, Individ, Couples, Enterta
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a more fulfilling life? In my life coaching and therapy sessions, I am here to guide you to connect with your values, and to experience joy in your life (again). We can focus on topics such as relationships, anxiety, career, depression, ADHD, and Autism. Through convenient Zoom sessions, I create an environment, so you can be yourself, get insight, and gain tools. As an empathic person and mother, I will bring my authentic self and compassion for people to sessions.
Are you looking for a more fulfilling life? In my life coaching and therapy sessions, I am here to guide you to connect with your values, and to experience joy in your life (again). We can focus on topics such as relationships, anxiety, career, depression, ADHD, and Autism. Through convenient Zoom sessions, I create an environment, so you can be yourself, get insight, and gain tools. As an empathic person and mother, I will bring my authentic self and compassion for people to sessions.
(424) 270-1773 View (424) 270-1773
Photo of Fariba Rabizadeh, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Fariba Rabizadeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Experiencing panic attacks and anxiety can be debilitating. Feeling lost and not knowing where to get help makes it even more challenging. Anxiety and depression can effect both physical health as well as personal relationships. I have many years of experience working with interpersonal conflicts and relationship issues. My practice consists of individuals , couples, and family. I listen, educate as well as collaborate with my clients to find the appropriate approach for treatment. My expertise in Various modalities allows my clients to find the approach that suits their personality as well their specific needs.
Experiencing panic attacks and anxiety can be debilitating. Feeling lost and not knowing where to get help makes it even more challenging. Anxiety and depression can effect both physical health as well as personal relationships. I have many years of experience working with interpersonal conflicts and relationship issues. My practice consists of individuals , couples, and family. I listen, educate as well as collaborate with my clients to find the appropriate approach for treatment. My expertise in Various modalities allows my clients to find the approach that suits their personality as well their specific needs.
(424) 295-0909 View (424) 295-0909
Photo of Lauren Dummit, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Lauren Dummit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
(310) 895-9316 View (310) 895-9316
Photo of Julia M Gunderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Julia M Gunderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My specialties include marital problems, depression, anxiety, adolescent issues, women's issues, parenting, crisis management, trauma-related cases such as domestic violence, physical or sexual abuse and many other issues. I am committed to helping my clients feel better and make changes easily, and I have the skills and passion to assist you in making better decisions. I am bilingual in Spanish. I can offer my services in the office (during Covid only telehealth), via Skype, via phone or in the comfort of your home or office. Available all day of the week.
My specialties include marital problems, depression, anxiety, adolescent issues, women's issues, parenting, crisis management, trauma-related cases such as domestic violence, physical or sexual abuse and many other issues. I am committed to helping my clients feel better and make changes easily, and I have the skills and passion to assist you in making better decisions. I am bilingual in Spanish. I can offer my services in the office (during Covid only telehealth), via Skype, via phone or in the comfort of your home or office. Available all day of the week.
(909) 610-3952 View (909) 610-3952

See more therapy options for West Los Angeles

Relational Therapists

How does relational therapy work?

Relational therapy was developed by psychologist Jean Miller, whose ideas stressed that having strong connections with others encourages better health and well-being when compared with a lonely existence. Conversely, poor interpersonal relationships do not foster growth and learning. Relational therapy also encourages trust in others and patience with others, along with better communication and less conflict.

Is relational therapy evidence-based?

Relational therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating certain mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral or acceptance and commitment therapy. However, relational therapy uses techniques found in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as psychodynamic therapy, which are both well-studied with empirical research.

How long are people typically in relational therapy?

Clients may see improvement after a few weeks or months of therapy. Like cognitive behavioral therapy, relational therapy can reduce symptoms within 10 to 20 weeks, at 45 to 50 minutes once a week. But like any type of therapy, improvement depends on the person and the severity of the problem.

Does relational therapy work?

While no therapy type will work for everyone, some evidence suggests that this therapy can be effective. Relational therapy can help a person manage problematic relationships as well as the mental health conditions that accompany difficult relationships like depression or anxiety. This therapy type may offer benefits that are hard to measure but can be just as valuable—including feelings of higher self-worth or healthier connections with others.