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Bruce Howard

Bruce Howard

Santa Monica, CA
Psychologist, PHD
Dr. Bruce Howard is a seasoned psychologist with a PhD, specializing in helping adults and elders navigate complex emotional landscapes. His therapeutic approach centers on three pivotal dimensions. First, he emphasizes instilling awareness and insight into the development of one's individual identity. Dr. Howard recognizes that both perfect and imperfect family experiences contribute to unmet needs and emotional injuries, whether intentional or not. Through this understanding, clients discover that their identity is not fixed and that healthier perspectives on themselves and the world are attainable. The second dimension of his practice involves the integration of suppressed painful feelings, essential for maintaining critical attachments and healthy autonomy during childhood. By addressing these disavowed emotions, clients can overcome psychological and physiological symptoms, reclaiming their full humanity. Finally, experiential learning is key in Dr. Howard's method. As clients gain insight and heal from their past, they are empowered to experiment with new behaviors, realizing that their current environment is distinct from their family upbringing. This transformational journey facilitated by psychodynamic therapy, Gestalt techniques, and interpersonal relationships enables individuals to effect the change they desire in their lives.
Specialties
Addiction Alcohol/Drug Use Anxiety Bipolar Depression Family Stress General Mental Health Grief Men's & Women's Issues Obsessive Compulsive Disorder PTSD/Trauma Relationship Stress Work Stress
Lisa Golden

Lisa Golden

Santa Monica, CA
Psychologist, EDD
Dr. Lisa Golden is a skilled psychologist dedicated to supporting adults of all ages, from young adults to elders in their twilight years. With a wealth of experience in treating couples and families, she possesses specialized expertise in navigating family adjustments during health crises. Dr. Golden works closely with parents of teenagers and newborns, as well as couples planning for children and those managing aging relatives. She adeptly assists individuals facing both everyday stresses and more profound challenges, such as chronic anxiety and depression. Fluent in Spanish, Dr. Golden is committed to supporting Spanish-speaking individuals and couples as they navigate their unique therapeutic journeys. Her straightforward and direct approach empowers clients with essential coping skills tailored to their daily lives. Key areas of her expertise include trauma, coping strategies, marital therapy, parenting skills, and stress management. Additionally, she has substantial experience in dementia care and neurological illnesses. Dr. Golden operates both from her home office and a traditional office, offering convenient Saturday morning sessions and teletherapy options through Skype and i-Chat. Collaborating with a network of esteemed psychiatrists and medical professionals, she ensures comprehensive care for those she serves.
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Specialties
50+ Anxiety Cancer Chronic Pain Depression Family Stress General Mental Health PTSD/Trauma Parenting
Jori Adler

Jori Adler

Santa Monica, CA
MA
Jori Adler, MA, provides a warm and welcoming environment for individuals seeking support in overcoming challenges such as self-esteem, anxiety, and relationship issues. Jori understands that finding the right therapist requires a unique combination of chemistry and expertise. As a passionate therapist, Jori offers something more than traditional talk therapy; the approach is holistic and innovative, integrating elements from EMDR, somatic therapy, Eastern philosophy, and spirituality. While Jori helps clients explore their past, the primary focus lies in understanding how the present moment is influenced by those experiences. This approach encourages clients to look forward, fostering positive changes in their lives. Direct and transparent, Jori is dedicated to supporting and challenging clients gently, fostering a safe space to invite new perspectives and prevent stagnation. With personal experience in therapy, Jori is committed to ensuring that each client feels heard and empowered on their journey toward healing and growth.
Specialties
Anxiety Chronic Pain Depression Family Stress Grief LGBTQ+ PTSD/Trauma Relationship Stress Spirituality
Taylor Bowman

Taylor Bowman

Santa Monica, CA
LMFT
Taylor Bowman, LMFT, is a dedicated therapist committed to supporting teens and adults through their emotional and psychological challenges. With a strong foundation in Positive Psychology, Trauma-Focused therapy, and Gottman Method, Taylor expertly navigates complex issues such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Through a warm and empathetic approach, Taylor fosters an environment that encourages healing and growth, emphasizing coping skills and life satisfaction. Clients benefit from Taylor’s expertise in relational and emotionally focused therapies, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and a strength-based perspective. Whether working with individuals or couples, Taylor is passionately invested in helping clients transition through life’s difficulties, cultivate self-esteem, and build healthier peer relationships.
Specialties
Anxiety Depression General Mental Health PTSD/Trauma Relationship Stress Student Life
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Rebecca Branda

Rebecca Branda

Santa Monica, CA
Psychologist, PSYD
Rebecca Branda, a dedicated Psychologist with a PsyD, understands that the desire to start therapy often begins when individuals recognize a need for change—when feelings of anxiety, confusion, or a lack of control arise. Specializing in women’s mental health, ADHD, and trauma, she is committed to helping her clients explore how past experiences shape their present reality. Together, they will delve into the root causes of challenges, seeking success and fulfillment in relationships and careers, healing from traumatic or dysfunctional interactions, and processing feelings of guilt and shame. Rebecca creates a therapeutic environment filled with curiosity, warmth, and respect, allowing clients to reconnect with their best selves. Her holistic approach deftly incorporates the mind-body connection, providing a safe space for clients to explore relationship patterns, deepen self-awareness, and realize meaningful change. With training in evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic psychotherapy, as well as mindfulness and acceptance-based interventions, Rebecca is known for her warmth, compassion, and insight. She is determined to walk alongside her clients on their journey toward a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Empowering clients to transcend their limitations, she acknowledges that reaching out for help can be daunting, and invites them to take the next step together.
Specialties
ADHD Anxiety PTSD/Trauma
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Liz Cruz

Liz Cruz

Santa Monica, CA
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Liz Cruz is a compassionate and dedicated Clinical Social Worker/Therapist with an LCSW credential, who holds a degree from USC. As a professional of color and a daughter of immigrant parents, Liz is deeply passionate about connecting with and empowering communities of color through healing and resilience in a culturally sensitive therapeutic environment. She views therapy as a collaborative journey between her and her clients, working effectively with adolescents, adults, parents, couples, and families to help them cultivate healthy and fulfilling relationships. Offering her services in both English and Spanish through tele-health, Liz strives to create an inviting and attentive atmosphere that fosters therapeutic connection. Her approach integrates a variety of treatment interventions, such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Trauma Focused Therapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. Liz believes in the inherent strength and resilience within every individual, recognizing embarking on this journey as a beautiful opportunity for personal growth and transformation. She is committed to supporting clients in reconnecting to their inner strength, enabling them to heal, grow, and thrive.
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Specialties
Anxiety Depression Family Stress General Mental Health Grief Men's & Women's Issues Obsessive Compulsive Disorder PTSD/Trauma Parenting Relationship Stress Spirituality Student Life
Isobel Gardner

Isobel Gardner

Santa Monica, CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFA
Isobel Gardner is a devoted marriage and family therapist, skilled in guiding individuals through the complexities of their emotional lives. Her clients often face the challenges of intrusive thoughts, overwhelming feelings, sleep difficulties, and struggles with communication and boundary-setting. Recognizing that life can sometimes feel paralyzing, Isobel is dedicated to helping her clients break free from patterns that lead to destructive behaviors. Through psychotherapy, she provides a nurturing environment for change. Isobel's therapeutic approach is warm, compassionate, holistic, neuroaffective, and evidence-based. She expertly integrates innovative EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Flash, and mindfulness techniques with supportive talk therapy to empower her clients. Through her guidance, individuals learn to effectively manage their emotions and thoughts while establishing healthy boundaries and communication skills. Isobel consistently witnesses remarkable transformations in her clients, who experience significant emotional and behavioral growth. By reducing the emotional weight of painful memories and future anxieties, her clients often transform their lives, leading to greater authenticity, balance, happiness, and meaningful engagement in the world.
Specialties
Addiction Getting Unstuck Managing Emotions Mindfulness PTSD/Trauma Relationship Stress Sleeping Well Work Stress
Dana Halsted

Dana Halsted

Santa Monica, CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Dana Halsted, a compassionate Marriage & Family Therapist (MA, LMFT), takes an active approach to therapy that can rapidly enhance the lives of her clients. Individuals, couples, and families have the opportunity to experience profound healing and transformation as they cultivate a sustainable sense of well-being. Dana teaches her clients practical techniques that promote ongoing self-care and self-sufficiency, equipping them with concrete tools and therapeutic experiences to shift their patterns and heal their pain. This empowers them to lead more authentic and fulfilling lives. Couples in her care work towards building attunement, improving communication, and overcoming relational patterns that hinder intimacy. Those grappling with questions about their internal well-being, fears of deep intimacy, or feelings of unresolved conflict will find Dana’s approach particularly transformative. She practices Integrative Body Psychotherapy, recognizing that the body, mind, and spirit are interconnected aspects of the whole person. By addressing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual experiences, Dana fosters integration and healing in her clients, helping them move past the barriers that keep them stuck.
Specialties
ADHD Addiction Alcohol/Drug Use Anxiety Depression Disabilities Family Stress Obsessive Compulsive Disorder PTSD/Trauma Parenting Relationship Stress Spirituality Student Life
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Melanie Handelsman

Melanie Handelsman

Santa Monica, CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Melanie Handelsman, a devoted Marriage & Family Therapist with credentials in EMDR, holds a Master’s degree and specializes in working with diverse populations, including individuals, couples, children, teens, and elders. With expertise in addressing trauma and PTSD, anxiety, and self-esteem, she is skilled in various therapeutic modalities such as Compassion-Focused, Narrative, and Emotionally Focused approaches. Melanie believes in the power of collaboration and is dedicated to helping her clients navigate overwhelming feelings of stress and persistent negative thoughts. She employs an integrative approach, intertwining mindfulness and attachment-based techniques, to foster resilience and compassion within her clients. Melanie creates a warm and supportive therapeutic environment, prioritizing the rapport with her clients to ensure a genuine connection. Her passion for assisting others shines through in her practice, where she feels privileged to guide individuals and families on their journey toward well-being and fulfillment.
Specialties
Anxiety Mindfulness PTSD/Trauma
Gerardo Horischnik

Gerardo Horischnik

Santa Monica, CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Gerardo Horischnik, LMFT, is a dedicated Marriage & Family Therapist renowned for his depth of experience with adults and elders over 65. He specializes in navigating the complex landscapes of depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. With a compassionate approach, Gerardo provides a safe space for individuals and couples to explore their emotions and overcome the barriers that may inhibit their growth. His extensive knowledge extends to trauma and PTSD, peer relationships, substance use, and coping skills. Gerardo utilizes a rich array of therapeutic modalities, including attachment-based, emotionally focused, and psychodynamic therapies, tailoring his methods to meet the unique needs of each client. With a focus on self-esteem and life transitions, he fosters an environment of healing and empowerment, helping clients to redefine their narratives and navigate the intricate challenges of life. His commitment to understanding cross-cultural themes and emotional disturbances makes him a trusted ally in the therapeutic journey.
Specialties
Addiction Alcohol/Drug Use Anxiety Depression Family Stress General Mental Health Grief PTSD/Trauma Relationship Stress
Flow House Therapy Center

Flow House Therapy Center

Santa Monica, CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Making that first call for therapy can be challenging for many individuals. Oftentimes, people have been contemplating this step for a while but may feel overwhelmed or uncertain about how to begin. Flow House Therapy Center understands this struggle and invites individuals to take that empowering first step. By reaching out, clients may experience an immediate boost in their journey toward healing and self-discovery. While the therapists at Flow House delve into the past, their primary focus is on how the present is being shaped by previous experiences. They prioritize moving forward rather than revisiting childhood issues repetitively. This team of professionals believes in a holistic approach, taking into account the mind, body, and spirit. In addition to traditional talk therapy, they offer innovative brain-based and body-based therapies, including EMDR, Brainspotting, and Somatic Therapy—tools that can facilitate quicker and deeper breakthroughs when processing past trauma. Flow House Therapy Center boasts a group of direct and transparent therapists who are dedicated to supporting and challenging clients with the utmost care. This dynamic allows clients to view their experiences from diverse perspectives, encouraging growth and preventing stagnation. Embarking on this journey with Flow House may very well be the first step toward a more fulfilling life.
Specialties
Getting Unstuck PTSD/Trauma
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Stephen Kenneally

Stephen Kenneally

Santa Monica, CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Stephen Kenneally, MA, MBA, LMFT, is a compassionate Marriage & Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience in helping individuals navigate their emotional challenges. He predominantly works with children, teens, adults, and elders, addressing issues such as trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and parenting challenges. Recognizing the significant impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on mental health, Stephen emphasizes the power of resilience and the importance of genuine human kindness in overcoming feelings of isolation and hopelessness. As a certified Jungian analyst, he specializes in guiding clients through their personal complexities and fostering their individuation process, allowing them to lead more meaningful and productive lives. Stephen believes that psychotherapy is a collaborative journey built on authenticity and trust, which is why he encourages individuals to explore different therapists before choosing the right fit for their therapeutic needs. His dedication to understanding and supporting each client's unique situation makes him a trusted partner in their healing journey.
Specialties
Addiction Alcohol/Drug Use Anxiety Chronic Pain Depression Grief Obsessive Compulsive Disorder PTSD/Trauma Parenting Relationship Stress
(shayna) Jean Lester

(shayna) Jean Lester

Santa Monica, CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Shayna Jean Lester, MS, LMFT, is a highly seasoned Marriage and Family Therapist who is excited to introduce a transformative element to her practice: Soul Retrieval. With a profound ability to help clients tap into their intuition and authentic selves using spiritual, not religious, tools, Shayna offers a safe space for those suffering from past or present traumas, abuse, or feelings of being uncherished. Her solution-based and spiritual counseling approach is tailored to each individual's unique situation, fostering deep listening and intentional engagement. Shayna aims to unlock new awareness for resolution and healing, believing in the authenticity and 'holy' essence within everyone. Her desire is to empower clients to become their best selves within their relationships, both with themselves and others. Assisting clients in healing from trauma, unfinished business, and life's myriad challenges, Shayna employs an eclectic therapeutic style designed to cater specifically to personal healing journeys. With decades of experience, she has guided numerous individuals through life issues that hinder joy and fulfillment. Known for her wisdom, interactive approach, empathy, and nurturing demeanor, Shayna serves as a compassionate guide on the path to personal healing. Additionally, she has a background as a non-denominational Spiritual Director/Counselor and former Prison Chaplain, enriching her understanding and compassion for diverse life experiences.
Specialties
50+ Addiction Alcohol/Drug Use Anxiety Bipolar Depression Domestic Violence Family Stress General Mental Health Grief LGBTQ+ Managing Emotions Men's & Women's Issues PTSD/Trauma Parenting Relationship Stress Spirituality

Additional Resources

There are many therapists in Santa Monica. They specialize in a wide range of topics, such as anxiety, depression, stress, relationships and family issues. If you’re having trouble finding a suitable local therapist, consider expanding your search to nearby areas.

Treatment Centers

Santa Monica, CA

Local centers provide specialist support for a range of issues. Browse local centers and get in contact with them directly.

Housing Assistance

Santa Monica, CA

There are a range of local organizations that provide housing assistance. Search for shelters, non profits and more by location.

Food Pantries & Support

Santa Monica, CA

There are local organizations that provide free or low cost food to local residents and families. Find a food pantry, outreach or relief program near you and check opening times.

Churches & Faith Based Support

Santa Monica, CA

Churches and local faith organizations provide free and charitable support near you. You can also chat to one of their trained listeners on 7 Cups.