Connect with First Responders therapists in Santa Monica, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ therapists
A headshot image of Bruce Malcolm

Bruce Malcolm

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
1+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Bruce Malcolm, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Bruce has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Marriage and Family Therapy from California Baptist College.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
Life Transitions
Spirituality
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Empowering

Sometimes, hidden in a problem is a solution we wouldn’t consider without help. It’s my job to help you to find answers in a safe, authentic space where your voice matters. The solutions we find validate your strengths while you use those strengths to empower you to be the person you have always imagined you could be.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Robert Eichar

Robert Eichar

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
3+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Robert Eichar, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Robert has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Southern California.

West Sacramento, CA
Specialties
First Responders
ADHD
Anger Management
Men's Issues
Schizophrenia
Style
Insightful
Candid
Curious

I'm a 9-year Coast Guard veteran who became a therapist because I needed one. I work with people who are ready to actually do something about what's keeping them stuck. I specialize in trauma, anger, and life transitions.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nina Spaccarelli

Nina Spaccarelli

LMFT
8+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Nina Spaccarelli, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Nina has a Master of Science (MS) from Antioch University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
Style
Directive
Attuned
Collaborative

I’m a licensed therapist with 25 years of experience and training, licensed since 2018. I work with individuals navigating trauma, generational and family patterns, immigrant and political stress, postpartum concerns, high achievement, student-athletes, addiction in the family, suicide loss, and grief.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Lynn Wells

Lynn Wells

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Lynn Wells, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Lynn has a Master of Social Work from California State University, Northridge.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Women's Issues
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Supportive

Life can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. I provide a warm, supportive space where we'll explore the thoughts and experiences shaping your life, build practical coping skills, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. You don't have to have everything figured out before reaching out. I can help you take that first step.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Yurika Awano

Yurika Awano

LMFT
3+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Yurika Awano, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Yurika has a Master of Science (MS) Clinical Psychology from San Francisco State University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Cultural Stress
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Affirming

I’m an attuned, affirming therapist who works with adults seeking clarity, steadiness, and deeper understanding of themselves. I offer a grounded space to slow down, reflect, and explore the patterns, relationships, and identities shaping your experience.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Karin West

Karin West

LMFT
7+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Karin West, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Karin has a Master of Health Science (MHS) from California State University, Sacramento.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Panic Attacks
Stress
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. I’m a warm and down-to-earth therapist who provides a safe space to explore your concerns in a respectful non-judgmental atmosphere, providing a place in which you can feel comfortable to be you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Keby Reese

Keby Reese

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
6+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Keby Reese, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Keby has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from San Francisco State University.

Roseville, CA
Specialties
First Responders
Anger Management
Child Abuse or Neglect
Parenting
School Issues
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Collaborative

I believe that healing is a collaborative process built on trust and safety. As a Licensed Social Worker, I have dedicated my career to helping children, adults, and families navigate life’s challenges. If you’re looking for a partner in your healing journey, I would be honored to support you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Iulia Bogdan

Iulia Bogdan

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
9+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Iulia Bogdan, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Iulia has a Master in Counseling (MC) from National University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Codependency
Depression
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
Style
Directive
Approachable
Empowering

I am a warm and compassionate therapist who believes that growth happens when support if balanced with honesty and accountability. My style is kind ,direct, and collaborative. My goal is to create a space where my clients feel safe, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Roselle Smith

Roselle Smith

LMFT
5+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Roselle Smith, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Practical
Approachable
Supportive

I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered care in a safe and supportive environment. My approach focuses on helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, build resilience, and develop practical strategies to improve their mental health.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Elizabeth Ogah

Elizabeth Ogah

LCSW
7+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Elizabeth Ogah, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Elizabeth has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Loyola University Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
Career Counseling
Mood Disorders
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I prefer to go by Liz. I am an adult adoptee who has worked in the foster care/adoption field for over 7 years, as well as working with addiction/recovery, trauma-informed care, and homelessness services in various capacities for nearly the same amount of time. I am a married mom of 2 with a heart full of compassion, kindness, and lived experience.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Annabel Vargas

Annabel Vargas

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Annabel Vargas, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Annabel has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Fullerton.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
Impulse Control Disorders
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Motivational

Whether you’re dealing with non-stop stress, feeling stuck in an anxious loop, navigating a messy life transition, or trying to untangle family drama, it is completely normal to need some support. I’m here to offer a down-to-earth, judgment-free space where we can sort through it all together and get you back to feeling like yourself.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Rhonda Foley

Rhonda Foley

LCSW
12+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Rhonda Foley, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Rhonda has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Southern California.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
Codependency
Panic Attacks
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Practical
Candid
Affirming

People often come to therapy because something in their life isn't working the way they hoped. It can be a recent event or maybe a pattern that's been present for years. Whatever brings you here, we'll work together to better understand what's getting in the way, identify your strengths, and develop realistic strategies that support lasting change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Leslie Dorticos

Leslie Dorticos

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
1+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Leslie Dorticos, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Leslie has a Master of Clinical Health Services from Turo University Worldwide.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

When circumstances or life, in general, can feel overwhelming, either from past history or current situations, getting through the day can be a struggle. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where your story matters.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Alexandria Hughes

Alexandria Hughes

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
4+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Alexandria Hughes, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Alexandria has a Doctor of Behavioral Health from Arizona State University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Chapman College.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Directive
Warm
Collaborative

I'm passionate about helping people improve their health through personalized, realistic care. I provide honest guidance, practical strategies, and ongoing support to help you build healthy habits, reach your goals, and feel your best— even if it starts with drinking one more glass of water a day.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Adrienne Buenrostro

Adrienne Buenrostro

LCSW
12+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Adrienne Buenrostro, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Adrienne has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Fullerton.

Ladera Ranch, CA
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Grief
Life Transitions
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Empowering

I have been a practicing LCSW since 2017 with experience working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, periods of adjustment and more.

Available virtually

A headshot image of William Larkin

William Larkin

LCSW
7+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like William Larkin, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

William has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Fullerton.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Divorce
Life Transitions
Panic Attacks
Relationship Issues
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Supportive

I am a licensed psychotherapist that believes therapy should feel like a genuine conversation, not an interview. My goal is to create a space where you can be honest, understood, and challenged in ways that help you move forward. Together, we'll help you build a life that feels more meaningful and manageable.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Patricia Rutledge

Patricia Rutledge

LPCC
3+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Patricia Rutledge, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Patricia has a Master of Arts (MA) in Co from Occurring Disorders - Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Supportive

Painful experiences can leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the life you want. I specialize in helping adults heal from childhood and adult physical, sexual, and emotional trauma; military trauma; addiction and recovery; grief; anxiety; depression; and life’s “little t” traumas. If ready for change, I invite you to reach out.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sarah Chavez

Sarah Chavez

LPCC
3+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Sarah Chavez, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Sarah has a Masters in Counseling (MC) in Mental Health Clinical Counseling from Capella University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Cultural Stress
Grief
Life Transitions
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

Have you been looking for a space where you can feel genuinely seen and understood? I believe meaningful change happens through a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, safety, and connection. My approach is warm, culturally responsive, and centered on meeting you where you are.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Karen Barnoy

Karen Barnoy

LMFT
5+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Karen Barnoy, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Karen has a Masters of Arts (MA) from Antioch University Santa Barbara.

California
Specialties
First Responders
ADHD
Addiction
Eating Disorders
Mood Disorders
Personality Disorders
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I offer a warm, trauma-informed, and collaborative space where you can explore life's challenges, reconnect with your strengths, and deepen your understanding of yourself. Together, we'll work toward creating lasting change that feels authentic, meaningful, and aligned with your values.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Anthony Palma

Anthony Palma

LCSW
3+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Anthony Palma, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Coping Skills
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

Theres a common saying in the helping profession "Meet the client where they're at" But what if you don't know where, barely care or too conflicted to decide. Let's put some time aside regularly to explore, uncover and possibly discover what's next for you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Samuel Semanda

Samuel Semanda

LMFT
4+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Samuel Semanda, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

I'm an LMFT, and I warmly welcome you as you begin this work together. In an intersubjective approach, I focus on how your experiences and our therapeutic relationship unfold in the room, creating safety, meaning, and momentum.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Griselda Garcilazo

Griselda Garcilazo

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC
10+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Griselda Garcilazo, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Griselda has a Master's of Science (MS) in Counseling from Loma Linda University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Career Counseling
Chronic Illness
Depression
Life Transitions
Style
Directive
Attuned
Collaborative

I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a M.S. in Counseling with dual specialization in Clinical Counseling and School Counseling from Loma Linda University. My professional focus has been serving complex care populations, which has informed my work in establishing comprehensive counseling services within various settings.

Griselda is very understanding and accommodating with her appointments, so if I need to reschedule or I am sick she has been able to reschedule me, no charge. Not only this, but she is an all around great therapist to have who provides logic and wisdom.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Amber Hayslett-Atkison

Amber Hayslett-Atkison

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
14+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Amber Hayslett-Atkison, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Amber has a Master of Science in Counseling from California State University, Hayward.

Denair, CA
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Coping Skills
Grief
Self-Harming
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Supportive

Welcome! If you are navigating heavy life changes, family stress, or complex behavioral hurdles, we will work side-by-side in a safe space to figure it out together. I focus on bringing clarity and practical strategy to your challenges so you feel grounded and confident. Let’s connect and handle this next step together.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Tulare Mott

Tulare Mott

LCSW
13+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Tulare Mott, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Tulare has a Master of Social Work from San Diego State University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Autism or Asperger's Syndrome
Behavioral Issues
Developmental Disorders
Parenting
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Collaborative

Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward? I help adults navigate anxiety, stress, life transitions, and difficult emotional or behavioral patterns through a compassionate and practical approach. If you’re seeking greater clarity, confidence, and balance, I invite you to reach out.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kerry Cannon

Kerry Cannon

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
14+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Kerry Cannon, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Kerry has a Master of Social Work from California State University, Sacramento.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Aging
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Life Transitions
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Empowering

I work alongside you as the expert on your life through active listening, reframing, and proactive support. I can teach you coping tools like visual imagery, breathing techniques, radical acceptance, and ways to reframe unproductive thoughts that don't serve you well.

Kerry undid a lot of the worries I had returning to therapy. I had previous experiences that kept me from trying it again for many years. She took every opportunity to support me in the specific ways I needed to feel supported. Her honesty and transparency about the progress I was making, the treatment itself, and what she felt would suit me or not made me feel safe and seen. I learned several techniques to temper my anxiety, depression, and PTSD that have now become part of my daily life and improved my mental health. I appreciate Kerry’s therapy style and would love to return to her in the future should I find myself needing support once again.

Available virtually