Connect with Career Counseling therapists in Santa Monica, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ therapists
A headshot image of Lindsey Gaudioso

Lindsey Gaudioso

LCSW
5+ years

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

Lindsey has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Northridge.

Northridge, CA
Specialties
Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
Parenting
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Attuned
Curious

I am a compassionate, clear, and curious therapist. My priority is to get to know you, your life, and explore what makes you, you. Together we work to discover what you would like to see be different in your life and set transparent goals for this.

Available virtually and in person

A headshot image of Colin Ebeling

Colin Ebeling

LMFT

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

Colin has a Masters of Arts (MA) Counseling Psychology from Emphasis in MFT - Pacifica Graduate Institute.

Burbank, CA
Specialties
Career Counseling
Adoption
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
LGBTQIA+
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Affirming

You don’t have to have everything figured out before reaching out. I help adults navigate anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, identity, and life transitions with warmth and curiosity. Together, we’ll explore the patterns shaping your life and help you feel more grounded, connected, and fully yourself.

Available virtually and in person

A headshot image of Alexander Walters

Alexander Walters

LMFT
7+ years

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

Alexander has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy from Brandman University.

North Hollywood, CA
Specialties
Career Counseling
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Men's Issues
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Directive
Approachable
Empowering

My approach is warm, supportive, and collaborative. I believe meaningful change happens when you feel genuinely heard and understood, and together we will work toward practical tools, deeper insight, and lasting growth that aligns with your goals and values.

Available virtually and in person

A headshot image of Prana Seth

Prana Seth

LMFT
3+ years

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

Prana has a Masters of Arts (MA) Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate University.

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Family Conflict
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Empowering

I help clients with burnout, overfunctioning, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and relationship struggles, with an understanding of cultural identity and family expectations. I work with motivated adults and couples who are used to holding it all together—but feel stretched thin, anxious, or disconnected from themselves and others.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Marlu Harris

Marlu Harris

LMFT
32+ years

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

Marlu has a Masters of Arts (MA) Clinical Psychology from Antioch College.

Santa Monica, CA
Specialties
Career Counseling
Anxiety
Grief
Relationship Issues
Spirituality
Women's Issues
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Motivational

Whether you’re navigating anxiety, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, or personal growth, I am committed to providing a safe space for reflection, healing, and change. Together, we’ll strengthen your connection to yourself and cultivate the awareness, confidence, and self-compassion needed to move forward with greater clarity and ease.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Alex Melkumian

Alex Melkumian

LMFT
14+ years

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

Alex has a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) from Ryokan College.

Santa Monica, CA
Specialties
Career Counseling
Anxiety
Depression
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Curious

I'm a former athlete specializing in financial therapy. I offer traditional therapy, sports psychology, and strategies addressing the interplay between emotional and financial well-being. My practice is attuned to professionals and working Americans facing financial stress alongside career demands.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Katheryn Whittaker

Katheryn Whittaker

LMFT
19+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Katheryn Whittaker, 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.

Santa Monica, CA
Specialties
Career Counseling
Addiction
Alcohol Use
Anxiety
Gambling
Substance Use
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

I offer supportive counseling tailored to your needs and goals.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Christal-Joi Whitaker

Christal-Joi Whitaker

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
14+ years

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

Christal-Joi has a Master of Arts (MA) with Specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.

Rolling Hills, CA
Specialties
Career Counseling
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Substance Use
Style
Exploratory
Candid
Curious

I help adults and children of all cultures and beliefs discover their authentic selves and live stable, healthy lives filled with love and rewarding relationships. My goal is to support you in walking in harmony with your true nature. I can incorporate a biblical perspective for clients who share a love for Jesus Christ.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Zephon Lister

Zephon Lister

LMFT
17+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Zephon Lister, 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
Career Counseling
Chronic Illness
Relationship Issues
Spirituality
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

Life can feel overwhelming when anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, or life transitions leave you feeling stuck or disconnected. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore what you’re experiencing, recognize patterns, and create meaningful change that helps you feel more empowered to shape the life and relationships you want.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Suzanne Shumaker

Suzanne Shumaker

LCSW
1+ years

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

Suzanne has a Master of Social Work from University of Southern California.

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
Addiction
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Empowering

I’m glad you’re here. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where you can feel comfortable being yourself, explore what’s bringing you to therapy, and work together toward the changes that feel meaningful to you. We’ll move at a pace that feels comfortable for you, and I’ll meet you where you are.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Anthony Holmquist-Burks

Anthony Holmquist-Burks

LCSW
1+ years

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

Anthony has a Master of Social Work from Augsburg College.

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
Anger Management
Life Transitions
School Issues
Substance Use
Style
Exploratory
Spiritual
Empowering

Taking the first step toward healing, growth, and emotional wellness is a meaningful act of courage. I provide a supportive, compassionate, and culturally responsive space where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kim Paylor

Kim Paylor

LPCC
6+ years

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

Kim has a Master of Science (MS) in professional clinical counseling from Grand Canyon University.

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
Anxiety
Depression
Spirituality
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Affirming

My counseling style is warm, authentic, and collaborative, and I strive to create a safe space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. Rather than telling you what to do, I work alongside you to explore challenges, uncover strengths, and help you move toward the life you want to create.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jimmie Simpson

Jimmie Simpson

LMFT
9+ years

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

Jimmie has a Master in Counseling from University of Phoenix.

Los Angeles, CA
Specialties
Career Counseling
Addiction
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 10+ years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. I provide a warm, supportive, trauma-informed space where we'll work together to build resilience, healing, and lasting positive change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ebony Watson

Ebony Watson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
3+ years

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

Ebony has a Master of Social Work from University of Michigan School of Social Work.

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
Depression
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Collaborative

Reaching out to therapy is a meaningful first step. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who provides a grounded, affirming, and collaborative approach to therapy, specializing in life transitions, trauma, career stress, perfectionism, and women's issues.

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.

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

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
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 Andrew Sutherland

Andrew Sutherland

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Andrew has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University.

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
Anxiety
First Responders
Grief
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Empowering

Do you feel like you should be enjoying life more? Do thoughts of the past or images from a future keep you from moving forward with the things you want to do? Do you feel as if you are a passenger in your life rather than the one driving action, growth, change, and happiness?

Available virtually

A headshot image of Bruce Strumpf

Bruce Strumpf

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
2+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Bruce Strumpf, 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 of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute and a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Analytical and Archetypal Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute.

West Hollywood, CA
Specialties
Career Counseling
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Life Transitions
Men's Issues
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

Q: How many therapists does it take to change a lightbulb? A: Only one, but the lightbulb has to really want to change. Something brought you here. Something inside you is saying that you want some professional help. I take a curious, open-ended approach to help you figure out what kind of help that is. Let's do an exploratory call!

Available virtually

A headshot image of Laura Pennelle

Laura Pennelle

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
13+ years

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

Laura has a Master of Social Work (MSW) Title IVe and Administrative Social Work from San Diego State University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Career Counseling
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Candid
Empowering

I focus on treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, stress, self-esteem, addictions, grief, and life changes. I also help people navigate relationship conflict, domestic violence, codependency, and co-parenting challenges. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.

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
Career Counseling
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 Kaylah Renberg

Kaylah Renberg

LMFT

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

Kaylah has a Master of Arts (MA) from California School of Professional Psychology, San Diego.

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
Stress
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Empowering

I strive to create a warm, empathetic, and engaging environment where clients feel safe, respected, and genuinely heard. I listen with the intention of understanding your unique experiences and perspectives, while providing a supportive, judgment-free space for growth and self-exploration.

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
Career Counseling
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 Roberto Perez

Roberto Perez

LMFT

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

Roberto has a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Oaks College.

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
Anxiety
Depression
Divorce
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Affirming

I'm a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience and specialized training in Latino Family Studies. I work with adults and couples, providing a supportive and collaborative space to navigate life challenges, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Stacey Robbins-Podvin

Stacey Robbins-Podvin

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Stacey has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Stanislaus.

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
Addiction
Autism or Asperger's Syndrome
Depression
Mood Disorders
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Candid
Empowering

Counseling is a great step to assist in identifying goals and beginning forward progress. Life brings challenges and obstacles, and sometimes we are so close to a problem that we can't see the full picture. I am here to help.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Courtney Gingras

Courtney Gingras

LPCC
4+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Courtney Gingras, are mental health professionals 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
Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Mood Disorders
Peer Relationships
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Supportive

I understand that seeking therapy and navigating mental health challenges or life changes can feel overwhelming. I believe healing happens through genuine connection paired with real, actionable tools — and my goal is to meet you where you are, so we can work together toward lasting, meaningful change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ashley Pawling

Ashley Pawling

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
4+ years

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

Ashley has a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) Child Welfare from California State University, Fullerton.

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
Anxiety
Child Abuse or Neglect
Depression
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Practical
Approachable
Supportive

I help children discover that they are stronger, braver, and more capable than they think. I create a safe and supportive space where kids can openly explore their feelings, build confidence, and learn healthy ways to handle life’s ups and downs. My goal is for every child to feel heard, empowered, and ready to take on the world one step at a time.

Available virtually