Private Psychotherapy & Clinical Psychology in Santa Monica

Services

Treatment for Eating Disorders

Personalized therapy for individuals coping with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and other disordered eating patterns. Therapy includes psychoeducation, behavior change strategies, and skills to foster a healthier relationship with food and body image. Treatment is tailored to each person's unique needs, with compassion and ongoing support.

Trauma and PTSD Counseling

Specialized support for those experiencing trauma, whether from recent events or past experiences. Treatment incorporates EMDR and trauma-informed techniques to reduce distress, reframe negative beliefs, and build resilience. Therapy is paced to respect your readiness and foster a safe therapeutic environment.

Depression & Anxiety Treatment

Evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT are used to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. Treatment includes practical coping skills, cognitive restructuring, emotion regulation techniques, and support for daily life stressors. Therapy empowers clients to take active steps toward improved mental health and self-confidence.

Support for Personality Disorders

Comprehensive therapy for personality disorders combines DBT, CBT, and integrative approaches. The process focuses on increasing self-awareness, managing intense emotions, and improving interpersonal relationships. Treatment objectives are individualized to help clients build meaningful, functional lives.

How to Choose the Right Therapy

• Identify your main concerns (e.g., eating habits, trauma history, mood, anxiety, relationships).
• Consider if you have a prior preference for therapy type (CBT, DBT, EMDR), or if you're open to the recommended approach.
• Reflect on your readiness for change and seek a therapist with expertise in your areas of concern.
• Ask about treatment methods, expected process, and frequency during your consultation.
• Assess how comfortable and safe you feel during your initial interactions—therapeutic connection is essential for progress.

Who We Help

Next Steps: Booking a Consultation

• Contact the practice via phone or email to request an initial consultation. Please provide your preferred times and a brief description of your concerns.
• After an initial conversation, you will be scheduled for a comprehensive assessment session to discuss your background, challenges, and goals.
• Together, you and Dr. Locker will decide on a personalized treatment plan, including recommended therapy type and frequency.
• Questions about confidentiality, privacy, and insurance can be addressed in your first appointment. Please bring any relevant documentation or questions.

Our Therapy Approaches

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. It is effective for mood disorders, anxiety, and eating disorders. The process often includes structured exercises, homework, and skill-building for real-life situations.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT helps individuals regulate emotions, improve relationships, and manage crisis situations. Originally developed for borderline personality disorder, it is also effective for emotion dysregulation, self-harm, and anxiety.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based treatment for processing and reducing the emotional impact of traumatic memories. Through guided bilateral stimulation, clients reprocess disturbing events and develop new perspectives.

Preparing for Your First Session

• Think about your goals for therapy and topics you'd like to discuss.
• Bring any relevant medical or psychological records, if available.
• Write down a list of symptoms, experiences, or questions for your therapist.
• Review information about confidentiality and practice policies, which will be discussed at your intake appointment.
• If you have logistical or financial questions, prepare them for your first session.

Frequently Asked Questions

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