Photo of Hannah Sandler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hannah Sandler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90408
It is so tough when we feel we are only surviving and not truly living. We may want to completely live our fullest lives, yet struggle with it when we are not feeling deserving, worthy, or heard. Feeling different and having experienced trauma does not have to guide our lives. I want to encourage you on your journey of learning how to be your best self, which includes providing self-compassion and challenge to overcome. We all have an underlying need for connection and remaining authentic to who we are is vital. I believe that everyone is capable of change and getting their power back. I want to help you get there.
It is so tough when we feel we are only surviving and not truly living. We may want to completely live our fullest lives, yet struggle with it when we are not feeling deserving, worthy, or heard. Feeling different and having experienced trauma does not have to guide our lives. I want to encourage you on your journey of learning how to be your best self, which includes providing self-compassion and challenge to overcome. We all have an underlying need for connection and remaining authentic to who we are is vital. I believe that everyone is capable of change and getting their power back. I want to help you get there.
(424) 678-0976 View (424) 678-0976
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 328-6161 View (949) 328-6161
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 694-3895 View (949) 694-3895
Photo of Alexandra Rudd-Barnard, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Alexandra Rudd-Barnard
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I believe everyone can obtain mental stability and peak performance even during life transitions and crisis situations. At One Neuro our clinicians provide therapy, tailored evaluations, mindfulness, and neurofeedback, treatment for children and adults who experience low achievement, attentional challenges, learning difficulties, and developmental disorders. We also work with individuals who have complex medical conditions (e.g., tics, concussion, migraines, epilepsy, chronic pain, sleep difficulty, cancer, TBI, genetic conditions) that may be impacting their adaptive functioning.
I believe everyone can obtain mental stability and peak performance even during life transitions and crisis situations. At One Neuro our clinicians provide therapy, tailored evaluations, mindfulness, and neurofeedback, treatment for children and adults who experience low achievement, attentional challenges, learning difficulties, and developmental disorders. We also work with individuals who have complex medical conditions (e.g., tics, concussion, migraines, epilepsy, chronic pain, sleep difficulty, cancer, TBI, genetic conditions) that may be impacting their adaptive functioning.
(424) 361-0415 View (424) 361-0415
Photo of Mara Tansman - Psychological Assessment Services, PsyD, QME, Psychologist
Psychological Assessment Services
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
With over 20 years experience providing comprehensive psychological assessments, Psychological Assessment Services specializes in assessing cognitive functioning and identifying Dyslexia, learning disabilities as well as attention and concentration difficulties (ADHD) that may result in behavioral or social issues. We provide testing accommodations where appropriate. We also perform pre-adoption evaluations, competency evaluations and pre-surgical evaluations including for surrogate and egg donor/sperm donors. We can provide expert court testimony, return to work, fitness for duty and workers comp evaluations.
With over 20 years experience providing comprehensive psychological assessments, Psychological Assessment Services specializes in assessing cognitive functioning and identifying Dyslexia, learning disabilities as well as attention and concentration difficulties (ADHD) that may result in behavioral or social issues. We provide testing accommodations where appropriate. We also perform pre-adoption evaluations, competency evaluations and pre-surgical evaluations including for surrogate and egg donor/sperm donors. We can provide expert court testimony, return to work, fitness for duty and workers comp evaluations.
(310) 734-0306 View (310) 734-0306
Photo of Sally Hackman, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sally Hackman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I also work with learning issues.
People are my passion! Is life for you or your child not going the way you'd like? In a supportive and confidential environment we can work together to identify the obstacles that are in the way of life being all that you want for yourself, your relationships, or your child. There are many approaches to psychotherapy, but research indicates that the patient-therapist relationship is a crucial factor. The beginning of therapy is creating that relationship and building trust. My focus is the present but I use the past that lives inside you to free you from its influence.
I also work with learning issues.
People are my passion! Is life for you or your child not going the way you'd like? In a supportive and confidential environment we can work together to identify the obstacles that are in the way of life being all that you want for yourself, your relationships, or your child. There are many approaches to psychotherapy, but research indicates that the patient-therapist relationship is a crucial factor. The beginning of therapy is creating that relationship and building trust. My focus is the present but I use the past that lives inside you to free you from its influence.
(310) 846-8118 View (310) 846-8118
Photo of Adrienne Salick, PsyD, Psychologist
Adrienne Salick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I have expertise with children who have special needs (ASD, learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disturbances).
I specialize in therapy with children, adolescents, parents, and families, dealing with life transitions and crises impacting social, emotional, academic, and interpersonal functioning. Goals may include working through a difficult transition, relieving specific troubling symptoms, building coping strategies to manage difficult feelings (anxiety, depression, frustration), improving communication, improving the quality of relationships, increasing social skills, reducing conflict, improving conflict resolution and problem solving skills, and gaining greater insight and awareness for personal growth.
I have expertise with children who have special needs (ASD, learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disturbances).
I specialize in therapy with children, adolescents, parents, and families, dealing with life transitions and crises impacting social, emotional, academic, and interpersonal functioning. Goals may include working through a difficult transition, relieving specific troubling symptoms, building coping strategies to manage difficult feelings (anxiety, depression, frustration), improving communication, improving the quality of relationships, increasing social skills, reducing conflict, improving conflict resolution and problem solving skills, and gaining greater insight and awareness for personal growth.
(310) 231-6492 View (310) 231-6492
Photo of Cathy Diaz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults that are experiencing depression, anxiety, learning differences and grief.
No matter what is going on within you and around you, there is always hope. You do not have to face life alone. Life brings us challenges that can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, and grief. Together we can create an individualized plan to help you heal and create the life that you desire. As a warm and caring therapist, it would be my honor to be a part of your healing process. Through our work together, I am committed to helping you recognize your strengths and innate resiliency that would allow you to thrive at home, work, and in relationships.
I specialize in working with adults that are experiencing depression, anxiety, learning differences and grief.
No matter what is going on within you and around you, there is always hope. You do not have to face life alone. Life brings us challenges that can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, and grief. Together we can create an individualized plan to help you heal and create the life that you desire. As a warm and caring therapist, it would be my honor to be a part of your healing process. Through our work together, I am committed to helping you recognize your strengths and innate resiliency that would allow you to thrive at home, work, and in relationships.
(424) 297-1537 View (424) 297-1537
Photo of Anna Selena Cho, LMFT, ATR, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Selena Cho
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Dr. Anna Selena Cho, was born in Los Angeles and has personal experience living bi-culturally. Dr. Cho was traditionally trained in visual arts in her early developmental years and eventually obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, and her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Cho has developed programs with organizations wanting to further expand their learning standards towards socio-emotional integration.
Dr. Anna Selena Cho, was born in Los Angeles and has personal experience living bi-culturally. Dr. Cho was traditionally trained in visual arts in her early developmental years and eventually obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, and her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Cho has developed programs with organizations wanting to further expand their learning standards towards socio-emotional integration.
(310) 340-2835 View (310) 340-2835
Photo of Kimberly Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Are you struggling with life's curve balls, which are negatively impacting your moods, motivation, stress level, which then affect your relationships, work, school, dreams and goals? As I join you on your therapeutic journey, I will help you navigate life's curve balls and challenging times through "connecting your life dots" (past, present and future) and by learning healthy coping skills and strategies to apply. My biggest goal for you will be to guide you on how to build your "solid sense of self," so you can live a life that is authenic and emotionally fulfilling.
Are you struggling with life's curve balls, which are negatively impacting your moods, motivation, stress level, which then affect your relationships, work, school, dreams and goals? As I join you on your therapeutic journey, I will help you navigate life's curve balls and challenging times through "connecting your life dots" (past, present and future) and by learning healthy coping skills and strategies to apply. My biggest goal for you will be to guide you on how to build your "solid sense of self," so you can live a life that is authenic and emotionally fulfilling.
(310) 347-4511 View (310) 347-4511
Photo of Keren Givol, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Keren Givol
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
I’m so happy you’re on this site and thinking about therapy. There are many factors to consider when picking a therapist and, most importantly, you want it to be the right fit for you. The relationship between a therapist and client is the strongest indicator for success in treatment, and my ultimate goal is to create a safe and secure environment. My professional and personal mindset is to be a lifelong learner. I’m always learning from clients, as there is no single approach to therapy. I believe in meeting you where you are, working side-by-side to achieve your goals, and together finding the best path to help you heal and grow.
I’m so happy you’re on this site and thinking about therapy. There are many factors to consider when picking a therapist and, most importantly, you want it to be the right fit for you. The relationship between a therapist and client is the strongest indicator for success in treatment, and my ultimate goal is to create a safe and secure environment. My professional and personal mindset is to be a lifelong learner. I’m always learning from clients, as there is no single approach to therapy. I believe in meeting you where you are, working side-by-side to achieve your goals, and together finding the best path to help you heal and grow.
(310) 919-1289 View (310) 919-1289
Photo of Elizabeth Jerison Terry, PhD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Jerison Terry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Why therapy? Why assessment? In both, my approach identifies barriers and builds bridges to success. Therapy may address personal issues (e.g., anxiety/depression/OCD, sleep problems, living one's values) or supporting a family member with neuropsychological issues (brain injury, Alzheimer's, seizures, ADHD, LD). Assessment may help answer: Why is my child struggling in school? How does their neurological history affect daily performance? Is my child gifted? What kind of accommodations can we get for ADHD/learning disabilities/autism? I had a diagnosis as a kid, what does that mean for me now? Visit:www.elizabethjerisonterryphd.com
Why therapy? Why assessment? In both, my approach identifies barriers and builds bridges to success. Therapy may address personal issues (e.g., anxiety/depression/OCD, sleep problems, living one's values) or supporting a family member with neuropsychological issues (brain injury, Alzheimer's, seizures, ADHD, LD). Assessment may help answer: Why is my child struggling in school? How does their neurological history affect daily performance? Is my child gifted? What kind of accommodations can we get for ADHD/learning disabilities/autism? I had a diagnosis as a kid, what does that mean for me now? Visit:www.elizabethjerisonterryphd.com
(818) 873-3108 View (818) 873-3108
Photo of Meredith Moersch, PsyD, Psychologist
Meredith Moersch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I also serve as the associate director of the Brain Learning Center and have published work on building social-emotional intelligence in school-aged children.
As a UCLA-trained pediatric neuropsychologist, I specialize in the assessment and treatment of children and young adults with neurocognitive, academic, and social-emotional differences. I draw upon my knowledge of psychology and neuroscience to provide comprehensive, customized, and evidence-based care to help children and young adults thrive across home, school, and community settings. I work with an array of clinical presentations, including depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and autism spectrum disorder.
I also serve as the associate director of the Brain Learning Center and have published work on building social-emotional intelligence in school-aged children.
As a UCLA-trained pediatric neuropsychologist, I specialize in the assessment and treatment of children and young adults with neurocognitive, academic, and social-emotional differences. I draw upon my knowledge of psychology and neuroscience to provide comprehensive, customized, and evidence-based care to help children and young adults thrive across home, school, and community settings. I work with an array of clinical presentations, including depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and autism spectrum disorder.
(424) 581-0821 View (424) 581-0821
Photo of Mia Weiler, LMHC, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Mia Weiler
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I look forward to meeting you and learning about you.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions? Have you experienced loss, trauma, or other challenges? I am here for you, to help you overcome the emotional pain of past experiences. As a teen, I myself personally experienced the devastating losses of multiple loved ones. Through my own heartbreak, emotional pain, and grief, I was even more inspired to comfort and sit with others during their most challenging times. Funny thing is: I knew I wanted to become a psychotherapist before I even know what a therapist was! I feel so lucky today to counsel clients with such diverse and different stories, backgrounds, and experiences.
I look forward to meeting you and learning about you.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions? Have you experienced loss, trauma, or other challenges? I am here for you, to help you overcome the emotional pain of past experiences. As a teen, I myself personally experienced the devastating losses of multiple loved ones. Through my own heartbreak, emotional pain, and grief, I was even more inspired to comfort and sit with others during their most challenging times. Funny thing is: I knew I wanted to become a psychotherapist before I even know what a therapist was! I feel so lucky today to counsel clients with such diverse and different stories, backgrounds, and experiences.
(310) 691-1163 View (310) 691-1163
Photo of Tere C Linzey - BrainMatterZ Inc, MA, LEP, PhD
BrainMatterZ Inc
Licensed Educational Psychologist, MA, LEP, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401  (Online Only)
We test and train the brain in the same way an athlete trains for excellence! We make smart kids smarter….
We test and train the brain in the same way an athlete trains for excellence! We make smart kids smarter….
(831) 201-1989 View (831) 201-1989
Photo of Daniel C. Slavin, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel C. Slavin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
If your goals or dreams have drifted, seem out of reach, or you just feel stuck, I can help navigate you to a better understanding of yourself for permanent change. I learn to speak your individual language, to help and coach you to live a more manageable and meaningful life. I take a goal-oriented approach to psychotherapy. My innovative techniques help to empower patients to learn the tools and strategies they need to navigate through life challenges. I will assist you in defining achievable goals and will help you learn simple, understandable procedures that will become second nature to help you reach those goals.
If your goals or dreams have drifted, seem out of reach, or you just feel stuck, I can help navigate you to a better understanding of yourself for permanent change. I learn to speak your individual language, to help and coach you to live a more manageable and meaningful life. I take a goal-oriented approach to psychotherapy. My innovative techniques help to empower patients to learn the tools and strategies they need to navigate through life challenges. I will assist you in defining achievable goals and will help you learn simple, understandable procedures that will become second nature to help you reach those goals.
(424) 286-4938 View (424) 286-4938
Photo of Meggie Purpura, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meggie Purpura
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Are you struggling to confidently engage in your life and relationships because of anxiety or a negative internal voice? My approach is kind, curious, and collaborative as we explore how you got here and identify the steps needed to make empowered changes in your life. We will challenge outdated belief systems and shift behavioral patterns that are negatively impacting your confidence and self-worth. I create a safe and trusting space to process and heal from past traumas, and to work through difficult relational dynamics. I'll be your compassionate and supportive guide as you build an independent and more meaningful life.
Are you struggling to confidently engage in your life and relationships because of anxiety or a negative internal voice? My approach is kind, curious, and collaborative as we explore how you got here and identify the steps needed to make empowered changes in your life. We will challenge outdated belief systems and shift behavioral patterns that are negatively impacting your confidence and self-worth. I create a safe and trusting space to process and heal from past traumas, and to work through difficult relational dynamics. I'll be your compassionate and supportive guide as you build an independent and more meaningful life.
(310) 742-1727 View (310) 742-1727
Photo of Susan Zinn, LPCC, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Susan Zinn
Counselor, LPCC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Psychotherapy is one of the most powerful tools for transforming one's life, and seeking support takes courage. I specialize in working with teenagers, young adults, and families and the obstacles they face throughout life transitions. I am particularly interested in supporting parents through complex challenges ranging from pregnancy and infertility, adulting teen difficulties and the college process, relationships and high achievement issues, divorce, and the "empty nest." As a heart-focused therapist, I am committed to empowering people to build the internal strengths and resources to live their desired life.
Psychotherapy is one of the most powerful tools for transforming one's life, and seeking support takes courage. I specialize in working with teenagers, young adults, and families and the obstacles they face throughout life transitions. I am particularly interested in supporting parents through complex challenges ranging from pregnancy and infertility, adulting teen difficulties and the college process, relationships and high achievement issues, divorce, and the "empty nest." As a heart-focused therapist, I am committed to empowering people to build the internal strengths and resources to live their desired life.
(424) 543-6324 View (424) 543-6324
Photo of Sandra Dupont - LA Teen Whisperer - Emerging Adulthood Specialist, Marriage & Family Therapist
LA Teen Whisperer - Emerging Adulthood Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I assist teens who are lagging in their developmental skills to boost their self-esteem, perform better in school, and prepare for college environments. I help parents to identify and support their teen’s needs, so they can better reach their maximum potential.
I assist teens who are lagging in their developmental skills to boost their self-esteem, perform better in school, and prepare for college environments. I help parents to identify and support their teen’s needs, so they can better reach their maximum potential.
(424) 581-0115 View (424) 581-0115
Photo of Shannon M Kalberg - Westside Therapy Collective, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Westside Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
If you are looking for long-term change and a team of highly effective therapists, look no further. We believe that therapy begins with finding the right fit with the perfect therapist who takes a collaborative and holistic approach. Our team incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational therapy. Please contact Shannon Kalberg, LMFT to book a free 20-minute phone consultation.
If you are looking for long-term change and a team of highly effective therapists, look no further. We believe that therapy begins with finding the right fit with the perfect therapist who takes a collaborative and holistic approach. Our team incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational therapy. Please contact Shannon Kalberg, LMFT to book a free 20-minute phone consultation.
(844) 592-0133 View (844) 592-0133
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Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists

How effective is treatment for learning disabilities?

When initiated early and tailored to a child’s specific needs, learning disability treatment can be quite effective at helping a child cope with their disability, though its exact efficacy may depend on the severity of symptoms and whether comorbid disorders exist. Less is known about treatment initiated in adulthood, but it is certainly possible that an adult with a learning disability will see some improvement—or at the very least, identify workarounds and accommodations that could make symptoms less burdensome in day-to-day life.

When should someone seek treatment for learning disabilities?

It’s best to seek treatment as early as possible. Because learning disabilities often go unnoticed until a child starts school, or even until they’re a few years along, regular check-ins with teachers and doctors can help parents determine whether children are meeting milestones and keeping up with peers or whether an evaluation for learning disabilities may be warranted. And although earlier is always better, it’s never too late to be evaluated for learning disabilities and to seek treatment.

What happens if learning disabilities are left untreated?

Undiagnosed and untreated learning disabilities can be a source of significant frustration and shame for a child, who may feel that their challenges stem from a lack of intelligence or willpower. Such feelings can trigger low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety, which may push a child toward risky behaviors, including substance use. In adulthood, untreated learning disabilities can interfere with career success, and lingering feelings of self-doubt and shame can negatively affect someone’s mental health.

Are there medications for learning disabilities?

Currently, there are no medications designed to treat specific learning disabilities such as dysgraphia or dyscalculia. However, someone with a learning disability may be prescribed medication for a comorbid condition, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, which may have positive downstream effects on their learning disability; for example, a child with both ADHD and dyslexia may find that they’re better able to focus on their reading exercises after being prescribed a stimulant medication.