In-person psychotherapy in Santa Monica, Los Angeles, and Telehealth in New York

Struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, a creative block, or a relationship or career that feels stuck? I’m Ira Israel, and for 17 years I’ve helped individuals and couples move through exactly these situations — often faster than they expect.

I see clients in-person in Santa Monica and Los Angeles, and online throughout New York. Call 310-430-5150 and we’ll talk for a few minutes so you can see if we’re a match. No pressure.

Who I work with

I work with individuals and couples, specializing in creative professionals — writers, filmmakers, musicians, and artists — who carry pressures most therapists don’t fully understand: unstable income, constant rejection, isolation, burnout, etc.

Individual clients come to me for:

Anxiety, depression, burnout, or feeling stuck
ADHD, OCD, trauma, or codependency
Relationship conflict, infidelity, or painful breakups
Family conflict, parenting challenges, or grief
Addiction, dating and intimacy issues, or career distress
Major life transitions, or questions about meaning and purpose

Couples come to me for greater understanding, appreciation compassion, and intimacy – often after just one or two sessions. If your relationship feels stuck, our first session will shift your dynamic more than you imagine.

My approach

My style is authentic, compassionate, and solution-focused. I integrate Buddhist psychology, Vedanta, Kabbalah, and other contemplative and spiritual traditions with evidence-based methods including CBT, DBT, existential, attachment and narrative therapy.

I have 17 years of experience helping individuals quickly identify deep-rooted wounds and giving them practical tools to release trauma and ease anxiety and depression. Couples report greater understanding, compassion, and intimacy after just one or two sessions.

Together we will clarify what’s going on with you, identify your priorities, see what’s in your blindspots, and build a practical path to ameliorate your symptoms and solve your problems.

Call 310-430-5150 now to schedule a session.

authentic

“Ira is an amazing therapist. I have been to many therapists over the years— Ira’s ability to create a safe, loving environment to navigate intense and vulnerable places is rare. He is dedicated and thoughtful—I would highly recommend him to anyone.” ~ MB

compassionate

“Ira is authentic, compassionate and honors the people he encounters with true connection. He has a unique gift, through his brilliance and empathy, to inspire you, make you laugh and make you think. If you have a chance to work with him or learn from him, don’t hesitate, as it may just change your life!” ~ SG

solutions

“Working with Ira has been a life altering experience that has brought our marriage to place we knew was possible but that we were unable to reach on our own. He is thoughtful in his approach and if you are willing to do the work he will be there to push and support your efforts to make positive change.” ~ VL

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer in-person or online therapy?
I prefer meeting in-person in my Santa Monica office for Los Angeles clients. I offer Telehealth for clients based in New York and when distance and traffic are problematic.

Do you work with couples?
Yes! In fact I’ve been called “The Couples Whisperer” and I have an amazing protocol that rejuvenates intimacy and teaches highly-effective communication tools to help each party feel truly understood by their partner.

Do you accept United Healthcare, Optum or Cigna health insurance?
Yes! Just email your date of birth and insurance card to Ira@IraIsrael.com and I’ll tell you your co-pay.

Do you accept Aetna insurance?
Yes! Just sign up with Headway and schedule a time.

Do you accept Motion Picture Industry (MPI) insurance?
Motion Picture Industry (MPI) health plans often route through Optum. Email Ira@IraIsrael.com your date of birth and card and I’ll check.

How do I find out what my co-pay and deductible are?
Email your date of birth and a photo of your insurance card to Ira@IraIsrael.com and I’ll confirm your co-pay and deductible before your first session.

Can I pay with my HSA card?
Yes! No problem.

Do you accept Blue Shield or Anthem or any other health insurances besides the one you mentioned?
No, I’m sorry, but I do not. For those companies I give superbills for you to submit for reimbursement.

Do you accept Medicare or Medical?
No, I’m sorry, but I do not.

Are you the kind of therapist who sits there and goes “Uh-huh, uh-huh, how does that make you feel?”?
Absolutely not!

What is your therapeutic approach?
I combine Buddhist psychology, Vedanta (Upanishads), and Kabbalah with CBT, DBT, existential, attachment and narrative therapy, tailored to each client.

Est-ce que vous offrez des séances en français ?
Absolument ! Je serai ravi de mener nos séances en français si vous le préférez.