Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Santa Monica, CA

I work with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. Many of my clients are professionals who appear successful and capable on the outside but privately feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck.

I also work extensively with men and husbands who have spent years believing they should be able to handle life's challenges on their own.

Before becoming a therapist, I spent more than 25 years in engineering and organizational leadership. That experience gives me an appreciation for the pressures of work, relationships, family responsibilities, and the challenge of balancing competing demands while trying to keep everything together.

For the past year, I've worked with adults facing serious mental health challenges at one of Los Angeles's largest public health systems, and what I've learned is that lasting change comes from relationships built on trust. Now I'm bringing that experience into private practice, where I can focus on what matters most: your individual progress. I work with people navigating anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and I offer flexible evening and weekend availability via telehealth throughout California. As a PMHNP, I'm here to support your whole mental health journey.

Hello, my name is Alexander Valenzuela PMHNP. I specialize in psychiatric medication management and cognitive behavioral talk therapy. If you're struggling with your mental health and realize you want help, you don't have to do it alone. I am looking forward to starting the journey with you to help achieve your best self.

I'm invested in helping you find value and joy in your life!

For over the past decade in this field, I have assisted clients at all stages of life. I prefer to show up with humility, humor, and genuine humanity.

I genuinely like people, have always love to help ,

Will take my clients through the therapeutic process, with empathy and care for their experience in therapy to be a positive one.

Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or facing challenges that seem difficult to navigate alone?

I believe life is a continuous journey of growth, resilience, and learning. I specialize in helping individuals work through relationship challenges, parenting concerns, life transitions, grief, crisis, and interpersonal conflicts. Together, we'll explore the emotional, psychological, social, and personal factors influencing your wellbeing while building practical tools for meaningful change.

With more than 22 years serving Los Angeles and Riverside Counties in social services and mental health, along with over a decade in private practice as an LCSW, I bring extensive experience and a compassionate, solution-focused approach. My goal is to help you uncover the root causes of your struggles, build on your strengths, and create a healthier, more fulfilling life.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Seeking help can be one of the hardest parts, so congratulations on taking that step! I provide a welcoming environment that is safe, nurturing, and judgment-free.

I have been working in private practice for a few years and before that I worked in non-profits with a variety of individuals and groups. I am the parent of two adult sons and have three grandchildren that I thoroughly enjoy spending time with. I have an educational background in the study of philosophy, spirituality and counseling psychology. I have experience with helping people with histories of trauma, severe mental illness, as well as, symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also have experience and some expertise with clients struggling with substance use.

I have a Master's Degree in Counseling, Marriage, and Family from Phillips Graduate Institute.

I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from UCSB.

I typically work with clients who have a history of trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, and managing anxiety, The clients I work with are very motivated to make changes in their lives.

I worked with high-risk, traumatized, and abused youth for many years. I find practicing therapy very rewarding. Assisting my clients to work through life challenges and progress in their life journey is a privilege.