Therapist in Westwood
Rita Balakhane, LMFT, works with adults, couples, and families from Westwood, in person at her nearby West Los Angeles office, or online. She specializes in depression, anxiety, and grief.
- 22+ years licensed experience
- Therapy in English and Farsi (Persian)
- Free 15-minute phone consultation
- Insurance via Rula and Headway
Services
Anxiety Therapy
Learn to manage anxiety and find calm through personalized, compassionate therapy.
Learn moreDepression Therapy
Find clarity and hope through compassionate, evidence-based therapy for depression.
Learn moreGrief Therapy
Navigate loss and find meaning through supportive, compassionate grief therapy.
Learn moreCouples Therapy
Strengthen communication, resolve recurring conflict, and rebuild emotional intimacy through collaborative couples therapy.
Learn moreWestwood & UCLA
Westwood is a vibrant, intellectually demanding hub centered around UCLA, medical centers, and bustling business corridors. While this environment fosters remarkable ambition and achievement, the relentless pressure to perform can often trigger severe stress, chronic worry, and emotional exhaustion.
Rita Balakhane, LMFT, offers confidential therapy for clients located in Westwood and the surrounding academic and professional community, in person at her office in nearby West Los Angeles or online. With more than 22 years of licensed clinical experience, Rita provides an empathetic, collaborative space to pause, reflect, and cultivate emotional resilience.
In Person or Online
Balancing a demanding academic course load, clinical rotations, or corporate schedules leaves little spare time. You can choose the format that fits your week:
- In Person in Nearby West LA: A dedicated space away from campus or the office.
- Online When Time Is Tight: Connect from the privacy of your home, dorm room, or private office, with no parking or Wilshire traffic.
- Support for High-Pressure Environments: Address the unique pressures of academia, competitive workplaces, and perfectionism.
- Consistency & Flexibility: Keep up with regular weekly therapy without disrupting your research, work sprints, or study schedules.
Areas of Focus
Rita provides personalized care tailored to the specific needs of adults and young adults in Westwood:
- High-Functioning Anxiety & Perfectionism: Calming racing thoughts, coping with impostor syndrome, and breaking free from constant overworking.
- Depression & Academic/Work Burnout: Restoring energy, rediscovering purpose, and overcoming feelings of isolation.
- Relational Strain & Family Expectations: Navigating relationship dynamics, communication breakdowns, and family-of-origin pressures.
- Life Transitions: Transitioning into graduate school, starting a first career, or navigating major personal shifts.
Getting Started
Prioritizing your mental health is an investment in your long-term success and peace of mind. Contact Rita today to schedule your first session.
Nearest Office
Rita's West Los Angeles office
2001 S. Barrington Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90025
How It Works
Free 15-minute call
Call or email to set up a brief, relaxed phone conversation about what brings you to therapy. Rita typically responds within 24–48 hours.
First session
A thorough assessment of your history, current concerns, and goals, in person or online.
Ongoing support
45–50 minute sessions, usually weekly, adjusted to what you need.
FAQ
Can I see you in person if I live in Westwood?
Yes. Rita's nearest office is in West Los Angeles, at 2001 S. Barrington Ave. Secure online video sessions are also available when your schedule is tight.
Do you work with university students and academic professionals?
Yes. Rita has extensive experience working with college students, graduate students, and professionals navigating burnout, performance anxiety, perfectionism, and relational pressures.
Can I join online sessions between classes or workday meetings?
Yes. Online sessions are 45 to 50 minutes and can be accessed from any private, quiet space with an internet connection anywhere in California.