About Me
Hi, I’m Dr. Rachel Lauber, a licensed clinical psychologist in Santa Monica with over 25 years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, and life’s many challenges and transitions.
My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and practical — a nonjudgmental space where you can feel deeply understood while gaining tools for meaningful, lasting change. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, and other evidence-based practices, integrating proven methods with the wisdom gained from decades of clinical experience.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression and in supporting women through the emotional challenges of pregnancy, postpartum, parenting, perimenopause, and menopause. I also help clients build healthier relationships, find greater fulfillment in their work, and live a life with self-worth, self-acceptance, and authenticity.
As a native Angeleno, I have a deep appreciation for the culture, pace, and complexities of life in Los Angeles, and for the diverse experiences of those who call this city home. If you’d like to learn more or see whether we might be a good fit, I welcome you to reach out for a brief consultation.
Education & Training
Education
Psy.D. and M.A., Clinical Psychology
California School of Professional Psychology, San Francisco (CSPP)
B.A., Psychology, Summa Cum Laude
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Clinical Training
I began my clinical training in hospital and university counseling settings, including Kaiser Permanente’s Department of Psychiatry and the University of the Pacific Counseling Center, where I provided therapy and psychological assessment services.
I later trained and practiced at Allied Psychology Group in the Bay Area, providing psychotherapy and psychological assessment and eventually becoming a principal partner in the practice. I went on to serve as Director and Founder of Cognitive Therapy Associates of San Francisco, where I provided evidence-based treatment and clinical supervision.
Upon returning to Los Angeles, I served as a Staff Psychologist at the UCLA Counseling Center, providing individual and couples therapy, crisis support, and ADHD evaluations for undergraduate and graduate students.
These varied roles shaped my integrative, evidence-based approach and deepened my experience working with adults across life stages and levels of complexity.
Advanced Training & Certifications
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — Beck Institute
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Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) — UMass Center for Mindfulness
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Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) — Albert Ellis Institute
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Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) — Dr. Sue Johnson
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Perinatal Mental Health — Postpartum Support International
Professional Affiliations
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American Psychological Association
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Anxiety and Depression Association of America
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Climate Psychology Alliance
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Postpartum Support International
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make an appointment?
The best way to reach me is by email (preferred) or by leaving a message at (424) 259-1370 to find out whether I’m currently accepting new clients.
If I’m able to take new clients, we’ll arrange a brief phone consultation or exchange a few emails to determine whether I’m the right fit for your needs and to discuss scheduling and payment.
Once we decide to move forward, I’ll send you a secure Client Portal link with the initial paperwork to complete before our first session—so there’s no need to arrive early or fill out forms in the office.
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes! I provide secure online therapy for California residents. Many clients appreciate the flexibility of virtual sessions, and you’re welcome to switch between in-person and online appointments as needed. The platform is easy to use and fully confidential.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes. I am ethically and legally bound to keep what you share in therapy private and confidential. Information you share stays between us unless one of the following exceptions applies:
You provide written permission (by signing a release of information) for me to share specific details with another party.
You use insurance benefits for services. In that case, I’m required to share limited information—such as your diagnosis, session dates, CPT codes, and occasionally a treatment plan—to establish medical necessity.
You express intent to harm yourself.
You disclose that a child, elder, or dependent adult is being abused or neglected.
You express intent to harm someone else.
These exceptions are required by law and are in place to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Outside of these situations, everything you share remains confidential.
What is your rate?
My rate is $250 per 50 minute session. Payment is due at the time of service. I accept cash, checks, Zelle, Health Savings/Flexible Spending Account cards, and all major credit cards.
Can I use my insurance?
I operate primarily as a private-pay practice, with payment due at the time of service.
I am in-network with Aetna and have limited openings for Aetna clients. Please contact me to inquire about current availability or to be added to the waitlist.
For clients with PPO plans, I can provide a superbill for out-of-network reimbursement or submit claims on your behalf. I have partnered with Mentaya to help clients access their out-of-network benefits and potentially reduce the cost of therapy. You can check your eligibility for reimbursement here: Check Your Insurance Benefits
What is your cancellation policy?
Please provide at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Because your session time is reserved specifically for you, the full session fee will be charged for missed appointments or late cancellations (less than 24 hours’ notice).
Insurance companies do not reimburse for missed or late-canceled sessions, so clients are responsible for the full fee directly.
