Psychologist and Therapist in Culver City, California Mara Thorsen, Psychologist
Provider Gender: Female
Ages Served: 18-64
Appointments: Telehealth only. In-office visits not available
Manages Medications: No, provides therapy only

Mara Thorsen, PhD, LP
Dr. Thorsen is particularly passionate about helping individuals facing midlife transitions, offering guidance to those reassessing their careers, relationships, and personal identities. She understands the complexities of these pivotal life stages and works closely with clients to foster self-discovery, emotional resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose. Additionally, she has extensive experience supporting men s mental health, addressing issues related to emotional expression, stress management, and identity. Her expertise also extends to women s issues, where she provides compassionate care for those navigating hormonal shifts, societal pressures, and personal growth.
Beyond her primary specialties, Dr. Thorsen offers care to first responders, recognizing the immense psychological toll of high-stress professions. She provides a safe space for individuals to process trauma, manage anxiety, and build coping strategies that support long-term mental health. She also integrates mindfulness-based interventions to help clients develop emotional regulation skills, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
Dr. Thorsen s commitment to mental health is deeply rooted in her extensive academic background and dedication to research. She has contributed to studies on human rights, social justice, neuroaesthetics, and the psychological effects of dehumanization. Her holistic approach to therapy is informed by a broad understanding of social structures, environmental factors, and personal history, ensuring that each client receives care tailored to their unique experiences.
Outside of her clinical work, Dr. Thorsen is passionate about promoting global wisdom, ecological stewardship, and the integration of heart and mind in personal and collective growth. She is actively involved in translating research into practical solutions that address systemic barriers to well-being. Her love for the arts, advocacy for human dignity, and commitment to resilience-building reflect her holistic perspective on healing.
Expertise
Insurances Accepted
- Aetna
- Behavioral Health Systems (BHS)
- Blue Shield of California
- Carelon (Beacon)
- Centivo
- Claritev (MultiPlan PHCS)
- Elevance Health (Anthem Blue Cross)
- Evernorth (Cigna)
- Health Net (MHN)
- Kaiser Permanente (NorCal)
- Magellan
- MediNcrease Health Plans (MHP)
- Optum (UnitedHealthcare)
- Partners Direct Health
- Provider Network of America (PNOA)
- Sana Benefits
- Tricare West (TriWest)
Interventions
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Mindfulness
Education
-
University of Southern California
Professional | 2002-05-10
Los Angeles, CA, US
-
International Institute for the Sociology of Law
Professional | 2000-07-10
Onati, Spain, CA, US
With the special qualification: magna cum laude approbate
-
University of California - Santa Barbara
Undergraduate | 1998-06-12
Santa Barbara, CA, US
Double Major: Psychology, Law and Society
-
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology - Chicago
Professional | 2010-11-30
Chicago, IL, US
Languages
- English
FAQs
Please use our online form to schedule an appointment with Mara Thorsen. You can also call 925-282-1778 to have someone assist you.
Mara Thorsen generally accepts new patients but there could be a waitlist.
Please call 925-282-1778 to find out Mara Thorsen's schedule and availability.
LifeStance Health providers accept most commercial insurance plans that are offered in the states where we offer services, including telehealth. Please see the following list of insurances accepted by Mara Thorsen:
- Aetna
- Behavioral Health Systems (BHS)
- Blue Shield of California
- Carelon (Beacon)
- Centivo
- Claritev (MultiPlan PHCS)
- Elevance Health (Anthem Blue Cross)
- Evernorth (Cigna)
- Health Net (MHN)
- Kaiser Permanente (NorCal)
- Magellan
- MediNcrease Health Plans (MHP)
- Optum (UnitedHealthcare)
- Partners Direct Health
- Provider Network of America (PNOA)
- Sana Benefits
- Tricare West (TriWest)
If you don't see your insurance listed, please contact us at 925-282-1778 to see how we can help.
Mara Thorsen is a Psychologist and cannot prescribe medication. However, most LifeStance offices have a Psychiatrist or APN on staff who can prescribe medication if needed.
Yes, Mara Thorsen does offer online telehealth visits.
No, Mara Thorsen is currently offering online telehealth only visits.