MILIKA CENTER FOR THERAPY & RESILIENCE
Los Angeles Therapy for Physicians & Medical Professionals
Nurturing Resilience in Healthcare Professionals
Millions of Adults Struggle with Anxiety. You Are Not Alone.
As the cornerstone of our healthcare system, physicians often put the needs of others before their own. The demanding nature of their profession, along with the emotional weight of patient care, can lead to significant stress, burnout, and even mental health challenges.
At the Milika Center for Therapy & Resilience, we understand the unique pressures faced by physicians and are dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for finding balance, fulfillment, and healing. Whether you've just started medical school or are a seasoned physician, we're here to help.
Understanding the Unique Challenges of Medical Practice
Physicians often find themselves caught in a balancing act between the demands of their profession and the need to maintain their own well-being. The high-pressure environment of healthcare can lead to a variety of challenges, including:
Burnout
The constant stress, long hours, and emotional toll of patient care can contribute to burnout, a state of physical and mental overwhelm that can manifest as feelings of cynicism, detachment, and decreased job performance.
Compassion Fatigue
Witnessing suffering and loss can lead to compassion fatigue, a state of emotional exhaustion and decreased empathy. Physicians may experience symptoms such as emotional numbness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
Perfectionism
The delicate nature of working in health care can contribute to feelings of self-doubt, inadequacy, and fear of failure. While this can manifest as perfectionism and drive you to perform well, it can also be incredibly mentally draining.
Work-Life Balance
Balancing the demands of a medical career with personal life, relationships, and self-care can be challenging. Physicians may struggle to find time for hobbies, relaxation, and spending time with loved ones.
Mental Health Issues
Physicians may be at increased risk for developing mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. The rigorous demands of healthcare, combined with the emotional toll of patient care, can contribute to these challenges.
Physicians-In-Training
Physicians in training, such as residents and fellows, face a multitude of stressors that can impact their mental health and well-being. The demanding nature of their training programs, marked by long hours, high-stakes decision-making, and exposure to traumatic cases, sets the stage for burnout, anxiety, and depression. As they strive to excel in this high-pressure environment, they must also contend with performance anxiety, knowing that their evaluations and feedback can significantly impact their career trajectory.
The constant juggling act of managing work-life balance, navigating extended shifts and limited personal time, further erodes their mental resilience. Meanwhile, career uncertainty looms large, as they navigate the competitive process of matching into a residency or fellowship program, and face the added pressure of performing well on high-stakes exams, such as the step exams and board certifications.
Perhaps most concerning, the cumulative effect of these stressors can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. In fact, studies show that residents and fellows have alarmingly high rates of suicide, underscoring the urgent need for mental health support and resources for this vulnerable population.
Serving Physicians at:
How Therapy for Physicians & Health Professionals Can Help
Therapy offers a supportive, confidential space for physicians to explore their emotions, address underlying issues, and develop strategies for coping with the challenges of their profession. Some of the key benefits of therapy for physicians include:
Many medical doctors and other health professionals still face stigma in seeking mental health treatment. However, it's vital to your well-being (and that of your patients) to get the care you need and deserve.
At Milika, we understand the particularly sensitive nature of seeking therapy for our physician clients. Rest assured, we approach this work with complete confidence so you can share openly without repercussions.
Meet 2 top-rated therapists for physicians in Los Angeles
1. Kanchi Wijesekera, Ph.D.
As a clinical psychologist with a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by healthcare professionals, I am dedicated to providing a private, supportive space for physicians to explore their emotions, address underlying issues, and develop strategies for coping with stress and burnout.
With years of experience working with individuals in demanding professions, I have developed a specialized approach to therapy that is tailored to the needs of physicians. Notably, I have also had the privilege of working intensely with physicians-in-training at UCLA and in private practice during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period marked by elevated levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma. This experience has deepened my understanding of the unique challenges physicians face in high-pressure environments and the importance of providing tailored support to mitigate the impact of these stressors on their mental health.
Through a combination of cutting-edge and evidence-based techniques, I help providers like you access the premier mental health care they need to thrive in both their career and personal lives.
My goal is to help you build resilience, improve your well-being, and enhance your overall quality of life.
Here's a bit more about my professional background.
- Credentials: Licensed Clinical Psychologist California #27052
- Education: Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Loma Linda University, internship (residency) at CHOC Children’s Hospital, and postdoctoral fellowship at UCLA Semel Neuropsychiatric Institute.
- Modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Trauma-Informed Care, Virtual Reality Therapy, Focus Families Overcoming Under Stress (FOCUS), Motivational Interviewing, Attachment Focused, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
- Additional Specialties: Anxiety Disorders, Resilience Training, Depression, Trauma, Self-Esteem And Empowerment, Life Transitions/Adjustment Problems, Stress Management and Relaxation Training, Chronic Medical Condition / Medical Trauma, Expecting and New Mothers (Perinatal/Maternal Mental Health), Student-Athletes, Entertainment Industry
2. Venus Mirbod, Psy.D. ("Dr. V")
Dr. V brings genuine warmth and dedication to her work with physicians and physicians-in-training, making the therapy room a safe space to get the support you’ve been looking for. While Dr. V uses evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based, and trauma-informed therapies, she also tailors her approach to meet each individual’s needs.
In addition to her specialty supporting medical professionals, Dr. V is also passionate about helping new mothers, young children, and teenagers, as well as adults experiencing stress and anxiety. Through personalized interventions and compassionate care, Dr. V empowers her clients to navigate their mental health journey with resilience and hope.
Here's a bit more about Dr V’s professional background.
- Credentials: Licensed Clinical Psychologist California #34927
- Education: Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, internship (residency) at Boston Children’s Hospital - Harvard Medical School, and postdoctoral fellowship at UCSF Zuckerburg San Francisco General Hospital
- Modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed, Families Overcoming Under Stress (FOCUS), Motivational Interviewing, Attachment Focused, Mindfulness-Based
- Additional Specialties: Integrated Approaches, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Chronic Medical Condition / Medical Trauma, Expecting and New Mothers (Perinatal/Maternal Mental Health), Parenting Support, Pediatric Psychology, Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health, Resilience Training, Communication Skills, Self-Esteem And Empowerment, Adjustment Problems, Stress Management And Relaxation Training
Take the First Step Toward Wellness
At Milika Center for Therapy & Resilience, we believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care. If you're a physician or healthcare professional struggling with stress, burnout, or other challenges, we are here to help.
Don't wait any longer. Working with a mental health professional can help you cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling life, both at work and at home. Our experienced team is committed to providing you with premier services that fit your needs and help you heal.
Ready to get started?
Ready to get started? Start your journey towards resilience and mental well-being today by contacting us to schedule a consultation.