Harvard educated, and trained in both psychotherapy and medication management, I understand the advantages of each and am able to combine them in a treatment plan that best suits you. I specialize in helping individuals and couples with relationship issues, including dating, commitment, communication, sexuality, marriage, parenting, career challenges and lifestyle balance.
As your therapist, you'll find my style warm and engaging and my office a safe place to work through your issues. In our sessions, I'll draw on my knowledge of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and life-coaching techniques to provide you with meaningful solutions geared to your individual needs.
As your therapist, you'll find my style warm and engaging and my office a safe place to work through your issues. In our sessions, I'll draw on my knowledge of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and life-coaching techniques to provide you with meaningful solutions geared to your individual needs.
Services
Psychotherapy, or therapy for short, is the opportunity to talk your problems over on a regular-typically weekly-basis with a mental health professional like me. So, you could call it talk therapy, as opposed to medication therapy or any other kind of treatment. Tough life choices, complicated relationships, and problematic feelings like anxiety, depression, and anger.
I'm proud to be a psychiatrist and thus able to provide for the medication needs of people in psychotherapy with me. For the right person, medication can indeed restore mental health and make a world of difference.
The medication services I provide are 1) evaluating you for conditions that may benefit from medication, 2) maintaining and adjusting ongoing treatments, and 3) quietly keeping an eye out any situation/condition that might emerge over the course of work together that might be helped by medication.
The medication services I provide are 1) evaluating you for conditions that may benefit from medication, 2) maintaining and adjusting ongoing treatments, and 3) quietly keeping an eye out any situation/condition that might emerge over the course of work together that might be helped by medication.
Hi, I'm pleased that you have come to me for help understanding the important things going on in your life and reaching your personal goals. I hope that you will be one of the many people who find psychotherapy comforting and inspiring. Please keep in mind that the key to successful therapy is a commitment to tune into your feelings and think about your issues on a day to day basis.
Why would you repeat the past? Why would you date or marry someone just like the father or mother who was most problematic for you? It seems to happen quite often, even though it would make more sense to look for a partner with opposite traits. Though never formally studied, this phenomenon has been observed by most psychotherapists and psychiatrists and was first recognized by Sigmund Freud, who named it "repetition compulsion."
I just finished The 5 Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman, an extremely popular self-help book that has inspired couples since 1992. The idea of it is that the key to revitalization and repair on any relationship is to pay attention to how each person likes to be loved. The challenge is that we all like to be loved in different ways and that we need to learn our partners "love language."
Reviews (25)
Daniel Oh
Dec 27, 2021
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My previous psychiatrist passed away and I was looking for another psychiatrist. I came across Dr. Cotsen (after searching for several).
What gravitated me to Dr. Cotsen the most was his availability. While other psychiatrists, maybe months out, Dr. Cotsen tried to fit me in somehow in his busy schedule. He responds very quickly which is something I really appreciate.
He is receptive, kind, great listener, flexible, and constructive on his feedback and provides many tools you may revert to in tough situations.
Good psychiatrists are often hard to come by, Dr. Cotsen is one of them.
What gravitated me to Dr. Cotsen the most was his availability. While other psychiatrists, maybe months out, Dr. Cotsen tried to fit me in somehow in his busy schedule. He responds very quickly which is something I really appreciate.
He is receptive, kind, great listener, flexible, and constructive on his feedback and provides many tools you may revert to in tough situations.
Good psychiatrists are often hard to come by, Dr. Cotsen is one of them.
K. Wyatt
Dec 24, 2021
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My time with Dr. Cotsen has been very beneficial. He provides an open and non-judgmental space for me to express myself comfortably, no matter the issue or topic we’re working through. Whether it’s familial traumas or LGBT related relationship issues, I’ve received great advice and feedback that always seems to connect the dots for me afterwards.
I would recommend him to anyone who is looking for a therapist and/or psychiatrist for any reason.
I would recommend him to anyone who is looking for a therapist and/or psychiatrist for any reason.
Crista Ru
Dec 19, 2021
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Dr. Cotsen has helped me so much and I’m so grateful to have come across him. I found him initially through Yelp years ago and have since become a regular patient. It’s hard to feel comfortable even with people you’re close with to talk about the things you really are struggling with and Dr. Cotsen has a genuine kindness that helps make it easier to get the words out. As someone that wants to live life to the fullest and needed help figuring out how to manage and heal from the assortment of not so fun things life dealt me, I’ve found talking to him and the techniques he’s shared to be
Ben Rosenthal
Nov 25, 2021
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Ben R.
Sep 13, 2021
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Denisse D.
Dec 23, 2020
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I've been seeing Dr Cotsen for almost a year now to treat my anxiety. It's been incredibly helpful to understand the why behind certain issues I was/am working through. It's amazing how he helps you dig deep to the root cause of the issues something not many are able to do, at least not in past experiences.
I've learned new techniques to reduce my anxiety that easy to apply and I've been seeing results in reducing my anxiety something that was really difficult to do before. It's been amazing to find Dr Cotsen after years of searching to really understand and work
I've learned new techniques to reduce my anxiety that easy to apply and I've been seeing results in reducing my anxiety something that was really difficult to do before. It's been amazing to find Dr Cotsen after years of searching to really understand and work
Technicali
Sep 02, 2020
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Working alongside with Dr. Cotsen coaching and mentoring me on the sidelines has been the most eye opening and productive five months of my life.
His kind, insightful and reliable information makes him the amazing Psychotherapist/Psychaitrist that he his. Together we have built a strong base for myself to work off of and I can genuinely say that I’m on the right path to achieve the goals and aspirations I’ve always wanted to achieve but couldn’t due to the countless issues holding me back.
If you are seeking guidance or help I highly recommend Dr. Cotsen.
His kind, insightful and reliable information makes him the amazing Psychotherapist/Psychaitrist that he his. Together we have built a strong base for myself to work off of and I can genuinely say that I’m on the right path to achieve the goals and aspirations I’ve always wanted to achieve but couldn’t due to the countless issues holding me back.
If you are seeking guidance or help I highly recommend Dr. Cotsen.
John Wagner
May 26, 2020
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I have been seeing Dr. Cotsen for over ten years covering a number of issues. He has been the most valuable part of my quest for personal acceptance, self awareness and positive behavioral changes. Through therapy and medication, Dr. Cotsen continues to provide me with the assistance I need for a greatly improved quality of life. For this I am very thankful.
David S.
Mar 18, 2020
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At the age of 50, I was struck with panic attacks and horrible anxiety. My case was beyond what my GP was able to treat, and so he referred me to a psychiatrist. I had never visited one before, and being a reserved man, I was uncertain how much I would be able to embrace the process in order for it to help me. After exhaustive research and speaking with a handful of doctors, I decided that Dr. Cotsen would be the best fit. My instincts proved to be spot on. Dr. Cotsen worked with me to address my immediate need -- to get back to work and a more normal state of life -- and then transitioned
Ara A.
Mar 10, 2020
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I can't begin to express how Dr. Cotsen has helped me. I don't write reviews but he absolutely deserves this. He has such a way of allowing you to feel comfortable. He is engaging and very helpful. He doesn't just listen but his gives his feedback. When I started, I was struggling with a lot of personal baggage and issues and he's changed my life. I couldn't give a higher recommendation to Dr Cotsen.
Donn S.
Dec 01, 2019
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I've been seeing Dr. Adam for about a year and a half. In that time, he has become an essential part of my support structure and a profound source of insight, clarity, and comfort. He is an incredible clinician and a truly lovely, lovely human being. His naturally calm demeanor helps you feel instantly centered and safe, and he doesn't just listen--he really *hears* what you're saying. At the same time, he's not one of those psychotherapists who just smiles and nods. He offers logical, helpful, actionable feedback and valuable insights that shed light on how--and why--we think
Debra Winkler
Oct 14, 2019
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Dr. Cotsen is the most caring, compassionate therapist I have ever known. He makes me feel totally understood without passing judgment. He truly cares about the well being of his patients. He offers practical advice on the approach to any problem you present. His office is truly a safe spot. He also is very knowledgeable about medications. I have never presented a situation/problem that he cannot make better by his extremely astute understanding and practical solutions. He also has a great sense of humor when appropriate. I can not recommend him highly enough.
Mick Nellon
Oct 05, 2019
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I have had four therapists over 15 years and Dr. Cotsen is the one who has helped me truly understand the nature of how to deal with my concerns. He is kind and compassionate, while at the same time direct and understanding. His care has helped me approach other issues and find solutions myself for consistent, long lasting results, something of which I have not had with other providers. He also has a great sense of humor, and every time I leave his office I feel like something else was figured out. Highly recommended.
Zach L.
Sep 28, 2019
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It's funny to write a review of your psychiatrist, but Adam (it's okay for you to call him by his first name) has been so remarkably helpful, I want other people to know so they can have the benefit of this excellent doctor.
I've been seeing him for about a year, and am much happier and more confident than I was 12 months ago. I decided to go to therapy because I felt unsettled. I identified a couple of patterns that I wanted to change, but I didn't know if I could.
Spoiler alert: I could. And with Adam's help, I did.
He's a really good listener who somehow makes
I've been seeing him for about a year, and am much happier and more confident than I was 12 months ago. I decided to go to therapy because I felt unsettled. I identified a couple of patterns that I wanted to change, but I didn't know if I could.
Spoiler alert: I could. And with Adam's help, I did.
He's a really good listener who somehow makes
J. W.
Sep 26, 2019
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Dialing Dr. Cotsen's office to schedule an appointment when I moved to Los Angeles several years ago was among the most constructive, positive decisions I have made.
Dr. Cotsen is easy to be around, and our regular session -- as I have told him -- is often the best conversation I'll have all month.
I work in a creative field, and I'm certain my recent success is due, in part, to Dr. Cotsen's guidance and the progress we've made in his office.
Before our first meeting I had fears about stepping into the office of a stereotypically austere Freudian, and worried about
Dr. Cotsen is easy to be around, and our regular session -- as I have told him -- is often the best conversation I'll have all month.
I work in a creative field, and I'm certain my recent success is due, in part, to Dr. Cotsen's guidance and the progress we've made in his office.
Before our first meeting I had fears about stepping into the office of a stereotypically austere Freudian, and worried about
Bethany Bee
Sep 02, 2019
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If you are new to therapy, you've found a great therapist in Dr. Cotsen. He is very trustworthy, and he can ease you into the process of therapy. Dr. Cotsen is professional, caring, intuitive, warm, intelligent, worldly, broad-minded, and he possesses a light touch and a great sense of humor if or when the process of therapy gets a bit intense. Also, I can't emphasize enough how nonjudgmental he is and how safe it feels to be in his office! For those who are familiar with therapy, I trust you will quickly sense that you are in the presence of a very gifted and knowledgeable practitioner.
Joe D.
Aug 22, 2019
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I am a young working professional that did not grow up in Los Angeles. Dr. Adam has been very helpful with adjusting to a new city, discussing career goals, and overall day-to-day life. I would recommend Dr. Adam to anyone who values good listening skills and insightful thoughts to whatever issues you are having.
Greg C.
Aug 20, 2019
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I would highly recommend Dr. Cotsen to anyone seeking a psychiatrist and/or psychotherapist. Shortly after making a big move to Los Angeles, i needed to find a local psychotherapist I was comfortable with. It's not always easy to find a therapist that is right for you, but because of the empathy he displayed towards me from the first appointment, he made me feel really comfortable right away. I have been going to Dr. Cotsen for the last two years, and he has helped improve my overall wellbeing, while also managing meds. He is really responsive when you need to get in touch, and always tries
Brian M.
Aug 16, 2019
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I've seen Dr Cotsen for almost 15 years and I will say he's an excellent therapist and who is also incredibly knowledgeable about medications. I've been able to discuss a range of issues with him and I appreciate his perspective and feedback. We've had times where we met every week and other times where we met a few times a year but he always comes to our appointments prepared and able to pick up exactly where we left off. Five stars.
Tim L.
Aug 04, 2019
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Hector R.
Aug 03, 2019
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I have known Dr Adam Cotsen for over 2 years now. At the time when I started seeing him I was very down and not in a good place. He has been consistently attentive, respectful, and super helpful all around. I would recommend Dr Cotsen to anybody looking for someone who will work with you to work on your mental health.
Van M.
Jul 22, 2019
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I wanted to write this review just to write it; then I REALLY wanted to write it upon seeing a clearly negative review from a seemingly confused person, as it might be helpful to those who see that post & wonder about this really great doctor and nice person.
I have been a patient if Dr. Cotsen for going on ten years now. I was referred to him by another amazing psychiatrist who was one of the heads of Mental Health at Kaiser Permanente. I dropped my Kaiser Ins. & could no longer see him, & he recommended Dr. Cotsen referring to him as "the best" and saying he wouldn
I have been a patient if Dr. Cotsen for going on ten years now. I was referred to him by another amazing psychiatrist who was one of the heads of Mental Health at Kaiser Permanente. I dropped my Kaiser Ins. & could no longer see him, & he recommended Dr. Cotsen referring to him as "the best" and saying he wouldn
J. Dubz
Jul 21, 2019
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I've been working with Adam for nearly a year now, and I recommend him to anyone. In fact, I have told more than a few of my friends that they should see him.
Going to a psychiatrist can be awkward - especially at first. But Adam immediately made me feel at ease. He's easy to talk to, he listens well, he makes great suggestions, he has a calm demeanor that sets a comfortable tone for therapy, and he obviously cares about his patients. He's supportive, he's knowledgeable, he's ethical.
Most important, though, he's a really good therapist. I feel much, much better than I did 10 months ago. Although
Going to a psychiatrist can be awkward - especially at first. But Adam immediately made me feel at ease. He's easy to talk to, he listens well, he makes great suggestions, he has a calm demeanor that sets a comfortable tone for therapy, and he obviously cares about his patients. He's supportive, he's knowledgeable, he's ethical.
Most important, though, he's a really good therapist. I feel much, much better than I did 10 months ago. Although
Debra W.
Jul 19, 2019
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Dr. Cotsen is simply an extraordinarily compassionate, insightful,
Brilliant practitioner who has truly made a huge difference in making my life better. He has almost and instantaneous grasp of any problems you present and gives you practical, pragmatic solutions to enable you to come up with solutions to help you make changes for the better. I cannot
Recommend him highly enough.
He is also smart, charming and funny.
Brilliant practitioner who has truly made a huge difference in making my life better. He has almost and instantaneous grasp of any problems you present and gives you practical, pragmatic solutions to enable you to come up with solutions to help you make changes for the better. I cannot
Recommend him highly enough.
He is also smart, charming and funny.
Jamie V.
Jul 14, 2019
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I started to see Dr. Cotsen during a very stressful time in my life five years ago and he has been my psychiatrist and psychotherapist ever since. He brings a calm demeanor complimented with a high level of intellect to our sessions. Over the years, his insight has been quite helpful and kept me on a healthy path. I am fortunate to be able to see him on a regular and consistent basis. This familiarity has assisted me in identifying patterns that I sometimes find myself in the process of repeating before I go too far in the wrong direction. He truly cares for the wellbeing of his patients.
