About Dr. Ben Gallenson
Focus areas
Anxiety Disorder
LGBTQ+ Counseling
Perfectionism
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Life Transition
Self Esteem Issues
Burnout
Men's Mental Health Issues
Clientele seen
Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Seniors (65+)
Treatment approaches
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Compassion Focused
Clinical Supervision and Licensed Supervisors
Culturally Sensitive
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Dialectical (DBT)
Identity
Gender
MaleSexuality
GayFaith
NonreligiousEthnicity
White
Languages spoken
English
Getting to know Dr. Ben Gallenson
I am a California-licensed psychologist with a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I specialize in helping high-functioning adults, especially those in the LGBTQIA2+ community, who are navigating anxiety, trauma, difficult life transitions, identity questions, insomnia, stress, or a sense of emotional disconnection despite outward success. Many of my clients are thoughtful, self-aware, and accustomed to pushing through, but they often find themselves stuck in patterns that no longer work. I draw on evidence-based therapies to help you clarify what matters, break free from old cycles, and build more authentic and sustainable ways of living. My background includes work in university counseling, medical settings, and private practice, and I offer therapy that’s structured, collaborative, and grounded in respect for your pace and goals.
What should a new client know about working with you?
Starting counseling can feel like moving through thick fog—you may not know exactly where you’re headed, only that the way you’ve been going isn’t working. The process of finding the right guide can feel overwhelming, and for many people, it becomes a barrier to getting help. I believe the quality of the therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of meaningful change. That’s why I focus on creating a space that feels emotionally safe, collaborative, and grounded in trust—so clients can explore painful issues and move toward their goals with clarity and support.
What is your typical process for working with clients?
In our first session, we’ll discuss what brought you in and what you’re hoping to shift. I’ll ask some questions to understand your history and what you’ve been feeling stuck or overwhelmed about. Once we’ve got a clearer picture, we’ll identify what feels most important to focus on. I’m not a passive listener. I’ll reflect things back to you, offer structure when things feel chaotic, and help you connect the dots between what you're experiencing now and its possible origins. You can expect evidence-based strategies woven in, such as CBT to rework unhelpful thought patterns, ACT to help you move toward what matters, or DBT-informed skills to regulate emotions and tolerate discomfort. But we’ll always make it fit your style, not a one-size-fits-all model.
Dr. Ben Gallenson is not in-network with any insurances
It’s common for mental health providers to be out-of-network. Many insurance plans offer out-of-network coverage, so you may get partially reimbursed. Learn more
Out-of-pocket fees and assistance
Initial session: $250 for 60 minutes
Ongoing session: $175 for 50 minutes
- Sliding scale: Offers lower out-of-pocket fees on an individual basis, typically based on your ability to pay
More information on payments and coverage
I am in-network with Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Blue Shield of California, Carlon Behavioral Health, Cigna, Magellan, and Quest Behavioral Health. Insurance is accepted through my partnership with Headway. We'll verify your benefits before your first session
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Pepperdine University, Doctor of Psychology
- West Palm Beach VAMC (Clinical Internship)
- Loyola Marymount University, Fellowship in Psychology
NPI number
1922640317
How soon can I make an appointment with Dr. Ben Gallenson?
Generally, Dr. Ben Gallenson has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Dr. Gallenson's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Dr. Ben Gallenson accepting new patients?
Dr. Ben Gallenson generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Dr. Gallenson's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Dr. Ben Gallenson accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Dr. Gallenson is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Dr. Ben Gallenson online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Dr. Gallenson using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Dr. Ben Gallenson work with?
Dr. Ben Gallenson works with Gallenson Psychological Services.
What are common reasons for patients to see Dr. Ben Gallenson?
Dr. Ben Gallenson frequently sees patients for Depression, New Patient Visit, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Sleep Problems. You can see other visit reasons for Dr. Ben Gallenson on their profile.
What languages does Dr. Ben Gallenson speak?
Dr. Ben Gallenson speaks English.