Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian, LMFT, CA

About Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian

Focus areas

Adult Psychotherapy

Therapy

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Clientele seen

Young adults (18-24)

Individuals

Adults (25-64)

Seniors (65+)

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

AEDP

Compassion Focused

Attachment-based

Culturally Sensitive

Identity

Gender

Female

Languages spoken

English

Getting to know Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian

Ms. Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian is a psychotherapist at Stella Mental Health in Los Angeles, CA. She also offers virtual consultations. She welcomes patients facing emotional distress, behavioral issues, and mental illnesses. Ms. Rakis-Garabedian offers patients a safe and comfortable environment, ensuring they express themselves freely. She provides individualized therapy plans combining evidence-based interventions. She routinely monitors progress and coordinates care with other mental health professionals if necessary to maximize outcomes. Ms. Rakis-Garabedian earned her master's degree in marriage and family counseling from California State University. She participates in continuing education to stay updated on research and developments in her field.

What should a new client know about working with you?

My approach blends warmth with structure and evidence-based tools. I draw from EMDR, attachment-based therapy, DBT, Internal Family Systems, and humanistic therapy depending on what fits your needs. I believe you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you—not tell you who you should be or where you should go. I’ll hold space for what’s difficult while also gently challenging patterns when that can help you move forward. Expect honesty, curiosity, compassion, and a therapy space where you don't have to perform or pretend to have it all together.

What is your typical process for working with clients?

In our first session, we'll talk about what's bringing you to therapy, what has been weighing on you, your history, and what you're hoping might change. I’ll ask questions to better understand the bigger picture, but it won’t feel like an interrogation—it’s a conversation and the beginning of our relationship. We'll also talk about what therapy with me may look like and which approaches might be most helpful. There’s no pressure to share everything right away. As we move forward, we'll work together to understand the patterns underneath what you're experiencing, develop practical tools when needed, and create space for deeper healing and growth.

Is this doctor in your insurance network?

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In-network insurances

BlueCross BlueShield

Medicare

UnitedHealthcare

200+ more in-network plans

Out-of-pocket fees and assistance

Files your insurance claim: You pay the session fee upfront and the provider files the claim for you, so you can get reimbursed directly without worrying about the paperwork

More information on payments and coverage

After scheduling your appointment, you will receive an email from Stella Mental Health (formerly BeSpoke Treatment) containing your intake paperwork. Please allow about 30 minutes to complete this form. Your responses will help your provider prepare for your upcoming appointment. All patients are required to complete the intake form 24 business hours before their appointment. You will receive a phone call from a dedicated Care Advocate who can answer any questions you may have. Please be prepared to provide a credit card to keep on file for co-pays or cancellation fees. Late cancellations and no-shows will be charged the full initial appointment fee. During your initial appointment, you’ll spend 60 minutes with your provider collaborating on a treatment plan tailored to your needs. If in-person treatments are recommended—such as TMS, Spravato, SGB, or ketamine therapy—our care team will guide you through the process and ensure you feel supported every step of the way.

Popular visit reasons

Agoraphobia

Depression

Hoarding Disorder

New Patient Visit

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Therapy

Young Adult Issues

Agoraphobia

Depression

Hoarding Disorder

New Patient Visit

Office location

Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian, LMFT also offers online video visits for patients

Santa Monica

12381 Wilshire Blvd, Ste 205, Los Angeles, CA 90025

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Education and background

Practice names

Stella Mental Health

Education and training

California State University, Fresno, Master's in Marriage and Family Counseling

NPI number

1548534092

Patient reviews

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Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian?

Generally, Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.

Is Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian accepting new patients?

Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.

Does Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian online?

Yes, you can make an appointment online with Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.

What practice does Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian work with?

Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian works with Stella Mental Health.

Where is Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian's office located?

Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian has 2 office locations, including in Irvine and Los Angeles, view full addresses on Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian's profile.

What are common reasons for patients to see Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian?

Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian frequently sees patients for Depression, New Patient Visit, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Vanessa Rakis-Garabedian on their profile.