About Me

Erik Anderson, LMFT

I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with a background in literature, science, and philosophy - and over a decade of experience helping individuals and couples overcome anxiety and depression, relationship challenges, OCD, identity questions, and major life transitions.

My style is goal-oriented, engaged, direct, conversational, and collaborative. I specialize in helping people understand what's not working, develop practical tools for change, and move forward with greater intention and insight.

Availability: In-person in Playa Vista + telehealth across California

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My Specialities

Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a math and science tutor and earned my BA in Modern Literature from UC Santa Cruz. I later completed my MS in Counseling at Cal State Long Beach and have trained with leading researchers like Scott D. Miller to deepen my understanding of what actually works in therapy.

I'm especially focused on evidence-based, outcome-informed therapy - not just talking, but working toward real and measurable change. My approach integrates research, experience, and a variety of modalities to support clients in achieving clarity, emotional resilience, and meaningful progress.

Outside of therapy, I've been an active member of the Rationality community since 2018, helping people apply reason, logic, and accurate maps of the world to life's personal challenges. I help manage the Astral Codex Ten Psychiat-list, a directory of therapists involved with the Rationality community.

I’m a lifelong martial artist and a 4th-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I’ve competed in IBJJF events, placed at the world championships, and continue to teach and train.

My Approach

Therapy should be useful - not just reflective. I blend structure with flexibility, offering a collaborative space where we can explore, solve, and move forward.

I use a multidisciplinary, evidence-based approach tailored to each person. My work often includes:

  • CBT for reshaping thought patterns and behavior

  • Modern Psychodynamic Therapy to explore deeper motivations and patterns

  • Humanistic Therapy for honest, real connection

  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Gottman Couples Therapy to build better relationships

  • Exposure and Response Prevention to break the cycle of OCD

  • Mindfulness for staying grounded in the present

  • Motivational Interviewing to move past ambivalence and build change

We'll work together to set clear goals, track your progress, and adapt therapy to make sure it's working for you.

Education, Credentials, & Trainings

  • MS in Counseling - California State University, Long Beach

  • BA in Modern Literature - University of California, Santa Cruz

  • Trained in Feedback-Informed Treatment with Scott D. Miller, PhD

  • Active in the Rationality community, curates the Astral Codex Ten Psychiat-list

  • Clinical experience in hospitals, outpatient treatment centers, group practices and private practice

  • 4th degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, IBJJF World medalist

Schedule a Free Consultation