Malin McKinley LCSW
(805) 214-8262
Malin McKinley, LCSW
Feeling overwhelmed, lost or anxious? I can help.
Welcome to my practice, and congratulations on taking the first step towards changing something in your life that does not serve you. If you are looking for a therapist, it means that you want something different for yourself. I would be honored to work alongside you as we figure out together how to get you unstuck. We will use a variety of techniques to build on your existing strengths, and return you to the level of life-quality you are wishing for.
My clinical training, life experience and passion have led me to specializing in depression and anxiety. It can be general life struggles brought on by this extremely stressful Covid 19 environment, or something more longstanding than that. We all struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma or life transitions at times. Relationship issues, divorce, motherhood, college transitions, empty nest syndrome are just a few events in life that can feel extremely overwhelming. If you are feeling anxious, sad, overwhelmed or stuck you are not alone. Depression and anxiety can also be due to something more specific such as a diagnosis of OCD or Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). I have over 15 years of training and experience treating these disorders.
To see if we might be a fit for each other call for free phone consult: (805) 214-8262
About Me
My name is Malin McKinley and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of experience working in private practice as well as in community mental health. I have worked with individuals, families, adolescents and children. I graduated from UCLA with a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s in Social Welfare. I utilize a variety of therapy modalities depending on the issue and the person. I have extensive training in modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) , schema therapy, behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and exposure response prevention (ERP).
I was born and raised in Stockholm, Sweden which led me to grow up with a very strong sense of community. It is my personal and professional belief that we all want to feel like we belong. However, mental health issues such as negative thoughts, anxiety, and depression make it almost impossible for us to feel like we are a part of a community. Instead, we feel overwhelmed, anxious, and sad.
My treatment philosophy is deeply grounded in attachment theory which guides treatment and my interactions with my clients. I am here to make sure you know you are not alone and to provide a space where you can do the work and know you have what it takes within you to heal.
As a therapist, I see myself as a change agent, and I will work hard together with you to bring about the change you want to see and the relief you want to feel. I would be happy to set up a free phone consultation to see how we can get you going and experience symptomatic relief as soon as possible.
Call to set up appointment or a free phone consultation (805) 214-8262.
'Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up.”"
Brené Brown
Services
With You Every Step of the Way
Anxiety & Depression
Quality Care
Did you know anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population every year (Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 2019).
The good news is that most anxiety disorders and depression can be resolved rather quickly once you have figured out what combination of coping skills work for you. I am a solution focused therapist and together we will figure out how to work through what you are experiencing so you can start living your life in a way that makes sense for you and where you feel in control.
We will work to solve current problems and improve positive thinking and behavior. I will help you “re-frame” your reactions and provide you with valuable tools to cope with the challenges you are facing. I’m confident you’ll find my personalized approach to your needs beneficial and inspirational.
I am a Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) expert with over 10 years of treating BDD. I was trained at the OCD intensive treatment program at UCLA and the Los Angeles Body Dysmorphic & Body Image Clinic in Westwood, CA, which is renown for being one of the best clinics in the country for BDD. I have also worked with Dr. Jamie Feusner at the UCLA Body Dysmorphic Research Program where I co -authored 2 research articles on BDD. Over the years I have gained deep knowledge in how to treat co-occuring disorder such as general anxiety disorder, phobias, PTSD, social anxiety, panic disorder and of course depression.
I use a variety of modalities to address anxiety and depression. Based on best practices and what I have found effective from years of experience I find that CBT, interpersonal therapy, behavioral activation and exposure therapy produce the fastest symptom relief and long lasting change.
Maternal Mental Health
A Happier, Healthier You
Each year in the United States, 15-20% of new mothers ( about 1 million women) experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and some studies suggest that the number is even higher (Maternal Mental Health NOW, 2018).
Finding out that you are pregnant usually stirs up a host of emotions. It is a time full of hope, expectation, and joy. However, for many, it is also a time of anxiety, sadness and difficulty dealing with the changes taking place in the environment, in relationships and also in the body.
Although much is known about postpartum depression and anxiety, there is not as much information or treatment available for expectant mothers. I feel strongly about building a network of providers who specializes in treating and supporting women while pregnant. I conduct one-on-one counseling as well as facilitate a process group for women who have not yet given birth, but still need the support.
The postpartum period is usually defined up to one year after giving birth and it is common for mother’s to feel exhausted, overwhelmed and isolated during this period. There will be times of incredible joy, love and happiness as well of course. If you are suffering from a perinatal mental health disorder or if you are just feeling a bit overwhelmed and need support for a short period of time, I am here to help. Therapy can be long-term or brief. Common areas of concern include but are not limited to anticipating your baby, infertility, premature birth, a traumatic birth experience, pregnancy loss, adjusting to motherhood, fighting the Baby Blues, postpartum depression/anxiety, prenatal depression/anxiety, bonding with your baby, establishing a new routine, body image issues, role expectations with your partner/family, back to work issues and more.
Life Transitions
This too shall pass
Unexpected tragedies and/or life transitions can be overwhelming and painful. Life can be extremely difficult and sometimes our usual coping mechanisms don’t work very well when we face adversity.
I am here to support you through what ever you are struggling with. Together we will build on your existing strengths and identify maladaptive patterns to discard. We will assess your social support system and figure out how to deepen it if needed. We will also look at how you are communicating your needs and boundaries with the people around you.
I utilize a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to connect how your thoughts affect your feelings and behaviors and interpersonal therapy to highlight how your interactions with people affect you and them. We will work towards creating a new vision for your life and create actions steps for you to get there.
Common Questions
Do you accept insurance?
No, but I can provide a monthly super-bill that you will submit to your insurance for reimbursement. Most insurance will reimburse a percentage of the session fee
Do you offer sliding scale rates?
Yes. I keep a few slots a week at my sliding scale rate. However sometimes they are all taken and I will not be able to offer additional ones.
What is your intake process like?
My intake process takes about 2-4 sessions. I will conduct an in-depth assessment to see how I best can support you. We will get to know each other and set up goals to work towards. During this time we will also figure out if I am the best fit for you or if you need other resources.
How long is a therapy session and what is your fee?
A standard therapy session is 50 minutes long. My fee is $175 per session.
Contact Me
I would love help you develop the tools you need to cope with all of life’s challenges. Contact me today to learn more and book a session.
3625 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Westlake Village, CA 91362
(805) 214-8262