Maythal Eshaghian, LMFT

Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous and meaningful decision, and I want you to know you’re not alone on this journey. My name is Maythal Eshaghian, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California.

I have over 12 years of clinical experience and received my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UCLA. In my practice, I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and other Obsessive-Compulsive (OC)-related disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. While my expertise lies in treating Anxiety and OCD, my practice is not limited to these areas. I provide individual and family therapy for a variety of mental health challenges, emphasizing evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). My practice primarily focuses on OCD and OC-related disorders, with 95% of my clients seeking support in these areas.

I have received extensive training and consultation from leading experts in the field of OCD and have completed post-graduate programs through the Beck Institute, the Trichotillomania Learning Center (TLC), and the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF). This specialized training has allowed me to provide effective treatment for a range of anxiety disorders, including Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Health Anxiety, and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, such as Trichotillomania and Skin Picking Disorder.

I bring warmth, compassion, and authenticity to my practice. I believe that the therapeutic alliance we build together is one of the strongest predictors of successful treatment. Empathy, trust, self-compassion, and a non-judgmental stance are the foundation of my approach to therapy. In addition to my clinical expertise, I bring a deep understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity. Coming from a diverse background myself, I understand the importance of respecting and integrating each individual’s cultural values and perspectives into the therapeutic process. I strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where clients from all backgrounds feel valued and understood.

Starting therapy takes courage and bravery, and I believe that individuals who take this first step demonstrate both the willingness and capacity for change. Through therapy, I help my clients develop the skills to manage their anxiety, overcome OCD, and live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Education

  • Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology: Pepperdine University
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Research Experience

  • Research Assistant: Human Perception Laboratory; Phil Kellman, Ph.D., UCLA (2010-2011)
  • Research Assistant: Semel Lab for Neuroscience and Human Behavior; Carrie Bearden, Ph.D., UCLA (2013-2015)
  • Research Assistant: Pepperdine Applied Research Center (PARC); Susan Hall, Ph.D, Graduate School of Education & Psychology (2014-2015)

In 2013, Ms. Eshaghian had the opportunity to work for Dr. Carrie Bearden’s research lab at the UCLA Semel Lab for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. During her time as a research assistant, Ms. Eshaghian was trained in administering neurological assessment batteries (Cognitive and Neuropsychological Testing) to subjects who were diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) from ages 6-17 in order to examine the structure and function of the brain in individuals with NF1. In addition, she administered C-DISCs (Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children) in order to help the research lab assess for different positive & negative diagnoses and clinically significant symptoms.

Post Graduate Training

  • Anxiety Therapy LA, Private Practice Psychotherapist, 2019-2020
  • Notre Dame Academy, Elementary School and High School, 2016-2018
  • Clare Foundation, 2014-2015
  • Green Dot Public Schools; Animo Ralph Bunche High School, 2013-2014

Professional Member

  • Association for Behavior and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT)
  • California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)
  • International OCD Foundation (IOCDF)
  • The TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors

Advanced Professional Trainings/Specialties 

  • Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) developed by Dr. Eli Lebowitz at the Yale Child Study Center
  • Virtual Professional Training Institute for the Treatment of Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors at The Trichotillomania Learning Center (TLC) Foundation
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Body Dysmorphic Disorder by Psychiatry Academy, Massachusetts General Hospital
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Hoarding Disorder by Psychiatry Academy, Massachusetts General Hospital
  • Evidence-Based Psychological Treatments for Eating Disorders: Children, Adolescents, and Adults by Psychiatry Academy, Massachusetts General Hospital