Direct Action Therapy

Welcome to my website.

My name is Rachel Bar, MFT.  I have been a practicing psychotherapist in Los Angeles for over 25 years.
As you know, we therapists are compassionate, empathic, good listeners; and we are supportive.  However, are compassion and empathy enough?
As my client, you will benefit from my unique ability to recognize where you are stuck; what prevents you from improving your condition; and even whether change is possible at this time.
Most people who see me are addressing life transition issues.  That can be relationship issues, careers issues, losses, or a wish to achieve goals once sought, but never quite gained.
This is why so many of my clients are people who have had previous therapy, but did not yet feel they were capable of making the change they wished for.

One size does not fit all.

It is clear that different people benefit from different approaches. With so many years of experience, I’ve trained in most of the major approaches to doing therapy, so I can design an individualized treatment plan for each client. 

Notably, I employ two distinct modalities, both based on listening to you; and ‘getting’ you.  The difference in approaches is a matter of length, rhythm and expectations.
The first and most familiar approach is a long term supportive method where we explore your emotions, background and what gets in your way.

The second approach, designed by me, is a short term process called Direct Action Therapy.  (directactiontherapy.com)  It is designed to speed up our work and necessitates your active involvement to get you unstuck quickly.

In addition to- and in support of the above, I employ several other helpful therapeutic systems, such as hypnosis, muscle testing and EMDR.