Often we as psychologists come to realize that the fears, phobias, anxieties and depressions experienced by so many of us emanate from traumas of an earlier time. Some of these traumas, for various reasons, become severely entrenched and therefore require more root cause work. Hypnosis has again been shown to be very effective in unlocking and disengaging the trauma thus allowing the patient to let go and move on.
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Definition of Fear:
An emotion of varying intensity aroused by a recognized and logical threat and involving the flight/fight response. It aroused a feeling of unpleasant tension and a strong impulse to escape as well as certain physiological changes.
Definition of Phobias:
An Excessive, unrealistic and/or illogical or uncontrollable fear elicited by an object, situation, or activity. It usually involves strong physiological and emotional responses.
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Dr. Goodman treated me successfully for chronic health anxiety from Sep 2020 to Jan 2025. We met face-to-face weekly through 2020, then bi-weekly.
I look back with satisfaction and some amusement at the long list of physical symptoms that I urgently handed to Dr. Goodman at one of our first meetings. Today, in hindsight, it seems obvious that most of these were imaginary symptoms or at worst symptoms whose severity I exaggerated in my mind.
How did Dr. Goodman cure me? We talked. He taught me breathing for relaxation early on. We talked more and he found common ground with me on many fundamental problems in life.
My natural inclination towards health anxiety was exacerbated by benzodiazepine prescriptions that various MDs fed me starting 2005, initially from my primary care physician for a not-sleeping-well complaint. However, starting in 2008, a series of MDs specializing in psychiatry kept me in a state of agitated addiction to various benzodiazepines, what they euphemistically called “dependence”. This was done despite well-known, even famous, public info on the harmful effects of benzodiazepine addiction by prescription. Think: the book and movie, “I’m Dancing as Fast as I Can” and the Rolling Stones song, “Mother’s Little Helper”.
My breakthrough came in March 2021 when I decided to quit taking the benzos and quit seeing the latest psychiatrist who was ostensibly trying to taper me off benzos, but in fact was prescribing doses on a roller coaster trajectory in line with my current reported level of heath anxiety.
How did I reach a psychological state where I could objectively assess my prospects without benzos vis-a-vis a continuation of my life ever fearful for my health and addicted/ dependent on benzos? Credit Dr. Goodman.
Subsequent meetings with Dr. Goodman after March 2021 helped me consolidate my newly transformed prior obsessions with physical symptoms. Additionally, our meetings afforded me the opportunity to discuss a variety of life issues with a man of great knowledge, judgment and compassion – Dr. Don Goodman.
Doug
Los Angeles
When I came to Dr. Goodman, I was extremely anxious, suffered from low self-esteem and often experienced discomfort, or seemingly unresolvable conflict, when communicating with friends and family members. My life has improved tremendously as a direct result of therapy Dr. Goodman. I feel more confident and happy about myself and in my relationships. My communication skills have improved because my anxiety has decreased. I appreciate Dr. Goodman’s genuine concern and thoughtful advice he has provided me during therapy sessions. I consider my therapy with Dr. Goodman to be invaluable and worth every dollar I spent on therapy.
Margy
Agoura Hills, CA
Wonderful fulfilling year of council
Put me back on track with successful results
Thank you Don
tony
La quinta
I’ve seen a few therapists before dr. Goodman, and I’d have to say we truly “click”. He’s tremendously helped me with my anxiety – He not only listens, but provides useful tools and exercises. I’m so grateful for him!
Bo
Venice, CA
Dr Goodman has given me back my breath! I now have tools to use for every situation. My PTSD Anxiety and depression are nearly all under control thanks to Dr Goodman! My trust in Dr Goodman is profound.My fears were real and debilitating, Dr Goodman retaught me breathing awareness acceptance and mindfulness. I am forever grateful to continue to have him in my team!
Lisa
Malibu, CA
The Buddhists say that in a journey of 1000 miles starts with the first step. I am so glad that Dr Goodman was recommended to me. What a breath of fresh air.
Rick
Thousand Oaks, CA
Dr. Goodman is a great listener, very bright so understands what you’re explaining, compassionate, very patient and gives excellent advice.
Margi
Westlake Village, CA
His depth of knowledge in this area is truly impressive, but I find his expertise and insight into all aspects of psychology, life, culture, the arts, and any number of other topics as equally impressive and beneficial.
Rich
Los Angeles
I went to Dr. Goodman as I had recurring pain that was very difficult to manage. My wisdom grew thanks to the psychological modalities and techniques I learned from him and I was able to manage any pain so it was no longer an issue. The empowerment this gave me changed my life, giving me the freedom to accomplish goals I would not have been able to otherwise. I highly recommend Dr. Goodman, I wish there were more psychologists with his wisdom.
Matt
Los Angeles, CA