Daily Inspiration: Meet Dr. Elham R. Thompson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Elham R. Thompson.

Hi Dr. Elham, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have long been fascinated by the power and resilience of the human mind. That curiosity became a calling during college, when I found myself navigating the tension between my traditional Iranian upbringing and my American social environment. At the suggestion of a mentor, I sought counseling—and was struck by how transformative it felt to have a safe, thoughtful space to explore my experience. In that moment, I knew I wanted to create that same space for others.

I pursued both my master’s and doctorate degrees to deepen my understanding of psychological growth and change. After continually delaying my dissertation deadlines, my academic journey took an unexpected turn when my chair jokingly suggested I consider ‘procrastination’ as my topic. What began as humor became a significant and successful focus of my research. After training in community mental health clinics, substance use treatment centers, and psychiatric hospitals, I ultimately realized my long-standing goal of building a private practice. Today, I focus exclusively on that thriving practice, supporting meaningful and lasting change in my patients’ lives.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I was born in Iran in the early 1980s during the revolution. As a Jewish family, we faced profound uncertainty and ultimately fled the country under assumed identities, carrying only what might pass as vacation belongings. Our first attempt to leave was halted when airport officials, suspicious of the cast on my broken arm, delayed us long enough that we watched our plane take off without us. When we finally got out, my family of four shared a single bedroom in Austria while awaiting permission to immigrate to the U.S.

When we eventually made it to California, I entered second grade without speaking English—a humbling and formative experience. Over time, I adapted and thrived, but cultural stigma around mental health remained deeply embedded in my Persian Jewish community. Choosing to not only see a therapist regularly, but actually become one, required me to challenge those norms. That journey strengthened my commitment to creating spaces where individuals from all backgrounds feel safe seeking support, without shame or hesitation.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a clinical psychologist licensed in California for over a decade. I have a thriving private practice where I serve individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. My approach is rooted in what I call “curious collaboration”—a partnership built on thoughtful inquiry, respect, and shared exploration. I work extensively with adults who have anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, as well as with those navigating major life transitions.

A central focus of my work is helping people who feel stuck—emotionally, relationally, and sometimes even physically. I strive to create a supportive environment where patients can better understand their patterns and build sustainable change. I’m fluent in Farsi and value working with individuals who may be seeking therapy for the first time, particularly those who feel hesitant or resistant. I understand that entering therapy can feel vulnerable, and I take pride in helping even the most skeptical patients feel understood, respected, and empowered in their growth.

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
If you’re considering therapy, I welcome you to schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation to discuss your goals and see if working together feels like the right fit.

Pricing:

• Individual 45-60 Min $285-$315
• Couples 60-75 Min $300-$330
• Insurance, Medicare

Contact Info:

• Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/elham-ramtin-thompson-beverly-hills-ca/710095
• Phone Number: (949)354-3550