We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Dr. Jamie Cohen. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Dr. Cohen below.
Hi Dr. Cohen, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from California State University, Fullerton. During that time, I gained valuable hands-on experience working in a private optometry practice as an optician, which gave me a strong foundation and well-rounded perspective as I pursued a career in optometry.
Optometry has always been a part of my life—in fact, my uncle owns two optometry practices in New York, and his influence inspired me to follow this path from a young age. After completing my undergraduate studies, I was able to fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming an optometrist by earning my Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry in 2011.
During my clinical training, I completed rotations in Cornea and Contact Lens, Pediatrics, Primary Care, and a LASIK-focused ophthalmology practice. These experiences allowed me to gain valuable knowledge in co-managing surgical procedures and treating a wide range of ocular diseases, including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and conditions related to hypertension.
I grew up in Agoura Hills, California, and I’m proud to be back in my hometown providing exceptional eye care to my community and neighboring cities.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road—like many in healthcare, my journey required a lot of dedication and resilience. I spent about nine years in college and optometry school, and I took on student loans to make that possible, which I worked hard to pay back on my own.
After graduating in Optometry school in Florida, I made the big move back to California, which came with its own set of challenges—both personally and professionally. Early in my career, I worked in a variety of optometry settings to explore different practice modalities and figure out what I truly enjoyed. That exploration was incredibly valuable, but it also meant navigating a lot of change and uncertainty.
Eventually, I decided to start my own practice cold, which was both exciting and daunting. Building something from the ground up required long hours, persistence, and a lot of learning along the way. But looking back, those challenges shaped who I am as a doctor and business owner, and I’m proud of the path I’ve taken.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Jamie Cohen, O.D., INC.?
Optometry is a specialized healthcare field focused on examining, diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases and disorders of the eyes and visual system. As an optometrist, I play a crucial role in preserving vision and promoting overall eye health. With rapid advancements in medical technology, modern optometry now includes sophisticated tools and treatments that improve diagnostic accuracy and enhance patient care.
My practice is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including the Optos retinal camera, which captures ultra-widefield images of the retina—up to 200 degrees—in a single, non-invasive scan. This technology enables early detection and monitoring of conditions like diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal detachments. In many cases, it eliminates the need for pupil dilation, making exams more comfortable and efficient for my patients.
Contact lenses remain a popular option for correcting refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. Today’s lenses offer greater comfort and visual clarity through innovations like daily disposables, extended wear options, and specialty lenses. I carefully evaluate each patient’s eye shape, tear film quality, and lifestyle to recommend the most suitable lens for optimal vision and comfort.
A growing area of focus in my practice is myopia control, particularly among children. With nearsightedness on the rise, I offer personalized interventions to slow its progression. These may include orthokeratology (overnight reshaping lenses), multifocal soft contact lenses, low-dose atropine eye drops, and guidance on lifestyle habits such as increased outdoor time. These strategies help lower the risk of high myopia and associated eye diseases later in life.
I have a special interest in fitting specialty contact lenses, particularly scleral lenses for patients with corneal irregularities or severe dry eye. Unlike standard lenses, scleral lenses vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, creating a fluid reservoir that promotes comfort and healing. I often use them to manage complex conditions like keratoconus, post-surgical corneal changes, and ocular surface disease. Fitting these lenses requires advanced expertise and specialized equipment—skills I’ve developed through extensive training.
Any big plans?
I aim to expand my specialty contact lens services, with a particular focus on scleral lenses and myopia control. My goal is to continue delivering high-quality, personalized eye care while building lasting relationships with patients. By combining advanced clinical expertise with genuine compassion, I strive to make every eye exam a meaningful experience that prioritizes both vision and overall well-being.
Pricing:
- no
Contact Info:
- Website: https://doctors.eyeexamsnow.com/optometry/ca/westlake-village/westlake-village-optometry
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WestlakeVillageOptometry/
