Lena Dicken, Psy.D

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Lena Dicken is a Clinical Psychologist based in Santa Monica, California. With over eight years of experience, Dr. Dicken specializes in therapy for anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. She utilizes an integrative approach combining Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Mindfulness-based therapies. Dr. Dicken holds a BS in Integrative Medicine from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, an MA in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University Los Angeles, and a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D) in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Westwood. Dr. Dicken’s work has been featured in GOOP, The Chalkboard Magazine, and in numerous other articles and podcasts. She is a licensed psychologist with the state of California.

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Forum Comments (2)

How can I be more affectionate towards my partner?
Everyone’s different when it comes to physical touch. Some people love all forms of touching, while others prefer none. The most important thing is to make sure you discuss what your partner likes and dislikes. Maybe they want hugs and kisses. When you want to try something else, make sure that it's out in the open and address it directly to your partner, so that you both understand each other clearly. Remember, communication is key, especially when matters of the heart are involved.
What do I do if my bestie is growing away from me?
That's certainly a sad situation when it happens. I think just reminding yourself that people change and want different things as they get older, and it just inherently leads to some relationships not continuing. When those feelings come up, remind yourself that you are a really different person than you were when you met, and they are a really different person than when they met you.

It’s just natural that people grow apart over time, because the only constant is change, and it wouldn't actually be beneficial for us to stay who we were for our entire lives. It's actually really beneficial for people to change and grow and sort of grow into themselves. So try just acknowledging all of those pieces of the puzzle and reminding yourself that it's okay to let go of relationships that aren't really working anymore, or you don't really have much in common anymore.

Really be open to new friendships and people who really feel like more of where you are now, who really fit in with your lifestyle and fit in with your interests. Be optimistic that those people exist, and by doing the things that you love, you will meet those people.

Co-authored Articles (61)

11 Ways to Respond When a Guy Calls You Crazy (and What He Actually Means)

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While it's natural to cry at funerals, it's also normal to want to try to contain your tears as much as possible. There are several things you can do physically, such as focusing on your breathing and sipping water, that...

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Ignore Someone Who Hurt You

When someone says or does something that hurts you, you may feel angry, sad, embarrassed, or even scared. While it may be tempting to lash out in return, sometimes the best thing you can do is put on a calm face and igno...

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How to Give Someone Space and Improve Your Relationship

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False Memory: How to Tell if Memories are Real

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Is It Normal to Lose Touch with Friends? How to Reconnect or Move on

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Move on from a Relationship You Ruined

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Recovering from any turbulent relationship can be tough, but it can be especially difficult if your ex shows narcissistic qualities like selfishness, arrogance, or manipulative behavior. By following the steps below, you...

How to Move on from a Past Relationship

Moving on from a past relationship can be raw and emotional, whether or not you were the one who ended things. But in the wake of all those emotions, letting go of the past can help you grow, get in touch with yourself, ...

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Know if You're Dating a Psychopath

Due to all the "psychopathic" characters in TV and movies, many people have misconceptions about what psychopathy is. Actual psychopathy is a type of antisocial personality disorder, and a psychopath is generally defined...

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Stop Thinking About an Abusive Ex

Why does it feel so hard to stop thinking about an abusive ex? Even after you’ve made the decision to leave, the psychological trauma that comes with abuse can create deep attachment. Fortunately, you had the strength ...

Why Do I Cry When People Yell At Me? Potential Reasons & How to Deal With It

Learn why you might involuntarily cry when someone shouts at you While it’s perfectly normal to cry when someone yells at you, it can be embarrassing if you’re at work, school, or in public. Crying is a natural resp...

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Move on After Being Dumped by Your Girlfriend

When you get dumped unexpectedly, it can feel like a punch to the gut. With all of these emotions and negative feelings brewing, moving on might seem like a faraway goal. Thankfully, there are concrete steps you can take...

What to Do When Your Boyfriend Says He Needs Space: 10 Tips

So your boyfriend said he needs space, but how are you supposed to respond if you aren’t sure what he means? Whether you just started dating or have been together long-term, it’s still nerve-wracking when you hear hi...

How to Comfort a Friend after a Breakup: 13 Texts to Send

It’s natural to want to comfort a friend after a breakup, but is there anything you can do over text? It turns out you can be a huge support to them just by reminding them you’re there and being a reliable presence f...

How to Flirt with Your Husband

Show your love as a wife with these displays of affection Are you looking to spice up married life? Do you miss the spark from your relationship’s honeymoon stage? When you’re together for a long time, it can be hard...
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