Publications & Research

Before becoming a clinician, I published extensively in the field of economics. In recent years, my research has focused on integrating psychoanalysis with moral philosophy, especially the work of Adam Smith. This interdisciplinary work explores the emotional foundations of moral life, human motivation, and the inner conflicts that shape our behavior.

I have published in both psychoanalytic and philosophical journals and co-authored the book:

Psychoanalytic Studies of the Work of Adam Smith: Toward a Theory of Moral Development and Social Relations (Ozler & Gabrinetti, Routledge, 2018)

Selected publications include:

• The Moral Value of Shame in Adam Smith’s The Theory of Moral Sentiments, Journal of Scottish Philosophy, 22.1 (2024): 37–55

• The Paradox of Wealth and Happiness in Adam Smith’s The Theory of Moral Sentiments, Journal of Scottish Philosophy, 20(3), 2022, pp. 203–216

• Pain and Pleasure as Human Motivations in Smith and Freud’s Works, Adam Smith Review, Vol. 11, 2019 (Ozler & Gabrinetti)

• Defenses and Morality: Adam Smith, Sigmund Freud, and Contemporary Psychoanalysis, Psychoanalytic Review, 101(5), 2014, pp. 735–765 (Gabrinetti & Ozler)

• A Known World: An Analysis of Defenses in Adam Smith’s The Theory of Moral Sentiments, Adam Smith Review, Vol. 8, 2013, pp. 256–276 (Ozler & Gabrinetti)

• Adam Smith and Dependency, Psychoanalytic Review, 99(3), June 2012, pp. 334–358

From Academia to the Inner World

My professional journey began in academia at UCLA as a professor in economics during 1985. Over time, I felt called to return to an early and enduring fascination: understanding the inner workings of the mind and helping others navigate the complexities of emotional life.

This led me to pursue doctoral training in psychoanalysis at the New Center for Psychoanalysis (NCP) in Los Angeles, a nationally respected institute known for its rigorous and comprehensive training. During my time there, I completed four years of intensive coursework in psychoanalytic theory and clinical practice.

I began seeing clients in 2003 under supervision, gaining hands-on experience at the Los Angeles Free Clinic while continuing my doctoral studies. I have been practicing ever since, working with individuals and couples in both long-term psychoanalysis and psychotherapy.

How I Work

My approach is grounded in psychoanalytic thinking, which holds that meaningful change comes through understanding. Together, we will look beyond surface symptoms to explore the deeper patterns and emotional truths that shape your experience. Whether you are facing anxiety, grief, relationship challenges, or a more diffuse sense of unease, I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space where your feelings can be met with curiosity and care.

Through this kind of exploration, many people find greater clarity, emotional strength, and a deeper connection to themselves. My hope is to help you move from feeling stuck or overwhelmed toward a sense of freedom, aliveness, and inner peace.

A Commitment to Growth and Insight

Whether through clinical work, teaching, or research, my guiding aim is to support people in their efforts to know themselves more deeply. I believe that lasting change is possible through insight, and that healing begins in a safe, consistent, and reflective relationship.

If you are curious about working together, I invite you to reach out. I offer a free 20-minute consultation to see if we might be a good fit.

Professional Affiliations

Senior Faculty, New Center for Psychoanalysis

Emeritus Professor of Economics, UCLA

Visiting Professor, Harvard University

Research Fellow, The Hoover Institute, Stanford University

Research Fellow, National Bureau of Economics, Boston

Member, American Psychoanalytic Association

Education 

PsyD, New Center for Psychoanalysis, Los Angeles (2013)

Ph.D. in Economics, Stanford University (1985)