I’m so glad you’re here. Get comfy and stay a while.
Hi, I’m Lisa
I’ve been working with teens and adults for more than 15 years, and I’ve learned that while everyone’s story looks different, so many struggles trace back to unprocessed trauma.
I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco in 2008, and I started my career at Community Health Awareness Council (CHAC), where I spent nearly a decade supporting teens and adults through life’s challenges. Along the way, I trained in EMDR in 2011, because I wanted a way to go beyond “just talking” and help people truly process the root of their pain. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be: once trauma is worked through, the anxiety, depression or other stuck patterns often begin to ease on their own.
Since 2016, I’ve been in private practice here in Redwood City, offering both in-person sessions and virtual therapy throughout California. My approach is warm and collaborative — I want you to feel comfortable, respected and supported as we work together. I use tools like EMDR, IFS and breathwork to help clients get unstuck and move toward a more grounded, authentic version of themselves.
My Focus
My work centers on helping adults who feel like they’ve tried everything, yet still find themselves stuck in cycles of anxiety, depression or relationship struggles. Many of my clients have already done talk therapy and found it helpful — but they’re ready to go deeper and get to the root of what’s really holding them back.
I focus on trauma because so often it’s the unseen force behind the patterns we can’t seem to break. Unprocessed trauma can fuel anxiety, low self-esteem, obsessive thoughts or relationship difficulties, even when you’ve worked hard on self-awareness and coping skills. I use approaches like EMDR, IFS, and breathwork to help you move through the fears that may be standing in the way of your progress.
My Credentials
Education
MA in Counseling Psychology, University of San Francisco, 2008
Experience
In practice for 17 years across diverse settings and clinical populations
CAMFT
Clinical Member of CAMFT and Santa Clara Valley Chapter of CAMFT
Breathwork
Neurodynamic Breathwork Facilitator - Training Completed 2024
Licensure
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist - CA Board of Behavioral Sciences #80136
EMDRIA
Clinical Member - Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing International Association
I won’t let you hide behind “I’m fine.” My role is to lovingly call out what’s incongruent and hold up a mirror to your true self.
On a Personal Note
Outside the therapy room, you’ll usually find me recharging with meditation, yoga, hiking, pickleball or tennis. These practices aren’t just hobbies — they’re how I stay balanced, present and energized for the work I love to do.
As a trauma therapist, it’s essential that I practice what I encourage my clients to do: care for my body, mind and spirit. By tending to my own well-being, I’m able to show up fully grounded and authentic in sessions, modeling the very balance and self-compassion I want for you.