Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
How do I find a good therapist in the Bay Area?
Finding a good therapist is less about finding the "best" one and more about finding the right fit for you. Start by identifying what you want help with — anxiety, trauma, relationship patterns, chronic illness — then look for a therapist who specializes in that area. Reading a therapist's bio and approach page can give you a real sense of their style. Most therapists, including Liz, offer a free consultation call so you can ask questions and get a feel for the connection before committing. That 15–20 minutes is the most useful step in the search.
What happens in the first therapy session?
The first session is a chance to get to know each other. Liz will ask about what brought you to therapy, what you've been experiencing, and what you're hoping to work on. You're also welcome to ask questions. There's no pressure to share everything at once — the first session is about beginning, not arriving. Most people leave feeling heard and with a clearer sense of direction.
How do I know if a therapist is the right fit for me?
Research consistently shows that the most important factor in therapy outcomes is the quality of the relationship between therapist and client — more than any specific method or credential. A few signs of a good fit: you feel safe being honest, you don't feel judged, and the therapist's style makes sense to you. The consultation call is a good place to assess this. Trust your gut — it's okay if the first therapist you speak with isn't the right match.
About Liz & her approach
What are Liz's credentials and qualifications?
Liz is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #138909) in California. Her background spans over a decade in the healing arts — including massage, acupressure, and Qi Gong — and she holds undergraduate degrees in philosophy and visual art. Her approach is grounded in somatic therapy, the latest research in nervous system regulation, and a deep belief in the connection between body and mind.
What therapeutic approaches does Liz use?
Liz works primarily with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), IFS (Internal Family Systems), and somatic approaches — all research-backed modalities that are particularly effective for trauma, anxiety, and chronic illness. Her work is also informed by mindfulness, philosophy, and art and creativity. Rather than applying a rigid framework, she tailors the approach to what each client actually needs.
Liz specializes in complex trauma and PTSD, anxiety, chronic illness, and relationship challenges. She also works with couples. If you're carrying something that feels "stuck" — a pattern that doesn't shift, a body that won't settle, grief that won't move — this may be a good fit.
Does Liz work with children?
Liz generally works with clients ages 12 and up, though she is open to working with younger children in certain situations. Reach out to discuss whether it's a good fit for your child.
Online Therapy
Does Sierra Springs Psychotherapy offer in-person therapy in San Francisco or the Bay Area?
Liz currently offers online therapy only, available to anyone in California — including San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Santa Cruz, Sacramento, Palo Alto, and beyond. All sessions are conducted via secure video platform.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Yes. Research consistently shows that online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy for most concerns, including trauma and anxiety. There are also real advantages: you can attend from wherever feels safest and most comfortable — your home, your car, a quiet space with your tea and your dog nearby. The somatic and nervous system tools Liz uses translate well to a virtual format. For many clients, being in their own environment actually supports the work.
Fees & Insurance
What are the therapy session rates?
Individual sessions (50 minutes): $200. Couples or family sessions (50 minutes): $225. A limited number of sliding scale spots are available for those who need financial flexibility — reach out to ask about availability.
Do you accept insurance?
Liz is not in-network with any insurance companies, but she can provide a superbill — a detailed receipt you can submit to your insurance provider for potential reimbursement. Many PPO plans reimburse for out-of-network therapy. To check your benefits, call your insurance company and ask: "Do you reimburse for out-of-network outpatient psychotherapy?" You'll also want to ask about your deductible and reimbursement rate.
Is there a sliding scale?
Yes. Liz maintains a set number of sliding scale spots for clients who need them. Availability varies — please reach out directly to ask whether there's currently an opening.
Logistics
How often would we meet?
Liz meets with clients once per week. This frequency allows for real continuity — meeting every other week often makes it hard to maintain momentum and build on the work between sessions. Weekly sessions tend to lead to more consistent, meaningful progress.
What is the cancellation policy?
There is a 24-hour cancellation policy. If you cancel with less than 24 hours' notice or do not attend a scheduled session, the full session fee will be charged.