The Relationship Expert
Licensed Psychologist in Newport Beach, Pismo Beach, & Los Osos
Couples
Couples who see me for counseling won’t just learn new communication skills. Those can certainly help for a time. But stopping there addresses the symptom, while neglecting the problem. The result is that couples are likely to need to come back to counseling again later when a new symptom arises.

That includes how you manage conflict, but it also means you get to start rebuilding a relationship of trust. You, as a couple, start finding ways to say, “I’m excited about your hopes for the future,” and, “No matter what happens, I’ve got your back.”
Here are some ways I help couples:
Couples Counseling
No matter what couples are facing in their relationship, I work with them where they are at. It’s my goal for them to experience 3 big payoffs from couples counseling.
More on couples counseling.
Premarital Counseling
Many engaged couples have “surprise issues” waiting for them after they tie the knot. In premarital counseling, we discover what those areas are and what you can do about it.
More on premarital counseling.
Marriage Counseling
The ability to connect and be understood is so important for married couples. In marriage counseling, we explore how you can experience a safe and secure bond.
More on marriage counseling.
Parenting Counseling
For a parent, to watch your child go through a tough time—it can be excruciating. If that’s true for you, I want to hear about it. I also want to hear about you.
More on parenting counseling.
Blended Family Counseling
When two families come together, it may feel less like families blending and more like families colliding. There are two issues that hit blended families especially hard.
More on blended family counseling.
Sexual Intimacy
If the two of you are watching your intimacy erode, there can be a variety of reasons. When it comes to sex, trust is every bit as important as desire.
More on sexual intimacy.
Couples Counseling for One
It’s fine if your loved one isn’t ready for counseling. By changing your part of the dynamic in your relationship, you set in motion opportunities for new growth.
More on couples counseling for one.
The Couples Counseling Difference
Supported by research, Emotionally Focused Therapy, allows us to discover the bid for connection that lies underneath our stated requests and desires.
More on The Couples Counseling Difference.
My approach is to work with you as a team to get to the heart of what you’re facing. With insights based on research, I want you to have the tools to succeed now and for years to come.
“Going through the process and having her support changed the way I was thinking…I think everyone’s needs are different but I also think that Dr. Lisa is willing to meet people right where they are.” Read more…
-V.K.