Lisa Rakusin , LCSW

Lisa Rakusin is a California-licensed LCSW - a Licensed Clinical Social Worker - with 11 years of professional experience supporting people through difficult periods. She has worked with clients facing stress, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and grief, guiding them toward more manageable and meaningful daily living. Lisa approaches each person with the assumption that they are the expert on their own story and that they already possess strengths that can be mobilized to address current challenges.

She emphasizes the courage it takes to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and treats the decision to begin therapy as an important first step. In sessions she prioritizes support and empowerment, helping clients identify practical tools and new perspectives that align with their values and goals. Her style is collaborative and strengths-based, focused on helping people move through change with increasing confidence and resilience.

Clients who work with Lisa can expect a respectful, empathetic partnership aimed at uncovering inner resources and creating sustainable steps toward well-being.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Care

In her online practice Lisa draws on Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to meet a range of needs. Attachment-Based Therapy explores how early relationship patterns influence current feelings and connections - it can be helpful for relationship struggles, intimacy-related concerns, and family issues. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening deeply and responding with empathy so clients can explore their feelings at their own pace - this approach supports self-esteem, life transitions, and grief work. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps identify unhelpful thought and behavior patterns and teaches practical strategies to reduce anxiety, manage stress, and address mood difficulties.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Lisa collaborates with each person to determine which methods best fit their goals, needs, and preferences, adjusting the plan as progress is made and new priorities emerge.

Online therapy with Lisa is available via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexible options to fit different schedules and comfort levels. These formats make it easier to access regular support from licensed professionals and to continue work on coping skills, relationship patterns, and life changes from wherever is most convenient.