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Bay Area CBT Center Therapist
Lian Zhu, PhD

Therapy Services in San Francisco CA

Lian Zhu, PhD

Psychotherapy in San Francisco 

Dr. Lian Zhu is a licensed clinical psychologist with a doctoral degree from UT Southwestern Medical Center. She completed her Postdoctoral Fellowship at Stanford University, specializing in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, and behavioral difficulties with children, young adults and families.

She specializes in working with individuals of all ages struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, phobias, anger management and relationship difficulties, as well as parent consultation for behavioral issues.

 

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FEATURED IN

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Integrative Approach grounded in Evidence-Based Treatments

Effective Evidence-Based Therapy

Dr. Zhu uses an integrative approach grounded in evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She is passionate about being culturally sensitive, and has had the opportunity to work with children and adults from a wide spectrum of ethnic, cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Compassion and Collaboration

New tools to manage new challenges

I believe that we are all doing the best that we can. Sometimes we engage in patterns of behavior that used to be adaptive but no longer help. Sometimes we need new tools to manage new challenges. I take care to provide a nonjudgmental, supportive safe space to explore your unique struggles.

My therapeutic style emphasizes compassion and collaboration while being direct and action-focused. I apply techniques that are grounded in empirical evidence to resolve current symptoms as well as long-standing patterns. Through this work, you will gain increased awareness of your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, and lifelong tools to manage distress and create a life you love.

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Therapy, Counseling and Coaching

Beyond Traditional Talk Therapy

Active and Collaborative Therapy Style

My therapy style is active and collaborative. I believe in balancing insight-oriented talk therapy with practical, self-observing behavioral experiments. The therapy homework I assign is evidence-based and tailored to each client’s individual needs. My goal is to help clients live lives that are consistent with their personal values.

Commitment to Your Growth and Fulfillment

As a leading psychotherapist in San Francisco, I am committed to working with clients to overcome challenges, recognize strengths, and achieve goals. My compassionate and active approach to therapy inspires clients to create meaningful change and live their lives to the fullest.

INNOVATIVE THERAPIES

Lian's Areas of Specialty

Your Path to Healing Begins Here.
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Adolescent and Family Therapy

Overcome social anxiety, shyness, imposter syndrome, and low self-esteem, unlocking a path to greater confidence and self-acceptance.

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Anxiety/OCD

Break free from PTSD and complex trauma with carefully tailored exposure-based and mindfulness-based interventions and build resilience.

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Relationship Issues

Find freedom from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, including Body Dysmorphia, relationship OCD, and Trichotillomania, with specialized support.

Ready to take the first step?

Lian's Treatment Specialties

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Perfectionism

Manage perfectionist tendencies that can lead to stress and burnout.

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Self-Criticism

Replace self-critical thoughts with more compassionate and constructive self-talk.

Dating Difficulties

Overcome challenges in dating and relationships.

Co-Dependence

Build healthier, more interdependent relationships.

Internet Addiction

Develop strategies to manage compulsive internet use.

Performance Anxiety

Manage anxiety that affects performance abilities.

Infidelity and Trust Issues

Tackle the emotional complexities of infidelity and rebuild trust.

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Shyness and Social Anxiety

Overcome shyness for more confident social interactions.

Personalized and Inclusive Therapy

Evidence-Based Therapy with Dr. Lian Zhu

Empowering Transformation

As a licensed psychologist  in San Francisco, I believe deeply in the transformative power of therapy. My approach combines traditional methods with innovative techniques, tailored to each client’s unique story. I am committed to continuous learning, ensuring that I bring the most effective strategies to those I work with.

Mindfulness and Self-Compassion

At the core of my therapeutic approach are mindfulness and self-compassion. I help clients connect deeply with themselves, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life. By fostering mindfulness and acceptance, profound changes in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can be achieved, guiding clients towards greater peace and satisfaction.

Nurturing Growth

In my practice, I create a safe and empathetic space for clients to feel heard and understood. I support and guide them through the challenges of therapy, focusing on long-term emotional health and resilience. I offer both in-person and online therapy. My goal is to empower clients, helping them become active participants in their healing process.

Our Promise

Check Out Our Books

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in the Bay Area. You could say we wrote the books on it.

INNOVATIVE THERAPIES

How To Start Therapy

Your Path to Healing Begins Here.

Free 15-Minute Consult

Book a no-cost consultation with our specialist to discuss your therapy goals.

Therapist Match

We’ll match you with a therapist who fits your specific requirements.

Schedule Your Session

Choose video, phone, or in-person for your first session.

Start Therapy

Embark on your path to wellness with your therapist’s guidance.
Ready to take the first step?

Our Diverse Range of Counseling Services

At Bay Area CBT Therapy, we are committed to ensuring that therapy is accessible to everyone, embracing the diverse backgrounds and identities of our clients, including those from the LGBTQ+ community and underrepresented groups. 

Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, providing respectful and affirming care that acknowledges and celebrates our distinct experiences.

Therapy with Lian Zhu, PsyD

At the Bay Area CBT Center, we redefine the journey to mental wellness.

Choosing Dr. Lian Zhu as your psychotherapist in San Francisco means embarking on a journey towards self-discovery and fulfillment. Her expertise, compassionate approach, and commitment to evidence-based practices make her a valuable ally in your mental health journey. 

Check Out Our CBT Quizzes

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Procrastination Quiz

grief and loss

Relationship Schemas Quiz

Self-Compassion Quiz

workplace schemas questionnaire

Workplace Schemas Quiz

relationship satisfaction

Relationship Satisfaction Quiz

person struggling with a trauma bond

Complex Trauma Quiz

A REVOLUTIONARY APPROACH TO HOLISTIC MENTAL HEALTH

Trusted, Licensed Therapists with Expert Training and Thorough Vetting

We’re a group practice of highly experienced mental health professionals and specialists in the field of cognitive behavioral therapy. 

We are empathetic professionals who truly understand what it’s like to feel disconnected from your own journey. We believe that your past should not be an anchor holding you back from a brighter future.

Innovative, Expert-Led Therapy Tailored Just for You

We customize and tailor our work with you to meet your specific needs. Our goal is to provide you with the skills that you need to feel better and cope more effectively in the shortest period of time. 

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