About Lori


Lori Sparrow, LMFT (MFT 93991), is a San Francisco Bay Area therapist known for practical, evidence-based treatment that helps clients get unstuck and build lives that feel freer, calmer, and more connected. With over 15 years of clinical experience and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the Wright Institute in Berkeley, she specializes in anxiety disorders, OCD, phobias (including fear of flying), social anxiety, addiction, ADHD/procrastination, and relationship challenges.

At Bay Area CBT Center, Lori skillfully applies Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure Therapy, Schema Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Gottman Method approaches for couples. Her style is active, supportive, and empathic — she identifies the interpersonal patterns and negative dynamics that block growth, then teaches concrete skills so clients can take meaningful action.

Lori is also experienced with dual-diagnosis work (addiction alongside mental health concerns), previously serving as a primary and family therapist in residential settings including Alta Mira and Reflections. She facilitates therapy groups — including social anxiety skills groups for young adults — and partners with psychiatrists, physicians, and 12-step supports when coordinated care strengthens recovery. Whether you are navigating panic, OCD, fear of flying, work stress, body image concerns, or relationship conflict, Lori’s goal-focused behavioral approach helps you replace harmful habits with healthier ones aligned to your values.

A Personal Note from Lori


My Approach to Therapy

I help anxious clients who want to build healthy relationships and meaningful lives. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders — including panic, fear of flying, general anxiety, OCD, phobias, and social anxiety — with evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and exposure-based methods that create real change, not just insight.

My therapy style is active, supportive, and empathetic. I identify interpersonal patterns and negative dynamics that block personal growth, and I teach practical skills and tools that enable you to take action. Therapy is a joint effort: my approach is direct and flexible, tailored to fit your unique needs, and grounded in behavioral interventions designed to replace harmful habits with healthier ones that match your core values.

I also work with couples facing relationship issues and addiction using Schema Therapy, ACT, and Gottman methods — and I facilitate groups where clients practice skills together, get feedback, and build confidence in real time. In session, I focus on building resilience and self-empowerment. I believe in everyone’s innate ability to overcome challenges, and I am committed to incorporating the latest psychological advancements so you receive the most effective strategies available.

Start therapy today — because you deserve to be happy. Whether you are tackling relationship issues, work stress, social anxiety, fear of flying, or personal obstacles, we will work together to recognize and harness your strengths for lasting positive change.

Specialties


Anxiety Disorders OCD Phobias Fear of Flying Social Anxiety Panic Attacks ADHD & Procrastination Addiction & Codependency Dual Diagnosis Relationship Issues Couples Therapy Communication Problems Trauma Work-Related Stress Depression Body Dysmorphia Life Transitions Therapy Groups

Therapeutic Modalities


Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Exposure Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Schema Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Attachment Theory
Gottman Method (Couples)
Group Therapy
Behavioral Interventions
Skills-Based / Goal-Focused Therapy
Values-Aligned Habit Change