SF Bay Area Psychologist Ruth Lieu is committed to helping people struggling with depression and anxiety, supporting those navigating critical transitions in their lives, helping couples repair their connection, and providing guidance to individuals through career coaching. Her approach is culturally informed and focuses on collaborating with clients to bring lasting healing and helping them live gratifying and fulfilling lives. 

Depression

Unlike the occasional feeling of sadness or lethargy, depression debilitates us and affects our ability to be productive, connect with others and enjoy things that normally bring us pleasure. Depression comes in many forms and is one of the most common illnesses for women and men. Depression affects 10-25% of women and 5-12% of men. Fortunately, even the most severe forms of depression are treatable. With the right therapeutic support and tools you can better anticipate and reduce the severity of symptoms and develop habits to be healthier emotionally and physically.

Anxiety

Most of us experience some anxiety in stressful situations. However, stress and anxiety can also debilitate us, getting in the way of our ability to think clearly and to focus our energy in productive ways. Severe anxiety can produce panic attacks, problems sleeping, obsessive thoughts or avoidance of certain situations. According to the National Institute on Mental Health, anxiety is the most common mental illness in the U.S. Seeking help for anxiety will help you regain energy and the ability to focus on the people and activities most important to you. 

Transitions

We all go through major transitions in life, some expected and some unexpected that can overwhelm our normal coping abilities and resources. Couples grow apart, have difficulties with communication, or need to repair after a break in trust. Difficult transitions might be starting a family, divorce, facing a major health crisis, career change, aging parents, a significant move, etc. Getting support during transitions helps us to weather the challenging period and turn the experience into opportunities for personal growth, self-awareness, and resilience.

Career Coaching

A career coach is a partner who builds confidence, increases insight, and develops skills to handle difficult professional situations. People might seek a coach when they experience debilitating burnout, feel stuck in their career, need guidance in addressing a challenging relationship with business partners or managers, or are considering changing careers. My approach combines both coaching and counseling to guide clients in making critical career decisions as well as help them overcome psychological or emotional barriers to achieving their goals.

Learn more about Dr. Lieu's psychotherapy services