How do I know if Lisa Chen & Associates is the right fit for me?

We offer a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation. It's a chance to get to know us, understand our approach, and see if we align with your needs. The purpose of an initial consultation is to determine if you are a good fit for working together. You can expect a 15-20 minute conversation where you will have the opportunity to share your concerns, goals, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. This is also a chance for you to ask questions and get a sense of the therapist's approach and personality.

Our fees range from $180 to $350 per 50-minute session based on the clinician's experience, specialized training, and services provided. Lisa Chen's fees are $350 per 50-minute session for both individual and couples counseling. Licensed Client Session fees are $200 for individual and $225 for couples counseling per 50-minute session. Associate Clinician fees are $180 for individual and $200 for couples counseling per 50-minute session. We also reserve spots for clients requesting a sliding-scale rate to accommodate financial needs.

Do you accept insurance?

Lisa Chen & Associates are out-of-network providers. We provide monthly insurance statements ('Superbills') for you to seek partial reimbursement from your insurance company according to your policy. For questions about your out-of-network benefits, please contact your insurance carrier before scheduling.

What is your cancellation policy?

Weekly clients are allowed 3 free cancellations every 6 months, and bi-weekly clients are allowed 2 free cancellations every 6 months, beginning from the date of your first session. You will be responsible for payment for your normally scheduled session time for all cancelled appointments beyond this. Please provide at least 48 hours' notice for cancellations. You may always choose to reschedule and/or take sessions virtually to accommodate occasional scheduling conflicts.

How often should I expect to meet?

We recommend weekly therapy sessions for optimal progress. However, there are times when clients prefer to meet twice a week for more complex challenges. During your initial phone consultation, let us know if you are interested in more frequent sessions.

Are you offering in-person sessions?

Yes, we are seeing clients in our South Bay office located at 2615 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 322, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254. We also offer telehealth sessions for California residents.

How do I get started with counseling?

The first step is to schedule an initial consultation by calling our office or submitting the contact form on our website. This allows us to understand your needs and match you with the best therapist for your situation. From there, we'll work with you to schedule ongoing sessions.

Highly Sensitive in Los Angeles? 10 Practical Tips to Stay Calm and Thrive for HSPs

Los Angeles offers endless opportunities, from career growth to cultural exploration. Yet for Highly Sensitive People (HSPs), the city’s fast pace and sensory-rich environment can feel overwhelming. At Lisa Chen & Associates Therapy located in Hermosa Beach, we specialize in helping HSPs find balance, cope with overstimulation, and embrace their sensitivity as a strength.

What Makes Life Challenging for HSPs in Los Angeles?

High sensitivity means experiencing the world deeply—emotionally, physically, and mentally. This can make navigating Los Angeles' crowded streets, heavy traffic, and fast pace uniquely challenging.

“For HSPs, urban environments can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. The key is creating a lifestyle that balances stimulation with self-care”

— Lisa Chen, LMFT HSP Therapist

6 Practical Tips for HSPs to Thrive in Los Angeles

1. Find Your Quiet Zones

Amid the hustle and bustle, Los Angeles offers pockets of serenity perfect for HSPs to recharge:

The Hermosa Beach Strand: A peaceful place for reflective walks or quiet time by the ocean.
The Getty Center Gardens: Enjoy beautifully landscaped gardens with breathtaking views, ideal for reflection.
The Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens: Escape into nature with over a dozen themed gardens.

2. Create a Sensory Toolkit

When you’re feeling overstimulated, having a go-to toolkit can make all the difference. Include items like:

Noise-canceling headphones: Try brands like Sony WH-1000XM5 to block out city noise.
Aromatherapy on the go: Carry portable essential oils, like this Roll-On Lavender Oil.
Grounding objects: Small items like stress balls (these are my favorite) or worry stones can help during moments of overwhelm.

“One of my clients carries noise-canceling headphones in her bag to use during commutes. It’s a simple yet effective way to manage sensory overload,” shares ”

— Jessica Slavin, AMFT HSP Therapist at Lisa Chen & Associates

3. Practice Mindful Commuting

Navigating Los Angeles traffic can be stressful, but mindfulness can transform your experience.

Try a meditation app like Headspace or Calm to stay centered during long commutes.
Use audio playlists designed for relaxation, such as the "Relaxing Music" playlist on Spotify.
Schedule trips during off-peak hours whenever possible to minimize sensory overload.

4. Engage in Calming Activities

Regularly practicing calming activities can help HSPs reset their nervous systems. Consider:

Yoga Classes: Studios like Yoga Six in Redondo Beach offer calming yoga sessions.
Meditation Centers: Visit Unplug Meditation in Santa Monica or explore their online classes.
Creative Outlets: Engage in art therapy or join a pottery class at South Bay Artist Studio for therapeutic creativity.

5. Connect with the HSP Community

Building connections with like-minded individuals is essential.

Join HSP Meetup Groups: Look for events in the LA area through platforms like Meetup.com.
Attend HSP-specific workshops or retreats, such as those hosted by Elaine Aron or other experts in sensitivity.
Participate in virtual communities like the Highly Sensitive Refuge.

“Many HSPs I work with find solace in knowing they’re not alone. Joining a supportive group can make all the difference.”

— Lisa Chen, LMFT HSP Expert

6. Work with an HSP Specialist

Therapy can help you develop tools to navigate life more effectively as an HSP. At [Your Practice Name], we offer specialized services tailored to HSPs.

Why Hermosa Beach is Perfect for HSPs

Hermosa Beach offers the perfect mix of tranquility and connection to Los Angeles. Being so close to the ocean, we have access to nature (sand, water, sun, and more). If you’re looking for some specific places, here are some must-visit spots for HSPs:

Hermosa Beach Farmers Market: A low-key market with fresh produce and local crafts.
Valley Park: A serene park for picnics or quiet reflection.
The Source Café: Enjoy healthy meals in a calming atmosphere. Visit Website
The Strand: Use nature as a place to unwind and rebuild your sensory tank.

Turning Sensitivity into a Strength

At Lisa Chen & Associates, we believe that being highly sensitive is a gift. Through therapy and coaching, we help HSPs:

Set boundaries to protect their energy.
Build resilience to sensory overload.
Discover how sensitivity can enhance relationships and professional success.

Ready to Embrace Your Sensitivity?

Whether you’re seeking support in Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, or virtually throughout California, our team is here to help. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward thriving as an HSP.