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.

Finding Calm: Therapy for Anxiety in Hermosa Beach

Therapy for Anxiety

How Does Anxiety Affect The Body

Anxiety can have a profound impact on the body, as it activates the body's stress response system, known as the fight-or-flight response. When you experience anxiety, whether it's due to a specific event or a general feeling of unease, your body reacts as if it's under threat. This triggers a cascade of physiological changes designed to prepare you to confront or escape the perceived danger.

Here are some ways anxiety affects the body:

Increased heart rate or palpitations: Anxiety can cause your heart to beat faster and harder, supplying oxygen and nutrients to your muscles in preparation for action.
Rapid breathing: Breathing becomes faster and shallower during anxiety. This helps oxygenate the blood and deliver it to the muscles, enhancing their ability to respond quickly.
Muscle tension: Anxiety can lead to muscle tension and stiffness, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back. This physical response is the body's way of preparing for potential danger.
Sweating: Anxiety triggers the release of stress hormones, such as adrenaline, which can increase sweating. This is part of the body's cooling mechanism during times of heightened activity.
Digestive issues: Anxiety can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system. It may cause symptoms like stomachaches, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation.
Weakened immune system: Prolonged anxiety can suppress the immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses and infections.
Sleep disturbances: Anxiety often leads to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, resulting in insomnia or poor sleep quality. This can further exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
Changes in appetite: Anxiety can affect your appetite, leading to either a decreased or increased desire to eat. Some people may experience comfort eating or loss of appetite during times of heightened anxiety.
Headaches: Tension headaches or migraines can be triggered or intensified by anxiety. The muscle tension and increased blood flow associated with anxiety can contribute to these headaches.
Dizziness and lightheadedness: Anxiety can cause a sense of dizziness or lightheadedness due to changes in blood pressure and breathing patterns.

It's important to note that the specific symptoms and their severity can vary from person to person. If you're experiencing anxiety and it's significantly impacting your daily life, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance and support. There are effective coping techniques and treatments that can diminish the impact of anxiety.

If you're struggling with anxiety and its effects on your body, seeking therapy for anxiety from a Hermosa Beach anxiety specialist can make a significant difference in your well-being. Lisa Chen Therapy, located in Hermosa Beach, offers compassionate and experienced therapy services to help individuals manage anxiety and regain control of their lives.

Don't let anxiety hold you back any longer. Take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced life by scheduling an appointment with Lisa Chen Therapy.