- Empathic listening
- Goal focused
- Identity support
About Justin
He uses empathy and a nonjudgmental stance to open space for honest conversation. In sessions he encourages people to rework personal stories, notice unhelpful patterns, and try new ways of handling emotions and relationships. That work often focuses on improving mood, coping with life changes, and managing relationship or family stress.
Dr. Lutz has 23 years of clinical experience in California. His background includes work with teenagers affected by the juvenile justice system and with adults addressing substance use, trauma, anxiety, and depression. He also supports people on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum as they explore identity and life decisions.
He blends several practical approaches in therapy, emphasizing what will help each person in the moment. Sessions aim to be clear and goal-oriented while staying flexible to meet changing needs. If someone wants to learn more, he suggests a brief phone consultation to talk about goals and questions about the process.
Dr. Lutz holds the credential CA Psychologist 31972 and conducts work in California. Sessions are offered in English and he does not work with international clients.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
23+ years
Credentials
California
Languages
English
How these approaches translate to online work
Client-Centered Therapy is about listening closely and following the client's lead. Online sessions focus on creating a respectful, empathic space where someone can speak freely and consider new directions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) breaks problems into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and uses small experiments to change unhelpful patterns; online CBT often includes brief skill practice between sessions. Mindfulness Therapy teaches simple attention and breathing exercises to reduce reactivity and support mood regulation, which is easy to practice between meetings.Deciding which approach to use is collaborative. The therapist will ask about goals, daily routines, and what has or hasn’t helped before. Together they will try methods that fit the person's needs, then adjust the plan based on what actually helps.
Confirm the exact session formats before booking so you know what options are available. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into busy lives by reducing travel time and allowing for shorter check-ins when needed. It also makes it simpler to keep appointments during work breaks or when juggling caregiving duties. Ask about the available formats when you schedule so sessions match your practical needs.
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns can be addressed in sessions?
Common topics include addiction, depression, bipolar mood concerns, ADHD, grief, parenting strain, relationship and family issues, trauma and abuse, anger, and self-esteem.
What is the therapy style like?
The style blends client-centered warmth with practical techniques from cognitive behavioral and solution-focused approaches, plus mindfulness practices for emotion regulation.
How much experience does this therapist have?
He brings 23 years of clinical experience working with teens and adults, including work with system-impacted teenagers and people addressing substance use and trauma.
What credentials and location apply to this practice?
He is listed as CA Psychologist 31972 and conducts work in California.
Which languages are supported and can international clients join?
Sessions are offered in English and international clients are not currently accepted.
What session formats are offered?
Please confirm current session options before booking so you know whether phone or video sessions are available for scheduling.
How does cost and billing work?
Cost varies with location and the subscription model is used; the subscription can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin the process?
Click the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule based on the therapist's availability.