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Dr. Justin Lutz

Therapist · California

Dr. Justin Lutz, CA Psychologist 31972

Warm, practical therapy for life and identity challenges

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Review online therapy options on BetterHelp.

  • Empathic listening
  • Goal focused
  • Identity support

About Justin

Dr. Justin Lutz helps people who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin. He acknowledges how hard it can be to reach out and aims to make that first step feel more manageable. His approach begins with listening and building a respectful, warm connection so clients can talk about what matters most to them.

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

AddictionsLGBTAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes

Also works with

Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepressionADHD

Additional focus areas

Attachment issuesAutism and Asperger SyndromeAvoidant personalityCaregiver issues and stressCommunication problemsControl issuesDisruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)Drug and alcohol addictionFamily problemsForgivenessGender dysphoriaImpulsivityLife purposeMidlife crisisMood disordersPolyamory / non-monogamous relationshipsSelf-loveSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaYoung adult issues

Therapeutic approaches

Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Mindfulness TherapySolution-Focused Therapy

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.

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Dr. Justin LutzReview online therapy options on BetterHelp.

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