Julie Lai
Licensed Therapist, MA, LMFT
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I am passionate about helping people live fulfilling lives. OCD and anxiety can keep us stuck in a trap of 'what-ifs' and hypothetical scenarios, making it difficult to be present to what matters most to us. I will be a gentle yet firm guide on your journey toward the life you want to live—one filled with purpose and possibility. I want our sessions to be a safe space where you can share anything. My style is non-judgmental, authentic, empowering, and evidence-based—with a little humor sprinkled in. Beyond OCD, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem, identity exploration, and life transitions.
I am passionate about helping people live fulfilling lives. OCD and anxiety can keep us stuck in a trap of 'what-ifs' and hypothetical scenarios, making it difficult to be present to what matters most to us. I will be a gentle yet firm guide on your journey toward the life you want to live—one filled with purpose and possibility. I want our sessions to be a safe space where you can share anything. My style is non-judgmental, authentic, empowering, and evidence-based—with a little humor sprinkled in. Beyond OCD, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem, identity exploration, and life transitions.
Location
Licensed in California, Virginia
About
Clinical Expertise
OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Phobias, Skin picking, Hair pulling, Nail biting, Tics, Children and Adolescents
Cultural competencies
Christianity, Agnosticism, Other, Atheism
Education
Azusa Pacific University
Insurance
Plans accepted by Julie
Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Ascension SmartHealth, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Blue Shield, Blue Shield of California, Cigna, Curative, Forest County Potawatomi, Horizon BCBS, Independence Blue Cross, Kaiser - Northern California Region, Kaiser - Southern California Region, Kaiser Permanente, Oscar Health, Partners Direct Health, Positive Healthcare, United Healthcare, Western Health Advantage,
Want to work with Julie?
Talk with our team to learn more.
Get to know Julie
My personal connection to OCD and mental health
Growing up, no one in my life talked about mental health or emotions. So when I discovered the world of therapy, it felt groundbreaking. Therapy is one few places where we're given permission to be honest and in return, experience being fully seen. I want that especially for those living with OCD because I know how often it's misunderstood, even by those trying to help. I love being able to be a part of something different.
How I create a safe, supportive environment in therapy
You will not be judged here. You get to say the things you've never said out loud and I will not flinch, because I don't believe your thoughts, fears, or struggles define you. I know how OCD can twist what matters to you most. I understand how OCD can warp your thoughts. I will spend time getting to know you and what's most important to you. And together, we'll take gradual steps towards a life that feels more fully yours.
The most rewarding part of treating OCD
I've seen time and time again how specialized OCD treatment with ERP can change lives. Every day I see people do things they once thought were impossible. It's so moving to see people reclaim their lives and build a future led by choice, not fear. I love being able to shine a light towards that possible future for Members I work with.
What I want to help you see in yourself
My hope is that you feel empowered as we move through this work. OCD is loud and convincing. It tells people what they can and can't do and what they should fear. But it tends to underestimate what you bring to the table. My goal is that you get to see that for yourself. I will also be here to highlight your strengths and celebrate every step forward, both big and small.
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