I work with individuals, couples, and teens, offering a supportive and collaborative space where you can explore life's challenges, heal from past experiences, and strengthen your relationships.
Together, we’ll focus on both the inner work—like understanding your emotions, patterns, and core beliefs—and the outer work of building practical tools and strategies to help you feel more grounded, capable, and empowered in your everyday life.
I draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help individuals make sense of the different thoughts, feelings, and patterns that can sometimes feel overwhelming or at odds with one another—especially those rooted in pain, fear, or self-criticism.
IFS provides a framework for building more self-awareness and compassion, which can lead to deep emotional healing and meaningful change. By learning to connect with your inner world in a supportive, non-judgmental way, you can develop a stronger sense of internal balance, confidence, and clarity in your life and relationships.
In my work with couples, I integrate Internal Family Systems (IFS) and the Developmental Model by the Couples Institute to help partners understand themselves and each other on a deeper level. Through IFS, we explore the inner parts that show up in relationships—like protectiveness, anger, or withdrawal—so each partner can take responsibility for their emotional responses and communicate from a more grounded place. The Developmental Model offers a roadmap for navigating the natural stages of relationship growth, helping couples move from conflict and reactivity toward greater intimacy and collaboration. I also incorporate specific techniques like the Initiator-Inquirer process to strengthen communication and foster emotional safety between partners.
I also offer support for parents navigating the unique joys and challenges of raising a neurodivergent child. I can provide a space for parents to process their experiences, explore their emotions, and develop tools for self-care and resilience.
Beyond my professional training, I bring the experience gained from my own journey with individual therapy, a 10+ year marriage and a 9-year-old son. I strive to create a warm, empathetic space where you feel truly seen and supported.
Clients and colleagues often describe me as thoughtful, kind, and genuinely caring. Whether you're working through personal challenges or navigating relationship dynamics, I’m here to walk alongside you.
Ready to take the first step? Contact us today for a free consultation for Lucas!
Education and Credentials:
Registered Associate Marriage & Family Therapist #14059
Clinical Therapist, Empathy Works Therapy; 2023 - Present
Masters In Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Sonoma State University; 2023
Certification from Stepping Stone's comprehensive Internal Family Systems (IFS) Course; 2024
Completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy; 2024
Completed The Couples Institute Training "In Quest of the Mythical Mate"; 2023
Nonviolent Communication (NVC) with Intimate Relationships, Communication Dojo; 2021
Mental Health Therapist, Petaluma City Schools; 2021-2023
DIR Floortime© Basic Certificate, ICDL; 2018
DIR Floortime© Specialist, Greenhouse Therapy Center; 2017 - 2019
Testimonials:
“Lucas was very thoughtful and engaged at all times during our sessions. He helped me process my emotions in a meaningful way. Lucas also was great at helping me separate my past and present feelings and why I was feeling what I was feeling... I would highly recommend therapy from Lucas to others.” -R.H., Client
“Lucas provides thoughtful, informed, quality care. And he genuinely cares.” - Briana Soladay, LMFT, C-IAYT
”Lucas has an extremely kind, warm, and empathetic presence. He is truly passionate about serving his clients and is a joy to work with!” - Eliza Pedder, AMFT
”Not only is Lucas a true professional, but he is a kind and caring soul.” - Saranya Sureshkumar, Principal, Petaluma City Schools
