About Me
My interest in becoming a therapist began when I was an undergraduate working as a tutor for at-risk youth in group homes, probation facilities, and drug rehabilitation centers through the Orange County Department of Education's Title I Program. In this role, I observed firsthand that regardless of challenging circumstances, significant change is possible when one is empowered with information and the compassionate presence of a trusted mentor. I decided to expand my service to providing psychological and emotional support to students as a school counselor, which then led to a desire to work as a therapist with individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
After many years in alternative and school settings, I began working in private practice in 2019. I see clients in person in my Pasadena office and virtually throughout California. It is truly a joy to help people shift their life trajectories toward greater health and satisfaction. I am constantly amazed and inspired by the depth of healing I have the privilege to bear witness to. When I'm not working, I love walking with my dog and enjoying the arts and nature with my family and friends.
Education and Certifications
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Master of Arts in Counseling, Loyola Marymount University
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Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, California Board of Behavioral Sciences
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Pupil Personnel Services Credential, School Counseling, California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
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California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University- graduate coursework in human development, assessment, and psychopharmacology
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Association for Advanced Training in the Behavioral Sciences- continuing education in substance abuse and dependency, domestic violence, aging, human sexuality, and PTSD
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EMDR International Association approved training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Ongoing workshops and training in Hakomi, Somatic Experiencing, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy
Courtney R. Lee, MA, APCC
Loyola Marymount University
My Approach
My approach can best be described as integrative, as I draw from multiple schools of thought and use a variety of empirically-validated psychotherapeutic techniques, selected according to the unique needs of each client. I work collaboratively and dynamically with you to identify patterns of thought and behavior that may be preventing you from living the life you want. My primary focus is to build a strong therapeutic alliance and to create a safe and supportive space for you to develop awareness, acceptance, and ultimately, to create change.
My work is predominantly humanistic, psychodynamic, somatic, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness-based. Somatic therapy techniques, such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Hakomi, have become a significant part of my practice, as both research and my own clinical experience have shown a high level of effectiveness in treating PTSD, anxiety, depression, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), among other conditions. All forms of treatment I use are grounded in compassion, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. The overall nature of the relationship between client and therapist has a greater impact on the change process than any particular theory or method. For this reason, I offer a free, 15-minute phone consultation to see if we are a good fit prior to you scheduling your first appointment.