About Lisa

My name is Lisa Brookes Kift and  I provide individual therapy, couples therapy as well as premarital counseling services in downtown Larkspur, Marin County, CA.    For those out of the area in other areas of California, I offer online therapy. A frequent consultant for the media, I have appeared in such publications and online news sources as CNN, HuffingtonPost, Shape and Men’s Health (See   In the Media).

My  Background 

I hold a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology from National University, in San Diego, CA., and am a licensed Marriage and   Family Therapist with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (MFC #45087).  I have been in this profession for 15 years. This is my second career , my first being in the  Movie and TV industry in Los Angeles where I was an Assistant Director managing many aspects of the logistics around movie/tv production.  So I have a deep understanding of some of the aspects of a high pressure industry.

My Therapy Orientation

I’m eclectic with a blend of Attachment Theory,    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and the work of John Gottmam with couples. I put a strong focus on family of origin work for individuals and emotional safety for couples.  I also have an interest in mindfulness and resilience in their power to aid in self-regulation. 

My Counseling Style

I am compassionate, curious and proactive. I prioritize human connection over a clinical “one-up” dynamic and I see our work as a collaboration. Research has demonstrated the importance of the relationship between therapist and client(s) in successful therapy outcomes.

My Clients

I work with men and women of all ages.  People have said they find me direct, relatable and down to earth. I continue to be humbled by  people’s willingness to dig deep and their strength to overcome adversity. I have done my own therapy which I believe enhances my therapeutic skills and understanding of what it’s like to sit on the “other side.”

Emotional pain, dissatisfaction and general unhappiness are the greatest motivators for change and are usually what lead people to seek individual or couples therapy. I am passionate about helping people understand their issues on a deeper level so that lasting change can occur.

Other Resources

I have  a second website,  LoveAndLifeToolbox.com.  It is a large emotional health and relationship resource with content by me and other guest contributors in my field.