Lizhen Yan, LMFT

Lizhen Yan is a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) based in New Jersey who helps people handle stress, anxiety, relationship strain, and low self-esteem. She also supports those coping with depression and a range of family-related concerns. Sessions are offered in English and Mandarin to suit different needs.

Yan uses practical, evidence-informed approaches so clients leave with tools they can use. In sessions she focuses on clear goals and straightforward strategies. Conversations center on what’s happening now and what changes would feel most useful to the client.

Her work often addresses attachment and adoption-related issues, abandonment, blended family dynamics, and challenges like caregiver stress or codependency. She also helps people who are navigating communication problems, commitment worries, and family of origin concerns. These topics are handled in a step-by-step way that connects emotions to everyday choices.

Clients can expect a collaborative style. She listens, reflects what she hears, and then works with each person to test small changes that build confidence. Homework and practical exercises are used when they help move things forward.

Yan brings five years of clinical experience to her practice and holds an MA LMFT, FL LMFT. Her background combines relationship-focused perspectives with methods that address thoughts and behavior. This mix is intended to help people find clearer ways to cope and relate.

Approaches that guide online sessions

CBT, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, looks at the links between thoughts, feelings, and actions and helps people try different ways of thinking and behaving to reduce distress. It is often used for anxiety, depression, and stress-related problems.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or ACT, focuses on identifying personal values and taking committed steps toward them while learning to accept difficult emotions. This approach can help when worry or avoidance keeps someone from living the life they want.

Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes a respectful, nonjudgmental relationship where the therapist listens closely and helps people find their own solutions. It can be useful when someone needs space to process emotions and regain direction.

Finding the best approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss goals, preferences, and what has or hasn’t helped in the past, then try methods that fit the person's needs. Techniques can be adjusted over time based on what is working.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video is good for conversations that benefit from visual cues. Phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth is limited. Live chat and messaging are useful for brief check-ins, emotional monitoring, or when someone prefers typed communication. These options offer flexibility to fit sessions into work, caregiving, or busy schedules.