Testimonials
These are excerpts from testimonials that were originally posted to one of my online sites where people are invited to write reviews. They are reprinted here, and updated from time to time as new reviews appear.
No lie, Sandy saved my marriage. She's insightful, compassionate, non-judgmental, direct, and extremely perceptive about the emotional patterns my partner and I brought to our sessions together.
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No lie, Sandy saved my marriage. She's insightful, compassionate, non-judgmental, direct, and extremely perceptive about the emotional patterns my partner and I brought to our sessions together.
She created an extremely safe and empathetic environment which made it feel super easy for us to be honest and get to the heart of what we were struggling with. In the course of just a few months she coached us into what feels like a markedly different way of relating to one another in which we're more vulnerable and honest and are able to talk about difficult things. It's a major paradigm shift, without exaggeration. We had worked with another couples' counselor for more than a year previously who was totally good and helpful, so we thought we knew what couples therapy was like, but Sandy blew us away -- we're feeling transformed after just a few months.
I cannot recommend Sandy highly enough. She's a total magician, an absolute queen. If you're ready to get unstuck in your relationship (or presumably individual life) then we can't imagine anyone better to work with.
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Sandy was born to do what she does. She has a true gift of listening and offering the most insightful perspective...Her expertise goes beyond textbook knowledge. She draws from real-life experience and imparts wisdom that I had never gotten from anyone else.
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Sandy was born to do what she does. She has a true gift of listening and offering the most insightful perspective. I have come to her with a cluttered mind, sometimes not even fully understanding what I'm feeling or trying to convey. I never feel rushed, even when I am rambling on. It never ceases to amaze me how she can immediately pinpoint what it is I am struggling with, and with utmost empathy she offers guidance on how to manage the situation. Her expertise goes beyond textbook knowledge. She draws from real-life experience and imparts wisdom that I had never gotten from anyone else. Extremely grateful for her. Short Testimonial >
Sandy brings sensitivity, wisdom and compassion to her work. Her thoughtful, gentle insights helped us find our way to each other.
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My husband and I have been married for 22 years and had gotten to a really rough place in our relationship. Sandy brings sensitivity, wisdom and compassion to her work. Her thoughtful, gentle insights helped us find our way to each other. We both really appreciated her ability to see and bring out our best selves - helping us remember what we already knew and appreciated about each other but had forgotten in the chaos of everyday life. Short Testimonial >
Sandy is terrific at her job. She has an unbelievable ability to see every issue from both sides, and such a truly loving and kind nature to help steer the conversation into a constructive space. Over and over again I was amazed at how well Sandy could get us back on track through her keen insights, and her truly empathetic nature.
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Sandy is terrific at her job. She has an unbelievable ability to see every issue from both sides, and such a truly loving and kind nature to help steer the conversation into a constructive space. Over and over again I was amazed at how well Sandy could get us back on track through her keen insights, and her truly empathetic nature. In the end I felt that Sandy was more like my loving aunt than a paid therapist. I would trust her with no bounds on all topics. I give Sandy the highest recommendation. (This is the the first and only Yelp review I have ever written--for that matter this is the first review of any kind I have ever put on the Internet, I'll let that speak for itself.) Short Testimonial >
Sandy Lillie is hands down the most extraordinary therapist, coach and marriage counselor I have ever met. She is brilliant, insightful, warm, nurturing (and yet firm) and was able to support and change me in ways that being in and out of coaching/therapy for over 25 years never did.
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Sandy Lillie is hands down the most extraordinary therapist, coach and marriage counselor I have ever met. She is brilliant, insightful, warm, nurturing (and yet firm) and was able to support and change me in ways that being in and out of coaching/therapy for over 25 years never did.
Sandy has a unique ability to immediately get to the crux of an issue and direct the time together (which is longer than typical so you are not rushed and can go deeper) trying different methods until she is able to help you break through wherever you are stuck.
She has helped me become a better mother, daughter, friend and professional. She has enabled me to truly know myself and feel happy and comfortable as I have walked through crisis and trauma and emerged a happy and healthy person. I have referred numerous friends and family members to her (many of whom swore they never needed a life coach) and all have been blown away by her skills. I feel so fortunate that I found Sandy as she has greatly enriched my life.
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I absolutely love Sandy Lillie, and so did my man, which is saying something, because he has a basic mistrust of therapists!...She knows how to make space for people to say whatever hard things need to be said, and she knows how to make both people feel important, heard and validated in the conversation...She is exceptionally skilled, caring, honest, thoughtful and down to earth.
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I absolutely love Sandy Lillie, and so did my man, which is saying something, because he has a basic mistrust of therapists!
We went to see her because me and the hubby were having a hard time getting past what was coming out of our faces, to what we really meant to be saying.
She squeezed us in at the last minute and boy, what a blessing!
We have been together 26 years, so talk about established patterns! Ai-yaiy-yaiy!
Sometimes you just get so frustrated that want to pull you hair out, because you feel misunderstood, frustrated and the love you know is there is so steeped in other crap that you need a minute to sort through what's happening and get back to the basics.
Enter Sandy Lillie!
Her environment is very relaxing and dappled in light, and her cute dog rests nearby, quietly soaking in the session.
She did record our sessions, only after asking each time before recording, and I think it's fantastic that she uses the videos to continually improve her craft.
Sandy has an amazing skill at following a train of thought through to the end, and honing in on what a person is really trying to say.
She knows how to make space for people to say whatever hard things need to be said, and she knows how to make both people feel important, heard and validated in the conversation.
We went to see Sandy 4 times, and learned some really great tools for stopping the relationship pattern that we dubbed the "Shit Storm" from taking hold and causing serious fights that lead nowhere good and leave everyone feeling like crap. What a relief, because that's a complete waste of time!
With the tools, we now know how to step back, look at the other person's motivation (instead of focusing on how pissed you are at their words) and calm the hell down!
With Sandy's expert guidance we found our way through the murky feelings and back to a good place and by the end it was very clear that we love each other, respect each other and that our love is well intact.
She is exceptionally skilled, caring, honest, thoughtful and down to earth.
I would recommend her most highly to anyone I love dearly, or to anyone looking for transformation.
She'll help you work through things though, so this isn't a therapist for sissies!
Thanks, Sandy!Short Testimonial >
"Therapy is not her occupation, it is her life's work...the difference Sandy has made in my life is immeasurable. I feel ALIVE and back in touch with myself in ways I thought had been lost to me forever...I shudder to think of where I might be right now had I not found her."
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Sandy is an amazing and wonderful human being and I feel so blessed to have found her. She cares deeply about her clients and goes to great lengths to see that they get the help and attention that they need. Therapy is not her occupation, it is her life's work. She is a difference-maker who loves what she does and employs with gusto a richness of knowledge and real-life experience in order to help her clients reach their goals.
I first started seeing her at what felt like one of the lowest points in my life. I felt an excruciating desolation both from myself and the world around me. My life seemed as if it was unbearably off-course. It's been a few years since then and the difference Sandy has made in my life is immeasurable. I feel ALIVE and back in touch with myself in ways I thought had been lost to me forever. There are no words to express what this means to me or how grateful I am for all that Sandy has done for me. I shudder to think of where I might be right now had I not found her.
Sandy is as amazing as I and all the other extremely satisfied clients say she is and she is more than worthy of your consideration. I hope that this review is helpful to all to read it and I wish you the very best with whatever has brought you in search of someone like Sandy.
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"If I could give her 10 stars, she would get them. Simply said, she lets you talk, will stop you to understand better, listen more and then boom! She says something ridiculously spot on."
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If I could give her 10 stars, she would get them. Simply said, she lets you talk, will stop you to understand better, listen more and then boom! She says something ridiculously spot on.
She has helped my family and I over the years. Recently she helped me stop that awful self talk that we all tend to do, and redirect that to the right place. I have been using her techniques for a few weeks now, and I am back to my old self. Couldn't be happier.
Simply a good human all the way around, you will not be disappointed.
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"Dr Lillie is someone I have been referring to for many years... By far the most common feedback I have received about Dr. Lillie is..."she saved our relationship."
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As a psychologist in San Francisco, I'm often asked to recommend a therapist in other parts of the Bay Area. Dr Lillie is someone I have been referring to for many years. It is rare to ever find out how a referral goes once you make it. With Dr. Lillie it's different. People call to thank me for the referral. They feel like I placed them in very able and competent hands. Dr. Lillie is also someone I know first hand to be rigorous in her use of empirically based approaches to Psychotherapy and is known for her professionalism and ethics. This is a profession that can only work if there is s good therapeutic alliance between client and therapist and of course, we won't always be liked by everyone we try to help but by far the most common feedback I have received about Dr. Lillie is..."she saved our relationship." She has a warm and personable approach, and yes, you need to get past the fact that her therapy office is her living room. That is her home office. What you will experience with her is a caring, competent, studious and intelligent therapist that is committed to your well being. I recommend her without any reservation.Short Testimonial >
"Sandy has been a huge help to me and my husband. She has a real talent for getting to the heart of matters and supporting both of us in the process...and this has moved our relationship forward dramatically. She is a pleasure to work with and an uplifting spirit...A few other therapists we have tried have truly paled in comparison."
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Sandy has been a huge help to me and my husband. She has a real talent for getting to the heart of matters and supporting both of us in the process. She has identified some underlying issues, and this has moved our relationship forward dramatically. She is a pleasure to work with and an uplifting spirit. We are lucky to have found her -- through Yelp! A few other therapists we have tried have truly paled in comparison.Short Testimonial >
"I wonder how one writes a review for magic. Sandy has a gift. She sees through to the driving truth, calls it out with a loving grace that allows you (and/or your partner) to see it too, and then hands you just the relevant life tools necessary to move in the direction of your choosing."
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I have never written a review for anything or anyone, but feel compelled to do this so that the world can benefit from Sandy. I wonder, though, how one writes a review for magic. Sandy has a gift. She sees through to the driving truth, calls it out with a loving grace that allows you (and/or your partner) to see it too, and then hands you just the relevant life tools necessary to move in the direction of your choosing. She nails it every time. Working with Sandy makes me believe in a higher wisdom that channels through some souls - I am lucky and thrilled to be able to benefit from it.Short Testimonial >
"...this is clearly not just a career for Sandy, but a calling...she'd instantly sniff out the roots beneath everything I was discussing...I started to feel like a deep unfolding as I went about my life...not just one breakthrough but many breakthroughs, one after another...helping me integrate them in such simple and useful ways...It's everything I always wanted out of therapy."
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I agree with what another reviewer wrote -- that this is clearly not just a career for Sandy, but a calling.
I've been to six therapists so far in my life, and Sandy is on a different plane. I've been seeing her for a few months now. At first we would talk about my week, and she'd instantly sniff out the roots beneath everything I was discussing.
I started to feel like a deep unfolding as I went about my life in the weeks between our sessions.
And now that we've started getting into my childhood, it's not just one breakthrough but many breakthroughs, one after another... instant new insights I never realized before, taking hold. And she's helping me integrate them in such simple and useful ways. Now I'm starting to bring these insights back to my life and things are changing. It's everything I always wanted out of therapy.Short Testimonial >
"Sandy is...an excellent, thoughtful, and compassionate listener and quickly understands what is behind one's stories and emotions. I found her explanations easy to understand, accurate, and very helpful...after eight sessions I felt I had made enough progress to move forward on my own."
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I have been struggling with some difficult events and people in my life and a good friend recommended that I see Sandy. My friend described Sandy as very skilled, down to earth, honest, insightful, warm, and caring. All of these attributes were what I also experienced.
I had a big internal hurdle to overcome in asking for help so it took a while for me to find the courage to make an appointment. I am very sorry that I didn't take this step much sooner!! Sandy is very easy to talk to and as many have written is not judgmental in any way. I always felt well cared for when I was with her. She has a tremendous amount of experience and knowledge. She is an excellent, thoughtful, and compassionate listener and quickly understands what is behind one's stories and emotions. I found her explanations easy to understand, accurate, and very helpful.
The sessions with Sandy have helped me better understand my childhood and how it has affected me as an adult. I have gained new skills and a more complete understanding of how to successful interact with the issues and people I find difficult. In addition Sandy recommended some excellent books for me to read. I read them and went to my next session with even more to discuss as the contents of the books were immediately applicable to my situation. It was helpful to have two modes of working on the issues which troubled me. I believe Sandy's longer-than-normal sessions are very beneficial as we covered lots of material without interruption and could spend as much time as was needed on issues without feeling rushed. As a result after eight sessions I felt I had made enough progress to move forward on my own.
I appreciated having the sessions in Sandy's home as it is warm and inviting. Her garden is beautiful and it was a joy to wait there until my appointment time as I often arrived a bit early. I am very thankful for Sandy's help and strongly recommend her. Should the need arise I would not hesitate to go back to see her again.
Sandy is...an excellent, thoughtful, and compassionate listener and quickly understands what is behind one's stories and emotions. I found her explanations easy to understand, accurate, and very helpful...after eight sessions I felt I had made enough progress to move forward on my own.
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"Dr. Sandy...was able to help us get to the core of our issues very quickly. We struggled in our marriage for 10 years. 3 sessions with Dr. Sandy and we are both trouble free... If anyone can help your marriage then it is her. "
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Dr. Sandy is very intelligent and very analytical. She was able to help us get to the core of our issues very quickly. I highly recommend her for couple's therapy. She cuts through noise. She is incredibly gifted in the area of emotions, emotional issues and solutions. She is very practical, considerate, warm, non-judging and solutions oriented. We struggled in our marriage for 10 years. 3 sessions with Dr. Sandy and we are both trouble free. We are happier than any couple we have seen. My husband and I had a very deep connection from the beginning. We did have some serious issues that we were both not able to get past or even clearly identify. Our vision was very clouded with emotions, anger and frustration. Dr. Sandy helped us see things clearly. We are very grateful to her for healing us and guiding us to happiness. When you are successful at what you do, it is very hard to get and incorporate external advice. She makes it easy to trust her and listen to her. She has multidimensional perspectives, rich emotional experiences of her own and a Phd to bring it all together to make an exceptional therapist. I obviously wish that I never have to return to a therapist :). However if you are suffering & struggling in your marriage, give Dr. Sandy a shot. It is well worth it!!!!! If anyone can help your marriage then it is her.Short Testimonial >
"Sandy has an ability to read between the lines and get to the bottom of what you are feeling challenged with… Sandy has helped me work through challenging family dynamics, relationship issues and personal goals. Certain individuals have an ability to assist us in a way that will help us reach our full potential, whatever that may be."
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Where to start...there are simply not enough words to describe the appreciation for the guidance that I have received from Sandy. Sandy has an ability to read between the lines and get to the bottom of what you are feeling challenged with and then help you to find a way to resolve the situations in a way that you feel comfortable with. Her ability to relate to her clients, while effectively assisting in finding a resolution, is remarkable. You will not feel judged when divulging your emotions due to the safe environment that she creates.
Sandy has helped me work through challenging family dynamics, relationship issues and personal goals. Certain individuals have an ability to assist us in a way that will help us reach our full potential, whatever that may be. If you are looking for some guidance in a certain area in your life, I would strongly suggest allowing Sandy to be there with you as you are facing that challenge.Short Testimonial >
"Sandy is incredibly caring and compassionate and the best way I can explain how she works is as an emotional translator. Sandy really has a knack for empathizing not only how each person in the relationship feels whilst remaining neutral, but also figuring out where the knots are and starting to untangle them strand by strand."
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We were looking for someone who understood our situation and background to help heal some old wounds combined with other problems we had in our relationship.
Sandy is incredibly caring and compassionate and the best way I can explain how she works is as an emotional translator. Sandy really has a knack for empathizing not only how each person in the relationship feels whilst remaining neutral, but also figuring out where the knots are and starting to untangle them strand by strand.
She provides a very safe, non-clinical environment and her direction is highly constructive.
We've worked with other relationship therapists in the past who just didn't know how to speak the language of emotion or have the intuition to figure out the underlying issues. Having worked with her for over a year and we have our relationship to thank her for.Short Testimonial >
"I took my teen daughter to see Sandy for depression and anxiety related to social situations at school, as well as academic performance. Sandy was truly outstanding...I highly recommend her for teens."
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I took my teen daughter to see Sandy for depression and anxiety related to social situations at school, as well as academic performance. Sandy was truly outstanding and helped my daughter come to terms with what was necessary to help her move forward - which in turn helped us (her parents) make decisions as well - all within only a few sessions. Sandy was loving, caring, supportive, empathetic - all the things necessary for a teenage girl to feel safe and comfortable in opening up. She truly went above and beyond when working with my daughter. Sandy is gifted at what she does and I highly recommend her for teens.Short Testimonial >
"Sandy is an exceptional therapist. She is deeply compassionate, intentional, and human. Perhaps her greatest skill is her ability to synthesize complex emotions into easy to digest terms that helps you put down your guard, and really dig in."
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Sandy is an exceptional therapist. She is deeply compassionate, intentional, and human. Perhaps her greatest skill is her ability to synthesize complex emotions into easy to digest terms that helps you put down your guard, and really dig in.In the process of therapy my husband and I have grown significantly both as individuals and as a couple. We feel profoundly lucky to be working with Sandy.Short Testimonial >
My husband and I turned to Sandy when it seemed like we were starting to walk on different paths. It sounds kitchy, but in 'five meetings or less' we were back on track...I waited to write a review because I wanted to see if our success would be short lived and we'd be back the following week. In fact, we've taken the tools that she gave us and apply them regularly.
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My husband and I turned to Sandy when it seemed like we were starting to walk on different paths. It sounds kitchy, but in 'five meetings or less' we were back on track. Sandy provided a warm and comfortable environment where we could get to the bottom of our challenges and rebuild together. In our last session, we weren't sure what to talk about, and she had us go back to the beginning, to what started our disconnection that brought us to her.
I waited to write a review because I wanted to see if our success would be short lived and we'd be back the following week. In fact, we've taken the tools that she gave us and apply them regularly.
I would say that Sandy's style is gentle & non-confrontational. If you're looking for someone to be tough on you she may not be that person. She is an excellent listener, gives thoughtful advice, and shares relevant stories. We both would highly recommend her.
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Sandy brings a long and rich history of personal and professional experience to her work, along with tons of different tools to help you get to the core of what's holding you back… she has been one of the greatest blessings in my life. After working with her, the deep peace of mind and quiet confidence I had inside has been uncovered. I no longer wake up fearful for the future, I'm excited to see what's coming each day.
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Sandy brings a long and rich history of personal and professional experience to her work, along with tons of different tools to help you get to the core of what's holding you back. If you heed her advice and take the time to do the work, you'll find the change you need. I wish I could sponsor everyone I know to work with her so that they could be freed from whatever junk they're carrying around.
Sandy has become my healer, my guide, my counselor, and my friend: she has been one of the greatest blessings in my life. After working with her, the deep peace of mind and quiet confidence I had inside has been uncovered. I no longer wake up fearful for the future, I'm excited to see what's coming each day.
If you're looking for someone kind, patient, smart as heck, and deeply intuitive to help you out of a rut, Sandy is your gal. I highly recommend!Short Testimonial >
As a physician, I responded well to her extensive background in psychology...She allows you to see yourself and your partner in new ways and allows you to show vulnerability without feeling threatened...She will not judge you. She WILL help you. Just when I thought she couldn't be any more gifted, she eliminated that awkwardness regarding how to stop therapy by stating: "you two have graduated"!
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My partner and I both loved her and are so grateful for her help. As a physician, I responded well to her extensive background in psychology.> She is extremely knowledgeable and well read and has a quiet, understated confidence in her ability to help you. She allows you to see yourself and your partner in new ways and allows you to show vulnerability without feeling threatened.
There is nothing she hasn't heard, nothing she hasn't dealt with, and nothing will surprise her. She will not judge you. She WILL help you. Just when I thought she couldn't be any more gifted, she eliminated that awkwardness regarding how to stop therapy by stating: "you two have graduated"!
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Sandy was the answer to our prayers! Members of my family have tried other therapists before and never felt the connection we feel with Sandy! She is incredibly sensitive, caring, compassionate, and empathetic. She is truly a healer.
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My family turned to Sandy when we were facing huge family changes. We needed someone who could give advice, soul search, and reflect on the past so we could be more positive in present and future. Sandy was the answer to our prayers! From the first session until present Sandy has provided us with a comfortable environment, strategies for relationships, and gave us a new perspective on life. Members of my family have tried other therapists before and never felt the connection we feel with Sandy! She is incredibly sensitive, caring, compassionate, and empathetic. She is truly a healer.
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"I felt truly seen and accepted by her at a time in my life when I was very lost and on the verge of losing everything I value. As a gay man coming out very late in my life, I struggled with substance abuse fueled by deep feelings of shame. I felt like a fraud, but I was terrified of showing who I really was."
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It would be hard for me to overstate what an enormous difference Sandy Lillie has made in my life. I felt truly seen and accepted by her at a time in my life when I was very lost and on the verge of losing everything I value. As a gay man coming out very late in my life, I struggled with substance abuse fueled by deep feelings of shame. I felt like a fraud, but I was terrified of showing who I really was. With her help and the support of others she helped me find, my life is now rich, stable, substance free....and much more honest. I don't think you'll find a better therapist than Sandy Lillie.Short Testimonial >
"As a mother of two adopted daughters, I found Dr. Lillie extremely insightful, offering both theoretical understanding as well as practical solutions... We required very few sessions to get to a much healthier and happier place."
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As a mother of two adopted daughters, I found Dr. Lillie extremely insightful, offering both theoretical understanding as well as practical solutions. Since my eldest daughter also has special needs, I have had experience with a number of mental health professionals over the years, and I highly recommend Dr. Lillie for her ability to quickly determine and address each individual's needs, as well as our family's inter dynamics. We required very few sessions to get to a much healthier and happier place.Short Testimonial >
"I entered into therapy with a number of therapists while in my 20s and 30s, trying to deal with the wreckage of a traumatic childhood. I got some limited help from each of them, but nothing really clicked until I went into therapy with Dr. Lillie. She "got" what was going on with me."
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Dr. Sandra Lillie is an incredibly talented and intuitive psychologist. I entered into therapy with a number of therapists while in my 20s and 30s, trying to deal with the wreckage of a traumatic childhood. I got some limited help from each of them, but nothing really clicked until I went into therapy with Dr. Lillie. She "got" what was going on with me. With her help I was able to start dealing with my issues and heal.. I can't recommend her highly enough.Short Testimonial >
Sandy is truly gifted and special... My husband is a huge fan of Sandy, he really enjoys the way she opens your mind to think more clearly. Her calm spirit instantly makes you comfortable and safe.
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Sandy is truly gifted and special. My experience with her was compelling. She is very gentle, but honest. She wants you to succeed and live a happy fulfilled life. My husband is a huge fan of Sandy, he really enjoys the way she opens your mind to think more clearly. Her calm spirit instantly makes you comfortable and safe. If you are looking for a honest, warm non- judging DR to speak with, Sandy is it!Short Testimonial >
"Sandy has been an inspiration in my life. Her teaching has helped me deal with difficult communications at home and also critical negotiations at work. Her techniques for dealing with stress and giving room to difficult times have made all the difference in my life."
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Sandy has been an inspiration in my life. Her teaching has helped me deal with difficult communications at home and also critical negotiations at work. Her techniques for dealing with stress and giving room to difficult times has made all the difference in my life. Skills we all need to learn. Sandy is most dedicated and has a great gift to share. I highly recommend her.Short Testimonial >
"I admit to being skeptical at the prospect of seeing someone (especially another woman) with my wife at the outset. I expected that I'd be ganged up on -- being the only man in the room. But that's not what happened. To my surprise, I've felt seen in a way that's been rare in my life."
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My wife and I fortunately began seeing Sandy Lillie to work through our pretty tangled relationship issues. She's been helping us back from the precipice -- to a place where we can talk to one another again and remember what brought us together in the first place.
I admit to being skeptical at the prospect of seeing someone (especially another woman) with my wife at the outset. I expected that I'd be ganged up on -- being the only man in the room. But that's not what happened. To my surprise, I've felt seen in a way that's been rare in my life.
Sandy brings a background of psychology infused with spirituality to our work together. She's been able to reflect us back to one another with compassion and humor. She's been very effective in helping us recognize the ways in which our histories have entangled us over time, to the point where our lives together had become increasingly painful.
Although this is an ongoing project, it's been a growth experience in ways that I didn't anticipate. The best part is that my wife and I have rediscovered one another and are now increasingly able to identify the recurring ways in which we get lost -- and can now often interrupt them before it happens again.
I appreciate my wife for encouraging me to do this work with her -- and I appreciate Sandy's willingness to bring her wisdom to help us through this process. Reclaiming this relationship is priceless to me.Short Testimonial >
"To me, she is much more than a professional therapist. She is a spiritual elder or spiritual mother with special gifts for intuiting who a person really is at a deep level, for helping people to regard as precious who they uniquely are, and for encouraging them to follow their hearts and to become who they are capable of being… With Sandy I feel a spaciousness that makes my heart expand and enables me to simply be who I am without being judged or pressured or criticized… Her authenticity and honesty are contagious and help me to be authentic and honest."
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Sandy is a very special and rare human being and I am so grateful that she has come into my life because she is such a treasure.
To me, she is much more than a professional therapist. She is a spiritual elder or spiritual mother with special gifts for intuiting who a person really is at a deep level, for helping people to regard as precious who they uniquely are, and for encouraging them to follow their hearts and to become who they are capable of being. I find it tremendously satisfying when I feel someone else sees me for who I am, understands, or "gets me." I also find that this doesn't happen very often. But I have felt seen by Sandy and I say to myself "Thank God someone really sees me!"
I find it deeply gratifying when someone else gives me permission to be who I am, to think how I think, to feel how I feel, and doesn't pressure me to be any other way. With Sandy I feel a spaciousness that makes my heart expand and enables me to simply be who I am without being judged or pressured or criticized.
Sandy is humble and has a deep and genuine concern for the psychological and spiritual well-being of others. You can feel this concern when you are around her.
Her authenticity and honesty are contagious and help me to be authentic and honest.
I cannot recommend her highly enough. Short Testimonial >
"Dr. Sandy Lillie is a true healer...She got to the heart of the matter very quickly, and offered perspectives that really helped us to see what we could do to make things better."
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Dr. Sandy Lillie is a true healer. I came to her feeling confused and hurting about what was happening in my life, especially in my marriage and with my teenage son. She didn't just say "Uh huh" and "How do you feel about that?" She got to the heart of the matter very quickly, and offered perspectives that really helped us to see what we could do to make things better. (The whole family ended up going to her.) I highly recommend her.Short Testimonial >
"I went in somewhat skeptical of the value that I'd get from counseling sessions with Sandy given the required investment in time and money. However, after just a couple of sessions, she was able to help me discover a deep level of clarity around the issues I was wrestling with as well as my life goals on a broader level."
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I went in somewhat skeptical of the value that I'd get from counseling sessions with Sandy given the required investment in time and money. However, after just a couple of sessions, she was able to help me discover a deep level of clarity around the issues I was wrestling with as well as my life goals on a broader level. She helped me release a lot of emotion that I did not realize was buried inside of me. It did not feel clinical in any way nor was there ever any mention of the clock and the fact that we went well over time for no additional charge. I'd recommend her to anyone.Short Testimonial >
"Sandy helped make the path to a successful relationship much clearer. I can proudly add that, decades later, our marriage has not only survived, but gotten stronger."
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There is no more caring, supportive and understanding therapist than Sandy. There were many major issues to resolve. Over our sessions, and as a man, I became accepting of facing my role in the work that needed to be done. Sandy helped make the path to a successful relationship much clearer. I can proudly add that, decades later, our marriage has not only survived, but gotten stronger. We have Sandy to thank for helping us get there.Short Testimonial >
"Sandy was both our marriage counselor and my personal therapist. I've met with many therapists over the decades, and Sandy, by far, shines the brightest as having provided the most useful "life tools" to us and to me. I apply the things I learned from her every day"
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Sandy was both our marriage counselor and my personal therapist. I've met with many therapists over the decades, and Sandy, by far, shines the brightest as having provided the most useful "life tools" to us and to me. I apply the things I learned from her every day, like: "I do this with love." I learned about the power of forgiveness with Sandy and I've applied those tools in particular - I can not express in words how much relief I live in now and how much power I've taken back and how much more gentle my world is, every day. She also taught me to live in the present and to forget about "should haves." Sandy is grounded and non-judgmental. Her laugh will steal your heart.
The setting in which Sandy's sessions take place is magical, too. You can see her beautiful gardens through the windows and there is a peaceful, welcoming feeling in her office.
The last time I saw Sandy was about 6 years ago, but the things she taught me are as clear as though she shared them yesterday. I could go on and on about how wonderful she is. But, I want to leave some of the magic for you to discover for yourself... You will delight in her beautiful, inspiring outlook. She is just amazing.Short Testimonial >
"Sandy Lillie showed me how to change my beliefs about myself so that I could have healthier relationships. She guided me through self realization like no other therapist I had ever seen."
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Sandy Lillie showed me how to change my beliefs about myself so that I could have healthier relationships. She guided me through self realization like no other therapist I had ever seen. She listened with such compassion and never told me how to feel. Rather, she guided me inward so I could come to conclusions about myself on my own. I always recommend her whenever someone asks for a referral. I've continued to see Sandy on and off over the past 25 years. She is a loving spirit with much to offer.Short Testimonial >
"My boyfriend and I had the good fortune to have Sandy Lillie's help with our relationship issues. The difference in how we're feeling about each other after only a few sessions is incredible. Sandy is really intuitive and able to see what's going on underneath the things we fight about - more importantly, she's able to help us see what's really going on."
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My boyfriend and I had the good fortune to have Sandy Lillie's help with our relationship issues. The difference in how we're feeling about each other after only a few sessions is incredible. Sandy is really intuitive and able to see what's going on underneath the things we fight about - more importantly, she's able to help us see what's really going on. There is no question in my mind that without help, our relationship would have deteriorated rather than blossomed. If you're considering couples counseling, definitely call Sandy Lillie.Short Testimonial >
"She has helped me through several different, painful challenges in my life during the past 20 years and did so with an effective combination of exceptional listening skills, creative problem-solving tools, and clearly presented options."
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I have benefited greatly from the gentle guidance of Dr. Lillie. She has helped me through several different, painful challenges in my life during the past 20 years and did so with an effective combination of exceptional listening skills, creative problem-solving tools, and clearly presented options. I would not hesitate to recommend Dr. Lillie to anyone experiencing relationship or inner growth challenges.Short Testimonial >
"Dr. Lillie is the rare combination of a skilled practitioner and genuinely loving person."
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I met Dr. Lillie 23 years ago when I was dealing with the end of my first marriage. She supported me through the divorce and the impact it had on my children. Dr. Lillie also helped me address early childhood trauma. Through my work with Dr. Lillie, I was able to commit to a new love relationship. Over the years my partner and I continued to see Dr. Lillie when facing new challenges and wanting to enhance our relationship. We have learned so much from Sandy and feel so committed to her part in our emotional lives that we asked her to be the officiator at our recent wedding.
I am a trained social worker and have worked with many counselors both in my work and in my personal life. Dr. Lillie is the rare combination of a skilled practitioner and genuinely loving person. I recommend her for anyone seeking to enhance their lives and those of the people around themShort Testimonial >
"If you are in a relationship where there is struggle and you are looking for answers, Dr. Lillie has the skills to get you there!"
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I worked with Sandy Lillie on understanding and identifying the struggles that I've had in a very important 12-year relationship. The use of her skill set, the level of her sensitivity and her intuition are gifts that she brings to her sessions. She brought an insight into our sessions that allowed me to understand and name these struggles that I was having. Since our sessions, I have been able to bring a new perspective to my relationship and to see the value and importance it now has in my life. If you are in a relationship where there is struggle and you are looking for answers, Dr. Lillie has the skills to get you there!Short Testimonial >
"In the end, we did break-up, but the couples therapy really helped each of us learn from our experience...I am happy and healthy and feel so enlightened from the entire relationship."
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I saw Sandy back in June with my boyfriend because we were having major communication issues. Sandy let us into her home, helped us open up, and really have us some perspective on our situation. In the end, we did break-up, but the couples therapy really helped each of us learn from our experience If my ex had been more open to it, we probably could have fixed it, but I am happy and healthy and feel so enlightened from the entire relationship. I am so thankful for Sandy's kind and thoughtful words, and for her guidance toward developing better relationships in my life. If you stay open, and really let her in, you could really gain something from talking to her! AmazingShort Testimonial >
"She is calm, and not judgmental. She doesn't take sides - she is able to hold all of our "stuff" with compassion for both of us, and that has led us to feel safer together, and more able to talk about the things that have gotten stuck in our 35 years together."
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My wife and I have been seeing Sandy for about five months. I was wary, because we had had a bad experience with couple's therapy. Sandy is exactly what we needed. She is calm, and not judgmental. She doesn't take sides - she is able to hold all of our "stuff" with compassion for both of us, and that has led us to feel safer together, and more able to talk about the things that have gotten stuck in our 35 years together. She is a good balance between active listening, and offering concrete advice. We both feel very lucky to have her as a resource.Short Testimonial >
"Sandy Lillie offers the true gift of understanding...she helped me to unpack and really understand the mess of life I was experiencing...I left feeling more awakened as to how to live my life happily. Thank you Sandy!"
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Sandy Lillie offers the true gift of understanding. I came to Dr. Lillie carrying a burden and she helped me to unpack and really understand the mess of life I was experiencing. In this clarity, I have found greater ease in living and have begun to honor myself more. Of the therapists I have seen, Sandy stands out to me as the most direct in her work because she is an expert on getting to the core of an issue and addressing why clients are in therapy in the first place. She is very perceptive as to what is behind emotions. I felt entirely supported in my process. The sessions I had with Sandy were very fruitful and I left feeling more awakened as to how to live my life happily. Thank you Sandy!Short Testimonial >
"Sandy was perfect for what we were going through and told us each what we needed to hear versus what we wanted to hear. My boyfriend went in unsure if he even wanted to give counseling a try, and left enlightened and happy we met her."
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I went here with my boyfriend to kind of help enlighten each other on our current situation which wasn't very good. Sandy was perfect for what we were going through and told us each what we needed to hear versus what we wanted to hear. My boyfriend went in unsure if he even wanted to give counseling a try, and left enlightened and happy we met her. She listened well and was straightforward when she needed to be. My mood changed when I left her office. I'm so thankful I found her on Yelp and encouraged my boyfriend to see her.Short Testimonial >
"Sandy is a great listener, very solid, simple, clear feedback and advice...I am huge fan and have passed her name on several times - would recommend to anyone that needs to get a new point of view on tough situations that you are having trouble understanding."
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I saw Sandy about a year ago when I had many things going on at the same time - family health issues, work stuff and disconnects with my wife. All the reviews here are very similar to my experience. Sandy is a great listener, very solid, simple, clear feedback and advice - she is very adaptable to the situation and person. I am huge fan and have passed her name on several times - would recommend to anyone that needs to get a new point of view on tough situations that you are having trouble understanding.Short Testimonial >
"Sandy listens, cares, supports, helps, and makes sure that I don't get off track."
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I have been seeing Sandy for over six months. I have never stayed this long with any therapist before. I was looking for someone who truly understands with an immediate act. Sandy listens, cares, supports, helps, and makes sure that I don't get off track. I highly recommend Sandy for consultation and therapy. She helped me live the present rather than get lost in the past. As she always reminds me, "do the things that make you alive." I carry so much respect for her.Short Testimonial >
"I am so grateful to have had the benefit of Sandy's insightful, compassionate, and thoughtful consul."
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I am so grateful to have had the benefit of Sandy's insightful, compassionate, and thoughtful consul. I could tell from our first session that she truly wanted to help me be happy and healthy, and her continued reassurance and kindness throughout our sessions let me know I would succeed at overcoming what plagued me.
I found Sandy in probably much the way you are learning about her: I was experiencing emotional and mental pain, and was trying to find someone I thought might help me through it. Via Yelp recommendations, I turned to Sandy. I am happy to echo the sentiments of others on this page and recommend her to you.Short Testimonial >
"Her acute sense of empathy enables her to quickly establish trust, rapport, the sense that she "gets it". Her extensive training enables her to re-frame issues in a compassionate and constructive way."
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If you are lucky enough to get a time slot with Sandy, grab onto it. Her acute sense of empathy enables her to quickly establish trust, rapport, the sense that she "gets it". Her extensive training enables her to re-frame issues in a compassionate and constructive way. She made me aware of my own thinking. Changing my thinking changed my life. Words don't begin to express my gratitude for her presence in my lifeShort Testimonial >
"Sandy is highly intelligent, empathic, warm and committed to her clients..."
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Sandy Lillie, PhD is an excellent Psychologist and Certified Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Therapist. We are deeply grateful that Sandy recommends our Hold Me Tight Workshop for Couples to many of her clients which of course, we do not give any referral fees to. We have a wonderful opportunity to meet many of Sandy's couples who seem to really love and respect her. Sandy is highly intelligent, empathic, warm and committed to her clients and is a real gem to know in the San Francisco Bay Area EFT Community!Short Testimonial >
"Showing light on our darkest places and then helping us out of them into a healthy mindset for emotional growth...she is truly a special person to be able to uncover and heal our wounds."
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We have seen Sandy for some time now and we are more than pleased with her care for our issues and how she is able to handle them through her thoughtful exploration and subsequent observations. Showing light on our darkest places and then helping us out of them into a healthy mindset for emotional growth...she is truly a special person to be able to uncover and heal our wounds.Short Testimonial >
It is hard to overstate the impact Sandy has had on our family and on my relationship...She is amazing at what she does - whip-smart, and a great listener...I can't recommend her enough!
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It is hard to overstate the impact Sandy has had on our family, and on my relationship. She has really helped me understand how to communicate more effectively with my life partner, and coached us both on how to really listen to one another. She is amazing at what she does - whip-smart, and a great listener, Sandy helps people understand how they fall into familiar but unhelpful dances. I can't recommend her enough!Short Testimonial >
Simply amazing...She VERY quickly was able to assess the situation and give me life-changing immediate feedback. I only spoke with her three times but within the first session she gave me this kind yet direct and action-oriented feedback.
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Simply amazing. I was in a very self-doubting and unsure place, dating a guy who (now I know) is likely borderline personality disorder, being so in love and also feeling so unhealthy and toxic in the relationship. She VERY quickly was able to assess the situation and give me life-changing immediate feedback. I only spoke with her three times but within the first session she gave me this kind yet direct and action-oriented feedback (the other two sessions were because I was spinning out in my head with self-doubt and she was able to get me back on track in both of those). I actually was/am seeing another longer-term therapist but Sandy was critical in me moving forward in the right and healthiest direction in my life. I could not be more grateful.Short Testimonial >
The session length is such a gift - not to have to be rushed out at the 50-minute mark and to feel spacious enough in the time together to open into vulnerable places safely… Thank you, Sandy - for seeing both of us so clearly and helping us see one another.
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I can't recommend Sandy enough. I've been fortunate to know her over several years and in the context of two very different relationships. In both Sandy's counsel and care were invaluable. She is kind and brilliant and encourages an open and loving discourse in such a gentle and capable way that it's impossible not to come away from the sessions with a better understanding of yourself and your partner. The session length is such a gift - not to have to be rushed out at the 50-minute mark and to feel spacious enough in the time together to open into vulnerable places safely. Communication is so critical to lasting relationships, and she has enabled a new chapter for myself and my husband and helped us find our way back to the kind of easy connection that is not just a fleeting effect of a new marriage but is the basis of a healthy relationship if you're able to keep that channel open. Thank you, Sandy - for seeing both of us so clearly and helping us see one anotherShort Testimonial >
After my husband and I meet with her, we often talk about what a great therapist she is! We have both worked with several therapists, so we have a lot to compare to.
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Sandy was my best yelp find ever! After my husband and I meet with her, we often talk about what a great therapist she is! We have both worked with several therapists, so we have a lot to compare to. She is incredibly insightful, empathetic, and helps you make progress when you are stuck. She is highly intelligent and also brings her sense of humor when appropriate. She has really helped us improve our communication with each other. If you are looking for a therapist I would highly highly recommend Sandy. She is amazing.Short Testimonial >
We got really lucky with Sandy. She's special! We've since referred her to 3-4 other couples and they all have amazing things to say about her as well.
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I am lucky to have met my soulmate : ) but after two incredible years of dating, in the first year of our marriage, we started having issues that we couldn't quite comprehend. I found myself confused by my wife who I thought I knew well, and also quite uncertain about my own feelings and actions. Things were getting worse quickly (which was incredibly scary to me!) until we started seeing Sandy. Since that day, my wife and I have been finding our way to deeper connection with ourselves and each other than ever before. We've been getting on top of the issues as Sandy helped us to slow down and develop deeper understanding of what was happening between us. I've felt held and seen throughout the process, and I've had a lot of fun with it! I've come to realize how important it is to find a counselor that works for you if your marriage is experiencing troubles. We got really lucky with Sandy. She's special! We've since referred her to 3-4 other couples and they all have amazing things to say about her as well. Would recommend : )Short Testimonial >
She really actively listened to us and would point out what was important from our stream-of-consciousness-style monologues lol...I could sing her praises until the cows come home...
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My husband and I first met Sandy a little over a year ago when we were still dating, but thinking about marriage more seriously. We knew we wanted to get married but also felt that some things weren't quite right. We found her on yelp and I remember reading a review that said something along the line as "Sandy gets to the heart of the problem quickly" and just after one session, I couldn't agree more! Her questions encouraged us to examine our beliefs to help us understand ourselves and each other (which we still rely on to this day). She really actively listened to us and would point out what was important from our stream-of-consciousness-style monologues lol. She was not only insightful but delivered her insights in a way that resonated with us. I could sing her praises until the cows come home but I guess the best evidence is that my partner and I are happily married now and we sincerely attribute a big part of that to her. So, thank you Sandy!Short Testimonial >
The way that Dr. Lillie interacted with my partner and I was not only transformative in the way we think, but carried care, empathy, and psychological safety. I never felt judged, only heard, but still was compelled to change my thinking about some foundational pillars of being in a relationship.
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For some context; my partner and I had been together about 3 years, and were seriously considering marriage. I was interested in sort of laying out the internals of our relationship to therapist/counselor to see if there were any red flags we should be aware of, and talk through anything that could potentially be problematic for a long term relationship.
Most importantly, Dr. Lillie is incredibly competent in her line of work, and can remarkably quickly ask the important questions to guide couples to new perspectives on their relationship. The way that Dr. Lillie interacted with my partner and I was not only transformative in the way we think, but carried care, empathy, and psychological safety. I never felt judged, only heard, but still was compelled to change my thinking about some foundational pillars of being in a relationship.
Needless to say, my partner and I are happier than we ever thought possible, and indeed got married :) I owe a lot of this to only a few conversations I had with Dr. Lillie, and to that end, I'm very grateful for the time I've shared with her.
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