Ying (Crystal) Lu, M.A.

Registered Psychological Associate in California (PSB94029917)

Services I Offer

I provide tailored support to address your unique needs, including:

  • Therapy
  • Assessments

Specialties

I offer support for a wide range of experiences, including, but not limited to:

  • Anxiety/Stress
  • Bipolar
  • Depression
  • Grief and Loss
  • PTSD

Populations I Support

I work with a diverse range of individuals and groups, including:

  • Children (3+)
  • Teenagers (12+)
  • Young Adults and College Students
  • Adults
  • Testing (3+)

Modalities

I use a range of therapeutic modalities to tailor my approach to your needs, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Psychodynamic

Location & Availability

I see client's in person at our Sierra Madre office, and online across California.

I typically offer sessions on Monday- Thursday from 10AM-7PM. I also offer some weekend hours.

*Currently accepting new clients

Welcome!

Hi, I’m Ying/Crystal.
Reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable, especially when you have been trying to navigate challenges on your own. I don’t believe that therapy is about me solving your problems for you. Instead, I see my role as walking alongside you, offering guidance, support, and a safe space as you navigate your own journey.  I believe therapy is a collaborative process that provides a safe and supportive space to slow down, feel heard, and better understand yourself and your experiences. Whether you are struggling with difficult emotions, feeling stuck in patterns that are holding you back, or hoping to improve your relationships and overall emotional well-being, you do not have to go through it alone.

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How I Can Help

In our sessions, you can expect practical tools, empathetic listening, and a supportive space to explore your thoughts and emotions and to address your unique concerns and needs.  My approach is grounded in psychodynamic therapy, ACT, CBT, and DBT, designed to explore underlying patterns while also developing practical coping skills and learning new ways to respond to difficult emotions and life challenges. My goal is to help you gain greater self-understanding, clarity, and flexibility while working toward meaningful change.
Together, we will focus on developing coping skills and promoting emotional well-being to help you gain greater self-understanding, clarity, and flexibility while working toward meaningful change. 

Professional Background

My diverse experiences and education have fueled my passion for supporting others.

Here’s a glimpse into how my background equips me to support you effectively on your journey.

How I Got Here

My path to becoming a therapist began with an interest in understanding the factors that shape people’s thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships. This curiosity led me to pursue a career where I could help people better understand themselves.

Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and with a variety of needs and life experiences. These experiences have helped me develop a deeper understanding of how each person’s experiences, relationships, and circumstances can shape their emotional well-being. They have profoundly influenced my approach to therapy and solidified my commitment to helping people better understand themselves, develop healthy coping skills, and create meaningful change in their lives.

Education & Training

I hold a Master of Education in Educational Psychology from Miami University, where I developed a foundation in child and adolescent development, learning and cognitive development, motivation and behavior, and emotional and social development. I hold a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Alliant University, where I specialize in psychotherapy and psychodiagnostic assessment. Additionally, I am currently working toward my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology.
Additionally, I have worked with older adults to address the association between health conditions and mental health and well-being, which further enhanced my understanding of the connection between physical and psychological health.

Certifications

  • Registered Psychological Associate

Outside of Therapy

When I'm not in session supporting clients, I enjoy…

  • Meditating with my cats

  • Practicing Pilates

Let's Get Started!

Finding the right therapist is an essential step, and we're dedicated to making it as smooth as possible. To help you discover the best fit for your needs, we offer every new client a free initial consultation.

Fill out our contact form to schedule your appointment with Ying (Crystal) Lu. We look forward to embarking on this journey with you!

Phone: (323) 345-1402

Email: om@aspiretherapycenter.com

Telehealth available across California.

In-Person therapy offered in Pasadena, Claremont, and Sierra Madre.

Note: Our online contact form is not HIPAA-secure. For your privacy and security, do not include personal health information (PHI) or any sensitive details.