Expertise Built On Experience
With over 30 years of marriage and decades of professional expertise, Liz Marucheau understands firsthand the challenges of relationships and the potential for tremendous growth. She provides couples with the tools and support needed to create meaningful, lasting change
What Sets Liz Apart?
Advanced Training in Couples Therapy
Liz is trained and deeply skilled in the leading couples therapy approaches:
Gottman Method:
Proven strategies for managing conflict, deepening intimacy, and achieving shared life goals.
Developmental Model:
A blend of attachment, differentiation, and neuroscience to address both individual concerns of each couple and the dynamics between the couple.
PACT (Psychobiological Approach):
Techniques rooted in attachment theory, neuroscience, and arousal regulation to foster a safe & secure connection.
Relational
Intimacy:
Expertise in addressing physical intimacy issues, guided by training from Martha Kauppi.
Internal Family
Systems (IFS):
A compassionate method to strengthen awareness of various aspects or parts of yourself resulting in a deepened relationship with yourself, your partner and the world.
Informed in IFIO
(Intimacy from the Inside Out):
A specialized couples therapy model derived from IFS, is designed to help couples build deeper intimacy by understanding and working with the different "parts" within each individual, allowing them to feel more loved, safe, and understood within their relationship.
Academic Excellence and Teaching Experience
Liz has taught and mentored the next generation of therapists:
SDSU Faculty Member:
Over 10 years teaching various courses: couples therapy, human development, assessment, social work practice and DSM-5 diagnoses
Therapist Mentor:
Supervises graduate clinicians as they work toward licensure, sharing her passion for lifelong learning.
Grounded in Research and Neuroscience
Liz’s work is informed by the latest findings in neuroscience, attachment theory, and developmental science, including Steven Porges’ Polyvagal Theory. She helps couples understand how emotional trauma affects their relationships and to develop actionable strategies to create lasting change.
Couples Treatment Specializations
Liz offers support for a wide range of challenges, including:
Communication Breakdown
Life Transitions: New baby, retirement, health conditions, new job, elder care
Work-Life Balance
Maternal Health and Postpartum Depression
Depression and Mood Disorders
Anxiety: PTSD, generalized anxiety, panic attacks
ADHD
Infidelity Recovery
Parenting Support
Support for Cancer Patients and Loved Ones
Stress Management
Conflict Resolution
Sleep Difficulties
Grief and Loss
Adult Children of Alcoholics
Commitment to Innovation
and Excellence
Current Projects:
Coach for PACT Training: Supporting Stan Tatkin in his international trainings to help clinicians in mastering the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy.
National and Local Leadership in Mental Health:
Liz has contributed to mental health policy and service delivery:
Consultant for Columbia University integrated service delivery research project.
Developed the San Diego Children’s System of Care Training Academy, advancing state and federal mental health initiatives from SAMHSA.
Lead role in advancing the implementation of California Infant-Family and Early Childhood Mental Health Guidelines across San Diego County.
Beyond Therapy
Liz has served on several community boards including the First Five Commission of San Diego County. She recently served as a commissioner for the Solana Beach Parks and Recreation Committee and is passionate about nature, mindfulness, and outdoor activities.
Quote to Inspire