The Lotus Collaborative

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The Lotus Collaborative We are premier holistic treatment centers in CA specializing in eating disorder and trauma recovery. She is a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) e.e.

Dr. Liz Esalen is the Founder and Executive Director of The Lotus Collaborative, Health and Recovery Centers. TLC provides holistic eating disorder treatment in Santa Cruz and San Francisco, CA along with supportive living in Santa Cruz called The Mermaid House. TLC offers a unique well-balanced holistic approach to healing. Their quality eating disorder recovery programs embody compassion, inspir

ation, and empowerment. They have heart-felt expert staff and beautiful, home-like retreat centers. Our choices to go the extra mile convey our deep respect for clients and the healing journeys they are embarking upon. Dr. Liz believes in hiring recovered staff and she herself, has fully recovered from an eating disorder. The Lotus Collaborative understands the unique and various steps to full recovery. Dr. Esalen believes that eating disorders are divine messengers, asking us to pay attention to the wisdom our bodies and souls are attempting to communicate with us. We must pay keen attention to our minds and cultural messages, for they influence our beliefs about who we are and what is possible. Although the recovery journey can be difficult and frustrating, it is our opportunity to learn, evolve, and choose a connected, thriving life. By choosing the recovery journey, we allow the opportunity to blossom into the vibrant beings we were meant to be. Dr. Esalen believes that treatment should provide connection with oneself, others and a recovery community. She believes we must align our hearts, bodies, minds and souls, and experience mastery opportunities including the chance to mentor others earlier in recovery. TLC provides treatment that is "just right," balanced between evidence-based skill approaches, with deep, interpersonal, psychospiritual process work. True healing cannot come exclusively from quantitative, impersonal, outcome-focused, "expert" and "sick patient" practices. And conquering an eating disorder cannot come from solely kind, well-intentioned listener-therapists. The Lotus Collaborative believes recovery is best achieved by providing solid education, teaching loving awareness of oneself and others, skills training, and strategies to substitute eating disorder behaviors with what one truly needs. Dr. Esalen believes treatment centers should be owned and directed by clinically trained leaders, that can balance both business needs with the best interest of the client and staff. She believes that treatment programs cannot be true healing centers if a company does not nurture and respect their staff members. She began The Lotus Collaborative in Santa Cruz, CA to honor both the professionals and the clients that give their heart and souls to this powerful healing journey. After two thriving years, Dr. Esalen opened The Mermaid House in beautiful Santa Cruz, a supportive transitional living environment for women working on eating disorder recovery. The great interest in The Lotus Collaborative's holistic approach to healing eating disorders created the opportunity to open another treatment center in San Francisco, CA. Dr. Esalen has been in the healing profession for over 20 years and has dedicated her career to excellent eating disorder care. Her specialties include Eating Disorders, Behavioral Medicine, Health & Sports Psychology, Women's Issues, Identity issues, Mindfulness, Domestic Violence and Trauma. She has extensive eating disorder clinical leadership and program development experience. She has been Program, Clinical and Executive Directors of partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, group outpatient, supportive living, and private practice levels of care. and a Licensed California Psychologist (PSY24204). Her personal and professional mission is to inspire people to achieve a thriving life filled with peace, love, support, community, advocacy, strength, vibrancy, freedom, and zest. "Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight, or any experience that reveals the human spirit." cummings

You can find more information about The Lotus Collaborative at www.thelotuscollaborative.com. You can email her at: [email protected]

🌟 Your Worth Is in Your Self-Love 🌟✨ “Your worth is not defined by what you achieve but by the love you show yourself ev...
18/01/2025

🌟 Your Worth Is in Your Self-Love 🌟

✨ “Your worth is not defined by what you achieve but by the love you show yourself every day.” 💛

Recovery is about more than reaching milestones—it’s about the compassion, kindness, and care you extend to yourself in the process.

💡 Today’s Reminder:

You are enough, just as you are.
Your journey is not measured by accomplishments but by the love you pour into yourself daily.
Progress is built on a foundation of self-compassion.
💛 Take a moment today to celebrate your resilience, honor your journey, and remind yourself: You are worthy of love, simply because you exist.

📍 Santa Cruz & San Francisco | Explore how we can support your recovery journey with free assessments and compassionate care. Click the link in our bio to learn more. 🌿

🌿 The Benefits of Group Therapy at The Lotus Collaborative 🌿“Build connection, find support, and grow in recovery with g...
12/01/2025

🌿 The Benefits of Group Therapy at The Lotus Collaborative 🌿

“Build connection, find support, and grow in recovery with group therapy at The Lotus Collaborative.” 💛

✨ Why Group Therapy Works:
1️⃣ Connection: You’ll join a safe and compassionate space where you can share experiences with others who truly understand your journey.
2️⃣ Support: Receive encouragement and learn from the perspectives and strategies of your peers.
3️⃣ Growth: Group therapy helps you build accountability, practice healthy communication, and develop tools to navigate recovery.

💛 Healing happens in community. You’re not alone, and group therapy can be a powerful step toward feeling seen, supported, and empowered.

📍 Santa Cruz & San Francisco | Click the link in our bio to learn more about our group therapy programs and free assessments. 🌸

🌟 This Year, Focus on Progress, Not Perfection 🌟✨ Recovery isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about showing up ...
01/01/2025

🌟 This Year, Focus on Progress, Not Perfection 🌟

✨ Recovery isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about showing up for yourself, one small step at a time. Each moment you choose self-compassion, each time you try again, is a victory worth celebrating. 💛

💡 Reminder for 2025:

Celebrate your progress, no matter how small.
Let go of perfection and embrace growth.
Be gentle with yourself—you are enough just as you are.
At The Lotus Collaborative, we’re here to support your journey, wherever you are on the path to healing. Together, we’ll take the steps that matter most to you. 🌿

📍 Santa Cruz & San Francisco
Click the link in our bio to learn more about how we can help you take those small, meaningful steps toward recovery.

5 Tips for Mental Wellness in 2025.    (A Trauma-Informed Perspective)1️⃣ Reconnect with Your BodyTrauma is often stored...
30/12/2024

5 Tips for Mental Wellness in 2025. (A Trauma-Informed Perspective)

1️⃣ Reconnect with Your Body
Trauma is often stored in the body, so physical practices can help you heal. Explore gentle movement like yoga, tai chi, or somatic exercises to build a sense of safety and connection within your body.

2️⃣ Practice Grounding Techniques
Grounding helps you stay present during moments of overwhelm. Techniques like focusing on your breath, noticing textures or sounds around you, or using the 5-4-3-2-1 method can bring calm and ease to difficult moments.

3️⃣ Engage in Expressive Therapies
Art, music, and journaling can help process emotions and release feelings that may be difficult to put into words. Trauma-informed creative practices can be deeply therapeutic and empowering.

4️⃣ Build Safe, Supportive Connections
Trauma often isolates us, but healing happens in connection. Seek out safe, supportive relationships or join a trauma-informed group therapy setting. Building trust and community is key to recovery.

5️⃣ Seek Integrated Healing Approaches
Trauma affects both the mind and body. Work with professionals who understand the interplay of emotional, physical, and neurological impacts of trauma. Therapies like EMDR, somatic experiencing, and mindfulness-based approaches are particularly effective.

✨ Remember: Healing is not linear, and progress comes in many forms. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate your journey in 2025. Each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory.

🌿 Discover Our Offerings at The Lotus Collaborative 🌿At The Lotus Collaborative, we provide compassionate, trauma-inform...
27/12/2024

🌿 Discover Our Offerings at The Lotus Collaborative 🌿

At The Lotus Collaborative, we provide compassionate, trauma-informed care to support you on your recovery journey. Whether you’re seeking group connection, individual guidance, or a starting point for healing, we’re here for you. 💛

✨ Our Services Include:

1️⃣ First Friday Free Assessments: Start your journey with a free consultation to explore how we can support you.

2️⃣ Group Therapy: Build connection, find accountability, and grow in a safe and supportive community.

3️⃣ Individual Therapy: Personalized one-on-one sessions to guide you through recovery with care and expertise.

4️⃣ Nutrition Counseling: Develop a healthy relationship with food and body with guidance from a registered dietitian.

5️⃣ Somatic Awareness Practices: Learn body-centered techniques to manage stress and support emotional well-being.

6️⃣ Workshops & Events: Explore specialized recovery tools and connect with others in a healing environment.

📍 Santa Cruz & San Francisco Locations

✨ Your path to healing starts here. Click the link in our bio to learn more or schedule your free assessment today!

🎄 One Simple Tip to Increase Joy🎄✨ Take a Gratitude Walk: Bundle up and step outside, even for just a few minutes. As yo...
26/12/2024

🎄 One Simple Tip to Increase Joy🎄

✨ Take a Gratitude Walk: Bundle up and step outside, even for just a few minutes. As you walk, take time to notice the beauty around you—twinkling lights, crisp air, or the sound of laughter. Reflect on one thing you’re grateful for with each step.

This small moment of mindfulness can shift your mood, boost joy, and ground you in the magic of the season. 🌟

As the holiday season unfolds, we want to remind you: you are not alone. This time of year can bring joy, but it can als...
24/12/2024

As the holiday season unfolds, we want to remind you: you are not alone. This time of year can bring joy, but it can also bring challenges. Wherever you are on your journey, know that healing is possible, and hope is always within reach. 🌟

✨ A Few Reminders for This Season:

You are worthy of love and care, just as you are. 💛
Your progress, no matter how small, is something to be proud of. 🌿
Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

💛 At The Lotus Collaborative, we believe in your strength, your resilience, and your ability to create a life of balance and peace. This season, may you find moments of calm, connection, and self-compassion.

📍 Santa Cruz & San Francisco | Free assessments available to support your healing journey. Click the link in our bio to learn more. 🌸

From all of us, we wish you a season filled with hope, healing, and light. You’ve got this. ✨

🌟 Book Review: Secure Relating by Sue Marriott & Ann Kelly 🌟In Secure Relating, Sue Marriott and Ann Kelly provide a com...
05/12/2024

🌟 Book Review: Secure Relating by Sue Marriott & Ann Kelly 🌟

In Secure Relating, Sue Marriott and Ann Kelly provide a compassionate and practical guide to understanding the dynamics of healthy relationships, both with ourselves and others. Rooted in attachment theory, the book explores how our early relational experiences shape our interactions and offers actionable tools to cultivate secure connections, even after trauma.

Why We Recommend It at The Lotus Collaborative:
This book is a powerful resource for trauma recovery, as it empowers readers to:

Recognize and shift relational patterns that may stem from trauma.
Build self-awareness and self-compassion in the healing process.
Develop secure connections with others that foster trust, safety, and mutual respect.
Learn practical strategies for emotional regulation and boundary-setting in relationships.

At The Lotus Collaborative, we believe that healing begins with understanding and connection, and Secure Relating beautifully complements our holistic approach to trauma treatment.

✨ Explore the Journey to Secure Relating:

This book is an excellent addition to any recovery journey, offering insights that align with our commitment to helping clients build resilience, connection, and self-acceptance.

🌟 Reminder: First Friday Free Assessments Are Here! 🌟Ready to take the first step on your healing journey? 💛 Our First F...
04/12/2024

🌟 Reminder: First Friday Free Assessments Are Here! 🌟

Ready to take the first step on your healing journey? 💛 Our First Friday Free Assessments are the perfect opportunity to explore how The Lotus Collaborative can support your recovery and well-being.

✨ What You’ll Gain:

A compassionate, judgment-free conversation about your needs.
Personalized guidance on treatment options.
A chance to begin your path toward balance and healing.
📍 Locations in Santa Cruz & San Francisco
Click the link in our bio to sign up for your free assessment today! Let’s take this step together. 🌿

🎄 Welcome December: A Season for Resilience, Growth, and Self-Care 🎄“Like the lotus, we too have the ability to rise fro...
01/12/2024

🎄 Welcome December: A Season for Resilience, Growth, and Self-Care 🎄

“Like the lotus, we too have the ability to rise from the mud, bloom out of the darkness, and radiate into the world.” 🌸

As the holidays approach, let’s embrace this season as an opportunity to nurture ourselves and focus on growth. The holiday season can be challenging, but self-care can help you stay grounded and resilient. 💛

✨ 3 Self-Care Tips for the Holidays:
1️⃣ Set Boundaries with Love: Protect your energy and say no when needed—your well-being comes first.
2️⃣ Prioritize Rest and Routine: Stick to simple, grounding rituals like journaling, walks, or mindfulness.
3️⃣ Find Joy in Small Moments: Savor life’s little joys—twinkling lights, a warm drink, or your favorite song.

✨ Your Journey Starts Here: Free assessments are available at The Lotus Collaborative Santa Cruz to help you begin your path to resilience and growth.

📍 Click the link in our bio to schedule your free assessment today and take the first step toward a brighter 2025. 🌿

🌿 You Are Not Alone—Resources for Mental Health and Trauma Support in Santa Cruz 🌿If you’re seeking help for mental heal...
30/11/2024

🌿 You Are Not Alone—Resources for Mental Health and Trauma Support in Santa Cruz 🌿

If you’re seeking help for mental health challenges or working through trauma, know this: support is here, and you don’t have to face this alone. 💛

✨ Santa Cruz Mental Health & Trauma Resources:

The Lotus Collaborative: Offering free assessments and holistic treatment options for eating disorders, trauma, and emotional well-being.

Santa Cruz County Behavioral Health Services: Accessible community programs for mental health support.

Encompass Community Services: Counseling, therapy, and additional mental health services for all ages.

Crisis Line (24/7 Support): If you’re in immediate need, call 988 for compassionate crisis care.

Your healing journey is valid, and asking for help is a courageous first step. Whether you’re exploring group therapy, individual counseling, or a holistic approach, there’s a network of care waiting to welcome you.

📍 Santa Cruz | The Lotus Collaborative

Click the link in our bio to learn more about our programs and free assessments. Let’s walk this journey together. 🌸

🌟 Nurture Yourself This Holiday Season 🌟Amid the hustle and bustle of the holidays, remember to pause and care for your ...
24/11/2024

🌟 Nurture Yourself This Holiday Season 🌟

Amid the hustle and bustle of the holidays, remember to pause and care for your mind, body, and spirit.

At The Lotus Collaborative, we believe self-care is not selfish—it’s essential. 🌸

Whether through a mindful moment, a walk in nature, or simply asking for help, prioritize your well-being. Healing begins with you, and we’re here to support your journey. 💕

✨ Schedule your free assessment today and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier you. ✨

🌟 It’s First Friday Reminder Time! 🌟Are you ready to take the first step on your healing journey? 💛 Our First Friday Fre...
23/11/2024

🌟 It’s First Friday Reminder Time! 🌟

Are you ready to take the first step on your healing journey? 💛 Our First Friday Free Assessments are here to help you explore how we can support you in creating a life of balance and recovery.

✨ How it works:
Click the link in our bio to sign up and schedule your free assessment at our Santa Cruz location. 🌿 Let this be your opportunity to take a deep breath, reflect, and move toward the care you deserve.

📍 Santa Cruz | The Lotus Collaborative
Your healing starts here. 🌸

✨ What’s Your Favorite Self-Care Practice? ✨We’d love to hear what fills your cup—whether it’s a cozy tea ritual, a mind...
21/11/2024

✨ What’s Your Favorite Self-Care Practice? ✨

We’d love to hear what fills your cup—whether it’s a cozy tea ritual, a mindful walk, journaling, or something totally unique! 🌿

💬 When you share, you might just inspire someone else to try it too. Because here’s the truth: Self-care is community care, and community care is self-care. 💛

Drop your favorite self-care practice in the comments and let’s build a ripple of care together! 🌸

✨ It’s Time to Make the Change You’ve Been Dreaming Of ✨Taking the first step toward change can feel overwhelming, but h...
20/11/2024

✨ It’s Time to Make the Change You’ve Been Dreaming Of ✨

Taking the first step toward change can feel overwhelming, but here’s the truth: You don’t have to do it alone. 🌿

Whether it’s breaking free from old patterns, finding healing, or rediscovering your true self, The Lotus Collaborative in Santa Cruz is here to support you every step of the way. 💛

💬 You are worthy of growth. You are capable of change. You are not alone.

📍 Visit us in Santa Cruz or click the link in our bio to learn more about our free assessments and recovery programs. Your journey begins with a single step—take it today. 🌸

🌙 Book Review: Eating by the Light of the Moon by Anita Johnston 🌙In this beautifully written and deeply insightful book...
18/11/2024

🌙 Book Review: Eating by the Light of the Moon by Anita Johnston 🌙

In this beautifully written and deeply insightful book, Anita Johnston uses storytelling and metaphor to explore the emotional and spiritual dimensions of disordered eating. Eating by the Light of the Moon helps readers uncover the underlying messages their struggles are trying to communicate, offering a compassionate guide toward self-discovery and healing.

Why we recommend it: This book is a powerful tool for anyone on a recovery journey, as it shifts the focus from food and weight to the deeper needs of the soul. At The Lotus Collaborative, we encourage reading it as part of your healing process to reconnect with your inner wisdom and find balance in mind, body, and spirit.

✨ Ready to take the first step in your journey? We offer free assessments to help you get started. Connect with us today and begin your path toward recovery. 💛

🌟 Finding True North in Healing 🌟In trauma recovery, it’s essential to have a guiding light—a ‘North Star’—to keep you c...
14/11/2024

🌟 Finding True North in Healing 🌟

In trauma recovery, it’s essential to have a guiding light—a ‘North Star’—to keep you centered and hopeful. Your North Star can be anything that reminds you of your purpose, your strength, or your reasons for healing. Whether it’s self-love, a vision for the future, or a newfound sense of peace, having a personal anchor can help you navigate the ups and downs of recovery. 💫

At The Lotus Collaborative, we’re here to help you find and hold onto that guiding light. Together, we’ll create a path toward healing that feels aligned and inspired. ✨

Meet Dr. Liz Esalen, Founder and CEO of The Lotus Collaborative, where she has dedicated over 20 years to empowering liv...
13/11/2024

Meet Dr. Liz Esalen, Founder and CEO of The Lotus Collaborative, where she has dedicated over 20 years to empowering lives through compassionate eating disorder recovery. 🌸

With a holistic approach blending modern psychology with mindfulness, behavioral medicine, and trauma-informed care, Dr. Liz has built TLC in Santa Cruz and San Francisco to offer nurturing spaces where clients can rediscover strength, peace, and purpose. Inspired by her own recovery journey, Dr. Liz’s mission is to guide others to lives filled with community, advocacy, and self-love. 🌿

✨ “Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight…” – e.e. cummings

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Opening Hours

Monday 10:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 10:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 10:00 - 17:00
Thursday 10:00 - 17:00
Friday 10:00 - 17:00
Sunday 10:00 - 16:00

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+18558524968

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