Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Houck.
Hi Sarah, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Our story is one of being in the right place at the right time. Sarah Houck and Noah Liker, both licensed clinicians at our growing practice, attended the same graduate program at the University of San Diego. Remarkably, their paths never crossed – despite even completing internships at the same site, just weeks apart.
Both chose to specialize in substance use treatment, and it was in this shared focus that their paths finally aligned. They met three years ago while working at a treatment center in San Diego. Over the next two years, they worked side by side, supporting a vulnerable population and progressing toward full licensure as therapists – a milestone they each obtained in 2024.
Their shared experiences and deep understanding of the need for accessible, high-quality mental health care in San Diego County led to the founding of Balboa Therapy Group.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As one might expect, launching any business comes with its fair share of challenges. This has been especially true with a therapy practice, which is subject to additional regulations, standards, and roadblocks to begin serving the community.
One of the biggest hurdles we faced was navigating the credentialing process with insurance providers. With rising healthcare costs creating barriers for many individuals seeking care, we knew it was important to make therapy as accessible and affordable as possible. That meant working with insurance, each company having its own unique process, policies, and timelines. Some of these credentialing efforts have taken over six months to complete.
Another challenge has been balancing our commitment to accessibility with the demands of our personal and professional lives. In order to better serve our clients, we adopted a virtual-first model, offering sessions during evenings and weekends. While this flexibility helps us meet clients where they are, it has also required careful time management as we continue to juggle full-time roles alongside a growing caseload.
Despite the obstacles, each step has reinforced our mission and commitment to providing quality, client-centered care.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Finding the right therapist is a deeply personal journey – something all three members of our team understand firsthand. While the demand for mental health care continues to grow, we’ve noticed that starting therapy often feels more complicated, costly, and impersonal than it should be.
At Balboa Therapy Group, our mission is simple: to provide the kind of care we would want for ourselves. Too often, healthcare, whether mental or physical, feels rushed and transactional. We’re committed to slowing things down, creating space for genuine connection, and working collaboratively with each client to chart a unique, personalized path toward growth and healing.
Currently, our team includes two licensed providers:
Noah works primarily with young adults ages 18-30. Recognizing that men are often less likely to seek therapy, he focuses on building a safe, nonjudgmental environment for young men navigating the complexities of adulthood, identity, and emotional wellbeing.
Sarah works with clients experiencing anxiety, overwhelm, and the many pressures that come with life transitions. She has a particular passion for supporting individuals ages 20-45 as they navigate careers, relationships, family dynamics, and personal growth. Her approach is both compassionate and practical, offering tools clients can apply in their everyday lives.
In addition, both Sarah and Noah have extensive experience working in intensive outpatient settings with individuals recovering from drug and alcohol addictions. Supporting clients in their sobriety journey continues to be a shared area of passion and expertise.
What sets us apart is our commitment to accessibility, authenticity, and individualized care. We take pride in being approachable, flexible, and genuinely invested in our clients’ progress. Whether you’re seeking support for the first time or returning to therapy after a break, we’re here to meet you where you are—with care that’s thoughtful, human, and tailored to you.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
In this field, connection is everything, both in our work with clients and in growing a business. Some of the most meaningful mentorships we’ve experienced came organically through shared values, collaboration, and a genuine openness to learning. Staying in touch with peers and colleagues has created a strong foundation, while engaging in professional organizations and local events has helped us expand our network in thoughtful, intentional ways.
As we look to the future of mental health care and our role in the San Diego community, we’re excited about becoming mentors ourselves. We aim to grow our practice by hiring skilled, compassionate therapists who share our values, and to continue building a space where clients feel safe to grow. Ultimately, we hope to foster a community, within our practice and beyond, where connection, vulnerability, and healing are not only possible but encouraged.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://balboatherapygroup.com/
