My Approach

I use various approaches in helping my clients address their unique challenges. My training is in evidence based modalities.

I rely on my clients to be active in sessions and applying their learnings in between sessions. I also ask for feedback, as we continue on their journey in therapy. The feedback helps me to stay attuned and remain flexible to what the client may need in our work together.

My practice involves utilizing and integrating various frameworks including ACT, CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness based approaches. I also rely heavily on trauma focused interventions such as parts/internal family systems, EMDR, and CPT. Trauma can involve major events or any past events relevant enough to impact your perspective of yourself and the world.

What does therapy feel like when we work together?

In our sessions, I will engage you in discussions while actively listening to your thoughts and responses. Clients often express that I offer therapeutic feedback in a compassionate yet assertive manner, which helps them maintain motivation in their journey toward personal growth.

Client feedback include how initially they felt overwhelmed and even intimidated to seek therapy. They share that they didn’t know where to begin when they made the appointment. But they soon realize that I am approachable while our discussions are focused and skill/insight based.

Our therapy sessions are not just about talking, but conversations are directed towards therapy goals. Often times, the therapy would involve getting to the root and/or origin of the concerns. We will collaborate to figure out any unhealthy patterns and contributing factors. I begin to share suggestions and may recommend tools, action steps, and a plan for addressing these challenges.

Through this process, clients shared that they begin have clarity on their behavior and patterns of thinking. They start to make changes to have positive impact in their lives. They learn that there are more ways to cope rather than feeling stuck or isolated. They share that they begin to feel hopeful.

Therapy outcomes are closely linked to the investment of time and effort both in and between sessions. To support progress, I may sometimes provide resources for clients to utilize outside of our sessions.

There are times when I feel like we may not be a good fit after a few sessions. Or I may realized I am not trained in the areas that we have discovered are part of the treatment or therapy. During those times, I will certainly discuss with you these concerns to help you make an informed decision about what to do next. I may also recommend a referral for someone more fitting. It’s to the best interest of the client to do so.

My Background

I received clinical training at Columbia University in New York. I am a licensed clinical social worker and can currently only offer psychotherapy to residents living in California. (LCSW Lic 66594). However, my coaching service is global.

My professional career started out as an MBA graduate working for fortune 500 companies. Leading teams for global brands have inspired me to transition to executive coaching. I found myself having more interest in helping individuals to grow than in managing a brand or product. Thus I began to take steps towards working in career advising and professional training roles.

These experiences made me recognize the impact of underlying mental health issues that affect my clients. I decided to seek further education in mental health and advance clinical practice.

Drawing upon my extensive background as a licensed therapist, I integrate my diverse array of skills, training, and experiences to empower clients to achieve optimal well-being. My clinical work experiences included working at Kaiser Permanente, Asian Health Services, DC37, and IPM Pain Management Clinic.

I am Chinese, and fluent in Cantonese but conversational in Mandarin.

My Story

I love working with people. I enjoy hearing people’s life stories no matter where your life has taken you, including the trials, failures and successes that you may have experienced.

I identify myself as Southeast Asian Chinese in ethnic background. I hope to bring my life experiences as an immigrant, a woman, and a person of color to help you in your journey in pursuing a healthy and meaningful life.

Although I work with a diverse population, I have noticed that my APIDA clients come to me due to cultural competency and understanding. These clients have shared that finding an Asian American therapist who understands the cultural and family dynamics have helped them feel at home and facilitated their engagement in therapy.

I look forward to hearing from you and walking with you as part of your life story.