As a Chinese-American daughter of immigrants growing up in a predominantly White community, I grappled with the complexities of my bicultural identity. At home, my mother’s unpredictable and sometimes violent behavior taught me to tiptoe around others and to stifle my own needs in an effort to maintain the illusion of peace. I found myself repeating those same patterns in my adult life; stifling my needs in relationships in an effort to maintain harmony. However, this only led to anger and resentment. As I worked to untangle myself from the pain of family trauma, attachment wounds, and systemic harm, I also developed a profound belief in our collective resilience, worthiness, courageous authenticity, and desire for connection.
My approach to therapy is one of gentle warmth, genuine empathy, and honest reflection. I collaboratively work alongside clients to explore hurtful experiences and relationship injuries, feel emotional release, establish understanding, achieve relief from stories that no longer fit, and ultimately, start to live a more authentic and connected life. I utilize a nonjudgmental, culturally responsive, person-centered therapeutic process that draws from Narrative Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I believe each of us is fully capable of discovering joy, meaningful connection, and healing.
Outside of the office, I love spending time with my partner, friends, and family, playing with my dog, Motz, reading, cooking, and basking in the sunshine.