I was driven to study a Master’s in Social Work at the University of Washington by my desire to understand how humans react to the environment and how early attachment to the caregivers impacts our development. I am a licensed psychotherapist in the state of Washington. I work with individuals, children, and families from diverse backgrounds. My passion is helping clients to develop a deep sense of awareness into their feelings, symptoms, and behaviors. In therapy, we will collaborate to set goals and reduce unwanted behaviors. We will work to understand the current difficulties, feelings, thoughts and explore how our past experiences affect our lives. I have worked with clients to alleviate trauma, abandonment issues, anxiety, adjustment, grief and loss, and depression.

My approach to psychotherapy draws on concepts from Narrative therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-based stress reduction. Along with this, I focus on person-centered, which involves the client taking an active role in therapy and the therapist serving as a supportive instrument in treatment. I also focus on a strength-based approach by building on the client’s strengths and learning to identify any constraints that might be holding back on growth.

When I am not working, I enjoy going hiking with my family including our toy poodle, Gigi. Most weekends, I have the opportunity to practice my cooking skills and have a wonderful meal with family and friends. I also look forward to planning family vacations to learn about other cultures, taste different foods, and explore new places.

Depression

Depression is one of the most common mood disorders and it can prevent people from enjoying life. Do you feel a persistent sadness or “empty” mood? Most people report this “dark cloud” feeling. Do you experience feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, irritability or feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness? You deserve to enjoy life again. We will identify ways to cope with stress and examine in depth the origin of the depression symptoms.

Anxiety

Anxiety is a warning sign that lets us know when we are in danger. Anxiety can be a problem when it interferes with our daily life. Do you experience intense, excessive and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations? Do you isolate to prevent heart accelerated, shortness of breath, or trembling? In therapy, you will learn to control these physiological symptoms utilizing mindfulness skills. We will explore the underlying use of your anxiety and it will stop preventing you from living a healthy social life.

Bilingual Therapist

As a bilingual therapist, I help my bilingual/bicultural clients with acculturation and assimilation issues. I also help families improve their communication. Many families have struggled with their children or significant other due to cultural or language issues. As the daughter of an immigrant mother, I am able to understand my adolescence clients navigating two cultures. I provide a safe place to talk about acculturation and assimilation issues.

Geriatric Psychotherapy

One of the most rewarding parts of my work is geriatric psychotherapy since I sincerely enjoy working with older adults. I understand that some older adults may look forward to retirement, grandchildren, or simply a new life transition, while others may dread the emotional effects of aging. It may be difficult for some adults to face these life transitions or deal with medical conditions, while others even struggle to enjoy retirement. In therapy, we will search for new sources of enjoyment, cope with grief and loss in a healthy way, and manage medical conditions.