While I had an early interest in psychology, mental health was not a concept to me until I experienced my first hypomanic episode during my fourth year of college. I was introduced to therapy and psychiatric medications upon bringing myself to the counseling center on campus, which came with its own challenges. After I graduated, I fell into a major depression, as I saw friends and peers start their medical and professional school programs while I was left unclear as to where I would be headed next or where I could even see myself going. Although I was able to move back home, finding quality treatment continued to be another difficulty I faced on top of figuring out my career path and how to be an independent young adult.

 

As I was learning how to live with bipolar disorder, I came to admit that being pre-med actually was not aligned for me. With added encouragement from a professor, I turned my attention to doctorate programs in psychology and explored mental health care as a career option by working at outpatient treatment centers in Los Angeles. While there, I was shown the power of feeling heard and the privilege of being with someone in their most vulnerable moments. I also could relate with the frustrations of being under the care of a provider who was dismissive and invalidating, instead of listening and being collaborative.

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During those four years, therapy helped me not only stay afloat amid the turbulence of young adulthood and bipolar disorder but ultimately, reclaim my life back.​​​ I came to understand how personal connection can be incredibly impactful from both witnessing and experiencing it myself. At the same time, I was struck by how mental health care remained largely inaccessible and stigmatized. Reflecting on my path forward, I felt drawn to meet this critical need while helping others in a very meaningful way that was unknown to me before.  11 years later, I am still so grateful to be part of that journey for others towards living well with hope and fulfillment, as many have done for me to be where I am today.