Specialties

Bipolar and related

mood disorders

Bipolar disorder is an especially challenging mental health condition in having to manage both the depressive and (hypo)manic ends of the mood spectrum - either of which can be very disruptive to both the person living with bipolar and those around them.

In turn, this can give rise to internalized stigma and further shame, not to mention difficulties discerning what even is a "normal" emotional experience from mood disorder symptoms. Many areas in life suffer as a result such as school/work, finances, and relationships.

From the acute to maintenance phase, I help others with achieving stability by building personal insight into triggers, learning awareness of warning signs, and identifying personal wellness strategies towards gaining an overall sense of empowerment and ultimately, hope that they can learn to live with bipolar.

Asian American

mental health

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islanders (AANHPI) face issues such as acculturative stress, cultural double binds, intergenerational trauma, and racism. Being culturally responsive and anti-oppressive in my practice is critical to addressing such problems, especially for those who are marginalized at multiple intersections.

Emerging/young

adult concerns

Young adulthood is often fraught with identity confusion, relationship instability, emotional challenges, and difficulties with applying life skills - not to mention, family expectations, peer pressures, and sociopolitical climate as added stress.

In turn, this can give rise to low self-esteem, sense of helplessness, and lack of clarity with overall direction in life.

I help provide practical strategies while fostering personal curiosity, encouraging self-acceptance, and developing a stronger sense of identity towards achieving milestones and establishing independence.

Marginalized group

advocacy

Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are among historically marginalized communities including but not limited to those who identify LGBTQIA+ or have a disability status. Part of this work involves being mindful of my own biases and acknowledging my privileges while helping empower clients in challenging systemic issues and protecting their well-being.

Relational and attachment trauma

Relational and attachment trauma - whether from early childhood or present day - can stem from hurt, betrayal, misattunement, abandonment among other wounds.

I provide containment, security, and nurturance while helping to regain a sense of control, renew ..., and reaffirm their strengths in the face of ever-ongoing stresses in life towards fostering post-traumatic growth.

Cultural identity

development

Cultural identity can include age, disability status, religion, ethnicity and race, socioeconomic status, indigenous origin, nationality, sexual orientation, and gender (Hays, 1996, 2008). I recognize the complexities and nuances of intersectional identities, helping to integrate these parts of self into a cohesive whole.