New to Grow
Over the years I have worked with adults from various backgrounds and feel that my worldview continues to be shaped by my personal and professional experiences. This helps me provide a non-judgmental, affirming and positive environment for my clients. Additionally, growing up in South Asia as a gay man and living most of my adult life in the United States and some years in Latin America, I understand the challenges of someone caught between two (or more) cultures and/or being part of a minority group. I am in an interracial marriage and understand those challenges as well.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
We will schedule our initial session and assess your current situation and presenting issues. We will set your goals together. We will meet on a regular basis (typically weekly) and work on those goals. We will see how you are doing and make changes as needed. We will celebrate your successes along the way. We will terminate our work together when your goals are met. Generally, my clients stay in therapy for at least 6 months to a year. My coaching clients with specific concerns may be seen for 3 to 6 months.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My approach to therapy is rooted in Positive Psychology, Person-Centered Therapy (Humanistic), Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Psychology. In my couples' work, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman’s Method to help resolve conflicts and establish deeper interpersonal and relational connections. My approach is focused on listening, understanding, reflecting, educating, suggesting, and creating a space where positive change can happen.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
You are an adult (or a couple) who knows you want a better life and great relationships. You have been stuck but feel that you are ready to make a change for the better. You are ready to invest time and effort now because you know you deserve a more fulfilling life. I am committed to assisting you with your true “destiny” - a partnership rooted in mutual trust and understanding and a unique journey toward a destination you and I will chart together. There may be days you do not feel too good as difficult emotions surface, but you will trust the process and stick with it. We will be on this journey together to find your destiny of a more fulfilling and meaningful life free of debilitating depression and anxiety.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I help my clients to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. I commonly used it to treat anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions by teaching coping skills and problem-solving strategies.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
I use this approach to help individuals and couples identify and transform negative emotional patterns. I focus on strengthening emotional bonds by fostering secure attachment, improving communication, and promoting healthier ways of responding to emotional needs.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
I acknowledge and respect a client’s cultural background, values, and identity within the therapeutic process. I adapt my different approaches to align with the client’s cultural context, ensuring interventions are relevant and supportive while reducing misunderstandings or biases. This helps build trust and promotes more effective healing and growth.
Humanistic
I use a client-centered approach that emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuine presence. I help clients explore their feelings, values, and self-concept, fostering personal growth and self-actualization. I focus on empowering individuals to find meaning and make authentic choices in their lives.
Motivational Interviewing
I use a collaborative, non-confrontational style that helps clients explore and resolve ambivalence about change. I use open-ended questions, reflective listening, and affirmations to strengthen the client’s own motivation and commitment. This approach empowers my clients to identify personal goals and take steps toward healthier behaviors.