Jerry Kao
Hey there! Maybe you're here because life hasn't been feeling quite right lately.
With EMDR therapy training, Certified Breath Coach, and expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I bring a diverse toolbox to our partnership.
Maybe you're dealing with anxiety or depression. Maybe you've been feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure of what you want anymore. From the outside, things might look fine, but inside, you're wondering, Is this really how I want to keep living? I've always believed that you don't have to have everything figured out before you reach out for help. And therapy isn't about me giving you all the answers. It's about creating a space where we can slow things down, make sense of what's happening, and figure out what comes next. I work primarily with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, and that feeling of being lost or stuck. Our sessions aren't meant to be you sitting quietly while I ask you question after question. I like therapy to be engaging, practical, and collaborative. Bring a pen and notebook. We'll talk, reflect, feel, make connections, and come up with things you can actually try between sessions. My approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, insight-oriented and solution-focused therapy. I also have EMDR therapy training and am a Certified Breath Coach, giving us different ways to work depending on what you need. You don't need to arrive with everything figured out. We can start from wherever you are.
First session
In our first session together, you can expect a warm and welcoming environment where you'll feel heard, understood, and supported right from the start. We'll take the time to get to know each other, allowing you to share your story, concerns, and goals in a safe and non-judgmental space. Together, we'll explore what brings you to therapy, identifying areas of focus and setting intentions for our work together. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions, express any worries or uncertainties, and learn more about how our sessions will unfold. I'll provide guidance and insight tailored to your unique needs, offering practical strategies and tools to help you navigate challenges and cultivate greater well-being. By the end of our first session, you'll have a clearer understanding of the therapeutic process and feel empowered to take meaningful steps toward positive change and growth. Remember, this is just the beginning of our journey together, and I'm committed to supporting you every step of the way.
Strengths
If you spend a lot of time trying to understand your struggles but still find yourself feeling stuck, you're not alone. Sometimes insight is important, but it isn't always enough to create the change you're looking for. In our work together, I will provide a calm, supportive space where you can explore difficult emotions, patterns, and experiences at your own pace. I believe that healing doesn't always come from finding the right words or solutions. Often, meaningful change happens when you feel safe enough to slow down, listen to your inner experience, and allow deeper processing to occur.
Ideal clients
On paper, your life might look fine, but something still feels off. You’ve spent time thinking, reflecting, maybe even trying therapy, yet certain patterns keep repeating. You might feel anxious, low, or disconnected in your relationships, even though a part of you knows you want something deeper and more meaningful. I enjoy working with people who are already thoughtful and self-aware, but feel stuck in ways they can’t shift on their own. In our sessions, we go beyond just talking things through. We slow things down, gently explore what’s happening underneath, and work with the emotional patterns that keep showing up. The goal is not just insight, but real change you can feel in your day-to-day life. If you’re looking for something deeper than coping strategies, and you want to feel more connected, more grounded, and more like yourself, this could be a good place to start.
Treatment methods
EMDR
In my practice, I use EMDR to help clients process and heal from traumatic experiences. With EMDR, we work together to reframe distressing memories, allowing you to move past them and regain control over your life. This method has been transformative for many of my clients, offering relief and fostering resilience.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my practice, I use CBT to help clients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. By focusing on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions, we work together to develop practical strategies for managing anxiety, depression, and other challenges. This approach empowers you to make meaningful changes and improve your overall well-being.
Brainspotting
In my practice, I use Brainspotting as an adjunct therapy to deepen the healing process. This powerful technique helps access and resolve trauma stored in the brain by focusing on specific eye positions. Combined with other therapeutic approaches, Brainspotting can enhance our work together, helping you release emotional blocks and achieve greater mental clarity and well-being.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Asian / Asian American
Man
Top specialties
Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Depression
Other specialties
Anger Management
Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Grief
LGBTQ
Life Transitions
Older Adults
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Serves
Adults (18 to 64)
Elders (65 and above)
Individual Therapy
Man
Non-binary
Woman
Doesn't specialize in
Couples Counseling
High Clinical Acuity
Licensed in
CaliforniaLicense 91648