LCSW, 6 years of experience
Hello I'm Risa! I am a licensed clinical social worker/therapist. I am passionate about creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered. My approach is centered around building a strong therapeutic relationship, meeting you where you are, and walking alongside you as you navigate life's challenges. I use various evidence-based modalities in order to address presenting issues.
The first few sessions are about getting to know each other and exploring what brings you to therapy. Not every therapist is the right fit for every client, and that is completely normal-part of our work in the beginning is making sure we are the right match. I welcome people from diverse backgrounds and with a wide range of clinical concerns. My approach is collaborative, meaning we will work together to define your goals and how we will move toward them. To build momentum and give therapy the best chance to help, I typically recommend weekly sessions in the beginning. Many of my clients choose to work with me long-term, and they find that ongoing therapy helps them not just cope with challenges, but truly grow and create lasting change. Consistency of the process can be beneficial for many people. At the same time, I also offer time-limited, focused services-for example, EMDR can be especially effective for processing specific traumas or targeted concerns. My approach is integrative and supportive, and tailored to what will best serve your needs.
My greatest strength as a therapist is the balance of advanced clinical training and genuine human connection. I have completed advanced EMDR training for complex PTSD/trauma, and I began my career with an internship at an LGBT Center in California. I continue to take CEUs regularly and see myself as a lifelong learner-I love what I do and consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients. I strive to create a radically safe space, which may look different for each person-we can explore together what safety means for you. As an immigrant therapist from Asia, I practice cultural humility and am passionate about exploring how race, ethnicity, gender, identity, class, disability, sexual orientation, and religion intersect in our lives. Ultimately, my goal is for clients to leave each session with something meaningful-whether it is a new skill, an insight, or simply a moment of relief or even a smile. Therapy should be a place where you feel supported, challenged when needed, and always cared for.
I work best with clients who are ready to make real changes in their lives. Together, we will focus on practical skills, honest processing, and tools you can use everyday to feel more balanced and in control. Therapy with me is supportive, collaborative, and lots of quiet reflections as well as active problem solving. I look forward to walking alongside you as you navigate challenges and build the skills to thrive.
I have completed advanced EMDR training and regularly integrate Eye Movement Desensitization and Processing (EMDR) techniques into my practice to support clients working through trauma, anxiety, and deeply rooted emotional patterns. My approach is informed by evidence-based protocols, and I tailor each session to meet my client's unique needs and readiness.
I incorporate mindfulness practices to help my clients build self-awareness, reduce stress, and stay grounded in the present. This has been helpful for individuals struggling with anxiety, trauma, stress, life transitions, and overall wellness.
I often incorporate solution-focused strategies to help clients identify strengths, set goals, and create actionable steps toward change if that is what you are seeking. In our work together, I focus on your strengths and what's already working in your life. I believe you are the expert on your own life. This therapy can clarify what you want, recognize your existing resources, and move toward meaningful change one step at a time.