LCSW, 10 years of experience
You are here for that sense of belonging & connection, especially when multiple global crises have left communities hopeless, and in a constant state of vigilance. While some anxiety/depression is a normal response to the hyper-violence we are facing as a collective (on screens or in reality), it can feel extremely overwhelming to experience this every day, on top of expectations from work, family, and other relationships. As a child of the Lao Isaan/Southeast Asian diaspora, my passion is working with fellow children of refugee/immigrant diasporas to feel seen + heard + validated through an anti-oppressive framework.
Our first session—often called an intake session—is really a chance for us to get to know each other. It’s a space where we slow down, breathe, and begin building trust as a therapist-client team. We'll talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, what you’re hoping for, and any questions or concerns you might have. I may ask about your personal history, support systems, and current challenges—not to overwhelm you, but to better understand the full picture of your experience. There’s no pressure to share everything all at once. You set the pace.
My therapeutic approach draws in a combination of mindfulness, storytelling & psychosomatics practices to process and heal individual and collective trauma that sits in mental/emotional systems of our bodies. It is my hope that together, we can co-create an inclusive, warm, and empowering environment to assist you navigate challenging life transitions. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) & value joy, laughter, & play as core elements of my therapeutic practice. Collectively, we can work on issues making you feel "stuck" or stagnate, and come up with creative solutions to generate emotional resilience and liberation.
I am passionate about working with those who identify with the experiences of Southeast Asian Diaspora, children of refugees/immigrants, QTBIPOC (Queer, Trans*, Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities, survivors of sexual trauma and gender-based violence, organizers/activists in social justice movements, overachievers, young professionals navigating transition/uncertainty + work/life balance, and system-impacted (formerly incarcerated) individuals.
Adults (18+), young professionals, BIPOC communities, Southeast Asian, Asian/American, LGBTIA+, formerly incarcerated/system-impacted individuals
2 ratings with written reviews
May 26, 2025
I appreciate Rita so much. I recently wrote in my journal entry: ”I can’t wait to share this with my therapist!” Rita has supported me w/organizing my thoughts, encouraging me to explore my emotions on a deeper level, to better understand the root of my feelings & how we can move forward in a good way. I’ve cried during our sessions which has further healed me like a cleansing from my tears, b/c she asks such great questions that provoke vulnerability. I’m filled w/gratitude for her in my life.
May 20, 2025
Rita had allowed me the space to share and be vulnerable when it feels uncomfortable. In that same space she has allowed me to and share my true authentic self, while providing me reassurance, guidance, and redirection when needed. Rita has immensely helped me develop healthy coping, healing, and self regulation framework. The safe and warm space Rita provides to share, heal, and be vulnerable is so special in this world and it is seen with the upmost gratitude.