(he/him)
New to Grow
I am a 2nd-gen queer BIPOC provider born and raised in the SF Bay Area. I provide individualized therapy to those seeking to understand how past experiences and relationships impact their current life, and finding actionable steps to create a more meaningful life. I specialize with immigrant LGBTQ teens and young adults with depression. I also have experience working with parents and BPD.
The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other. Fit is one of the most important factors in what makes therapy effective. I will ask questions to understand your history and goals for therapy, and I welcome curiosity from you about why I ask certain questions or about my approach and experience. I follow your lead with what feels most important to you and am always open to feedback. Sessions are about 55 minutes long.
Therapy is ultimately a conversation between two people, so I strive to have our sessions feel like any other human-to-human interaction. Many of my clients have shared that sessions with me feel safe, allowing for exploration and feeling challenged as we try something new. Being able to understand the past experiences we carry allows us to shed them and create our own meaning and new experiences.
Many of my clients are folks who have tried therapy before and find the coping skills/worksheet-approach hasn't worked for them. I work particularly well with folks trying therapy for the first time, LGBTQ teens and young adults with depression, and parents. I also have experience working with folks who experience suicidal ideation, difficulties connecting with others, and folks with BPD. My approach is more exploratory and conversational rather than directive.
Attachment-based
I believe early relationships with caregivers and family members are formative in how we relate to others as we grow older. I use this approach to help us understand the lessons you've learned in past experiences and how they interfere with present relationships.
Psychodynamic
Our brain is wired to notice patterns and create associations, sometimes without our full awareness. This approach allows us to be curious and explore roadblocks you may not be consciously aware of.
Relational
A fundamental piece of therapy and humanity, in my opinion, is connection. I believe there is value in understanding how one relates to others, including how one might relate to a therapist, and how that can positively and negatively impact our mental health.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I utilize this method to help folks find actionable steps to improve their day-to-day. This can include building in more positive moments in your life as well as communication strategies, ways to get through difficult times, etc.