Kory van Unen
Hi, I’m Kory van Unen, LCSW. I am a licensed clinical social worker and UCLA MSW graduate, dedicated to helping adults cultivate insight, resilience, and genuine self-worth. My therapy style is collaborative and client-centered, rooted in evidence-based practice. I specialize in working with women and gender-diverse clients navigating anxiety, depression, mood changes, self-esteem struggles, and the complexities of modern life. Many of my clients come to me seeking relief from self-sabotage, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and chronic stress. If you feel overwhelmed by expectations or stuck in old patterns, I can support you in developing the tools and self-understanding to move forward.
I specialize in working with women and gender-diverse clients navigating anxiety, depression, mood changes, self-esteem struggles, and the complexities of modern life.
My approach is both insight-oriented and practical. I draw from a range of therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), humanistic, and trauma-informed modalities. Treatment is always adapted to your needs, strengths, and goals. I believe therapy should be a safe space where you can reflect honestly, explore difficult emotions, and find sustainable ways to create change. Outside of sessions, you might find me reading, walking in nature, sipping matcha, or at the beach with my dogs.
First session
In our initial meeting, we will discuss your current challenges, goals, and any past experiences with therapy. My aim is to ensure you feel comfortable, understood, and supported from the beginning of our therapeutic work. Together, we’ll begin shaping a treatment plan tailored to your unique circumstances, preferences, and aspirations. There is no need for perfection, just come as you are.
Strengths
Clients often tell me they feel heard, respected, and at ease in our sessions. I bring empathy, clear communication, and a calm presence, along with a knack for helping people untangle old beliefs, build healthier boundaries, and reconnect with their values. I am passionate about supporting personal growth, healing, and self-acceptance. My role is to help you strengthen coping skills, challenge unhelpful patterns, and build greater confidence and self-worth.
Ideal clients
I am especially well-suited for adults who are motivated for change and ready to engage in the work of therapy. I enjoy working with high-achievers experiencing burnout, people struggling with perfectionism or people-pleasing, and those navigating self-doubt, stress, or significant life transitions. I also have a particular interest in working with professionals, caregivers, and women who may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or ready for something to change. Together, we can work toward healthier boundaries, greater self-trust, more effective ways of managing stress, and a stronger sense of confidence in yourself and your decisions. I welcome clients of all backgrounds and provide an affirming space for LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse clients.
Origin story
I’ve always been genuinely curious about people and the experiences that shape who we become. I was drawn to therapy because I wanted to help create the kind of space where people can be honest, feel understood, and talk openly about the things that may be difficult to share elsewhere. One of the most rewarding parts of this work is watching clients begin to understand themselves differently, recognize their own strengths, and feel more confident navigating their lives. I enjoy being able to support people through difficult seasons while also helping them create meaningful change and move toward the life they want.
Ongoing work together
As we continue working together, sessions will build on the goals and patterns we identify early in therapy while making space for new challenges as they arise. We’ll regularly check in on what is improving, what still feels difficult, and whether our work is helping you create meaningful changes in your daily life. My approach is collaborative, practical, and supportive, and my aim is to help you better understand patterns that may be keeping you stuck while developing strategies that feel realistic for your life. Progress may look like feeling less overwhelmed, responding differently to difficult thoughts or emotions, setting healthier boundaries, improving relationships, or feeling more confident navigating stressful situations. Therapy will evolve with you, and we’ll adjust our focus as your needs and goals change.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I focus primarily on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients overcome issues such as anxiety and depression. This is an evidence-based technique to empower individuals to challenge negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to assist clients in embracing their thoughts and feelings while committing to personal values. This modality focuses on helping individuals cultivate psychological flexibility, enabling them to navigate life's challenges with greater resilience and purpose.
Humanistic
I often apply Humanistic therapy to foster personal growth and self-discovery in clients. By fostering empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authentic connection, this modality emphasizes a safe space for individuals to explore their feelings and experiences.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
I focus on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help individuals understand and process their emotions. I utilize EFT techniques to assist clients in identifying emotional patterns, fostering self-compassion, and enhancing emotional regulation. This can empower individuals to build healthier relationships with themselves and others, promoting emotional healing and personal growth.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 104104