(he/they)
I am a Dutch-born Hong Kong Chinese and queer identified therapist in the Bay Area. I am a California Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. In my graduate work I specialized in Expressive Arts Therapy, a holistic modality. My approach is person-centered and I tend to guide my clients towards their own solutions through self-expression. I work relationally, and at times, clients will work with me long-term (1 year or more). I am fluent in Dutch (speaking, reading, and writing), and fluency in Cantonese is conversational (spoken only).
A first session is a welcoming space where we can talk about what brings you in and what you hope to get from therapy. It’s a chance for us to get to know each other, explore what feels most important to you, and begin building a sense of safety and support for the work ahead, together.
Years of working with clients have shaped a deep respect for each person’s unique story and strengths. Experience in community mental health and private practice has built flexibility and patience in meeting people where they are. A background in gender affirming care and working with teens and young adults helps clients feel seen, understood, and supported as they navigate change and challenges.
My clients are predominantly part of the LGBTQ+ community. Issues may arise regarding depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, intersectional identities, and trauma. Perhaps you simply haven't found any therapists who look like you or shares as many intersectional identities? After all, representation matters. My person-centered approach will allow for you to connect deeper with yourself so you may move through life more authentically.
A therapeutic space is co-created that is supportive and nonjudgmental where gender identity and expression are respected and honored. Sessions can focus on exploring experiences, addressing stressors related to gender or social pressures, and supporting well-being while centering each person's autonomy in their journey.
Helps identify connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may be keeping someone stuck. Sessions can focus on noticing unhelpful patterns and practicing new ways of thinking and responding, building practical skills to navigate challenges with greater ease. Work may be assigned in between sessions.
Explores and hopes to understand different “parts” of oneself that may feel in conflict or hold past burdens. This approach helps build a compassionate relationship with these parts, allowing for more balance, inner calm, and access to one’s own wisdom.
Centers on each person’s strengths, values, and capacity for growth. Sessions provide a warm, nonjudgmental space to explore feelings and goals, supporting self-understanding and fostering a sense of authenticity and empowerment.
Focuses on exploring how past experiences and unconscious patterns may influence current thoughts, feelings, and relationships. This approach helps bring awareness to these patterns, creating space for understanding, healing, and change.