Doug Tu

Doug Tu

(he/him)

LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual

Dissatisfied with your dating life? Feeling inadequate with work and relationships? Struggling with stagnancy or this sense of being left out? You are not alone. Through a combination of empathetic listening, a structured approach to therapy, and evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, DBT, and EFT, I help clients find intrinsic meaning and fulfillment in their lives while also addressing underlying factors contributing to their inadequacy, such as negative core beliefs and past trauma. I encourage you to join me on a journey toward greater emotional well-being and a renewed sense of belonging in the world!

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

The intake process usually takes more than one session. Sometimes, it’s ongoing, as there is always something new to learn about the individual. I usually take a structured approach when working with clients, often providing homework at the beginning of treatment and throughout. However, if a structured approach is not a good fit for a client, I am versatile and can tailor my approach to fit their needs. At my core, I am a believer in meeting clients where they are.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

Much of my upbringing and life experiences have helped me understand how much of the past influences our present-day interactions. Some researchers have suggested that the majority of how we respond to the present is shaped by our past. I am deeply interested in understanding how we can help individuals unpack their pasts to gain a better understanding of how they can shape their present. Regarding cultural sensitivity, I recognize that identity is ever-changing and it is important to keep an open mind when working with individuals. Trust and safety are my top priorities.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

Specific presenting concerns I have experience treating include breakups, codependency, navigating dating apps, social anxiety, stress from the medical field, and navigating poly/open relationships. I identify as an LGBTQIA ally, am neurodivergent affirming and integrate personal "geek" interests into my work, such as anime, comics, K-pop, and video games.

About Doug Tu

Specializes in

Licensed in

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

EMDR

I have found that clients gain the most benefit from treatment when I adopt a trauma-based approach, especially EMDR, that goes deeper into an individual's trauma narrative. As they gain deeper insight and understand where certain negative patterns come from, I find that clients can challenge these patterns more effectively. I also stress the importance of dedication to the therapy process and strongly encourage clients to attend sessions regularly in order to gain the full benefit of treatment.