Hi! My name is Melissa and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I was born and raised in the Bay Area by parents who were Chinese-Vietnamese refugees. I have primarily gained my experience working in underserved community-based settings with children, adolescents, and young adults in Alameda County. I’ve spent the last 5 years guiding clients towards healing, acceptance, and self-compassion while they battled with challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, life transitions, and/or burnout. I believe change happens when we are ready to step out of our comfort zones and in my approach, I aim to balance challenge with compassion. Starting therapy can be hard if you've often felt unheard and/or misunderstood. I believe everyone has a voice deserving to be heard and I will provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for you to express yourself.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During the first session we will get to know each other better by exploring your history, concerns, goals, and expectations. If you feel like it is a good match then together we will build a treatment plan that fits your individualized needs. Some things you may learn in our time together include improved communication skills, how to set healthy boundaries, acquiring new perspectives and finding coping strategies that work well for you to create a more balanced lifestyle.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I take a humanistic and holistic approach to wellness that promotes self-discovery and strengthening the mind-body connection. I integrate narrative, attachment-based, mindfulness, and other evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strength I can share with you is through my lived experience as a first generation Asian-American woman. I have a strong understanding of the importance of cultural identity and understanding the challenges of navigating through a system that may clash with your cultural values. I am respectful of all needs and values which is why my treatment plans are always individualized in collaboration with you.