Hello! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my master’s degree from Pepperdine University and have dedicated my career to supporting individuals, children, and families through meaningful healing and growth. I have extensive experience working with children and families impacted by trauma, including abuse and neglect. I also specialize in helping adults heal from childhood trauma—understanding how early experiences shape current patterns, relationships, and self-perception, and supporting you as you move toward becoming your most authentic and empowered self.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Our first session is about connection and clarity. I want to learn about you—your story, your challenges, and what led you to seek therapy. At the same time, I’ll share about my therapeutic approach and style so we can determine whether we’re the right fit. Therapy works best when you feel comfortable, understood, and confident in the process—because this journey is about you.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My priority is to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can openly process what you’re going through. I value genuine connection and often use humor (when appropriate) alongside empathy, sensitivity, and respect. No matter what you share, you will be met with compassion and understanding.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I am deeply passionate about working with the Asian community. As a Japanese American woman, I understand firsthand the complexities of navigating identity, cultural expectations, gender roles, and experiences of discrimination. I know how challenging it can feel to balance being both Asian and American—and to realize you don’t have to choose one over the other. These lived experiences allow me to bring cultural understanding and nuance into our work together.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Do you feel overwhelmed by thoughts that make it hard to move forward? Maybe anxiety shows up physically—racing heart, shortness of breath, trembling, restlessness—or mentally through constant worry, fear, or difficulty sleeping. CBT helps you regain control by identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns and replacing them with more balanced, realistic ones. Together, we create space for relief, clarity, and meaningful change so you can feel more grounded and confident in your daily life.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
Growing up in Los Angeles, surrounded by cultural diversity, has shaped my deep appreciation for learning about different backgrounds and lived experiences. Culture, values, beliefs, and family dynamics play a powerful role in how we see ourselves and the world. Even individuals from the same ethnic background can have very different experiences based on family history, upbringing, or where they grew up. I strive to be curious, respectful, and culturally attuned, honoring what is important to you so therapy feels relevant, affirming, and supportive.
Grief Therapy
Losing a loved one is incredibly difficult—whether the loss was sudden, expected, or after a long life. You may find yourself asking, “Why is this so hard?”, “Why can’t I move on?”, or “Why am I still feeling this way?” In grief therapy, we gently explore your emotions, help you understand the grieving process, and support you as you adjust to life after loss. Together, we work toward finding new meaning and purpose—while honoring that there is no timeline for grief. Healing happens at your own pace, and that is okay.
Interpersonal
Are relationships causing stress, anxiety, or sadness? Are you struggling with life transitions or feeling disconnected from others? Interpersonal therapy focuses on improving relationships and emotional well-being. We’ll explore patterns, communication styles, and relational dynamics that may be contributing to distress. By understanding how your relationships affect your emotions, we can work toward healthier connections, stronger boundaries, and more fulfilling interactions.
1 rating with written reviews
April 11, 2025
Loved Katherine's energy and how great of a listener she was. Even in our first session, I immediately felt welcomed and safe enough to talk about how I'm feeling.