Hello! Great job taking steps towards a healthier you and checking if we are a good fit. Choosing to start therapy is a huge step and it is important to have the right match. My name is Kim and I am a second-generation Vietnamese-American Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Political Science and Japanese from University of California, Irvine, took some time off and taught English in Japan for three years, and then got my Masters in Counseling Psychology with a Corrections emphasis from Santa Clara University. As you can see, I took a non-traditional path to becoming a therapist but it's all helped shaped me to be who I am today. I believe that therapy is a collaborative partnership but the lasting change is up to you. I want you to enjoy this process while also challenging yourself as you’re ready to make meaningful and lasting change in your life. I have experience working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, grief, substance use, and other challenges. During the course of our work together, I will help you identify the aspects in your life that are causing you to feel anxious, depressed, overwhelmed and even hopeless. Together, we will collaborate to identify and overcome roadblocks that may be holding you back from being your happiest and healthiest self.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
My hope is for my clients to feel supported and take with them a toolbox full of resources to help them live their most authentic life. I am a huge cheerleader for my clients which also means that I will challenge you to step out of your comfort zone. There will be moments where it could feel extremely uncomfortable, emotionally overloaded, or even just calm and numb. Please know that this is normal. It’s also normal for ongoing processing to happen after the planned therapy sessions.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I am a client-centered therapist who uses various integrated approaches to best address clients’ needs. I am trained in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy (TFCBT), solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and brainspotting. I also integrate components of psychodynamic, humanistic approach, emotion-focused, and family systems.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
As a Vietnamese-American, I strive to provide culturally competent therapy and specialize in Asian American mental health and intergenerational trauma. In addition, I also have vast experience working with individuals with co-occurring mental health, substance abuse, and/or developmental delays/intellectual disabilities and their families, as well as justice-involved clients. My passion is supporting others to help you help yourself.