Hi, I’m Vanda Kim, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker based in California. I have worked in the mental health field for over 17 years. My experience includes working in medical, school, and private practice settings, where I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals through many of life’s challenges. I’m passionate about building genuine connections with people from diverse cultural and personal backgrounds and deeply value the unique stories and perspectives each person brings to therapy.
I invite you to come to our first session with an open mind and to let go of any expectations about what therapy “should” look like. This initial meeting is a chance for us to see how we connect and for you to share what brings you to counseling. You’re welcome to ask questions about me or the therapeutic process, and I’ll ask questions to better understand your experiences and goals. Together, we’ll begin creating a plan tailored to your needs and what will support you best.
I believe healing begins with genuine connection and understanding. My approach is grounded in empathy, authenticity, and collaboration, creating a safe and supportive space where you can feel truly seen and heard. Using a strength-based perspective, I help clients identify and build upon their natural resilience and inner wisdom. My goal is to offer a compassionate, flexible environment that empowers you to grow, heal, and make meaningful, lasting changes in your life.
I primarily work with adults (18+) from diverse backgrounds and life experiences who are seeking individual therapy and meaningful personal growth. Many of my clients are navigating challenges such as depression, grief, anxiety, stress, relationship or family difficulties, trauma, low motivation, or concerns related to self-esteem. I also support individuals who feel a desire for greater purpose and direction in their lives, helping them cultivate deeper self-understanding, emotional balance, and a stronger sense of fulfillment and well-being.
Eclectic
My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and centered around you. I draw from a variety of approaches—including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based practices, person-centered care, humanistic and psychodynamic theories, and processing therapy—so I can tailor our work to best fit your unique needs and goals. I believe each person has an innate ability to heal and grow, and my role is to help you tap into that inner strength. Together, we’ll explore your experiences with empathy and curiosity, deepening self-awareness and cultivating mindfulness along the way. My goal is to help you build a more compassionate relationship with yourself and to recognize the resilience and resources you already have within you.
2 ratings with written reviews
March 14, 2026
Spiritual practical caring calm and engaging. Excellent.
January 20, 2026
I was nervous about talking to anyone because of my weird spiritual background. Vanda made me feel completely at home, shared some of her own journey, and made sure I understood at a gut level that she had been where I was and shared some immediately actionable work which I'm very excited about.