A Conversation with AMHC’s Lauren Pongan, and Thomas Yeung, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in American Fork, Utah.
Lauren: Hi Thomas. I was hoping we could chat briefly about the group you facilitated for AMHC, Navigating New Beginnings: A Support Group for Asian Immigrants. What were the major themes that you all discussed in this group?
Thomas: Hi Lauren! It was a great and inspiring group. As first generation Asian immigrants (myself included), we discussed many challenges we have faced, including cultural adjustment, identity, family expectations, and stress related to immigration—as well as how to support one another.
Lauren: I know that you were the one facilitating this group, but even so, was there anything you learned or that surprised you that you think folks might appreciate learning?
Thomas: It was an honor to host the group. I learned that we have more in common than we realize, and when we let go of the mask and share our true selves and struggles, we feel closer and grow together. You are not alone!
Lauren: That’s a nice sentiment, especially at a time when there’s so much division across the US. Lastly, is there a skill or piece of advice you’d offer from the support group, that our wider AMHC audience might appreciate?
Thomas: You’re doing much better than you think! You’ve survived some of the hardest days, and you will overcome whatever you’re going through just like you have before. If you sense that your body or mind isn’t doing well, don’t minimize it. Talk to someone you love or a professional.
Lauren: That’s so validating Thomas. Thank you again for giving us a sneak peek at what your group was able to talk about together.
One participant mentioned that they “enjoyed the amount of time we have to discuss about our stories and feelings. [Thomas] had good, interesting questions that helped us dig deeper into our histories; these all made me feel a sense of community.”
Thank you for helping us build a unique space like that here at AMHC Thomas!
