My name is Celestie Nguyen (she/her), and I am a queer, first-generation woman of colour with my heart in my hands and a love for buying new books before I can finish my current ones. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), and earned my MSW from Columbia University’s School of Social Work. I am deeply committed to practicing from an anti-capitalist and anti-oppressive lens, and supporting clients onwards in their expansive journey of mental health.

I was born and raised in Australia, and eventually immigrated to the United States as an adolescent. Born to refugees of the Vietnam War, much of my passion lies in working with first-generational individuals who are navigating intergenerational trauma, the disconnections that may occur between cultures, and how to honor themselves amidst shame. I recognize that as a person of colour, any and all shared identities do not equate to shared lived experiences, and I acknowledge the privileges I hold in the room. I believe that it is of utmost importance to be culturally humble and affirming as a therapist, and it is my intention to always uphold you and your truth.

More so, my head and heart work is deeply committed to working with clients who identify under the LGBTQ+ communities. My expertise comes from primarily working with queer and trans youth, adolescents, and adults and marveling in all that they are. You are who I’ll go to bat for, every time. Honoring my own queer identity, along with all the other identities I hold, is what keeps me grounded and authentic in our work together. I’m a big fan of intersectionality, so here’s to looking at you, my fellow queer people of colour!

I have also worked in the realm of sexual violence prevention for years, first as a Victim’s Advocate, and then as a Certified Rape Crisis Counselor in New York state. I believe survivors and will always work to uplift them and hear their stories. As a trauma-informed therapist, I will be alongside you on your journey to empowerment and safety within yourself. Together, we’ll undertake a somatic approach to understand the relationship between your mind and your body, and how the experience of trauma may impact this. Feeling safe in your body and coming home to yourself without shame is at the core of my philosophy regarding trauma-response liberation.

Additionally, I also serve numerous other multi-faceted individuals who have struggled with depression, anxiety, relational issues, family disconnection, or feeling separated from their inner child. I utilize mindfulness-based approaches, along with tenants of Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, to connect with you and embrace you as your full authentic self.