What I do
“Why does being me feel so difficult sometimes?” If you are asking this question, it is probably because you are sensing that things that used to help you cope with life are no longer working. I am here to help you find the answer to the question, and to walk with you on a journey towards healing and liberation. I work predominantly with racialized (Asian and other racial/ethnic groups), LGBTQ+, and neurodivergent (ADHD, ASD) people experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, self-criticism and toxic shame, emotional difficulties, and other symptoms of complex-PTSD. Ultimately, my goal as your therapist is to help you write a new narrative of the self that is more liveable, authentic, and empowering.
How I Work
My psychotherapy practice focuses on the processing of developmental and complex-trauma (experiences of childhood abuse/attachment injuries, racial/sexual/gendered discrimination and violence, immigration, disability, intergenerational struggles in the family) that create difficulties later in life. My use of therapeutic techniques is integrative and is informed by Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Narrative Therapy frameworks. My work is guided by the principles of anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, and strength-based approaches.
I also offer personal counselling for one-to-one guidance and support for life transitions, career change, and family issues. Additionally, as a former university professor, I have extensive experience in academic guidance and support for QTBIPOC graduate and undergraduate students facing challenges around motivation, fatigue, supervisor/peer relationships, disability and diversity-related self-advocacy, and thesis/dissertation completion.
Why I do what I do
I understand that finding a therapist with working competency in cultural safety and mental health impacts of systemic and intersectional oppressions can be a challenge. As a queer of colour and neurodivergent practitioner with lived experience of mental health struggles and recovery, I am committed to creating a warm space of validation, trust, and optimism for my clients.