Throughout my life I have constantly navigated existing within multiple worlds. I often felt that I was never firmly rooted in just one; I never quite "fit in". Despite everyone’s best efforts to box me up in a neat little package, I continued to spill out in all directions. Through my own healing journey and deep exploration of my inner world, I found strength and purpose by firmly grounding in my authentic self-expression. I became passionately focused on carving out a space in the world for myself and other folks who felt similarly.

As a multiethnic, multicultural, queer woman of color, child of an immigrant, and licensed clinical social worker with a background in gender studies, I deeply understand how important it is to consider the intersectional* identities of my clients. I am deeply aware of the oppressive systems that my clients must navigate and how these systems affect them. I provide an integrative and collaborative approach to the therapeutic relationship. Weaving together evidence-based and experiential practices such as expressive arts, play, somatic work, Socratic dialogue, and cognitive behavioral tools, I aim to create a container where clients can explore their existential musings, unpack the symbolism in their dreams, identify and re-frame harmful narratives, name and process complex emotions, learn what they need to return to their window of tolerance**, and much more.

As a trauma therapist and yoga instructor, I am highly attuned to the ways in which emotions can show up somatically and invite my clients to call on their body’s innate wisdom to deepen self-trust and inner knowing. I will often lead clients through gentle movement and breathwork to encourage stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system and reduce stress while grounding into the present. Throughout this co-regulating embodiment exercise, I intentionally use language that is invitational and empowering. I encourage my clients to listen to their body, with the intention of reminding them of their autonomy.

My personality has been described as warm, playful, and nurturing. I gently and respectfully challenge clients as needed throughout the therapeutic process. I insert humor where it is appropriate and enjoy sharing in laughter with my clients. My approach is genuine, anti-racist, anti-oppressive, culturally affirming, queer-affirming, sex-positive, kink-affirming, and client-centered. In practice, I adapt to the client’s unique needs and enjoy being creative with therapy.

Everyone heals differently, and that is why it can be incredibly transformative to have a mental health professional hold space in a way that allows one to feel comfortable enough to express themselves openly and with raw honesty.

If you find that my words resonate with you, I invite you to request a free 20 minute consultation with me. I am looking forward to connecting with you!

*Kimberlé Crenshaw coined this term

** developed by Dan Segel