My philosophy
My years spent in the field of trauma and interpersonal violence is the reason that I am passionate about creating a safe therapeutic space that honors all. I strive to create a space for one to feel heard, understood, and accepted. In such a space, I believe that people can explore their values, challenge themselves, and even rediscover ways they can care for themselves. I also believe strongly in empowerment based and culturally grounded therapy, which means that clients have the means to resolve their issues with the right tools. Culturally grounded therapy is based in the idea that culture is much more than our ethnicity: it can be our family’s cultural norms, gender norms, languages we speak, social groups we identify with, etc.
My role in the therapeutic process is to be a form of emotional support during my client’s journey to wellness by listening, providing insight, and problem solving together. When working with my clients, my priority is to make sure my clients feel heard and understood regardless of the experiences they have had. Whether you’re a college student with relationship and identity issues, a child who has witnessed domestic violence, or an adult with a history of sexual trauma and depression, I’m confident that together we can identify ways to enhance your life.
My Background
Although I identify as Asian American, I am a first generation immigrant from Vietnam. I grew up in Houston and then attended undergrad for Psychology at UT Austin. I later pursued my masters in Social Work at UT as well. I recently just moved back to Houston.
Prior to opening my own practice, I worked in various non-profits, healthcare, and mental health settings in the Austin area. Some of these places include Colors of Austin Counseling, Lifeworks, The Christi Center, AFSSA (Asian Family Support Services of Austin), Dell Children’s Medical Center, Loveisrespect (National Teen Dating Abuse Hotline), etc. As a result, I have experience working with culturally diverse adults and adolescents in treating a range of issues that include interpersonal (relationship) issues, women's issues, trauma, depression, grief and loss, cultural identity, and anxiety. I am passionate about empowering clients to heal from historical and current conditions that hold them back so they can create the life they want.