On My Approach to Therapy
I approach therapy overall from a culturally responsive and anti-oppresive framework. As far as which modalities, or the methods and techniques, I predominantly use, my work draws heavily on CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), including ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and DBT skills (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), schema therapy, mindfulness skills, and parts work. I see relationship struggles primarily through the lens of attachment theory.
My own experiences living between cultures, working with immigrant families, and with ADHD also significantly inform my approach. I apply concepts from narrative therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and other models depending on the needs of the individual. Different things work for different people, so flexibility is essential.
The CBT modalities focus on our thoughts, behaviors, and feelings; challenging negative beliefs and automatic thoughts, becoming more accepting of our feelings, learning how to live more by what’s most important to us, while using specific techniques for coping.
Specifically regarding ADHD, effective therapeutic work ADHD requires understanding of the executive functions and related neurobiological processes in addition to the emotional and psychological effects of living with ADHD. I love to get into the neuroscience of executive dysfunction and working with, instead of against, our brains.
I believe that our intersecting identities are central to how we experience the world. Mental health struggles don’t arise in a vacuum; our experiences are shaped by the systems and environments we live in, including experiences of marginalization and oppression. Awareness of these factors informs how I understand and approach treatment, especially with people who have been marginalized by a dominant culture.
Therapy at Belong to Yourself
How We Get Started
Therapy with me starts with a 15 minute conversation to make sure we’d be a good match. After that, we schedule individual sessions based on your needs, preferences, and scheduling options. These sessions are usually 50 minutes. With self pay, sessions can be scheduled ahead of time for longer, shorter, or more frequently, depending on what’s helpful for your treatment. It might take us a few sessions to figure out what you need. The frequency and length of sessions might change with your circumstances.
Click here to schedule a free, 15 minute consultation to see if we’re a good match!
Scroll down to read more about who I help.
I feel drawn to working with folks who feel like they don't quite fit in, feel caught between cultures, feel stuck in life, want to understand themselves better, and anyone who feels tired of trying to keep up appearances.
Whether you are an immigrant, international student or employee, a child of immigrant parents struggling to balance clashing cultural expectations, or an adult navigating the invisible weight of adult ADHD, you are likely exhausted from putting on a mask, playing certain roles, and trying to fit into spaces that weren't built for how your mind or culture works. My goal is to help you identify your real needs and desires, empower your authentic self, and build a life that works for you.
You don’t have to fit neatly into one of these categories to be a good fit. If you’re struggling to understand what you need, where you belong, or how to build a life that feels like your own, we’ll start there.
Who I Help
Click below to schedule a free, 15 minute consultation to see if we’re a good match!
“I don’t feel like I fit in anywhere.”
"I've spent so much time trying to be someone that I don't know who I really am."
"I'm exhausted from trying to meet everyone's expectations."
“What is wrong with me?!”
"I know something has to change, but I don't know what or how."
“No one would suspect it, but I’m always lonely.”
“I’m so tired just trying to keep up.”
“Other people can do this, so why can’t I?”
“My family worked so hard for me, I just can’t let them down.”
"My life looks great on paper, but something’s not right.”
“Again?! Why am I like this?”
“I don’t want anyone to know how hard this is for me.”
“I keep ending up with the wrong person.”
“I don't even know what I want.”
“I’m not from here or there.”
I might be the right therapist for you if you’ve found yourself thinking:
