My Approach

I work primarily from a psychodynamic, insight-oriented approach, in which I seek to help you uncover subconscious patterns or feelings that may be affecting your present-day life. Many of our behavioral and relationship patterns are formed early in life, resulting from a combination of our given temperament (nature) and the environment in which we were raised (nurture). I utilize an integrative approach that includes mindfulness and stress reduction techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, multicultural therapy, and a person-centered, relational style. I believe our personal strengths are the cornerstone of our resilience and I therefore seek to help illuminate your strengths and explore the ways in which they can further enhance your life.

Throughout the therapeutic relationship, I offer a safe, empathic, compassionate space in which you can share your story and be seen and heard.

Experience

I have worked in a variety of settings, including a college counseling center, case management agency for seniors, in-patient psychiatric hospital unit, and private psychotherapy agency. In these settings, I have provided individual therapy, group therapy, crisis management, and case management.

Prior to becoming a clinical social worker, I was a regulatory lawyer for 15 years for the food, drug, device and cosmetic industries. In that capacity, I served as a partner in a boutique law firm, and, later, as in-house counsel for an industry trade association.

Education

• The Catholic University of America, National Catholic School of Social Service, Master of Social Work (clinical concentration)

• Boston University School of Law, Juris Doctor

• University of California at Berkeley, Bachelor of Arts in Social Science

Licensure and Certifications

• Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in DC, Maryland and Virginia

• Licensed Attorney in DC and California (inactive status)

• Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society Group Therapist Training Program - 2023-24

• Certified Group Psychotherapist (CGP) Certification - in progress

Personal

I am a Taiwanese-American who was born in Buffalo, New York and raised in the Mojave Desert of California. I am a lover of people, documentaries, biopics, memoirs and pastries. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, tennis, being in nature, cooking, reading and traveling. I am married with two children and reside in NW DC.