Question 1

How do your lived experiences shape your approach to therapy?

Accepted Answer

My lived experiences as a First-Generation Hmong American have significantly shaped my approach to therapy. Growing up in a community where cultural values, traditions, and language often intersected with the complexities of assimilation, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the challenges that can come with balancing multiple identities. This experience has taught me the importance of cultural sensitivity and awareness in therapy. I aim to create a space where clients, especially those from multicultural and marginalized backgrounds, feel understood and validated in their experiences. My personal journey has also instilled in me a strong sense of resilience, empathy, and patience, qualities I bring into my practice to foster connection and healing. I believe that embracing diverse perspectives, and understanding the nuances of identity, helps me better support clients as they navigate their own paths of growth.

Question 2

What values guide your work with therapy participants?

Accepted Answer

My work with therapy participants is guided by several core values that shape how I interact and support my clients. First and foremost, respect is at the heart of everything I do. I believe every individual deserves to be treated with dignity, regardless of their background, identity, or challenges. Alongside this, cultural humility plays a significant role, especially as I draw from my experience as a First-Generation Hmong American. I strive to understand and honor the diverse cultural, familial, and personal contexts each client brings to therapy.

I also prioritize empathy in my approach, being attuned to the emotional experiences of others allows me to offer compassionate support. Collaboration is another key value, as therapy is most effective when it’s a partnership. I work alongside my clients, respecting their autonomy and empowering them to take an active role in their healing process. Lastly, I believe in growth and resilience, knowing that change is possible, and everyone has the capacity to evolve and heal, even when faced with difficulties.

These values help me create a safe, supportive, and understanding space where therapy participants can feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore their thoughts and emotions.

Question 3

How do you practice culturally responsive or anti-oppressive therapy?

Accepted Answer

In my approach to therapy, I integrate culturally responsive and anti-oppressive practices by grounding my work in the lived experiences and unique identities of my clients. As a first generation Hmong American, I understand first hand the complexities of navigating multiple cultural contexts. This personal experience informs my practice in creating a therapeutic environment that honors the intersectionality of each individual's identity.

I deeply value and honor my client's stories, acknowledging the cultural, social and historical factors that shape their perspectives and experiences. By maintaining cultural humility and engaging in continuous self-reflection, I ensure that I remain aware of my own biases while being open to learning from the diverse backgrounds of those I work with. I also make sure to challenge oppressive systems and strive to empower my clients to explore their strengths and agency in the face of societal pressure.

Question 4

Who do you feel most aligned to work with, and why?

Accepted Answer

I feel most aligned to work with individuals from marginalized communities, particularly BIPOC individuals, individuals who identify as LGBTQ, Hmong individuals, international students, and first-generation individuals.

I am passionate about working with individuals who may feel caught between their heritage and the pressures of assimilation, as I understand firsthand the emotional toll this can take. International students, in particular, may experience a sense of isolation and cultural dissonance, and I believe I can offer support that acknowledges the challenges of adjusting to a new environment while maintaining a connection to one’s roots.

Working with BIPOC clients also aligns with my commitment to providing culturally responsive, anti-oppressive therapy. I aim to create a space where these clients can explore their unique experiences of identity, belonging, and resilience, while also addressing the impact of systemic discrimination they may face.

Question 5

How do you support therapy participants navigating identity-based or systemic stressors?

Accepted Answer

I support therapy participants navigating identity based and systemic stressors by first creating a safe and affirming space where they can openly explore how these factors impact their lives. I understand that systemic oppression, whether in the form of racism, sexism, or other forms of discrimination, can create significant emotional and psychological burdens. For many clients, these stressors can shape their sense of self and how they interact with the world around them.

Drawing from my own experiences as a First-Generation Hmong American, I prioritize cultural humility and understanding. I recognize that each individual’s experience is unique, and I listen with a keen awareness of how identity factors such as race, ethnicity, immigration status, or socioeconomic background can influence their perspective. I encourage clients to explore these intersections and how they may impact their mental health, relationships, and sense of belonging.

In therapy, I help clients identify and process the emotional weight of these stressors while also developing strategies to cope with or resist them. This might involve building resilience, fostering self-compassion, or exploring ways to challenge oppressive systems in their lives. I also use strength-based approaches, helping clients recognize their own resilience and power in navigating difficult situations.

Question 6

What are 2 to 3 concerns you often support therapy participants with?

Accepted Answer

I often support therapy participants with concerns related to identity and cultural integration, particularly for those who are navigating the challenges of balancing multiple cultural identities. As a First-Generation Hmong American, I deeply understand the complexities that come with feeling caught between one’s cultural heritage and the pressures of assimilation, and I work with clients to explore and embrace their multifaceted identities and also how to navigate setting boundaries.

Another common concern I support clients with is navigating systemic stressors and discrimination, especially within marginalized communities. Many clients experience the emotional toll of racism, xenophobia, or microaggressions, which can affect their mental health and sense of belonging. In therapy, I provide a space to process these experiences while offering tools to build resilience and challenge oppressive systems.

I have a keen interest in working with individual who may struggle with perfectionism tendencies, OCD, and anxiety related concerns.

Lastly, I often support individuals dealing with intergenerational trauma, particularly in immigrant families. For many first-generation and BIPOC clients, there may be unresolved trauma passed down through generations, which can impact their mental health and family dynamics. I work with clients to understand these patterns and develop strategies for healing and breaking cycles of trauma.

Question 7

What therapy modalities or tools do you use most often, and why?

Accepted Answer

I primarily use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Culturally Responsive Therapy in my work. Each of these modalities allows me to address the unique needs of my clients while also honoring their individual experiences and cultural backgrounds.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is particularly effective when helping clients identify and reframe negative thought patterns that impact their emotions and behaviors. I often use this to support clients who are navigating anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, helping them develop healthier coping mechanisms and thought processes.

Narrative Therapy is a key approach I use because it empowers clients to rewrite their personal stories. This is especially important for clients from marginalized communities, like BIPOC or first-generation individuals, who may feel that external societal narratives about their identities or backgrounds limit their sense of self. By re-framing their stories, clients can reclaim their power and identity, which fosters healing and personal growth.

Lastly, Culturally Responsive Therapy is integral to my practice, as it ensures I’m attuned to the diverse cultural contexts my clients come from. As someone who identifies as a First-Generation Hmong American, I draw from my own understanding of navigating multiple cultural worlds to guide clients in exploring how their cultural background shapes their identity and their therapeutic journey.

I also incorporate mindfulness and self-compassion practices, which are often helpful in building emotional resilience and coping with the challenges that arise from both personal and systemic stressors.

Question 8

Do you integrate any somatic, creative, or culturally-rooted practices in your work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I integrate somatic, creative, and culturally-rooted practices into my therapeutic work, as I believe they can provide clients with additional tools to process their emotions and experiences in a holistic way.

Somatic practices are important, especially for clients who may be experiencing trauma or anxiety. I incorporate body awareness techniques, such as grounding exercises or mindfulness-based practices, to help clients reconnect with their bodies and regulate their nervous systems. This is particularly helpful for clients who have experienced systemic or identity-based stressors, as the body often holds the imprint of these challenges.

Creative approaches, such as journaling, art, or guided imagery, are another tool I use to help clients express themselves when words alone may not fully capture their emotions. Creative expression can be particularly liberating for clients from marginalized communities, as it provides a non-verbal outlet for healing and self-exploration.

I also incorporate culturally-rooted practices, such as storytelling, to honor the rich traditions of healing within the Hmong community. Storytelling has been a way for my people to pass down wisdom, resilience, and healing for generations. I encourage clients to explore and share their stories in ways that feel authentic to their culture, which can serve as both a therapeutic and empowering process.

Question 9

What do you hope people feel when reading your bio?

Accepted Answer

When people read my bio, I hope they feel a sense of trust and understanding that I am someone who genuinely values and respects their unique experiences and identities. I want them to feel that they are entering a space where they are seen, heard, and respected, no matter their background or the challenges they face. I hope they sense that my approach is not only rooted in professional expertise but also in empathy and cultural humility.

I also want individuals to feel a sense of empowerment, knowing that therapy with me is a collaborative process, where they can explore and embrace their full selves. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of cultural identity or dealing with systemic stressors, I want people to feel that they will leave therapy with practical tools, personal insights, and a deeper sense of resilience and self-compassion.

Question 10

What do therapy participants often say they appreciate about working with you?

Accepted Answer

Therapy participants often express appreciation for my ability to create a safe and non-judgmental space where they feel comfortable being themselves. Clients also mention that they feel truly heard and understood, especially when discussing challenges related to identity, culture, or systemic stressors.   Clients also value the collaborative nature of our work together. They mention feeling empowered to take an active role in their healing process, and they appreciate the practical tools and strategies I provide for navigating life’s challenges. Whether it’s through mindfulness, creative expression, or culturally-rooted practices, participants often highlight how I encourage them to explore and integrate multiple dimensions of their identity in the therapeutic journey.

Question 11

What do you want potential therapy participants to know if they've had negative past experiences or are unsure about starting therapy?

Accepted Answer

If you’ve had negative experiences with therapy in the past or feel uncertain about starting, I want you to know that you are not alone, and your feelings are completely valid. It’s common for people to feel hesitant or even skeptical about therapy, especially if their previous experiences didn’t meet their needs. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is built on trust, and it’s important for you to feel comfortable, heard, and respected every step of the way. If something doesn’t feel right, we can work together to address it.

I also want you to know that therapy is a personal journey, and it’s okay to take it at your own pace. My approach is collaborative and flexible. I’ll work with you to ensure that our time together is meaningful and relevant to your unique needs. Whether you're navigating cultural identity, dealing with past trauma, or just looking for a space to explore your emotions, I am here to meet you where you are, without judgment.

Question 12

Do you offer any specialized services?

Accepted Answer

I have a strong interest in working with individuals with  Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, which I will frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and specifically Exposure and Response Prevention approaches to address these concerns. I work with clients to develop strategies that allow them to break free from the cycle of obsession and compulsion, fostering greater emotional freedom and control.Additionally, I work with individuals who have Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), focusing on helping clients manage emotional dysregulation, improve relationships, and cultivate a stronger sense of self-worth. I utilize approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy, which integrates mindfulness and emotion regulation techniques to support clients in building healthier coping strategies and achieving more stability in their lives.As an EDMR trained therapist, I integrate Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) into therapy to help clients heal from the lasting effects of trauma and other distressing life experiences. EMDR supports the brain's natural ability to process difficult memories, reducing their emotional intensity while fostering healthier beliefs about one's self and the world. My goal is to help client's move beyond feeling stuck, strengthen emotional resilience, and experience greater confidence, connection, and overall well- being as they create meaningful and lasting change

Question 13

Is there anything you want people to know about you that may not show up in your credentials?

Accepted Answer

My approach to therapy is deeply shaped by my personal experiences and the support I receive from my community. As a First-Generation Hmong American, I draw strength from the deep sense of family and cultural connection that my community offers. My upbringing has taught me the importance of shared healing and how we heal not only as individuals but as a collective, supporting one another in ways that are both traditional and contemporary.

In terms of self-care, I make it a priority to stay connected to my roots through practices that help me stay grounded, like meditation and spending time with family, attending cultural events that celebrate diversity and culture. These moments of connection nourish my sense of purpose and remind me why I do the work I do.

Question 14

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Do these support your work as a therapist? If so, how?

Accepted Answer

Outside of work, I find joy in a variety of activities that help me recharge and stay connected to my personal values. Activities that I really enjoy doing that sustain me are traveling, exploring art new activities, working on designing rooms and spaces and home improvement projects. Being able to tap into my creative side and be hands on and learn a new skill are ways that I have found, grounds me and bring me a lot of joy.