Hi, I'm Connie. I became a therapist after reflecting on my past traumas and realizing how much I was interested in understanding why people make the choices they make. I also began understanding my childhood traumas and why I am the way I am. But while understanding the whys were great, I still felt lost in what to do next. I asked myself, "How can I be better? What is even 'better'?" I realized throughout my journey as a therapist, understanding my what and how was more helpful in moving towards living the life that I wanted to live. That's what I want to do with you. We can understand why you are the way you are, but also discover other parts of yourself that you may have not tapped into yet. I primarily use a Gestalt therapy lens, which is a relational approach, focusing on building as much self-awareness as possible. The more you're aware of yourself, the more choices you have, and making different choices can create change. This is where the whats and hows are useful: What is happening, and how are you experiencing this moment? I primarily work with teens and young adults, but I also have experience working with children ages 8 and up, and adults between their 30s and 50s, and couples. People tend to seek me out when they are looking for an Asian American therapist who understands the complexities of Asian American identity, and those who want a more directive approach. I don't think listening is enough--I'm here to actively work with you on the changes you want to make in your life. Right now, I am only accepting teens and couples clients. Teens: Parents of teens, I understand how hard it can be to understand them and/or to emotionally support them. I'm here to empathize with your teen with all the changes they are going through. It's hard being a teenager, so many transitions, so many new social cues to learn, so many changes! I have a playful approach that teens tend to gravitate toward. I can help your teen cultivate coping skills that will increase their self-confidence and empower them to work through their issues (not around!), and help them navigate all the changes and challenges they're going through. Couples: Couples, it's hard being in a relationship. You love and care for each other, but lately, your relationship has felt more difficult. You’re not getting your points across, no one feels heard and understood, and your conflicts get in the way of truly appreciating each other. Perhaps you’re not sure whether you should stay together or end the relationship. I’ll help you understand your dynamics, your relationship patterns, and attachment patterns by cultivating your self-awareness and pointing out how you relate to each other. I’ll coach you on how you can communicate while also making you both feel seen and heard by one another. I have a relational approach that easily applies to couples therapy. I’m here to facilitate change in your dynamics as a couple, and to help you figure out what may be best for you and the relationship. If all of this sounds great, call or email me for a free 15-minute consultation! Let's see if we're a good fit--and if we are, I looking forward to getting to know you and working with you.