The reason I focus on trauma treatment is that I want to help people get to the root of their struggles. Frightening or overwhelming experiences in our lives are powerful not only in the moment, but also in the lasting impact they have on our sense of self. Experiences of rejection or criticism from family or peers can inadvertently teach us that it is not okay to be who we are. We learn to behave in a certain way or shut out certain emotions so that we can be acceptable to others. Serious incidents and disasters can rob our sense of safety and make it hard to trust others and the world. These aftereffects of trauma shape our thoughts, emotions, and the way we move through life.

In my practice, my main goals are to cultivate safety and authenticity in our sessions. I want to provide the space for you to explore the tender parts of your story and freely be yourself. I am naturally expressive and humorous, and that comes through in my presence during therapy. I often laugh with you, grimace with you and sit in silence with you. Therapy is a human experience, and you are welcome to come as you are.

Having immigrated to Canada from China before starting school, I’m considered a “1.5-generation” immigrant. This means that I share the experiences of both first-generation and second-generation immigrants having grown up here. I deeply empathize with the tension of belonging to multiple worlds, where you can feel both connected to and different from each one. This perspective shapes my work, as I take an intersectional approach to help clients explore the many layers of their cultural identity and recognize the strengths that come from their unique place between cultures.

Outside of therapy, I love spending time in nature with my dog, listening to music and relaxing with a good whodunnit mystery show. I also love exploring new cultures and learning languages, and I am currently teaching myself Korean at my own pace.