My Approach to Helping
My goal as a counselor is to help you process experiences, thoughts and emotions in a safe environment that acknowledges all aspects of your identity. My counseling approaches are person-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive.
More Info About My Practice
I completed a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a certificate in Trauma-Informed Services at Portland State University in 2018. Prior to my graduate degree, I completed a bachelor's in Psychology with a minor in Women's Studies. Additional trainings I've completed include Emotion-Focused Therapy for individuals, Basic EMDR, and crisis management. I have experience working with survivors of childhood abuse, intergenerational trauma, domestic violence, religious trauma, trauma associated with immigration and cultural assimilation, and on-going systemic and institutional trauma. I strongly believe in cultural humility, and I'm very intentional about seeking out and completing trainings and education that will help me continue to evolve as a therapist serving individuals from different backgrounds.
How My Own Struggles Made Me a Better Therapist
As a first generation Filipino-American therapist, I became interested in counseling because I realized the need for more representation in this field. Growing up, it was a challenge finding a counselor who could acknowledge or understand my cultural backgrounds. I wanted to change this by becoming the therapist I needed when I was younger. I hope to encourage individuals, especially those from the margins, to seek help and to know that help is available.