I am socially responsible practitioner who practices under a multicultural lens. In my therapy practice, I approach cases with a holistic view, identifying what the intersections of my client's identity, lifestyle and systemic influences are so that we can collaborate on how to manage their mental health. I am a 2nd generation Filipina American and strive to decolonize psychology and westernized viewpoints of counseling.

“Although my official title reads “Counselor and Art Therapist”, my clients know me as an identity-crisis guide, self-love igniter, and artistic ally. I help people who carry a heavy weight on their shoulders: the responsibility to be who others expect them to be, the dance of trying to relate to their family and their friends without feeling like a chameleon, and the pressure to fit in while staying true to themselves.

My clients come to me because they are tired of holding back in their relationships, and they’re finally ready to create an identity where they can confidently be their authentic selves... with everyone in their lives. We work together to identify and build upon their strengths so they can find creative ways to make their life feel more like their own. I am inspired by watching clients become empowered through the therapeutic process, and as they build new skills, their self-confidence grows. I am honored to be by their side as they see change in areas of their lives that previously felt hopeless.

I relate to my clients who are developing their identity. As a 2nd Generation Filipina American, I struggled with finding my place in my family, friend group, and society. Art was The Spark in a chaotic world that helped me get out from under the weight of all the expectations others put on me and I put on myself. I found the connection to myself that I was missing through art, and that has helped me through the ebbs and flows of life - as well as given me a passion to help others do the same. Here are some of my art pieces that mean the most to me.

My art therapy background means I’m specialized in using art as a way of helping people express themselves when words may fail. But don’t worry - there is no artistic talent required. You may be thinking art therapy is like grade school art class while talking about feelings. To me, it is more about helping clients find the creative and playful side of themselves as a way of connecting to their identity. I have seen art help people express their innermost thoughts and feelings and make change in their life and relationships - without really needing to put it into words.

When I am not with my clients and advocating for mental health, I enjoy spending time in nature, learning new moves in the dance studio, and going on ‘short & sweet’ trips to complete my art bucket list: to see every city’s art museum at least once.

My therapeutic approach is very much client-led and solution-focused. I've worked with clients of all ages who are experiencing grief/loss, anxiety, depression, identity conflicts and cultural issues. I do both talk therapy and art therapy.

Specialties:
Cultural Identity Issues (2nd Generation, immigrant families)
Filipino/a/x Cultural Issues/Identity
Grief/Loss (terminal illnesses, break-ups)
Life Transitions (parenthood, career, education)
Peer Relationships /Attachment styles
Mindfulness-based expressive arts therapy (stress and anxiety management)
Communication skills/Boundary setting