Welcome! I’m Eliza.

Growing up as a 1.5 generation immigrant in the U.S., I didn’t have a lot of role models who looked like me. When I personally sought out therapy as a teen, I struggled to find someone who understood and shared my cultural background. Given my experience, I wanted to get into the mental health field to help bridge the gap of culturally competent care in the field.

 I worked as a medical social worker for patients with chronic kidney failure for 4 years before transitioning more into therapy. As a  medical social worker I assisted patients with adjusting to their illness, both grieving the loss of their old lifestyles and managing the stress of learning a new one. I also helped patients manage other mental health conditions that came up while on dialysis treatment, such as depression and anxiety. 

As a therapist, I lean into my sense of humor and humility when building the therapeutic relationship. I also focus on collaboration, keeping in mind the client is the expert in their lives.

Working With Me

At the beginning of our work together, I first aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space for the client to express their true selves. I can help hold space for healing and growth through empathy and unconditional positive regard, giving the client a secure space to explore their thoughts and beliefs. I also share the belief that the client is the expert in their lives, not the therapist. Together we will challenge and question certain beliefs and thoughts, but I as the therapist do not have all the answers. With a psychodynamic lens, I guide clients to look into their past experiences to see where they learned certain beliefs and how they’re coming up in the present day and affecting their lives today. With a CBT lens, I share with the client how one’s thoughts, feelings, and actions are all interconnected.  I assist with identifying and challenging unhelpful thinking patterns, behaviors, and actions, replacing them with more balanced and productive ways of thinking, which often results in more positive behaviors and actions. It is with creating this safe, accepting space and with these gentle guiding methods that I aim to create a space for healing and growth for the client.

As a therapist I can assist  the client in identifying their values and encouraging them to make more decisions that align with their core values. I can  also help challenge and reframe the client’s maladaptive  thoughts and beliefs, helping the client come to a more positive conclusion in their personal narrative. Overall, as a therapist, I would help the client in feeling empowered to take back control of their life, feeling more positive and able to tackle other challenges.

Depression & Anxiety

One of the most common challenges clients bring to therapy is the persistent weight of depression and anxiety, often feeling like they’re stuck in a cycle of overwhelming thoughts and emotions. You might find yourself grappling with constant self-doubt, feelings of hopelessness, or a lack of energy and motivation. Perhaps you experience physical symptoms like fatigue, tension, or trouble sleeping that only make things harder to manage. You might feel disconnected from yourself, unsure of how to move forward or regain control over your life.

In therapy, we’ll work together to understand how these feelings are impacting your body and mind. You’ll learn strategies to manage both the emotional and physical aspects of anxiety and depression, gaining tools to regulate your nervous system and reclaim your sense of agency. We’ll also explore past experiences and the ways you’ve made sense of the world, helping you shift your perspective and create new pathways to healing and growth.

LGBTQIA+ Experience

Many clients who identify as LGBTQIA+ come to therapy seeking support with navigating the complexities of their identity in a world that can often feel unwelcoming or even unsafe. You might be struggling with feelings of isolation, shame, or confusion as you try to understand and accept who you are. It’s common to experience anxiety around coming out, managing relationships with family or friends, or facing discrimination and microaggressions that affect your sense of self-worth. These challenges can leave you feeling disconnected from yourself and others, unsure of how to fully embrace your identity.

In therapy, we’ll work together to create a safe, affirming space where you can explore your unique experience without fear of judgment. You’ll gain tools to build confidence in your identity, develop healthier coping strategies, and navigate difficult conversations with those around you. We’ll also explore how societal pressures and past experiences have shaped your sense of self, helping you to reclaim your voice, honor your journey, and find empowerment in being unapologetically yourself.

Asian American Experience

Many clients from the Asian American community come to therapy seeking support in navigating the complexities of their cultural identity and the unique challenges they face in a multicultural society. You might feel caught between the expectations of your family and the demands of mainstream culture, struggling with pressure to succeed, meet high standards, or uphold traditions while also trying to carve out your own sense of self. The experience of microaggressions, racism, or feeling “othered” can create feelings of isolation, confusion, or frustration. These pressures can sometimes make it difficult to express your authentic self, leading to internal conflict or a sense of disconnection from your roots.

In therapy, we’ll create a space where you can openly explore the nuances of your Asian American experience and the impact of cultural expectations on your mental health. Together, we’ll work to unpack generational trauma, address feelings of guilt or shame, and find ways to navigate the tension between cultures. You’ll gain tools to strengthen your sense of identity, build confidence, and develop strategies to manage societal pressures, allowing you to honor both your heritage and your individuality while embracing your unique journey.

Identity Exploration

Many clients come to therapy seeking guidance in exploring their sense of self and understanding who they truly are. You might feel uncertain about your identity, whether it’s related to your gender, sexuality, career, values, or life purpose. The process of self-discovery can be overwhelming, as societal expectations, family pressures, or past experiences may make it difficult to connect with your authentic self. This uncertainty can lead to confusion, self-doubt, or a fear of making the “wrong” choices as you navigate the different aspects of your identity.

In therapy, we’ll work together to create a supportive environment where you can explore these questions without judgment. Through open dialogue and self-reflection, we’ll uncover the influences that have shaped your sense of self, helping you understand the deeper layers of your identity. You’ll gain clarity, confidence, and tools to embrace your true self and make choices that align with your values, all while learning to trust the unique path that unfolds as you continue your journey of self-exploration.

Registered California Board of Behavioral Sciences Number: LCSW 125330
Oregon: L15200
Washington: LW61480245