Hi there! My name is Elizabeth Nguyen.

My biggest strength as a therapist is my compassion and ability to make my clients feel welcomed and accepted. I want to be there for you as we embark on your therapy journey together. My goal is to provide a space where you can break down your walls, explore what is inside, and build on your given platform (or create a new one).

Clients have often described me as calm, understanding, reassuring, and even a bit humorous at times. I care deeply about what YOU have to say, feel, and think. We will work together to process, brainstorm, and develop so that you can feel more fulfilled on your therapeutic journey. There may be times of tears and drenched tissues, but there will also be times of laughter that naturally come up (you might find this surprising, but more than you think).

About Me & Background

Growing up as a second-generation Vietnamese American immigrant (1st gen American) and identifying as part of the LGBTQIA+ community has taught me the importance of acknowledging and understanding the layers of cultural identity. I recognize that sometimes our cultural upbringing can bring us a sense of pride and belonging, while other times it can create a conflict between the traditional values of our culture and our personal values.

For many Asian Americans, there can be pressure to conform to cultural expectations and norms, which can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and not feeling “Asian enough” or “American enough.” These feelings can be especially heightened when it comes to topics like mental health and seeking therapy. Also in many Asian cultures, mental health issues are still stigmatized and not openly talked about. There can be a fear of being seen as weak or bringing shame to the family. But the truth is, seeking therapy is a brave and courageous act, and it’s okay to ask for help when we need it.

I know firsthand the struggle of questioning and sometimes letting go of the principles we grew up with. It can be a painful process, but it’s also a necessary one in order to find our true selves and live authentically.

I want to create a safe and supportive space for Asian Americans and members of LGBTQIA+ communities to explore their mental health and well-being without the fear of judgment or shame. Together, we can unpack the cultural and societal pressures that may be impacting your mental health and work towards building resilience and inner strength. We can start the journey towards healing together.

Therapy for Anxiety

Anxiety can feel overwhelming. It’s like having constant worries that a shoe is going to drop, even when everything seems to be going well. As someone who has personally experienced anxiety, I know how much it can affect every aspect of your life. But the good news is that there are ways to manage and overcome anxiety.

Through therapy, we can work together to identify the root causes of your anxiety, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Let’s work together to help you take back control of your life and find peace and calmness within yourself.

Therapy for Depression

I understand how difficult it can be to navigate the ups and downs of mental health. Depression is a complex and multifaceted experience that can leave you feeling lost, abandoned, and defeated. You may find yourself struggling to find joy in the little things, feeling sluggish and unmotivated, or unable to express your authentic self without fear of judgment or unsolicited opinions.

I want to assure you that you are not alone in your struggles. Many people face similar challenges, and it is my privilege to support you as you work to navigate them. Together, we can delve into the complexities of your life experiences, development, and conflicts, and explore how they have impacted your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Think of it as a huge ball pit – each challenge you face is a ball, bouncing off others and affecting the way you see yourself and the world around you. But with therapy, we can start to untangle those balls and find new ways to approach your challenges. With a safe and supportive space, you can feel heard, validated, and empowered to work towards positive change.

I am here to walk alongside you on this journey towards healing and growth. Let’s work together to find hope and renewed joy in life’s little pleasures.

Therapy for LGBTQIA+ Individuals, Couples, and Families

As a therapist, I am passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and families within the LGBTQIA+ community. I understand the unique challenges that can come with navigating your identity and relationships in a society that may not always be accepting or understanding.

Whether you are struggling with coming out, experiencing discrimination, or dealing with mental health concerns related to your identity, I am here to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore and process your experiences. I have experience working with a wide range of LGBTQIA+ issues, including but not limited to:

• Exploring your sexual and gender identity
• Sexual orientation and attraction
• Relationships (family, couples, friends)
• Discrimination and minority stress
• Trauma related to your sexuality or gender
• Depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns

My approach to therapy is collaborative, empathetic, and tailored to your unique needs and goals. Whether you are seeking individual therapy or couples or family counseling, I am here to help you build the skills and resilience you need to thrive. Let’s work together to create a safe and affirming space for you to explore your identity, your relationships, and your well-being.

Therapy with Me

I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative process, and I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients. I am committed to working with my clients to help them navigate the challenges they face and achieve their goals. Whatever your background or experiences, I am here to help you on your journey towards healing and growth.

I have experience working with a wide range of challenges, conditions, and types of people. Before joining Yellow Chair Collective, I worked as a clinician in the community mental health setting. I have worked with individuals from 5 to 60 years old, couples, parents, families, and groups. I have been trained to work with those who experience challenges with depression, anxiety, grief, relationships, adjustment, communication, generational trauma, cultural issues, gender identity, and more.

I believe that every person’s journey is unique and valuable, regardless of the specific challenges, conditions, or circumstances they face. As a therapist, it is my privilege to create a safe and welcoming space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and find the support you need to move forward. Whether you’re an individual or a unit seeking guidance, my goal is to work collaboratively with you in a comfortable and secure environment. Together, we can build a foundation of trust and openness, allowing you to become vulnerable and explore your inner self.

My ideal clients are those who are willing to learn, unlearn old habits, and discover new ways of thinking and being. Throughout our work, you can expect compassion, non-judgemental space, and a touch of humor to lighten the mood when needed. Remember, you deserve the time and space to unpack your baggage and find new pathways to growth and fulfillment.

Therapy can be a powerful and transformative experience. I am here to help you navigate the ups and downs of life and to provide a space where you can be your true, authentic self. I look forward to working with you and supporting you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery.

Registered California Board of Behavioral Sciences Number: AMFT 136674

Supervised by Nadia Islam, PhD, LCSW 24725