Hey there! My name is Jenny. 

As a second generation Asian American whose parents are from the Philippines, I faced challenges unique to this experience that helped to shape who I am today. When I was in the second grade, I endured a significant life change as my parents got divorced and I was raised in a single-parent household. I knew what it was like to silently struggle and not having an environment where I was able to freely process my feelings of grief and sadness due to the stigma of mental health in my family and the lack of mental health resources at that time.

As an adult, I began working closely with foster youth with complex trauma in a group home setting. I was able to witness the negative impact of trauma and neglect in this population. This further fueled my passion to pursue my career in therapy to give individuals a safe space to process any emotions or difficulties they may face. Since then, I genuinely enjoy working collaboratively with my clients and witnessing their journey as a therapist. 

Therapy With Me

When working with my clients, I typically provide psycho-education about what is happening to their brain and body in order to better understand the somatic symptoms of anxiety. I also implement somatic work to allow clients to tune into their body and notice how different emotions may show up in the body. Somatic work also helps to bring awareness to the body and mind. If preferred, I would also introduce different techniques to find ways to calm down their nervous system if their anxiety gets unbearable. Then I would guide my clients in a conversation to explore their past experiences (family, work, school, social relationships), that have contributed to how they make meaning to the world. 

The unique strengths that I have to offer when working with my clients is the ability to stay curious and remain non-judgmental when speaking with them. This allows my clients to feel safe and open when talking about past experiences. I also find that the use of implementing somatic work really assists with bodily awareness and emphasizes the body-mind connection. I’ve also found that my ability to listen with no judgment has had a positive impact on the therapeutic relationship with my clients. Many of my clients often feel unheard in their everyday lives which leads to the suppression of their own emotions. However, I am able to cultivate a therapeutic space that allows my clients to openly process their thoughts without fear of judgment. As I get to know my clients as a whole person, and not just their problems, my clients learn to build trust and truly feel heard.

What You Can Expect

During the first session, I strive to get to know you as a person which may include learning about your experiences, strengths, family history, interests, triggers, and current issues. I will also spend time addressing any questions or concerns about therapy, especially if this is your first time receiving therapy services. 

For treatment planning, we will explore things that you would like to work on and what you hope to see differently in your life. Throughout treatment, we can always refer back to your goals and change them if needed. I will also inquire how you prefer sessions to go. For example, some clients prefer a more structured approach and having a set agenda with learning different coping skills. However, some clients prefer more of a free-flowing conversational approach.

Therapy for Anxiety

One of the main challenges that clients typically bring in are their persistent anxious thoughts and symptoms. You might come in expressing your difficulty with managing your thoughts which leads to self-doubt, low self-esteem, and even feeling hopeless. Maybe you even experience somatic symptoms that are difficult to manage. You might be feeling helpless and not in control of your life. Perhaps you’ve recognized that anxiety makes it difficult to manage social relationships, find motivation to do certain tasks, and have confidence in yourself and the decisions you make.

In therapy, you can learn about how to regulate your nervous system and what is happening to your body when you start to feel anxious. You may also learn to tune into your somatic experience in order to heal the body and the mind. We would engage in a collaborative dialogue to explore your past experiences that have contributed to your symptoms and how you make meaning of the world.

Therapy for Trauma/Complex Trauma

Experiencing trauma can leave deep, lasting scars that affect every aspect of your life. I approach healing from trauma with a deep sense of empathy and understanding. Recognizing that each person’s experience of trauma is unique, I offer a personalized, holistic approach to therapy. By integrating somatic practices, we focus on the connection between mind and body, helping you to release stored tensions and traumas in a safe, nurturing environment. My humanistic approach ensures that you feel seen, heard, and valued throughout your healing journey. I also work with you in identifying the different parts of your psyche, helping you understand and heal them in a nurturing environment. Together, we will work towards not just overcoming the pain of your past, but also towards rediscovering joy, trust, and a sense of inner peace.  Let’s embark on a healing journey to help you reconnect with all parts of yourself, transforming trauma into a source of strength and resilience.

Therapy for Burnout

Burnout can often feel like a disconnection from our passion, purpose, and even from different parts of ourselves. In my practice, I address burnout by first creating a space of unconditional support and understanding. I also offer a path to understand and address the underlying causes of burnout. By recognizing and acknowledging the parts of us that are exhausted, neglected, or overwhelmed, we can begin to heal.  I also believe in the power of reconnecting with your body and emotions to understand the deep-seated roots of your burnout. Through somatic practices, we’ll explore ways to alleviate physical and emotional tension, promoting relaxation and restoration. My humanistic approach ensures that your therapy sessions are tailored to your individual needs, helping you to rediscover your passion, set healthy boundaries, and cultivate a balanced, fulfilling life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and disconnected, remember: healing and rejuvenation are within reach. Let’s work together to reignite your spark.

Therapy for Teens and Young Adults

The teenage and young adult years are a time of exploration, identity formation, and significant emotional growth. In my approach, I create a safe and engaging space for young people to explore their inner worlds and external challenges. We will work together to understand the various parts of oneself, including those that hold pain, fear, or insecurity, and those that protect us. With somatic practices, I help young individuals to connect with their bodies and emotions in a healthy, positive way. This connection is crucial for developing self-awareness, self-esteem, and resilience. My approach is centered on empathy, respect, and genuine curiosity about each individual’s experience, encouraging self-discovery, resilience, and a more harmonious internal landscape.  I empower teens and young adults to voice their concerns, celebrate their strengths, and navigate life’s challenges with confidence. Let’s work together to navigate the complexities of this life stage, fostering an environment where all parts of you feel seen, supported, and empowered.

My Education and Background

Prior to working with YCC, I worked closely with foster youth in a group home setting. This population is typically presented with PTSD, anxiety, grief, depression, and ODD often due to the years of trauma and neglect that they have endured.

Furthermore, I gained experience working in a community mental health setting providing therapy services and case management to AAPI adolescents and families who also struggled with trauma, anxiety, depression, identity, LGBTQ+ related issues, and major life transitions. 

When working in private practice, I was able to work closely with adults who struggled with anxiety and existential issues. Given my experience, most of my training and experience focused on individuals and families who have endured trauma in their lives and who present with anxiety.

So what do you think? Are you ready to take your next steps towards finding the self you want to become with me?

Registered California Board of Behavioral Sciences Number: AMFT 143159

Supervised by Nadia Islam, Ph.D, LCSW 24725