My Approach To Therapy
Your story, your identity, and your experiences matter deeply in our work together. As someone who works closely with immigrants and first-generation individuals, I understand how important it is to approach therapy with cultural sensitivity, trauma awareness, and a commitment to social justice.
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Your cultural background is an essential part of who you are, and it shapes how you experience the world—including your mental health. I’m here to honor that part of you in every step of our work together.
I respect your traditions, your language, and your beliefs, and I’m always open to learning from you about what those mean in your life.
I don’t assume I know your culture—I see you as the expert on your own experience. Together, we’ll explore how your cultural identity influences your feelings, your relationships, and your challenges.
If you’re feeling caught between cultures or struggling with the pressures of balancing your heritage and the culture you’re living in, I’m here to help you find your own sense of belonging and peace.
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I recognize that being an immigrant or first-generation person often comes with experiences of trauma—whether from leaving a home, facing discrimination, or navigating new and sometimes difficult environments. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space where you can feel secure in sharing your story.
Your safety—both emotional and physical—is my top priority. We’ll move at a pace that feels right for you.
I understand how trauma can affect your mind, body, and spirit, and I’ll support you in healing in ways that honor your resilience and strength.
You have control here. I’m here to empower you to make choices that feel true to your needs and values.
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I also believe that healing isn’t just about what happens inside the therapy room—it’s about understanding and addressing the larger systems and barriers that affect your life.
I see how social injustices such as discrimination, racism, xenophobia, and inequality impact your mental health and everyday experiences.
In therapy, we’ll acknowledge these realities and work together to build your strength in the face of these challenges.
I am committed to being an advocate for equity and inclusion, supporting you in finding your voice and power not only in therapy but also in your community and beyond.
“The best way out is always through.”
— Robert Frost
Process Overview
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This consultation will help us understand your hopes for therapy. We will schedule your first appointment at the end of this consultation. If we find that your needs are outside of my area of expertise, I will recommend other providers that may be a better fit.
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Once your first session is scheduled, you will receive an email with a link to set up your client portal and complete intake paperwork. I use Simple Practice for my health record and payment system. All paperwork is required to be completed before we can begin therapy as the documents provide consent for treatment.
During our first session, you will share about yourself, what brings you to therapy and hopes for our work together. We will explore goals and start to develop a roadmap for you by the end of the session.
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Therapy is a process that leads to progress and change. How long this process takes will look different for everyone. Generally, we will meet once a week at the beginning of therapy in order to get to know each other and establish a rhythm for our work. After this foundation is built, we can decide on the appropriate frequency of our sessions. As you continue to meet goals, we will evaluate your need for continued therapy. Mental health is similar to preventative care and is an important part of your overall well-being that should be regularly monitored. You may choose to return to therapy in the future to process new milestones or life changes.
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I am contracted with multiple commercial insurance plans and accept employee assistance programs for therapy sessions (see Rates page). If you do not see your specific insurance plan, I can provide a detailed invoice called a superbill for you to submit for reimbursement.
Payment/copays for services are due at the time of your appointment. I highly recommend you contact your insurance to explore your specific plan coverage before the start of services.
Private pay or cash pay is an option for therapy. There are multiple benefits of private pay. You will have more flexibility regarding your individual needs and options with the therapy you receive. In addition, a diagnosis is not required when we don't bill insurance plans and your records remain confidential from your insurance provider. As a result, you gain full control in making decisions about your therapy care.
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Therapy is a commitment and consistency is a key factor to supporting your progress. Of course, life happens and you may need to cancel or reschedule sessions. There is a 24-hour cancellation notice for any scheduled appointments. Appointments that are cancelled or rescheduled for non-emergency reasons with less than 24-hour notice, and appointments missed without notice, will be charged the full standard session fee.
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To support access to therapy services, I offer a limited number of sliding fee scale spots to support those who may need it. Please connect with me to explore this option.
ACCESSIBLE THERAPY MEETS YOUR COMFORT LEVEL
I use Simple Practice, a secure health services platform, for all virtual sessions. All you need is a laptop, tablet or phone and internet connection to start therapy. I am licensed to provide therapy for residents of both Minnesota and Oregon.
All appointments are only offered virtually.
Telehealth Therapy is a good fit for you if you are a student or professional who needs flexibility with scheduling, are a parent who needs to be home, or if you prefer to be in the comfort of your own space. I am licensed to provide therapy for residents anywhere in Minnesota and Oregon.
Telehealth Therapy may not be a good fit for you if you are experiencing active suicidal or self harm thoughts or behaviors, experience psychosis (hallucinations or delusions) or require crisis support. Please contact your local crisis resource or in case of emergency, dial 911.