ABOUT ME

I am a first generation Filipino-American woman that takes pride in my cultural identity. Understanding the struggles of the generation before me and witnessing the resilience of my parents inspired me to work in the field of mental health as there was a lack of representation for Communities of Color and mental health services for Ethnic Communities.

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Therapy is not just a clinical job, it is a calling. My life's work is to assist individuals to increase self awareness, build self esteem and empower people to create change and be the best version of themselves in whatever stage of life you are in. Addressing the impact of intergenerational traumas, racism, sexism and all "isms" through a lens of compassion allows for healing when we are in the therapeutic process. Helping individuals to define what "mental health" means to them while removing the negative stigma that is often attached to it is the key to increasing self awareness and living more satisfying lives. As a Social Worker I have been trained to help people problem solve differently while accessing resources that they have not considered before. 

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Early in my career I worked with Immigrant survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. Over the last ten years I have had the privilege to work with people living with severe mental illness and substance abuse, homelessness, those living with HIV, those living with or impacted by cancer as well as those working through grief and loss. 

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 I have twenty years of experience working in the non profit/social justice field and have been a practicing clinician since 2007. I earned my Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University in the city of New York. 

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When it comes to self care- music, coffee, tea, incense, dancing to 90's dancehall and hip hop are on the top of my ritual list. My technology skills are that of my grandmother (nonexistent). Connecting with my tribe and other healers feeds my soul. Cuddling with my fur babies and my children keep me grounded. I am a human just as you are, with a special set of skills that help people to elevate. Let's connect.