Philosophy and Approach

When I work with clients, I recognize the importance of the emotions and feelings they have been experiencing, and my goal is for us to discuss their struggles in a safe place and explore possible strategies during our time together. My therapeutic style is based on William Glosser's Reality Therapy. Glosser believed that all of our behaviors are choices. Personal choices, commitment, responsibility and the willingness to change are essential to changing our behaviors and meeting our needs. I also follow Carl Rogers' person-centered approach, which emphasizes an empathetic, non-directive therapeutic relationship, and where I practice unconditional positive regard and congruence when working with you. I believe in the dignity of people regardless of their background and abilities, and I strive to recognize their strengths from a holistic perspective.

Based on the training I have received and my current clinical interest, I currently prefer to offer services to adults 18 years of age and older. I am fluent in Mandarin Chinese and English and will be happy to lead sessions in whichever language you prefer. At this point, sessions are provided in person or through a secure, HIPPA-compliant web platform. My specialty is disability and psychological adjustment, work and career issues, cultural adjustment, and life transitions. However, I would love to offer support for many other different challenges you may have!

Education and Experience

I have a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and also a Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Counselor Education from Michigan State University. I have been a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor for over ten years and am a Registered Licensed Professional Counselor-Intern in the State of Oregon. I was born and raised in Taiwan and came to the US in 2007. Before coming to the US, I had counseling experiences with adolescents in school settings. Here in the United States, in my professional experience, I worked with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and traumatic brain injuries, in vocational training settings. I am also a professor at a public university, where I train master's students to become future mental health or rehabilitation counselors. My multicultural experience allows me to have greater awareness and understanding about the disturbing society we are all experiencing. I witnessed how people have been treated unfairly because of their skill level, skin color, and even their gender identity. I also understand that finding someone willing to listen and support you can benefit our lives. I look forward to working with you and accompanying you on this journey for a long time.