Dr. Celena S. Chong views therapy as a journey toward self-actualization. She works from solution-focused, evidence-based approaches to help clients gain new perspectives and access their inner strengths. Her approach is assertive yet warm, helping clients identify defense mechanisms, break unhelpful cycles, and make intentional choices.
Growing up in a multicultural environment with immigrant parents from a lower economic background shaped my journey toward becoming a therapist. My personal experiences with racism, poverty, and navigating a bi-cultural identity have deeply influenced my approach to supporting others. From a young age, I understood the profound impact of therapy as a safe space for self-exploration, meaningful dialogue, and the development of coping skills. We will work together to explore your thoughts and behaviors, uncover underlying traumas if they exist, and reflect on how your upbringing has influenced your current experiences and patterns. I aim to help you foster growth, resilience, and adaptability as you navigate life’s challenges.
My sessions are semi-structured and provide a safe, supportive space to explore your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Together, we’ll identify and address unhelpful patterns and deeply rooted habits. I integrate attachment theory to heal inner child wounds, CBT to challenge cognitive distortions, and mindfulness to build self-regulation and empowerment. My approach is creative and collaborative, helping you navigate change with greater confidence and intentionality.
