Great to meet you!
I am known for working well with individuals who are shy and who may be fearful of entering therapy. I have a specialization in the diagnosis/assessment and treatment of AD/HD and learning disorders such as dyslexia. My therapeutic approach is primarily based on cognitive behavioral and Dialectic Behavior theories . Pragmatism describes my approach to treatment. Management of chronic mental illness, and adjustment issues relating to ethnic/cultural/generational and religious issues are also areas which I specialize in.
I believe that at times addressing questions pertaining to meaning in life can be as important as changing behavioral patterns and emotions. Specific treatment modalities I use are ultimately dependent upon the needs of each individual and the established efficac of a particular therapeutic intervention. Socratic questioning is often used to help individuals gain personal insight. I will be happy to work in conjunction with a psychiatrist or other physician.
My ethnic background is Chinese, Okinawan, and Japanese. I grew up in Hawaii and have interned at clinics specializing in Asian/Pacific Islander clients.
Currently I work as Learning Disabilities Specialist at Santa Monica College. I have assisted students in receiving testing accommodations on the SAT, GRE, GMAT, LSAT, Bar Exam, MCAT, medical Step exams and medical licensure exams, and DAT. I have worked as a LD Specialist at UCL, the University of Hawaii, and UC Berkeley. I was a Psychology Professor for over 12 years in my earlier career.