How do you describe your therapeutic approach?
By establishing a genuine and trusting relationship in a safe and nonjudgmental environment, I help people feel more comfortable sharing details and nuances about their condition that would be omitted in other settings.
What research areas are you interested in?
I’m interested in learning about the behavioral health disparities that affect the AAPI and LGBTQ+ communities and how expanding mental health care can have a positive impact. There are also AAPI LGBTQ+ individuals who may have poor access to mental healthcare due to factors such as discrimination, stigmatization, microaggressions, and generational trauma.
In another life, if you weren’t working in counseling, what would you be doing?
A long time ago, I had ambitions to be a marine biologist specializing in deep-sea exploration. I’ve always wanted to explore the deepest part of the abyss and see what fantastic creatures exist down there. Marine life at the seafloor and in the deep sea can challenge our current understanding of physics and biology, and I hope new species are discovered every year.
What’s something your clients might be surprised to learn about you?
I am a man of many hobbies. I was an Olympic Recurve Archer and briefly served as an archery coach. I also practice Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), with a background in spears/polearms and experience in longswords. I am an avid gamer and typically play the newest releases on PC and Nintendo Switch. I also have a background in photography, carnivorous botany, baking, rock climbing, engineering, and cooking.
I also previously worked at USP as the TMS Coordinator! My colleagues at USP were actually the ones who encouraged me to pursue nursing and a career as a PMHNP.
What is a self-care ritual you practice?
Iced matcha lattes and bubble teas are key to my self-care routine. Making them at home means you can control your ingredients, especially the sugar level. You can also try different kinds of matcha powder and milk alternatives, and even use protein powder as a substitute! An iced matcha latte and a strong story-driven game (The Last of Us) is an excellent night in.