About Catherine
My name is Catherine and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in New York. I came to the U.S. from South Korea during my high school freshman year. Adjusting at such a young age led to identity struggles, sparking my curiosity about how my distinctive upbringing shaped who I am now. Back then, I knew about mental health professionals, but the cultural stereotype made seeking professional help seem unnecessary. I believed therapy was only for "crazy" people, so it wasn't something I considered. While I succeeded in my academic and professional pursuits, my mental health wasn't something I prioritized.
Over time, I noticed that many people from Asian backgrounds, like myself, often avoid seeking therapy for similar reasons. Besides dealing with stereotypes, openly talking about emotions isn't something commonly encouraged in many Asian cultures. This lack of encouragement can make it challenging for individuals in the AAPI community to consider professional help for their mental health. Recognizing that we might need emotional support isn't a familiar idea for many of us.
As a therapist, I invite you to a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can truly feel heard and understood. By bringing my personal experience, I connect with my clients and make sure to provide individualized care plans that meet each client’s unique situations and goals. I believe that anyone can choose to live a happier life, but it often requires stepping out of familiar patterns and exploring something new. If you are ready to start this journey towards wellness, I am here to support you.
Credentials & Training
Licensed Mental Health Counselor in NY
Trained in EMDR
Trained in CBT
ED.M in Mental Health Counseling, Teachers College, Columbia University
MA in Counseling Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University
BA in in International Studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Specialties
Recovering from trauma
Relationship issues
Anxiety
Exploring identity
