In AAPI cultures, we were taught to suppress emotions, whether it’s sadness, grief, frustration, or anger. Even when we are happy, excited, and accomplished, we were reminded to stay humble and shouldn’t brag about it. Then we were encouraged to go out there and do more and better things to become successful. Also, the belief that when we are successful in life, it will help us make our parents and family proud and prove our worthiness to ourselves and others because we now have our accomplishments and achievements to show for it. Expectations continue to remain high, yet the reality was filled with challenges, obstacles, and failures. For a long time, we try to assume control, try to figure things out without asking for help, and hide our needs and insecurities from others.

I understand that mental health issues among AAPIs have often been considered a weakness or a sign of poor parenting, and a source of shame not only to the individual but also to the entire household. However, asking for help to better care for mental health is a courageous act and an important step in one’s healing journey. Maybe there’s self-judgment around the act of asking for help. Maybe the old feelings of “bothering” someone and thoughts like “what’s the point?” come up for you when you think of therapy. Perhaps you have reached out for help and been rejected, or been given poor guidance, so you’re afraid to ask for help again. I’ve been there too. If you are reading this, please know that you are not alone and you are already taking the first step in your healing journey. I’m here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to process. We will work together to develop a better understanding of yourself, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I believe that we have the right to be our authentic selves. The authentic self will come through when you’re no longer pretending, performing, or denying. So I want to get to know the real you. Contact me today.