Who You Are

You may feel hesitant about reaching out to a counselor, yet something within you brought you here today. Do you feel caught between an internal conflict that is difficult to make sense of—shaped by family experiences, life transitions, or other pressures you may be carrying? You may be navigating major changes—becoming a parent, building a family of your own—or simply carrying the weight of everyday life. In our work together, I walk alongside you—especially during difficult moments—helping you make sense of overwhelming emotions and develop ways to cope with life’s ups and downs. 

My Story

In my own life, I was born and raised in Japan, and have lived across Asia, the United States, and Europe. These cross-cultural experiences have shaped my sensitivity to how culture, family systems, and societal values influence the way we see ourselves and relate to others.

At times, life challenges can feel intense and draining, and yet they can also be an opportunity to better understand who you are and who you want to become. Together, we will sit with life’s discomfort and practice stepping back to view your experiences through the eyes of a compassionate friend, finding creative ways to adapt and move through change.

Work With Me

I offer therapy in both English and Japanese. My approach to therapy is grounded in compassionate curiosity, cultural sensitivity, and adaptability to each client’s needs. I strive to create a warm, respectful space where you can feel understood, less alone, and supported. My work integrates multicultural counseling, humanistic therapy, family systems approaches, mindfulness practices, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Before becoming a counselor, I worked in recruitment in San Francisco and Tokyo, where I discovered a strong desire to connect with people beyond surface-level interactions. Since then, I have worked in Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI)-centered community mental health programs supporting children and families with emotional/behavioral challenges, as well as working with Japanese individuals living in the United States, particularly around experiences of isolation, cultural adjustment, and emotional challenges. Outside of therapy, I am a mother of one (and loving both the sweetness and chaos of parenting!).

Yu is available to see clients Sunday - Thursday 5pm - 12am via Telehealth Only