Available for In-Person & Virtual Sessions
Hello, my name is Emily Kim and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology at Azusa Pacific University and my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of Southern California.
From a young age I learned I had a heart to listen, understand, and empathize with those who were hurting. This eventually led me to study the field of psychology and encouraged me to take steps to better understand and develop the skills to journey alongside others. Now looking back, I can think of no other path that would better capture my heart and desire to see people heal and grow than to become a therapist.
I utilize a person-centered approach when it comes to therapy. I believe that therapy is most effective when the client comes to their own realizations and conclusions, rather than being given advice or told what to do by their therapists. I also utilize Emotion-Focused Therapy to help clients and couples become more aware of, comfortable with, and at peace with their emotions, which, when avoided or not worked through, can often can be the source of much distress. Furthermore, my experience as a therapist working with children, teens, and their families has highlighted the impact of one’s upbringing and early relationships, leading me to adopt both an attachment and trauma-informed framework in my practice of psychotherapy. I value incorporating faith and spirituality into the therapy process when it is desired and beneficial for
my clients.
I have experience guiding clients through a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, adjustment/life transitions, LGBTQ+ issues, intergenerational/parent-child conflict, obsessive & compulsive thoughts and behaviors, spiritual/faith-related struggles, and cultural stigmas toward mental health, particularly amongst the Asian American community. As a second-generation Korean-American who also grew up overseas in Indonesia, I am deeply aware of the
significant role of culture and its impact in shaping who we are.
My primary goal in working with clients is to help them achieve more satisfying and fulfilling lives and relationships with others. I desire to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and understood and also safe to be and express themselves freely, not being ashamed of who they are or afraid to make mistakes as they take steps toward healing and growth. To inquire about setting up an appointment with me, please call our office at (562) 566-4257.
