South Asian Therapists in Tempe, AZ
If you’ve spent most of your life being the strong one, the responsible one, or the person holding everything together for your family, you’re not alone. Many of the adults I work with are navigating deep family stress, unhealthy dynamics, burnout, and the emotional weight of trying to break generational patterns while still showing up for everyone else.
You may find yourself constantly overthinking conversations, struggling to set boundaries without guilt, feeling emotionally responsible for other people’s reactions, or carrying pressure that no one else seems to notice.
If you’ve spent most of your life being the strong one, the responsible one, or the person holding everything together for your family, you’re not alone. Many of the adults I work with are navigating deep family stress, unhealthy dynamics, burnout, and the emotional weight of trying to break generational patterns while still showing up for everyone else.
You may find yourself constantly overthinking conversations, struggling to set boundaries without guilt, feeling emotionally responsible for other people’s reactions, or carrying pressure that no one else seems to notice.
My ideal client is someone who feels deeply—whether they’re overwhelmed by anxiety, moving through a major life change, or simply trying to make sense of who they are in a complex world. They might be a teen navigating identity, a young adult facing pressure to have it all figured out, or someone of any age who’s ready to look inward with honesty and curiosity.
My ideal client is someone who feels deeply—whether they’re overwhelmed by anxiety, moving through a major life change, or simply trying to make sense of who they are in a complex world. They might be a teen navigating identity, a young adult facing pressure to have it all figured out, or someone of any age who’s ready to look inward with honesty and curiosity.
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, ready to make changes in your life? I am currently accepting new clients, I offer everyone a safe and unforgettable experience in getting to know yourself better and understand the world in a more personal way—I do both in-person and tel-health—so you can access and explore your challenges with me and build the life you choose I am A Clinical Mental Health Psychotherapist, a NPTI, ACE Certified Fitness Trainer, a Holistic Health Practitioner & Massage Therapist lastly, an Ordained Minister. Balancing the mind, body and spirit creates space and opportunity for authentic relationships with self and others.
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, ready to make changes in your life? I am currently accepting new clients, I offer everyone a safe and unforgettable experience in getting to know yourself better and understand the world in a more personal way—I do both in-person and tel-health—so you can access and explore your challenges with me and build the life you choose I am A Clinical Mental Health Psychotherapist, a NPTI, ACE Certified Fitness Trainer, a Holistic Health Practitioner & Massage Therapist lastly, an Ordained Minister. Balancing the mind, body and spirit creates space and opportunity for authentic relationships with self and others.
Recognizing when something isn’t working and wanting to create change are acts of real courage. I see therapy as a collaborative process where we explore what’s happening beneath the surface (the feelings behind the feelings), helping you and your loved ones reconnect, communicate more effectively, and find new ways to support one another.
Recognizing when something isn’t working and wanting to create change are acts of real courage. I see therapy as a collaborative process where we explore what’s happening beneath the surface (the feelings behind the feelings), helping you and your loved ones reconnect, communicate more effectively, and find new ways to support one another.
As a South Asian American I grew up with the heavy stigma and shame surrounding mental health and advocating for my own well-being amidst the collective.
You've always carried so much for your family, and in many ways are considered a trailblazer. Your family came to this country, and life growing up was complex for you as you navigated barriers, culture, your own self-doubt and shame for creating a different path, or wanting something different. It's getting harder to live in both worlds...what will my (insert here: family, friends, community, children) think of me? Meanwhile, you are noticing it may be harder to sleep, body pain where there was none, more frequent headaches or instrusive thoughts, restlessness...and you are here just seeking some relief and a path forward.
As a South Asian American I grew up with the heavy stigma and shame surrounding mental health and advocating for my own well-being amidst the collective.
You've always carried so much for your family, and in many ways are considered a trailblazer. Your family came to this country, and life growing up was complex for you as you navigated barriers, culture, your own self-doubt and shame for creating a different path, or wanting something different. It's getting harder to live in both worlds...what will my (insert here: family, friends, community, children) think of me? Meanwhile, you are noticing it may be harder to sleep, body pain where there was none, more frequent headaches or instrusive thoughts, restlessness...and you are here just seeking some relief and a path forward.
As a first-generation BIPOC South Asian woman, I offer cultural humility and awareness in my work with clients and clinicians, valuing the deep, ongoing practice of attunement to what hasn't always been named — a felt experience of being seen, held, and heard.
Imagine a life where the inner critic softens, overwhelm gives way to clarity, relationships feel fulfilling and tasks and goals are manageable. Whether you're a high-achieving professional facing burnout, a trauma survivor seeking lasting change, or a therapist looking for clinical supervision rooted in knowledge & clarity—I provide a space to unpack the generational burdening, reinvent tools, and co-create an empowered path forward. Let's explore what’s possible, in a culturally sensitive space—shift the root causes of the depression, anxiety, self harm, relationship issues, low self esteem to Discover a Liberated Authentic Self!
As a first-generation BIPOC South Asian woman, I offer cultural humility and awareness in my work with clients and clinicians, valuing the deep, ongoing practice of attunement to what hasn't always been named — a felt experience of being seen, held, and heard.
Imagine a life where the inner critic softens, overwhelm gives way to clarity, relationships feel fulfilling and tasks and goals are manageable. Whether you're a high-achieving professional facing burnout, a trauma survivor seeking lasting change, or a therapist looking for clinical supervision rooted in knowledge & clarity—I provide a space to unpack the generational burdening, reinvent tools, and co-create an empowered path forward. Let's explore what’s possible, in a culturally sensitive space—shift the root causes of the depression, anxiety, self harm, relationship issues, low self esteem to Discover a Liberated Authentic Self!
I help high-performers overcome the complex stressors of their professional and personal lives using cognitive behavioral therapies, sport psychology, and holistic mind-body interventions. I collaborate with clients to help them anxiety, life transitions, family or relationship conflict, grief, and trauma, all of which shows up for them at work or in life in unexpected ways. They are seeking insight on thinking, beliefs, or feelings that keep them stuck in patterns that no longer serve them, and want to develop new tools for managing emotions, healthy communication and boundaries, and for moving forward on self-identified goals.
I help high-performers overcome the complex stressors of their professional and personal lives using cognitive behavioral therapies, sport psychology, and holistic mind-body interventions. I collaborate with clients to help them anxiety, life transitions, family or relationship conflict, grief, and trauma, all of which shows up for them at work or in life in unexpected ways. They are seeking insight on thinking, beliefs, or feelings that keep them stuck in patterns that no longer serve them, and want to develop new tools for managing emotions, healthy communication and boundaries, and for moving forward on self-identified goals.
Are you a first-gen professional, parent, or woman of color carrying more than others realize? If you feel overwhelmed, burnt out, or disconnected, you aren’t alone. I specialize in supporting adults navigating multiple cultures, complex family roles, and the heavy weight of "invisible labor."
I provide a safe, affirming space where you can finally exhale and focus on your own well-being. My goal is to help you feel grounded, confident, and truly at home within yourself.
Are you a first-gen professional, parent, or woman of color carrying more than others realize? If you feel overwhelmed, burnt out, or disconnected, you aren’t alone. I specialize in supporting adults navigating multiple cultures, complex family roles, and the heavy weight of "invisible labor."
I provide a safe, affirming space where you can finally exhale and focus on your own well-being. My goal is to help you feel grounded, confident, and truly at home within yourself.
We all experience trauma and severe life stressors' that leave us feeling stuck and hopeless. Your crisis may be depression, relationship issues, anxiety, chronic illness, sport performance or something that is so overwhelming you are struggling with life. Often time we hold ourselves in bondage to the choices we have made. I believe some of life's most difficult experiences leads us to our greatest growth. I will give you the tools to move forward from past attachments that seem to keep you stagnate in your life.
We all experience trauma and severe life stressors' that leave us feeling stuck and hopeless. Your crisis may be depression, relationship issues, anxiety, chronic illness, sport performance or something that is so overwhelming you are struggling with life. Often time we hold ourselves in bondage to the choices we have made. I believe some of life's most difficult experiences leads us to our greatest growth. I will give you the tools to move forward from past attachments that seem to keep you stagnate in your life.
I see clients in-person in Arizona and offer virtual sessions for clients in Texas. I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, AAPI communities, and life transitions. I understand the challenges that personal growth and healing may bring. I am dedicated to providing an all-inclusive, safe space for clients to explore and express themselves freely. Through a collaborative effort between client and counselor, I strive to help clients gain the necessary tools for greater self-awareness, understanding, and overall healing.
I see clients in-person in Arizona and offer virtual sessions for clients in Texas. I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, AAPI communities, and life transitions. I understand the challenges that personal growth and healing may bring. I am dedicated to providing an all-inclusive, safe space for clients to explore and express themselves freely. Through a collaborative effort between client and counselor, I strive to help clients gain the necessary tools for greater self-awareness, understanding, and overall healing.
Hello! My name is Donella Hedges, MS, LAC, NCC. I specialize in working with first-generation, multiracial and BIPOC individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, military veterans, domestic violence survivors, formerly incarcerated individuals, and special needs communities. My work centers around identity exploration, helping clients navigate the complexities of cultural expectations, marginalization, and self-discovery in a world that often asks them to shrink. Together, we create space for your full story.
Hello! My name is Donella Hedges, MS, LAC, NCC. I specialize in working with first-generation, multiracial and BIPOC individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, military veterans, domestic violence survivors, formerly incarcerated individuals, and special needs communities. My work centers around identity exploration, helping clients navigate the complexities of cultural expectations, marginalization, and self-discovery in a world that often asks them to shrink. Together, we create space for your full story.
You may look successful on the outside, but internally you're exhausted by self-criticism, perfectionism, or the feeling that you're never quite good enough. Perhaps you've spent years trying to meet other people's expectations while hiding parts of yourself to gain acceptance, avoid conflict, or feel safe.
Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, people-pleasing, and questions about identity and belonging. They often feel disconnected from who they truly are and trapped by the belief that their worth depends on achievement, approval, or fitting into someone else's idea of who they should be.
You may look successful on the outside, but internally you're exhausted by self-criticism, perfectionism, or the feeling that you're never quite good enough. Perhaps you've spent years trying to meet other people's expectations while hiding parts of yourself to gain acceptance, avoid conflict, or feel safe.
Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, people-pleasing, and questions about identity and belonging. They often feel disconnected from who they truly are and trapped by the belief that their worth depends on achievement, approval, or fitting into someone else's idea of who they should be.
Balancing family expectations, cultural values, relationships, and your own goals can start to feel like a lot. Therapy is a space where you don’t have to carry all of that alone! I'm a pre-licensed therapist based in Phoenix, Arizona. I work primarily with young adults, college students, Asian and Asian American clients, first-generation individuals, and LGBTQ+ adults navigating anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, identity, relationships, and major life transitions. Many of my clients are balancing more than one culture or language while trying to build a life that feels true to who they are.
Balancing family expectations, cultural values, relationships, and your own goals can start to feel like a lot. Therapy is a space where you don’t have to carry all of that alone! I'm a pre-licensed therapist based in Phoenix, Arizona. I work primarily with young adults, college students, Asian and Asian American clients, first-generation individuals, and LGBTQ+ adults navigating anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, identity, relationships, and major life transitions. Many of my clients are balancing more than one culture or language while trying to build a life that feels true to who they are.
More Therapists Nearby
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by the weight of their past, struggling to make sense of trauma, identity, or relationship patterns. They may be navigating cultural or intergenerational conflict, faith crises, or emotional disconnection within their family or partnership. Whether it's a teen managing anxiety and self-harm, a couple stuck in cycles of miscommunication, or an individual healing from spiritual or childhood trauma, they long for clarity, connection, and relief. They want to feel seen and understood without judgment. Most of all, they want to reclaim a sense of self and move forward with intention.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by the weight of their past, struggling to make sense of trauma, identity, or relationship patterns. They may be navigating cultural or intergenerational conflict, faith crises, or emotional disconnection within their family or partnership. Whether it's a teen managing anxiety and self-harm, a couple stuck in cycles of miscommunication, or an individual healing from spiritual or childhood trauma, they long for clarity, connection, and relief. They want to feel seen and understood without judgment. Most of all, they want to reclaim a sense of self and move forward with intention.
Hello and Welcome!
I’m Erin Ahlquist, a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with young children (ages 0–7) and families navigating challenging behaviors such as aggression, defiance, noncompliance, and frequent temper tantrums. I use Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidenced-based treatment that strengthens the parent-child relationship while helping parents build effective behavior management skills. Through PCIT, families learn practical tools to improve communication, increase cooperation, and create more positive interactions at home, in school, and in the community.
Hello and Welcome!
I’m Erin Ahlquist, a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with young children (ages 0–7) and families navigating challenging behaviors such as aggression, defiance, noncompliance, and frequent temper tantrums. I use Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidenced-based treatment that strengthens the parent-child relationship while helping parents build effective behavior management skills. Through PCIT, families learn practical tools to improve communication, increase cooperation, and create more positive interactions at home, in school, and in the community.
Feeling overwhelmed can take a lot of forms. Sometimes things that previously seemed small can launch you into a full on panic. Other times, you may notice you find yourself crying while watching something completely mundane. Perhaps instead of being able to sleep, your mind races through everything you could not get done today, or every detail of a conversation while you evaluate your every action. Alternatively, you may leave every social interaction feeling anxious or angry, even though you cannot pinpoint why. Finally, maybe you felt so much, now you dont feel anything at all and everything that once brought you joy feels hollow
Feeling overwhelmed can take a lot of forms. Sometimes things that previously seemed small can launch you into a full on panic. Other times, you may notice you find yourself crying while watching something completely mundane. Perhaps instead of being able to sleep, your mind races through everything you could not get done today, or every detail of a conversation while you evaluate your every action. Alternatively, you may leave every social interaction feeling anxious or angry, even though you cannot pinpoint why. Finally, maybe you felt so much, now you dont feel anything at all and everything that once brought you joy feels hollow
I am accepting new clients! Availability in the evenings and Sundays!
You might look like you have it together on the outside, but inside, your mind doesn't slow down. You replay conversations, question yourself, and feel stuck in patterns especially in relationships or navigating big life transitions.
Maybe you're anxious, disconnected, or trying to balance who you are with who you're expected to be. It can all feel exhausting.
In our work together, we'll slow things down collaboratively, and make sense of what's underneath these patterns. If you're ready to feel more clear, grounded, and love yourself again, I'm here to help!
I am accepting new clients! Availability in the evenings and Sundays!
You might look like you have it together on the outside, but inside, your mind doesn't slow down. You replay conversations, question yourself, and feel stuck in patterns especially in relationships or navigating big life transitions.
Maybe you're anxious, disconnected, or trying to balance who you are with who you're expected to be. It can all feel exhausting.
In our work together, we'll slow things down collaboratively, and make sense of what's underneath these patterns. If you're ready to feel more clear, grounded, and love yourself again, I'm here to help!
I became a therapist because everyone has the potential to live a fulfilling life, but only those who are truly supported in overcoming their obstacles can reach their goals and continue to thrive. No matter how old we are, we need support and encouragement to improve our lives. As an LMSW, our sessions will be facilitated by me and supervised by Jena McBride, LPC.
I became a therapist because everyone has the potential to live a fulfilling life, but only those who are truly supported in overcoming their obstacles can reach their goals and continue to thrive. No matter how old we are, we need support and encouragement to improve our lives. As an LMSW, our sessions will be facilitated by me and supervised by Jena McBride, LPC.
Leavitt Marriage and Family Therapy (CA/AZ)
Marriage & Family Therapist
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
At Leavitt Marriage and Family Therapy, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health care. Our group practice is comprised of a diverse team of therapists, psychologists, and social workers who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our clients. With practitioners from various cultural backgrounds and fluency in multiple languages, we are uniquely equipped to connect with and support individuals from all walks of life. We are located in California and Arizona. We accept most major California and Arizona insurances, making our services accessible to those who need them.
At Leavitt Marriage and Family Therapy, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health care. Our group practice is comprised of a diverse team of therapists, psychologists, and social workers who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our clients. With practitioners from various cultural backgrounds and fluency in multiple languages, we are uniquely equipped to connect with and support individuals from all walks of life. We are located in California and Arizona. We accept most major California and Arizona insurances, making our services accessible to those who need them.
It can be discouraging when you notice yourself repeating the same patterns but feel unable to change. Experiencing difficult emotions can lead you to react in ways that are unhelpful and unhealthy. You may feel like you can't control how triggers from your past impact your current relationships. Maybe you find yourself feeling lost and stuck making it difficult for you to connect with others and lead a more fulfilling life. It can be scary to pursue therapy because you want to make sure you find someone who will validate your experience.
It can be discouraging when you notice yourself repeating the same patterns but feel unable to change. Experiencing difficult emotions can lead you to react in ways that are unhelpful and unhealthy. You may feel like you can't control how triggers from your past impact your current relationships. Maybe you find yourself feeling lost and stuck making it difficult for you to connect with others and lead a more fulfilling life. It can be scary to pursue therapy because you want to make sure you find someone who will validate your experience.
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What can a South Asian therapist help with?
A South Asian therapist can help with the same concerns as any other therapist, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, stress, grief, and major life transitions. What may feel different, however, is the possibility of shared cultural understanding. If you identify with a South Asian background, such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, or Nepali, working with a therapist who shares or understands aspects of your culture may help you feel more comfortable discussing topics such as family expectations, identity, religion, language, stigma, or intergenerational conflict.
How can a South Asian therapist support couples counseling or family therapy?
A South Asian therapist can support couples counseling or family therapy by helping partners and family members explore how cultural background can shape roles, responsibilities, and expectations in a relationship. In some South Asian families, relationship dynamics may be influenced by expectations around marriage, gender roles, caregiving, religion, family involvement, or balancing individual needs with family obligations. These issues can affect mental health as well as relationship boundaries, parenting, communication, and major life decisions. A South Asian therapist can help you navigate these conversations with greater cultural understanding.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience with South Asian clients?
If cultural background is important to you in therapy, it can be helpful to ask a prospective therapist whether they have experience working with South Asian clients or clients from your specific cultural background. In initial conversations with potential therapists, you might ask whether they have worked with concerns related to cultural identity, family expectations, intergenerational conflict, or stigma around mental health. You can also ask whether they provide therapy in your preferred language.
Who is included in Psychology Today’s directory of South Asian therapists?
The directory of South Asian therapists includes professionals who have shared their ethnicity in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist who can provide a cultural match. However, not all therapists choose to disclose their ethnicity in their profiles, and they may not appear in search results for this reason; also, when the number of therapists identified as South Asian is limited, the directory will also show therapists with comprehensive experience working with clients from relevant backgrounds.