Racial Identity Therapists in San Jose, CA
Healing isn't always linear. I believe it is important to honor your emotions and prioritize the things in life that bring you joy and purpose. In my practice, I focus on serving adolescents, college and graduate students, and young professionals going through life-stage transitions. I am passionate about working with API and Indigenous groups, and those transitioning to the mainland from Hawaii. My specialty areas include intergenerational familial conflict, issues surrounding acculturation, South and East Asian interracial relationship dynamics, and stress reduction with medical students.
Healing isn't always linear. I believe it is important to honor your emotions and prioritize the things in life that bring you joy and purpose. In my practice, I focus on serving adolescents, college and graduate students, and young professionals going through life-stage transitions. I am passionate about working with API and Indigenous groups, and those transitioning to the mainland from Hawaii. My specialty areas include intergenerational familial conflict, issues surrounding acculturation, South and East Asian interracial relationship dynamics, and stress reduction with medical students.
My approach is warm, patient, and straightforward. I work to help you connect to your intuition and inner wisdom so you can live a life that honors your values, legacy, and community. I am bilingual (Arabic and English), and enjoy working with clients who hold complex identities, such as children of immigrants, transracial adoptees, and LGBTQ+ people of color. Together we can explore the strengths and challenges of navigating marginalized identities, and ways to move forward authentically.
My approach is warm, patient, and straightforward. I work to help you connect to your intuition and inner wisdom so you can live a life that honors your values, legacy, and community. I am bilingual (Arabic and English), and enjoy working with clients who hold complex identities, such as children of immigrants, transracial adoptees, and LGBTQ+ people of color. Together we can explore the strengths and challenges of navigating marginalized identities, and ways to move forward authentically.
I see you as a whole person—your physical, emotional, mental, cultural, and spiritual self are all part of the journey. Together, we’ll focus on what’s present right now, while also honoring the influence of past experiences on your current life.
In my practice, I bring an understanding of the systemic forces that contribute to power imbalances, prejudice, and oppression. I'm dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complex ways these factors impact their self-perception and interactions with the world. I have a special interest in holding space for folks who are exploring their relationship to their identities.
I see you as a whole person—your physical, emotional, mental, cultural, and spiritual self are all part of the journey. Together, we’ll focus on what’s present right now, while also honoring the influence of past experiences on your current life.
In my practice, I bring an understanding of the systemic forces that contribute to power imbalances, prejudice, and oppression. I'm dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complex ways these factors impact their self-perception and interactions with the world. I have a special interest in holding space for folks who are exploring their relationship to their identities.
You are the expert when it comes to your life. Your unique constellation of experiences - difficult and easeful - can provide profound personal insight. Yet sometimes it is challenging to hear ourselves, trust ourselves, and to follow through in honoring our own needs.
You are the expert when it comes to your life. Your unique constellation of experiences - difficult and easeful - can provide profound personal insight. Yet sometimes it is challenging to hear ourselves, trust ourselves, and to follow through in honoring our own needs.
Please note: I do not take any CA insurances. I became a therapist because I believe in the power of healing and growth that comes from having a safe space to share your story. My role is to help you process life’s experiences, uncover personal truths, and find deeper meaning in your journey. Through this work, my goal is to support you in gaining clarity, self-understanding, and a sense of authenticity, so you can move forward with confidence and purpose.
Please note: I do not take any CA insurances. I became a therapist because I believe in the power of healing and growth that comes from having a safe space to share your story. My role is to help you process life’s experiences, uncover personal truths, and find deeper meaning in your journey. Through this work, my goal is to support you in gaining clarity, self-understanding, and a sense of authenticity, so you can move forward with confidence and purpose.
Do you feel like you're doing everything right—but still feel unfulfilled and exhausted? You may be stuck in perfectionism, burnout, or people-pleasing while craving rest and clarity. I’m a licensed psychologist helping clients untangle their worth from achievement that often manifest as depression, anger, grief and anxiety. I work with couples and adults. My approach is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and rooted in the belief that you're already worthy of your most aligned life. I compassionately challenge and provide tangible tools to get you the goals and joy that you are seeking.
Do you feel like you're doing everything right—but still feel unfulfilled and exhausted? You may be stuck in perfectionism, burnout, or people-pleasing while craving rest and clarity. I’m a licensed psychologist helping clients untangle their worth from achievement that often manifest as depression, anger, grief and anxiety. I work with couples and adults. My approach is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and rooted in the belief that you're already worthy of your most aligned life. I compassionately challenge and provide tangible tools to get you the goals and joy that you are seeking.
My name is Beyza, my pronouns are she/her. As the eldest daughter in an immigrant family, I understand the quiet exhaustion of being “the responsible one.” The one who held it all together, translated between parents and siblings, kept the peace, got the grades, and rarely disappointed anyone—even when it cost you connection with yourself. Many of my clients grew up being the mediator, the caretaker, or the achiever, only to find that their needs were overlooked and their anger misunderstood. Beneath the calm exterior, they often carry deep grief and unspoken rage that no one seems to notice.
My name is Beyza, my pronouns are she/her. As the eldest daughter in an immigrant family, I understand the quiet exhaustion of being “the responsible one.” The one who held it all together, translated between parents and siblings, kept the peace, got the grades, and rarely disappointed anyone—even when it cost you connection with yourself. Many of my clients grew up being the mediator, the caretaker, or the achiever, only to find that their needs were overlooked and their anger misunderstood. Beneath the calm exterior, they often carry deep grief and unspoken rage that no one seems to notice.
***** Dr. Williams is only accepting referrals for psychological assessment and evaluation***** Dr. Williams is the clinical director of Integrated Psychological Assessment Services (IPAS). She helps clients Improve their quality of life through insight-oriented and skill-building psychotherapy. Clinicians at IPAS value your unique experiences and your cultural identities. We focus on the connection between what you think, feel and do, and how changes can improve a persons life. While IPAS is a diverse practice, Dr. Williams' specializes in the change of life, work-life balance, and career transitions.
***** Dr. Williams is only accepting referrals for psychological assessment and evaluation***** Dr. Williams is the clinical director of Integrated Psychological Assessment Services (IPAS). She helps clients Improve their quality of life through insight-oriented and skill-building psychotherapy. Clinicians at IPAS value your unique experiences and your cultural identities. We focus on the connection between what you think, feel and do, and how changes can improve a persons life. While IPAS is a diverse practice, Dr. Williams' specializes in the change of life, work-life balance, and career transitions.
Therapy is essential to healing from crisis-related trauma, however it does not always have to be crisis responsive. You may want to change self-defeating behaviors or develop or improve your sense of purpose. While the influence of life experience from infancy through adulthood is undeniable, I specialize in using person-centered therapy that focuses on the present with strengths-based, solutions-oriented emphasis and holistic and mindfulness practices that nurture self- awareness.
Therapy is essential to healing from crisis-related trauma, however it does not always have to be crisis responsive. You may want to change self-defeating behaviors or develop or improve your sense of purpose. While the influence of life experience from infancy through adulthood is undeniable, I specialize in using person-centered therapy that focuses on the present with strengths-based, solutions-oriented emphasis and holistic and mindfulness practices that nurture self- awareness.
First-Generation Asian Therapist – Asuka Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
UPDATE: Now accepting in-person and online clients. In-network with multiple insurances! - As a first-generation immigrant, I understand how overwhelming life in the U.S. can feel, especially when facing anxiety, depression, or trauma rooted in cultural disconnection and past experiences. You might be navigating identity, relationships, or simply trying to feel like you belong. You don’t have to do it alone. I offer a culturally attuned, trauma-informed space where you can feel seen, supported, and empowered to heal. Schedule your free consultation today!
UPDATE: Now accepting in-person and online clients. In-network with multiple insurances! - As a first-generation immigrant, I understand how overwhelming life in the U.S. can feel, especially when facing anxiety, depression, or trauma rooted in cultural disconnection and past experiences. You might be navigating identity, relationships, or simply trying to feel like you belong. You don’t have to do it alone. I offer a culturally attuned, trauma-informed space where you can feel seen, supported, and empowered to heal. Schedule your free consultation today!
I believe that the current framework of "mental illness" tells us that we are the problem. You are not the problem. While society encourages us to “fix” or “stop” painful emotional experiences, I hope to remove the expectation that we need “fixing” in order to thrive. I want to help you feel more connected, authentic and empowered in yourself and in your relationships. Together, we can incorporate and honor all of who you are (mind, body, spirit, community) and begin a healing journey that is centered on the foundation you want for your life and your future.
I believe that the current framework of "mental illness" tells us that we are the problem. You are not the problem. While society encourages us to “fix” or “stop” painful emotional experiences, I hope to remove the expectation that we need “fixing” in order to thrive. I want to help you feel more connected, authentic and empowered in yourself and in your relationships. Together, we can incorporate and honor all of who you are (mind, body, spirit, community) and begin a healing journey that is centered on the foundation you want for your life and your future.
Hi! I’m Larsa. You may find yourself here because you’re carrying wounds from complex family dynamics, cultural disconnection, or deeply painful experiences that turned your world upside down. Or maybe you’ve spent your whole life navigating and trying to fit in to two different worlds—the dominant, American culture, and your own culture of origin. Or maybe you've spent years as a parentified, people-pleasing perfectionist. You might be seeking a safe, supportive space to reconnect with your authentic self, to heal, and to be witnessed as you root down and ancho in to who you truly are.
Hi! I’m Larsa. You may find yourself here because you’re carrying wounds from complex family dynamics, cultural disconnection, or deeply painful experiences that turned your world upside down. Or maybe you’ve spent your whole life navigating and trying to fit in to two different worlds—the dominant, American culture, and your own culture of origin. Or maybe you've spent years as a parentified, people-pleasing perfectionist. You might be seeking a safe, supportive space to reconnect with your authentic self, to heal, and to be witnessed as you root down and ancho in to who you truly are.
You feel anxious, scattered and tired. Maybe you replay conversations in your head, stress about getting things perfect, or feel like no matter how much you do, it’s never enough. You're not sleeping well, have a hard time focusing at work and struggling to be present with friends and family. Living this way is exhausting, frustrating and isolating.
I help people navigate OCD, ADHD, anxiety and major life changes, whether it’s overthinking, perfectionism, work stress, relationship struggles, or a big move. I'm also passionate about supporting first-generation individuals as they balance the expectations of two cultures.
You feel anxious, scattered and tired. Maybe you replay conversations in your head, stress about getting things perfect, or feel like no matter how much you do, it’s never enough. You're not sleeping well, have a hard time focusing at work and struggling to be present with friends and family. Living this way is exhausting, frustrating and isolating.
I help people navigate OCD, ADHD, anxiety and major life changes, whether it’s overthinking, perfectionism, work stress, relationship struggles, or a big move. I'm also passionate about supporting first-generation individuals as they balance the expectations of two cultures.
Hi, I'm Dr. Jennifer Scharding. I have been practicing for ten years, providing therapy for adults, couples, and families. I hold a doctorate in psychology, and my research focuses on how outer perceptions affect our inner self-worth. I believe that as my client, you come to me as your own agent of change, and my job is to facilitate and support that with all the expertise and enthusiasm I offer. Working together, we will process trauma, uncover the roots of issues, build lasting trust and self-worth, and recognize -and celebrate!- the strength and resilience shown with each step of progress.
Hi, I'm Dr. Jennifer Scharding. I have been practicing for ten years, providing therapy for adults, couples, and families. I hold a doctorate in psychology, and my research focuses on how outer perceptions affect our inner self-worth. I believe that as my client, you come to me as your own agent of change, and my job is to facilitate and support that with all the expertise and enthusiasm I offer. Working together, we will process trauma, uncover the roots of issues, build lasting trust and self-worth, and recognize -and celebrate!- the strength and resilience shown with each step of progress.
Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or self-esteem issues? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to navigate life's challenges? Worried that family or friends won't understand or - even worse - invalidate you? Living with these struggles can be incredibly isolating and debilitating. The constant burden of mental health issues can impact your relationships, productivity, and overall quality of life. It's easy to feel stuck and hopeless when you don't have the right tools or support to manage these challenges effectively.
Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or self-esteem issues? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to navigate life's challenges? Worried that family or friends won't understand or - even worse - invalidate you? Living with these struggles can be incredibly isolating and debilitating. The constant burden of mental health issues can impact your relationships, productivity, and overall quality of life. It's easy to feel stuck and hopeless when you don't have the right tools or support to manage these challenges effectively.
Hello! My name is Annu, and I am a therapist in San Francisco (and online). I work with immigrants and adult-children of immigrants....also known as Third Culture Kids (TCK) or First Generation Americans. I work with multi-cultural and multi-racial couples, many of whom are people of color. I work with successful, career-driven achievers. I belong to each of these demographics - my parents immigrated to the US in 1971, and I worked in the corporate world for nearly 2 decades, climbing the corporate ladder rapidly before pivoting my career by going back to school to study counseling psychology. I work virtually via Zoom or phone.
Hello! My name is Annu, and I am a therapist in San Francisco (and online). I work with immigrants and adult-children of immigrants....also known as Third Culture Kids (TCK) or First Generation Americans. I work with multi-cultural and multi-racial couples, many of whom are people of color. I work with successful, career-driven achievers. I belong to each of these demographics - my parents immigrated to the US in 1971, and I worked in the corporate world for nearly 2 decades, climbing the corporate ladder rapidly before pivoting my career by going back to school to study counseling psychology. I work virtually via Zoom or phone.
Do you feel depleted by constantly having to show up for others? Despite having achieved a lot of success, you still feel like it’s not enough. You are constantly receiving messages about who you “should” be, and you often find yourself second guessing yourself and feeling like there are parts of you you have to hide in order to "fit in" and be respected. You often feel the pressure of attending to the needs of others. You are left feeling misunderstood, unseen, and unappreciated. Your needs often come last, and when you are able to focus on yourself you are left feeling guilty and overwhelmed by the thought of it.
Do you feel depleted by constantly having to show up for others? Despite having achieved a lot of success, you still feel like it’s not enough. You are constantly receiving messages about who you “should” be, and you often find yourself second guessing yourself and feeling like there are parts of you you have to hide in order to "fit in" and be respected. You often feel the pressure of attending to the needs of others. You are left feeling misunderstood, unseen, and unappreciated. Your needs often come last, and when you are able to focus on yourself you are left feeling guilty and overwhelmed by the thought of it.
Externally together, internally struggling. You may hear how well you handle tough situations, but feel confused on the symptoms you still experience. Battling anxiety, trauma, depression, and past wounds can be invisible when you've gotten really good at masking. But it doesn't have to continue like that- you deserve ease. Healing isn’t about ignoring pain but understanding it, untangling the patterns that keep you stuck, & creating space for real change. My clients come with different needs & issues, yet always have the goal of breaking unhealthy cycles, reconnecting back to themself, & building an aligned and fulfilling life.
Externally together, internally struggling. You may hear how well you handle tough situations, but feel confused on the symptoms you still experience. Battling anxiety, trauma, depression, and past wounds can be invisible when you've gotten really good at masking. But it doesn't have to continue like that- you deserve ease. Healing isn’t about ignoring pain but understanding it, untangling the patterns that keep you stuck, & creating space for real change. My clients come with different needs & issues, yet always have the goal of breaking unhealthy cycles, reconnecting back to themself, & building an aligned and fulfilling life.
I believe my role as a therapist, is the greatest form of advocacy that I can engage in. My approach to therapy is an integrative approach of Feminist and Narrative therapies, combining empowerment & social justice. I have a lengthy history of working with diverse clients from various intersections of identities, diagnoses, & presenting concerns. My clinical focuses include but are not limited to: identity exploration, trauma, sex work, body image, racism, & gender issues. I am also an LGBTQIA2+/kink/poly knowledgeable/ affirming therapist.
I believe my role as a therapist, is the greatest form of advocacy that I can engage in. My approach to therapy is an integrative approach of Feminist and Narrative therapies, combining empowerment & social justice. I have a lengthy history of working with diverse clients from various intersections of identities, diagnoses, & presenting concerns. My clinical focuses include but are not limited to: identity exploration, trauma, sex work, body image, racism, & gender issues. I am also an LGBTQIA2+/kink/poly knowledgeable/ affirming therapist.
I am passionate about supporting neurodivergent individuals, as well as serving culturally diverse populations. I have training in CBT, social skills, and DBT for clients that benefit from support with co-occurring mood disorders, managing managing daily stressors, and building meaningful relationships. I also offer family therapy to increase empathy, improve communication, and strengthen relationships.
I am passionate about supporting neurodivergent individuals, as well as serving culturally diverse populations. I have training in CBT, social skills, and DBT for clients that benefit from support with co-occurring mood disorders, managing managing daily stressors, and building meaningful relationships. I also offer family therapy to increase empathy, improve communication, and strengthen relationships.
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