My professional journey began when I earned my first master’s degree in clinical psychology from Chung-Ang University, Seoul. I then went to Muncie, IN to earn my second master’s degree in social psychology and mental health counseling (double-major), and ultimately, completed my doctoral coursework in counseling psychology at Ball State University. I developed a comprehensive understanding of the mind, specializing in relationship issues through my graduate studies and clinical experiences. I have worked with adolescent and adult clients in various settings including a practicum clinic, a health center, and Ball State University’s counseling center as well as the Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy Services at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital and Madison County Community Health Center, IN. My clinical training focused on mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, couples and family counseling.

My therapy approach primarily follows the third wave of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that promotes acceptance and mindfulness, mainly based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). As a foundation, multicultural and attachment frameworks are used to understand clients’ external factors and interpersonal history. In addition, I utilize the basic components of humanistic therapy, such as empathy and unconditional positive regard. Furthermore, depending on clients’ needs, I may incorporate interpersonal approaches to facilitate clients’ understanding of their interpersonal patterns, and experiential approaches that allow for processing of negative emotions. Particularly for couples and families, I promote secure attachment bonds and acceptance of one’s partner and/or  child, using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Integrated Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT). Lastly, for clients with trauma history, I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).