Share via email
Hi! My name is Lynn Shim and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who works with clients in California via telehealth. I believe that therapy can provide a safe space for growth, healing, and understanding. I am a compassionate and non-judgmental support who collaborates with you to help reach your goals and strengthen your self-worth. I also focus on empowering you toward greater self-identity in the midst of cultural differences, family influences, and intergenerational trauma.
My approach
I am a validating listener who utilizes open-ended questions to allow you to express your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, person-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, and emotion-focused therapy (EFT). Sessions are culturally-responsive, trauma-informed, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
My focus
I work with clients who have experienced anxiety, depression, trauma and trauma-related symptoms, grief, stress, work-related burnout, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, gender identity, and acculturation difficulties. I have experience working with children, teenagers, adults, the Asian-American community, and immigrant families.
My communication style
I am a warm, positive, and caring presence in our therapy sessions. I respect your individuality and therefore encourage open communication between therapist and client. I ensure that therapy is a safe space that welcomes you and your thoughts, feelings, insights, and questions.
My journey to mental healthcare
Growing up in an Asian family, mental health has always been a taboo topic to discuss. I found myself stuck when trying to deal with difficult emotions and intergenerational trauma. It wasn't until adulthood that I sought out my own therapy, and realized the need for greater normalization and acceptance in talking about our feelings and struggles. I found that rather than avoiding my problems (only for them to return), I was able to develop helpful coping skills to manage difficult feelings and family relationships riddled with intergenerational and cultural trauma. My own mental health journey drives my passion as a therapist, as I personally understand the power that lies in each of us to find healing, freedom, and peace.
My goals for you
Therapy goals are for you, and your input is important when setting goals that affect you. I collaborate with you to set goals that you want to work on and are right for you.
My first session with you
The first session involves getting to know you better, understanding what motivates you to seek therapy, what has worked and not worked in the past, and exploring what areas and goals you want to work on in future sessions. The first session also welcomes any questions or concerns you may have about therapy.
