Jinu Niki

My name is Jin Niki, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with cross-state licensure in California and Nevada. I work with a wide range of populations and specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and distressful life transitions. I am a firm believer that in order to achieve overall wellness, one must place priority on creating a life that feels good on the inside rather than a life that appears good from the outside. The wider the discrepancy between the two, the greater the distress from emotional pain. In order to help my clients take steps towards a more balanced, whole, and fulfilling life, I utilize an integrative approach that fosters realistic and sustainable change.

My approach

My approach to therapy is that one size does not fit all--what works well for one does not necessarily work for another. Hence, I take a client-centered approach to tailoring therapy to each client's specific needs. I am trained in several therapeutic modalities and most frequently utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I am also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for clients who are interested in addressing unresolved trauma.

My focus

I have worked extensively with adolescents (14+) and adults who are dealing with distress due to feeling "stuck" in the cycle of unhealthy self-perceptions, poor self-esteem, self-sabotaging habits, dysfunctional patterns in relationships (platonic, romantic, or familial), and cultural identity crises. I work to help my clients effectively navigate these difficult periods and to build skills that allow them to establish a more positive view of themselves and, ultimately, a more hopeful outlook on life.

My communication style

Clients have described my therapeutic style as being warm and non-judgmental while being direct and goal-oriented. I aim for my clients to feel valued, empowered, and competent to make positive changes on their own by providing a safe space where they can process and heal from their pain. Previously, clients have shared that the psychoeducation on their presenting issues and practical tools were helpful in the immediate management of their problematic symptoms. They have also shared that they most benefited from the process-oriented questions that allowed for self-exploration and a deeper understanding of themselves.

My journey to mental healthcare

My desire to become a therapist started when I was 14 years old. As the unofficial therapist for my high school peers, I witnessed the adverse effects of family problems on their mental and emotional health. The damage was palpable and led to feelings of powerlessness because I did not know how to properly help those around me. As a result, my passion and interest in becoming a therapist were born. I have been asked by many, "How can you sit and listen to people's problems all day long?" Through my own journey as a fellow human and therapist, I have come to believe in the power of therapy to help make lasting life changes and personal growth. Hence, I find it a privilege and an honor to be of help to others during some of their darkest and most treacherous times. Perhaps it can be said that I became the help that was once desperately needed at some point in my life.

My goals for you

Goals are set forth by my clients, and my role as a therapist is to guide and assist at their pace. My hope is that the clients feel in full control over their goals and progress. Evidently, the outcome is dependent on their own willingness and readiness for change. Periodically, initial goals will be revisited to evaluate the level of progress that has been made in therapy. This will also be an opportune time for my client to provide constructive feedback on what areas of therapy have been effective versus unhelpful. My personal goal for my clients is that they become their own therapists so that they no longer need therapy.

My first session with you

The first session will be focused on taking a deep dive into the root and onset of the problems. I also aim to inquisitively explore any positive and negative significant moments to gain a better understanding of my client and their whole being.