About Toni:

Felt like your thoughts are racing but the words just won't come out? Have you ever felt the anxiety of overthinking and overanalyzing? Or that despite knowing what you “should” do, making changes feels overwhelming? Perhaps you're navigating the complexities of interpersonal relationships, cultural identity, family expectations, or that persistent feeling that no one quite understands your experience.

I want you to know that these feelings are deeply valid, and you're not alone in this journey. Taking this first step toward healing shows incredible courage, thank you for considering sharing your story with me. Many people come to therapy thinking healing means fixing or changing parts of themselves. In our work together, I invite you to see it differently: to notice and honor all parts of yourself, and to imagine how they can support your growth in new ways.

I aim to create a space where you feel safe to show up fully, while we uncover your strengths and explore new possibilities together. Our sessions may not always look “conventional.” When the same message is repeated in the same way, it can lose its meaning or make change feel harder. Together, we’ll explore fresh perspectives that open space for new ways forward. The approaches we use will be tailored to you, blending tools and techniques that feel authentic and supportive. Most importantly, I hope our time together can help you turn overwhelming thoughts into manageable steps, feel more confident in your choices, and become more grounded in who you are.

I’m currently pursuing my master’s in Social Work at Columbia University and have conducted research on Asian American family dynamics, which has given me a deeper understanding of how cultural identity and family relationships shape our experiences. In addition to my professional experience, I am also a 1.5-generation Asian American who immigrated to the U.S. at a young age. I bring both lived experience and training to our work together, particularly when it comes to navigating cultural expectations, family dynamics, and the challenges of balancing multiple identities.

My background also includes working at a domestic violence non-profit, where I supported survivors of intimate partner violence, including refugees, with care and sensitivity. These experiences shape the way I hold space: trauma-informed, culturally affirming, and grounded in respect for your story. Your story matters, and I'm here to listen with empathy, understanding, and zero judgment. Let's collaborate on your journey toward healing and self-discovery, celebrating each step forward while honoring your unique experiences and strengths.

Toni Yu, MSW Intern Supervised by Nadia Islam, LCSW, PHD