Cynthia Mao (she/her)

Accepting Clients

Hello! If you are navigating life's twists and turns or struggling with unwanted feelings, you are in the right place. I'm here to help.

Associate Clinical Social Worker in , CA
Supervised by Nadia Islam, LCSW

Services
  • Individual
  • Couples
  • Family
  • Adolescent/Teen

About My Clients

I am strongly dedicated to providing therapy uniquely designed for the unique experiences of Asians and Asian Americans. Having grown up in East Asian communities and received education in the United States, I will partner with you to navigate your social, cultural, and gender identities in diverse cultural and social contexts. Our collaboration will occur in a non-judgmental environment, free from high expectations, fostering a secure and open space. Here, you can be who you are.

My Background and Approach

Choosing therapy is an act of self-empowerment, and I’m here to honor that step by creating an environment defined by trust, authenticity, and a shared sense of purpose. In our therapeutic journey, these are three of the approaches that I would usually use: Acceptance-Commitment Therapy: We'll embrace your thoughts and feelings, not push them away. We'll work on actions aligned with your values, boosting resilience and flexibility. Client-Centered Therapy: Our sessions revolve around you and your unique experiences. I’m here to actively listen, without judgment, and provide a space where you can freely explore your thoughts and emotions. Psychodynamic Approach: We’ll delve deeper into the layers of your experiences, understanding how past interactions and emotions shape your present. This approach empowers us to untangle the threads of pain and uncertainty, leading to a renewed sense of self and emotional well-being.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

My journey has been filled with unique experiences that help me connect with the challenges you might be facing. I’ve seen firsthand the struggles my loved ones face with mental health and the related stigmas. Being an Asian woman who’s lived in various parts of the US, I’ve felt the challenges of being a racial minority and understand the pressures of blending cultural heritage with Western expectations. This helps me deeply appreciate the beauty of diversity and the nuances of identity. Outside of work, I love soaking in the beauty of nature, losing myself in music, and admiring the wonders of art. Like many, I enjoy binge-watching shows on Netflix, playing video games, and cherishing moments with animals. Quality time with family and friends means the world to me. Let’s chat about our shared interests and experiences; I’m here to connect with you.

Techniques I Use

Specialties
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Person-Centered (Rogerian) Psychodynamic Therapy
Other Techniques
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Attachment Theory
  • Exposure Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Couples Counseling
  • Culturally Sensitive Therapy
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
  • Family Systems
  • Family Therapy
  • Feminist Therapy
  • Harm Reduction Therapy
  • Humanistic Therapy
  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Integrative Therapy

Issues I Treat

Specialties
Anxiety Depression Relationship Issues
Other Issues
  • Abuse
  • Aging Concerns
  • Anger Issues
  • Anxiety
  • Attachment
  • Body Image Issues
  • Burnout
  • Codependency
  • Depression
  • Dissociative Disorders
  • Family Conflict
  • Gender Identity Therapy
  • Grief or Loss
  • Historical/ Intergenerational Trauma
  • Immigration/Acculturation
  • Insomnia
  • LGBTQ-Friendly Therapists
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Racial Identity
  • Relationship Issues
  • Self-Esteem
  • Self-Harm
  • Sexual Abuse or Assault
  • Suicidal Thoughts
  • Systemic Oppression Therapy
  • Teen Issues
  • Women's Issues
Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
I offer online counseling in the following states:
I have experience with the following
  • Agnosticism
  • Atheism
  • Buddhism

At A Glance

  • Experience: 3 years of practice
  • Languages: English, 中文 (普通话)

Info

Email Cynthia
Manhattan Beach
, CA 90266

Reach out to Cynthia