Maki Itoi (she/her)

As an immigrant as well as a former international student and first generation college student, I understand the unique challenges we all face in the new environment. Now that I become a parent, I experienced different set of challenges in terms of cultural and social expectations. I am interested in learning your immigration and acculturation experience and challenges that you face.

Anxiety often arises when life’s demands and persistent negative thoughts become overwhelming. In therapy, I create space to pause and examine these thoughts and emotions in the moment. Together, we practice evidence-based strategies to help you manage and reduce anxiety.

As an immigrant and former international student, I know how overwhelming it can feel to adjust to a new culture while trying to find your place and build your life. In therapy, we create a safe space to talk openly about your experiences, honor your journey, and explore together how you can move forward with confidence and balance.

Depression can make life feel heavy and draining, but it doesn’t define who you are or what’s possible for you. In therapy, we focus on creating a safe and supportive space to understand what you’re going through and to discover practical steps that can bring relief, energy, and a renewed sense of hope.

I provide Motivational Interviewing, a collaborative approach that helps you explore your own motivations for change. Instead of being told what to do, you’re supported in clarifying your goals, working through ambivalence, and building confidence to take meaningful steps forward

I emphasize your strengths and resources, focusing on what’s already working in your life. Together, we identify your goals and explore practical, realistic steps to move toward positive change, often in a shorter time frame.

I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to support clients who feel pulled between expectations, identities, and responsibilities. ACT helps us notice internal pressures — self-criticism, anxiety, cultural expectations — without letting them dictate your life.