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My name is Tami Yamashita and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the state of Hawaii. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions. My mindfulness-based approach encourages clients to develop greater self-awareness and presence, which is essential in breaking unhelpful patterns and building healthier coping strategies.
My approach
As a licensed social worker with a focus on holistic mental health, I specialize in integrating Mindfulness Practices, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support individuals in navigating life's challenges. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and tailored to each client's unique needs, fostering resilience, emotional balance, and personal growth.
My focus
I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of mental health, offering specialized care for a wide range of disorders, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addictions, disordered eating, substance abuse, grief, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma.
My communication style
I specialize in providing compassionate care for individuals dealing with the complexities of mental health, with a strong focus on transforming dysfunctional thought patterns and managing the stressors of daily life. I am committed to guiding my clients toward healing, resilience, and a more balanced life in a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions and experiences.
My journey to mental healthcare
I have wanted to become a therapist since I was 19 years old. I struggled with an eating disorder for most of my young adult life. Since recovering from my own mental health issues, I have always wanted to help others with their disordered eating and destructive thought patterns. I studied contemplative psychology at a Buddhist-inspired college and learned how mindfulness practices can be extremely beneficial to recovery and healing from any addiction. It inspired me to want to share this knowledge with others and encourage people to apply it to their experiences in order to enrich their quality of life.
My goals for you
I prefer to approach goal setting with clients in a way that is patient-centered and strength-based. I focus on empowering clients by building on their existing strengths and ensuring that the goals are meaningful and aligned with their personal values and aspirations. I am flexible and willing to adapt the goals as the client’s situation changes. If a goal becomes too challenging or is no longer relevant, we will work together to adjust it.
My first session with you
During an initial session with me, the primary focus will be on establishing a strong therapeutic relationship, meeting the client where they are at emotionally and mentally, and collaboratively identifying the focus and goals of therapy. I will begin by creating a welcoming and non-judgmental environment where the client feels safe to share their thoughts and feelings. I will gently explore the client’s background, including any relevant history that might inform their current situation. This could include discussing past experiences, relationships, or previous therapy. I will acknowledge and respect where the client is in their life right now and ask open-ended questions to help the client articulate what they are seeking from therapy. I will help the client identify the issues or challenges they want to address. We will collaboratively identify the initial focus areas for therapy. This might include specific issues like managing anxiety, processing trauma, or improving relationships. I will explain the therapeutic process, including the structure of sessions, confidentiality, and any other relevant information. This helps the client understand what to expect and feel more comfortable. I will talk about the client’s commitment to the therapy process and how we will work together to achieve their goals.
