Share via email
My name is Carol Lee and I am a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York. I currently work with adult individuals via telehealth and specialize in trauma recovery, stress and anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationship struggles using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to empower clients to become active participants in their healing journey.
My approach
My approach to therapy is highly customized, client-centered, and usually integrates theories and skills from CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), according to each client's specific needs and goals.
My focus
I have found that my background, therapy style, and approach provide strong support for adults who experience challenges with emotional distress, trauma, behavioral and functional difficulties, social issues, life transitions, personal growth, and self-care needs, especially for Mandarin-speaking and/or Asian American clients.
My communication style
My communication style is attuned, validating, empowering, and personable. I always strive to create a sense of safety with my clients from the beginning of our therapeutic relationship, so they feel comfortable enough to express themselves and be who they are.
My journey to mental healthcare
I decided to become a therapist because of my personal experiences, curiosity, and admiration for human beings' potential and resilience. When I was young, I didn't intend to 'help' others, but I noticed that by being sincerely curious and nonjudgmental, I somehow became that one person whom family, friends, peers, partners, and even strangers felt safe with and trusted, and I found that I could be helpful. This pleasant discovery led me to this profession, and I truly enjoy witnessing people create their ideal reality.
My goals for you
My approach to goal setting with clients is usually 'safety first,' meaning I focus on the start of our therapeutic relationship by building trust and understanding (between us and our goals), and the client becomes the CEO of their healing project. We will explore meanings and expectations, specific measures, and timelines tailored to your specific needs and goals together, and we will review and revise them periodically.
My first session with you
The initial session is usually about 'feeling safe and getting to know you.' We will spend the majority of the time exploring your current challenges, personal history, expectations, and any other information you believe is important for me to know in order to make our work together effective. I will ask questions, listen carefully, respect your boundaries, take notes, and provide answers, so we can move forward together with you feeling safe and valued.
