Joanna Kwan, MA, LPCC, NCC

Welcome! Maya Angelou once said, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (9216) in California located in Gold River. I believe that we all need that space to be heard and not be judged by any differences. My foundational approach is on integrative therapy and person-centered therapy, where every client should have their treatment tailored to best suited to their needs. I utilize other supportive treatment approaches: a blend of Strength-Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I strive for a collaborative style because the best work comes from meaningful and essential connection among individuals. I truly believe individuals are the experts of their own lives. My role is to help and empower you to strive through life’s difficult experiences. My vision for you is to build acceptance of who you are and who you want to become. This is to regain control of your life, your sense of balance and meaning, so that you can live the life that’s worth living. “What you think, you become. What you feel, you attract. What you imagine, you create.” – Buddha I have a strong background in community-based mental health settings, especially with children, youth, and families. I led parenting groups supporting children of all ages and different stages of parenthood. I have also worked with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationships through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills. Education: Master of Arts, Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling, Saint Mary’s College of California Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, University of the Pacific Certification and Trainings: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Foundational Training through Behavioral Tech, May 2019 Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Certificate, 2-day training through PESI, May 2018 Treating Insomnia: Evidenced-Based Strategies to Help Your Client’s Sleep, May 2018 What’s Love Got to do with it? A New Workshop with David Espton: Re-imaging the Future of Narrative Therapy, March 2018 Incredible Years Group Leader Workshop (Parenting Program), January 2017 Shield the Vulnerable, August 2014 Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), August 2013