Karen Lau, LCSW, RCC

(She/Her)

About Me

I am a licensed therapist specializing in anxiety (all spectrum, such as social anxiety, panic attacks, generalized anxiety, phobias, postpartum anxiety) and trauma. In addition, I work with APIDA clients on cultural adjustment, identity development and self esteem concerns. Often times, stress related to changes in job/career, health, marriage, dating relationships, and/or life phases can create negative impact on mental health if not addressed. Thus, I often assess and address these aspects also in my clients' lives to promote on-going coping and resiliency skills. Client feedback indicates that I am approachable and friendly. Therapy can be intimidating. Thus, I understand that it can be an obstacle to care. I do what I can on-going to help clients understand the focus and therapy goals for our sessions. In addition, we continually touch base to gauge for comfort, fit and approach if anything needs to be adjusted. This process has encouraged many to overcome barriers and found our work together to be meaningful and helpful.

Education & Experience

I graduated from Columbia University in NY for clinical training in social work focusing in advanced clinical practice. Prior to clinical practice, I worked in career advising, executive coaching and professional training. As I realized that a lot of obstacles my previous clients were facing involved mental health challenges, I decided to pursue my training as a psychotherapist. I often use a combination of CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Narrative, and IPT in my sessions, in addition to relying heavily on trauma based interventions such as IFS, CPT, and EMDR.

Professional & Volunteer Affiliations

I am a member of EMDRIA. I am also a registered corporate coach since 2019 as designated by the Worldwide Business Associate of Coaches.

Specialty Area

  • Abuse/Neglect
  • Anxiety/Panic Attacks
  • Birth Trauma/Pregnancy Loss
  • Chronic Illness/Medical Issues
  • Chronic Pain
  • Depression
  • Family Issues
  • Grief/Loss/Mourning
  • Marriage/Relationship Issues
  • Mood Disorders
  • Phobias
  • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
  • Race, Culture, Ethnicity Issues
  • Sleep Disorders
  • Stress Management
  • Survivor's Guilt
  • Traumatic Incident

Population Served

  • Adults
  • BIPOC
  • Community Mental Health Center
  • Expats
  • Families
  • First Responders
  • Immigrants
  • LGBTQ+
  • Seniors
  • Underserved

Language

  • Cantonese
  • English

Insurance

  • Sliding Scale

Modern Health