Dr. Cathy Nguyen

(SHE/HER/HERS)

My name is Cathy Nguyen and I’m a licensed clinical psychologist. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in Japanese from University of California, Davis. I received my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from California School of Professional Psychology – San Diego (APA accredited school). I completed a yearlong internship at the Oklahoma Forensic Center, and I currently work in a California state hospital with individuals experiencing severe mental illness.

I utilize treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other evidence based therapeutic techniques to help clients with their social-emotional, behavioral, and interpersonal/relational challenges. I incorporate new and creative techniques (videos, visual aids, and artistic expression) to assist my clients with processing information, applying interventions, and practicing skills. I utilize a client centered approach with my clients, and strive to create a space my clients can freely work through problematic relational patterns, identity, and emotional issues.

I am especially welcoming to those who identify within the minority community. As part of the Asian community, I understand first-hand the barriers that people from minority populations face when considering seeking professional help. These barriers have increased my dedication to serving minority populations in hopes to make therapy more accessible to all. In my experience, I have found that many of my minority clients struggled with fears of being misunderstood or invalidated. Thus, I take careful consideration of how my client’s cultural identity can impact their worldview. Identity is also shaped by the environment that we live in, as a result I’m aware of the systematic issues in modern society and the impact they have on identity development and expression. I empower my clients to have a healthy self-image, confidently set boundaries, develop assertive communication, and learn healthy ways of expressing emotions. I truly enjoy and am honored to watch my clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves which allows them to make positive and healthy decisions for themselves. I hope to help you grow into your authentic self.

I currently provide therapy to clients who identify as members of AANHPI, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and other underrepresented communities in the mental health space who reside in the following cities in the state of California: 

Westminster | San Jose | San Francisco | Torrance
Garden Grove | Santa Clara |  Irvine | Sunnyvale
Fremont | Elk Grove | Berkeley | San Diego

I look forward to servicing clients in other cities within California as well.