Fremont Therapist Feature: James Chen - Asian American Therapist
In this Fremont Therapy Spotlight, I am featuring James Chen, an Asian American Christian Therapist in Fremont, CA. As a Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, he is a prelicensed therapist under supervision. Here I interview James on his therapy practice and what kind of therapy he provides.
Interview with James Chen, Asian American Therapist
What kind of therapy services do you provide?
I'm an associate marriage and family therapist, therefore I provide psychotherapy services under the california board of behavioral science, abiding by their laws and ethics.
Although I practice primarily in a traditional talk therapy(4 walls) site, I also practice at an equine facilitated psychotherapy site on Thursdays in Gilroy.
Equines add another dimension to psychotherapy for the client, allowing relationship building with a herd animal and therapist, and different dynamics than a traditional four walls therapy.
How does your therapy services help people with Trauma?
Majority of the time, when diving into one's family of origin, and discovering some of the roots of their issues/trauma, clients often feel relief that the mystery of their suffering is justified. It also gives me a much clearer path on how to assist them in their path toward healing, relief and agency. Sometimes, it is helpful as a therapist to have several approaches or modalities, as I am better to assess what would likely be more effective than another, and if something isn't working, there are other approaches that may give better results.
One such approach I use to help clients with trauma is to use Brain Spotting. This allows Trauma that is stored in the Amygdala to be processed and released into our prefrontal cortex, lessening those intrusive thoughts and emotions that activate us into our trauma responses(fight, flight, freeze).
Regardless of modality, attunement and coregulation is always an aim in all my sessions, as I believe healing comes from relationships, rather than learned skill.
How do you uniquely help Asian Americans with mental health issues?
Walking the path with an Asian American client is one of my joys as a therapist.
When clients give me the look, "you get it, you understand these years of my life, without explaining it all," there is a component that goes beyond training, skill and intelligence.
Although every AAPI client is uniquely and wonderfully made, there are some central themes specifically to Asian culture that are much better related to by experience, rather than explained.
What kind of people do you love providing therapy for?
Although there are very few people I don't enjoy working with, I feel a special calling with transitional age youth (17-26) and couples(premarital/marital) as I work with them to align hopes and dreams.
Healthier marriages often produce healthier and happier children, and strengthening family systems is important to me.
I also seem drawn to Asian ministry workers, feeling burnt out but guilty for not doing more at their local church.
What happens during a first therapy session with you?
It can vary depending on the individual or couple, besides a mandatory informed consent, I try to work with clients on establishing clarity, and what it looks like if they got what they need from therapy.
"If this was my last session with you, where you no longer needed therapy services from me, this is what your life(s) would look like." I believe knowing what you want is a big part of the therapy process.
Generally, my goal for therapy is for my clients to be happy and successful, but they decide what that looks like for them.
What do you wish people knew about therapy with you?
Although I love working with all people with all backgrounds, I have a Christian worldview. This would be the only way I can continue to give my very best to love all my clients, regardless of their faith or background
How can people contact you to learn more about your therapy services?
My email is therapybyjames@gmail.com, I currently practice in San Ramon, Ca (https://www.cpccounseling.com/bio-james-chen) but offer telehealth options anywhere in California.
I also currently work with clients at an equine facilitated psychotherapy site called Dreampower Horsemanship in Gilroy, Ca (http://dreampowerhorsemanship.com/) on Thursdays. I look forward to hearing from you, and if I don't think I can help you, I have a healthy referral list of people with various expertise that can.
See a Fremont Therapist Today! Schedule a Free 15-Minute Consultation
Ready to take the first step toward healing and growth? Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with Alex Ly, a compassionate Fremont Therapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, and brainspotting therapy. Whether you're struggling with past trauma or managing anxiety, Alex is here to help. Take advantage of this opportunity to see how his personalized, culturally sensitive approach can support your mental wellness. Contact Alex today to start your journey toward a healthier, more balanced life!
About the Author: Alex Ly- Fremont Therapist
Alex Ly, LMFT, is a highly skilled Asian American Therapist based in Fremont, CA, specializing in trauma and anxiety therapy, and brainspotting therapy. With a Master’s degree in Counseling from Western Seminary, Alex brings a deep understanding of mental health challenges and a culturally sensitive approach to therapy. As a dedicated Trauma Therapist in the Bay Area, Alex is committed to helping clients process and heal from past wounds, while also offering tailored support for managing anxiety and emotional distress. His expertise in Brainspotting Therapy allows for a focused, body-based approach that uncovers and resolves trauma, creating lasting change for clients.
As a compassionate Fremont Therapist, Alex Ly works with individuals from diverse backgrounds, with a special focus on the Asian American community. With extensive experience in treating anxiety, trauma, and cultural issues, Alex is committed to fostering a safe, welcoming space for personal growth and healing. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, past trauma, or are interested in exploring Brainspotting Therapy, Alex provides a holistic and empathetic approach to mental wellness in the Bay Area.
