Esther Kang, Ph.D.

How I decided to be a therapist

Since adolescence, I have lived abroad in various countries, primarily in metropolitan cities with diverse immigrants, races, and multiethnic people. I liked observing people and would constantly question the reason behind specific behavior and the nature of their responses. Further, discerning conflicts, frustrations, and troubles people faced became a preoccupation that when I took a psychology course that involved studying cases of various mental health issues, I was utterly engrossed in the subject and learning that some disorders were more complex to treat after a critical point left a powerful impression on me. Understanding the importance of deciphering symptoms of severe disorders through counseling and psychotherapy before it is too late, I felt empathy and compassion for individuals who were not fortunate enough to receive therapy or seek help. I could no longer ignore my inclination to help those in need of psychological help, and I decided to be a therapist despite much effort and time.

How I would like to help clients as a therapist

First, I try to be a warm and ingenuous counselor, being present with active listening and empathy. Show unconditional respect without judgment or criticism, but encourage and support the client. Second, when clients are confused, feeling inadequate, shameful, and unworthy, I help them find their strength and assets, showing they are worthy and lovable. At this point, the clients see themselves more realistically with their good and bad things. So, I intervene with them to accept themselves as they are. This self-acceptance will make them accept others too. Third, I focus on helping the clients to grow, nurture them, and be cared for and cured where there is a wound. Lastly, I help clients become more creative and self-actualizing.

What my theoretical orientation is as a therapist

My theoretical orientation depends on the client's needs because each case is unique and requires different treatments. Therefore, I determine myself as a counselor with an Eclectic perspective. However, based on Person-Centered therapy, I often utilize CBT(Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and incorporate other approaches, such as DBT(Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), for behavioral problems, distorted cognitions, controlling emotions, and enhancing interpersonal relationships. Also, for clients with deep wounds but unconscious, I would utilize the Psychodynamic approach, trying to explore the internal frame and integrate the ego. Besides those theoretical orientations, sometimes I use Gestalt therapy for unfinished business as well as Reality therapy, helping clients identify unmet needs and take responsibility for their choices and behaviors.