Hey, I’m Athenia.

I’m a Chinese American Associate Marriage and Family Therapist based in Oakland. I grew up in Hong Kong and immigrated to the U.S. at 13. Without a real sense of home, I found myself searching for a sense of belonging where it was easiest and I quickly became the “bad kid” who hung out with the “wrong crowd.” High school got wild—and hard. When we immigrated, my mostly-absent dad chose not to come with us, and eventually, he disappeared completely. These experiences, along with my own healing journey, deeply shape who I am as a person and as a therapist.

Before becoming a therapist, I tried on a lot of different hats—finance, non-profit, tech, graphic design. I know firsthand what it’s like to work in high-pressure spaces that prioritize outcomes over people. I also know that talk therapy isn’t the only way to heal, but for me, it was life-changing. It helped me become more self-aware, unlearn disempowering narratives, tap into my worth, and grow in ways I never thought possible.

As a cishet woman of color, queer ally, and artist, I’m committed to anti-oppression work—both within myself and in the world. You’ll often find me at workshops, healing circles, marches, and other community spaces that uplift marginalized communities.

When I’m not with clients, I’m probably dancing, reading a graphic novel, swimming, hiking, making art, camping, traveling, or just enjoying a good bowl of noodle soup—sometimes alone, sometimes with my favorite people.

Previously, I worked as a mental health counselor at College of Alameda, supporting youth and young adults, and was part of Sankofa Holistic Counseling Services.

I now practice as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT 117392) under the supervision of Dr. Sarah Kwan (LMFT 28869).