Welcome to Dream Life Out Loud, where we understand the unique challenges and triumphs that Asian Pacific Islander Desi American’s(APIDA) face in their lives. We aim to provide culturally sensitive and expert psychotherapy services tailored to your individual needs, promoting mental health, resilience, and personal growth. We believe that mental health is an essential part of a fulfilling life.
Our work with Asian clients are not only consisted of people of Asia Pacific but a range from South Asian cultures, Southeast Asian cultures, Central Asian, and Middle Eastern cultures. Many of these cultures celebrate similarities with one another, but also have many differences depending on multiple varying factors, such as region, religion, food, and much more.
Breaking Down Barriers
The Model Minority Myth
Many Asian individuals face the burden of being perceived as the “model minority,” which can lead to internalized pressure to excel academically and professionally. Therapy helps individuals redefine success on their terms and alleviate this stress.
Gender Roles in a Patriarchal System
Traditional gender roles within Asian cultures can contribute to feelings of suppression, self-doubt, or conflict within relationships. Therapy offers a supportive environment to challenge these norms and establish healthy boundaries.
Generational Conflict
Differences in values and cultural norms between generations can lead to conflict within AAPI families. Therapy helps bridge these gaps and facilitates healthier communication.
Mental Health Stigma
In many Asian cultures, there is a stigma surrounding mental health issues, making it difficult for individuals to seek help. Therapy aims to break down these barriers by fostering open discussions about mental well-being and providing culturally competent care.
Cultural Relatability
Having an Asian therapist can foster a stronger sense of cultural relatability and understanding. It can create a more comfortable environment for discussing culturally specific issues and experiences.
Our Approach to Asian Mental Health
We understand that in order for us to provide the best possible approach for our clients, we have to utilize our ability to learn about our client’s cultural background and the impact it has on them. Our skills range from a multidisciplinary and eclectic approach. These approaches are meant to create a space wherein one feels heard from a culturally competent lens while creating dialogue around decolonization, trauma-informed work, and cultural sensitivity.
We understand it is challenging to find a space wherein one can be felt heard and validated for their experiences and this is the space we want to create for our clients! Therapy takes courage and making the decision to be here today is the first step on the road to an improved mental well-being.
Mental Health Resources for Asian Americans
National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAAPIMHA): NAAPIMHA is dedicated to promoting the mental health and well-being of AAPI communities. They offer resources, advocacy, and culturally appropriate mental health services.
Asian Mental Health Collective: This organization aims to destigmatize mental health within AAPI communities. They provide a range of resources, including articles, webinars, and a therapist directory.
APIAHF’s Mental Health and Well-Being Resources: The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) offers resources on mental health and well-being, including fact sheets and information on policy advocacy.
Indian American Community Services (IACS/IAWW): IACS is one the largest and longest-standing Indian community-based organizations in the Pacific Northwest. They work at providing services and programs to help advocate for the South Asian community and people of the community while incorporating cultural traditions and values.
Meet Natasha Wahi
Natasha Wahi is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate and South Asian therapist in Seattle serving clients from diverse Asian backgrounds. She aims to empower clients who have constantly heard “it is not okay to go to therapy and share your personal life with anyone,” to help shift this tabooed narrative in Asian communities into a more positive one. It is OKAY to share your personal life with a trusted professional who can spark the bravery you need to explore your feelings, and it is also okay to express those feelings when you feel like you are being pressured to do more than what you can fit on your plate.