Jennifer Kim, LMFT

Short and Sweet Version:

I am certified in Brainspotting and I specialize in working with individuals and couples seeking healing and change due to struggling with one or more of the following areas: 

• Relationship concerns (communication, intimacy, trauma/crisis)

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Self-esteem issues

• Attachment issues

• Life transitions (divorce, grief, relocation, etc.)

• Women's issues

Lengthy Version: 

Whether you have an extensive history with therapy or this is your first time searching for a therapist, I'm sure you've heard that finding the right fit is essential to a meaningful therapeutic experience. This page will give you a good sense of if you'd like to add me in to the running to be your therapist. 

I work well with clients who are feeling stuck and in need for some change; someone who is ready to dive deep and work hard because therapy definitely isn't a walk in the park (unless it’s walk and talk therapy!)  I'm not the nod and "mm-hmm" type of therapist, though I definitely do a lot of that and I also say "hm, interesting" a lot more than I probably should. I will meet you where you are and I will create a safe space for you. I will also challenge you to go deeper to gain insight. 

My hope is that during our time together, you are able to overcome those lurking shadows of fear and shame. If you are having any feelings on the spectrum of dissatisfaction to despair, uneasiness to anxiety, we can explore what underlying issues might be contributing to those uncomfortable feelings. With that newfound self-awareness, you will be empowered and equipped to change your life. 

Now, Here's a list of my credentials to convince you that my services are worth your time and money: 

After graduating from Pepperdine University with my Master's in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, I completed my post-graduate hours toward licensure both in private practice and at a psychiatric hospital's outpatient program. Prior to this, I worked in a community mental health setting as well as a locked inpatient psychiatric facility. 

One of the most valuable experiences for me was the three years I spent with Didi Hirsch's Suicide Prevention Hotline, where I started as a volunteer crisis counselor, then became a Korean bilingual counselor, and ultimately stepped into a position as a shift supervisor. The lessons I learned during my time there have shaped me not only as a clinician, but also as a person. 

I also draw from my experience as a teacher (high school English, to be exact!) Sometimes you'll see my teacher side come out in the "come on, you know the answer" look I may give you, and other times my English major side comes out when I reference literature or use a bunch of metaphors. But don't worry, I won't give you homework--unless you want some!

And to be honest with you, I'm still learning; I will always be learning and growing as a therapist because that's how great therapists stay great and become excellent! 

Professional Affiliations

• Ethera

• Certified Brainspotting Therapist—Brainspotting Professionals

• ICEEFT—International Centre of Excellence for Emotionally Focused Therapy

• CAMFT—California Association of Marriage and Family Therapy

• OC-CAMFT—Orange County Chapter of CAMFT

Volunteer Affiliations

• Pet Partners—Therapy Animal Handler

• American Red Cross Disaster Mental Health Services