Shirley Zhao
LISW, psychotherapist
Hello, my name is Shirley, and I want to express how glad I am that you have taken this important step toward improving your mental and emotional well-being, and I would be genuinely happy to join you on your journey!
Throughout my years as a therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with many individuals who have experienced mental health challenges related to sexual abuse, ADHD, anxiety, depression, chronic diseases and PTSD.
01
If you are dealing with PTSD, please allow me to say that I understand that living with PTSD can be incredibly challenging. The impact it has on your daily life, relationships, and overall well-being is significant. Please know that I am here to listen, to support, and to validate your experiences. You are not alone in this journey, and let me work with you to create a future where the trauma no longer defines you and where you can find peace, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose.
02
If you are dealing with depression, please believe me that there is hope for a brighter future. You deserve happiness. I am so dedicated to helping you find the strength to navigate through this difficult period. Together, we will develop strategies to challenge negative thoughts, foster self-compassion, and cultivate a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment in your life. I believe that, with time and support, you can find your way towards a life that is rich with meaning and contentment.
03
If you are struggling with anxiety, please allow me to tell you that anxiety does not define who you are. It's a part of your experience right now, but it doesn't have to control your life. If you would like, we can work towards understanding the root causes of your anxiety, unraveling the patterns that contribute to its intensity, and gradually implementing tools and techniques that empower you to regain a sense of calm and control.
04
If you are navigating the challenges of living with ADHD, let me reassure you that your neurodivergence does not diminish your worth or potential. ADHD can feel overwhelming at times, but it is also a part of what makes you uniquely you. In therapy, we can work together to explore strategies for managing executive functioning difficulties, understanding emotional regulation, and finding ways to channel your strengths. Please know that you are not alone, and I am here to create a compassionate and supportive space where we can develop tools and approaches tailored to your needs, so you can thrive with confidence and authenticity.
05
If you are struggling with relationship issues, please believe me that healthy relationships are possible. If you would like to, we can work on topics like building effective communication skills, setting healthy boundaries, and exploring patterns of behavior that may be contributing to conflicts. How intriguing it would be for me if I can join you in the journey of developing a deeper understanding of your needs, values, and boundaries so that you can cultivate healthy and fulfilling relationships.
06
If you are dealing with chronic diseases, it can feel incredibly frustrating and isolating at times, and it's not uncommon to feel like your body is working against you. But I truly believe that you are capable of finding ways to live a fulfilling life. We can work on strategies to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Whether it's developing coping skills, exploring new treatments, or finding ways to adapt your lifestyle to better suit your needs, I am here to support you every step of the way.
07
If you’re struggling with your identity, it can feel deeply confusing, overwhelming, and sometimes even lonely—like you’re searching for solid ground in a world that keeps shifting around you. Please know that you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Your identity is valid, even in moments of uncertainty. Together, we can explore who you are in a safe, nonjudgmental space—whether that means unpacking labels, understanding your emotions, or simply finding the words to express your truth. You deserve to be seen, supported, and affirmed for exactly who you are. I’m here to walk with you as you navigate that journey.
08
If you're navigating life as an autistic person, or exploring what autism means for you, it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions—relief, confusion, pride, or even grief. The world often isn’t built with neurodivergent minds in mind, but that doesn’t mean your way of experiencing life is wrong. You deserve understanding, respect, and support that honors your needs and strengths. Whether you’re learning how to self-advocate, working through sensory challenges, or just wanting to feel accepted as you are, this is a space where you don’t have to mask or shrink yourself. I’m here to support you in showing up fully and authentically—on your terms.