Meet Angel Chou
California Licensed EMDR Trauma Therapist
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Specialties: EMDR, CPTSD & PTSD, Marriage and Family Counseling
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Languages: English & Mandarin
I became a therapist because I’ve walked through my own deep valleys. I know what it’s like to feel overwhelmed, alone, or stuck in the dark—and I also know that with the right support, healing and transformation are possible. My personal journey led to a deep passion for trauma work and a profound belief in the resilience of the human spirit.
As a first-generation immigrant parent, I also have a heart for Asian American families. Raising two children who are soon-to-be young adults taught me the challenges and beauty of blending Eastern and Western cultures. This inspires my work with second-generation teens and young adults as they explore their identity, strengthen their relationships, and navigate generational differences at home.
My spirituality has been a source of grounding and compassion throughout my life. It shapes the way I hold space for those on their own healing journey. It is truly my honor to walk alongside individuals and families as they find hope, strength, and a renewed sense of purpose.
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Individual Therapy
Life can feel overwhelming—whether from loss, anxiety, or self-doubt. In individual therapy, we utilize evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT).
Both individual therapy methods are highly effective in helping individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and how to reshape unhelpful patterns.
Individual therapy focuses on:
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Identifying and reframing negative or distorted thought patterns
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Reducing anxiety, depression, and emotional distress
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Building healthier coping strategies and problem-solving skills
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Increasing self-awareness and emotional regulation
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Strengthening confidence and a sense of control
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Creating lasting, positive changes in daily life
Evidence-Based Treatments Methods
Insurance Companies We Work With
FAQs
We are located in San Diego, CA, where we offer in-person therapy sessions. We also provide secure online therapy for clients throughout California, allowing you to access support no matter where you’re located in the state.
Asian-American Therapist, Angel Chou, speaks both English and Mandarin. As a first-generation Chinese American, she has extensive experience supporting Asian American individuals and families, with a focus on fostering connection, emotional resilience, and a strong sense of identity.
The intake process begins when you reach out—either by phone or message. We’ll start with a free 15-minute phone consultation to explore your concerns, answer any questions, and see if our therapist is the right fit for your therapy goals.
If you’re using insurance, we offer a courtesy call to help you verify your mental health benefits and coverage. Once that’s confirmed, we’ll send an intake packet to complete before scheduling your first session.
During the first session, we walk you through important therapy policies, including confidentiality and what to expect from our work together. Most importantly, we’ll take time to really listen and get to know you—your strengths, your story, your family background, past trauma, current symptoms, and the goals you hope to achieve. This session is a safe and supportive space where we begin building a foundation for healing and growth.
We offer a sliding scale fee for individuals who are eager to engage in therapy but do not have insurance benefits or are experiencing financial hardship. Additionally, we provide discounted rates to support those pursuing mental health degrees or working in the mental health field, or faith leaders encouraging self-care as they continue their important work.
It is difficult to define exactly how long therapy will last because it depends on the severity and complexity of your symptoms, your support systems, and your treatment goals.
We suggest committing to therapy for the first 3-6 months and then reevaluating your progress. If you notice a reduction in symptoms and the insights you've gained are starting to make a positive impact in your life, you can then consider adjusting the frequency of sessions. However, consistency is key.
Keep in mind that forming new habits typically takes about 30 to 60 days. So, be patient with the process and practice what we work on in sessions to create lasting results.
Therapy can be tailored to your individual beliefs, values, and preferences. For clients who wish to incorporate faith, we can integrate spiritual or Christian-based perspectives into the work. For those who prefer a non-religious approach, therapy remains grounded in evidence-based practices and your personal goals. Your worldview is always respected and helps guide the process.
Testimonials
“From the start, Angel met me with a gentleness and warmth I didn’t know I needed. Her safe, understanding presence helped me unpack buried pain and begin healing. With empathy, deep listening, and no judgment, she helped me trust again—in others and myself.”
Former Client-B.G.
“Mrs. Chou's workshop on depression and anxiety was insightful and easy to understand. Her expertise, clear communication, and willingness to stay for follow up questions deeply benefited and encouraged our congregation. We're truly grateful for her support. ”
Pastor from local church-A.L.
“Angel Chou is very conscientious and a skilled therapist. As an avid learner, she brings practical and helpful skill applications to her clinical sessions. I highly recommend Angel Chou to you!”
Former Supervisor-D.W.
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