Tae Wan Kim, M.A.

How I decided to be a therapist

As a counselor who was once a client, I still vividly recall the moment when I sat in front of my therapist - a mixture of apprehension, awkwardness, and hope. Though I was stuck at times, on the whole, receiving counseling has been a truly rewarding and joyful experience, which allowed me to be myself.

When I was still a client, I accidentally picked up C. Rogers’ book 'On Becoming a Person' at a bookstore. Although I had little knowledge in counseling psychology, I had no trouble in understanding the contents, which accurately described my mind as if he knew me before. I started reading different books and took short courses in psychology, fascinated by the fact that all the different schools of theories could more or less explain my mind. I guess I was slowly drawn to be a counselor.

After years of pondering my desire to support individuals who are also in trouble similar to myself, I decided to become a professional counselor. I am delighted now to have the opportunities in which I can assist my clients’ journey towards growth and healing.

How I would like to help clients as a therapist

Throughout my career as a counselor, I have learned a great deal from my clients. Although I have received professional training, I highly value my clients' experiences and opinions, which inform how I approach my counseling services for them. In this way, I actively seek to discover each individual's unique way of solving problems.

A strong therapeutic alliance is an essential element in my counseling practice. I have witnessed that within such strong and trusting relationships, clients can freely explore themselves - their thoughts and feelings, shadows and potentials - and begin to grow. I consider myself truly blessed to be able to accompany them on their journeys towards self-discovery.

What my theoretical orientation is as a therapist

I understand human nature through the lens of Humanistic Existentialism, which focuses on the actualizing tendency within ourselves, the meaning of life, and the choices we can make. My work experience in Britain and my graduate study with Canadian students have made me fully aware that socio-cultural backgrounds have a huge impact on individuals’ identity.

I welcome diverse cultural backgrounds of my clients and employ a sensitive approach towards clients who have been socially or culturally marginalized. I strive to make my counseling practice culturally responsive and socially just.

Based on the philosophical principles, I utilize treatment strategies from CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and Narrative Therapy, establishing goals, using imagery, externalizing problems, and facilitating small changes in daily lives.