Michelle Joo, M.A.
Registered Associate Marriage & Family Therapist
AMFT 149574
Supervised by Steven Kinstler, M.A.
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
LMFT 90555
(650) 961-5798
EDUCATION:
M.A. Counseling, Western Seminary
M.A. Intercultural Studies, Fuller Seminary
B.A. Psychology, University of California Berkeley
LANGUAGES:
Korean
Spanish
CERTIFICATIONS | MEMBERSHIPS:
California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)
PREPARE/ENRICH Facilitator
Brainspotting Phase 1
Brainspotting Phase 2
CLIENT POPULATION:
Adults
Couples
Adolescents
Children
Families
Adoptive Families
Blended Families
Clergy
Organizations
AREAS OF FOCUS:
Anxiety
Childhood Abuse
Depression
Domestic Violence
Family of Origin Issues
Grief and Loss
PTSD
Spiritual Issues
ABOUT MICHELLE:
Born in Korea and raised in California, Michelle is fully bilingual and has a deep understanding of immigrant family dynamics and the complexities of generational and cultural conflicts. With a background in Fortune 500 companies, she is also familiar with the performance-driven culture of Silicon Valley, making her particularly effective for intellectual clients who find it challenging to express their emotions or discuss personal issues. Additionally, Michelle has experience in community mental health, working with survivors of domestic violence, youth dealing with self-harming behaviors and suicidal ideation, and youth in the foster care system.
Michelle is a certified facilitator in PREPARE/ENRICH for premarital and marriage counseling and is trained in Brainspotting, an evidence-based intervention for processing trauma and emotional distress. She is dedicated to helping clients heal from past trauma, childhood wounds, attachment difficulties, spiritual abuse, anxiety, and depression.
Passionate about raising awareness and reducing stigma around mental health, Michelle aims to normalize therapy and encourage more people to seek the support they need. Her compassionate approach creates a safe and supportive environment that helps clients navigate their unique challenges and promotes personal growth.