Psychologist Specializing in Asian American Mental Health, Available in 42 States

Introduction to PSYPACT

As a Licensed Psychologist, I have an interstate credential that allows me to practice telehealth in 42 states in the US. This interstate credential is made possible by legislation introduced in these states called PSYPACT, Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact. The purpose of the agreement is to facilitate the practice of psychology across state boundaries in the United States.

Which States Are Covered by PSYPACT?

The comprehensive and updated list of the 42 states under PSYPACT can be found here. I won’t list all of the states here but some of the covered states with the highest Asian populations are as follows:

• Texas

• New Jersey

• Washington

• Illinois

• Florida

Who Can Benefit from PSYPACT?

For people living in one of the 42 states under PSYPACT, the pool of therapists is widened by this agreement, which is great news! The greatest benefit is better access to mental health care. For instance, if local therapists do not have an opening for new clients, you have the option of looking for psychologists practicing under PSYPACT in other states. As a psychologist specializing in Asian American Mental Health, I am able to work with people who are in states where they may not have access to a therapist from a similar racial or cultural background. This can happen when AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander) individuals live in areas that do not have a prominent Asian population or in “therapy deserts,” regions that do not have an adequate number of mental health professionals. In my experience, AANHPI folks who live in rural areas of the state may have an especially difficult time with finding a therapist in the first place and the likelihood of working with a culturally competent and knowledgeable provider can be quite low.

In this way, PSYPACT appears to be a helpful way to support BIPOC individuals finding therapists who can validate and understand their unique cultural and lived experiences.

Finding a Good Fit in Therapy

There are many reasons it’s important for Asian Americans to find a good fit in therapy. Working with a therapist who doesn’t understand cultural nuances and immigration experiences may lead to missing precious opportunities for exploring cultural strengths and resilience, intergenerational trauma, and identity issues. Over the years, my clients have said to me time and time again that they experience tremendous growth after working with an expert psychologist who is also Asian American and a child of immigrants.

Free Consultations Available

If it seems I may be a good fit for you, please read more about me here and contact me for a free consultation. I’m looking forward to hearing from you!