Yiyao Ding (They/Them), LMSW

Tier II Therapist

First and foremost, I want to congratulate you for tending to your needs and reaching out for support through therapy. As Audre Lorde powerfully put, “caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation”. Healing through therapy, although sometimes stigmatized, is an experience that most of us need in the current world, where social distancing and unexpected changes intensify our stress, anxiety and loneliness. I welcome every one of you.

Partnering with me, you can create a space where you feel comfortable sharing, connecting with your tender parts, discovering the strength and resilience already within you, and most importantly, being your genuine self with no apology. That’s the experience I have as a client of psychotherapy, and it is what I will provide to you through our collaboration. If you are unsure about what you are looking for, let’s embark on a journey of self-exploration. Together, we celebrate differences and self-autonomy.

I provide therapy in English, Mandarin, Japanese and Spanish. I am learning French, so hopefully that will be added to my list soon!

My Story

As a 1.5 generation immigrant, who traveled across the ocean with their parents in early adolescence, I appreciate my exposure to many different cultures, which cultivated acceptance, sensitivity and humility within me. I believe therapy is a reciprocal process founded on human connections.

Therapeutic approach

From a strength-based and decolonizing perspective, I utilize techniques from evidence-based practices, such as CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. In addition, I draw on expressive and creative therapy skills through art, movement and play. I believe in the cliched and true saying, “you know yourself the best”. In our work together, you will deepen your self-understanding, which in turn will help me tailor the approach to meet your preferences, characteristics and cultural background. I call it “the bespoke tailoring experience” in finding the perfect fit.

Specialties

I have training and experience in working with: gender, sexuality, intimate/family relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, addiction and cultural adjustment. I have worked with homeless and immigrant populations, and people of all ages. I have years of experience advocating for BIPOC LGBTQIA+, especially non-binary and transgender, rights and social justice.

Credentials

Columbia University - Master of Science in Social Work (Advanced Clinical Practice)
Middlebury College - Bachelor of Art in Psychology, Minor in Art History/Architecture
EMDR Basic training from EMDR institute (2021-2022)
Ackerman Institute One Year Family Therapy Basic Training
Addiction Treatment Certificate from Yale University (2020)
Telehealth for Mental Health Certificate from PESI (2020)