About Anne Lew

I have been married for 33 years, raised two children, and am a caregiver for my grandmother and parents. Growing up multiculturally, I developed sensitivity towards cultural issues and expectations. As a physical therapist for many years, I worked in hospitals, rehab, and home care with a diverse population, including hospice patients. These experiences give me a unique window into physical and emotional pain, grief, relationships, disabilities, racism, sexism, poverty, and lack of social protection. They also foster in me a deep passion for helping the underserved. I have a humbled understanding of life transitions and career changes.

As an Asian American immigrant, I understand the stigma of seeking outside help. And because of society’s message of toughing it out, I didn’t seek therapy for personal issues until my early 40s. I thought my issues didn’t justify therapy, that I could talk to my friends, that things would get better, or that it was “normal” since I had been this way all my life.

The gift of therapy and the right therapist transformed my life. It gave me a passion for helping others benefit from therapy. I also witnessed vast mental health disparities and needs in my patients. So, it led me to return to school for a Master’s in counseling. In therapy, I became aware of the thoughts and behaviors that were not serving me well. It also improved my emotional repertoire. Therapy helps me to have a better relationship with myself and others. As a highly sensitive person, an overthinker, and an over-functioner, I work to coexist with them without letting them run my whole world.

I feel so lucky to walk with people who want to fulfill their full potential and return to their authentic selves. I am also passionate about working with people at the margins. I love helping individuals who didn’t receive the acceptance, validation, and safety they needed growing up and witnessing their power of change and growth.

I acknowledge that I have certain privileges and that I am imperfect. However, I am a lifelong learner and endeavor to self-correct. In my practice, I advocate for equity and social justice.

My hobbies include hiking, traveling, reading, writing, being in nature, rescuing/fostering older chihuahuas, and spending time with good friends and family. And, of course, a good cup of coffee.