Ema will be licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 2026, and currently works for HSP as an intern.

Ema’s upbringing in both New York and Tokyo has deeply shaped her understanding of culture, identity, and personal growth. As a third culture kid, she has personally navigated the complexities of belonging and self-discovery, which fuels her passion for helping others explore their own journeys. Ema believes that embracing our diverse backgrounds and experiences is essential to fostering meaningful change and living a fulfilling life.

Ema holds an undergraduate degree in Sociology and Special Education from American University in Washington, D.C., and spent over 20 years working in Early Childhood Education within Tokyo’s international community. During this time, she worked closely with children, families, and educators from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds, gaining invaluable insights into the importance of early emotional development and the unique challenges faced by individuals in multicultural environments. This extensive experience with children and families eventually led her to recognize her deeper calling to support people of all ages, ultimately transitioning into clinical mental health counseling.

In her therapy practice, Ema takes a client-centered approach, offering a warm and nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe to explore their concerns—whether related to identity, anxiety, relationships, or personal growth. She is committed to helping clients tap into their inner strengths, gain insight into their experiences, and develop the tools needed to create a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Whether clients are seeking support for a specific challenge or simply looking to better understand themselves, Ema is dedicated to walking alongside them on their path of healing and self-discovery.