About Asuka Garcia, LCSW
Culturally Responsive Asian Immigrant Therapist
“Hey there, I’m Asuka Garcia (she/her/hers). I’m a first generation immigrant from Japan, an English and Japanese speaker, a wife, an eldest daughter, a taiko performer (Japanese drumming), and a coffee lover. I am also a licensed clinical social worker who owns a private practice here in sunny San Diego, California.
Providing much needed support to Asian Americans and first generation immigrants who feel stuck and limited in life is one of my deepest life passions; I want to help individuals seeking my services feel more hopeful and inspired by realizing their true potential and inherent strength.”
My Story
Reflecting back on my life at a young age - growing up in a rural part of Japan as an eldest daughter while living with loved ones with mental health struggles - I can see how my journey to mental wellness has been an interesting road I’ve traveled on. Over the years I naturally adapted to a caregiver identity and was so used to focusing on the health and wellness of others around me.
Care and attention was always outward for a long time, so much so that I didn't realize until much later that I forgot to check-in with myself; I was neglectful of my own health and wellness. Frustrated and stressed out, I still believed that my self-worth was solely based on how much I could serve others regardless of what I was feeling inside.
Finally after allowing myself a safe space to explore my raw feelings and acknowledge the pressure of being a caregiver at such a young age for so long, I discovered a renewed courage to release myself from harmful old habits and outdated ways of thinking.
Yes, it was a gradual healing process - slow and steady wins the race as they say - but it did free myself from my limiting beliefs.
Now, I know my ever evolving healing journey has allowed me to fashion a unique trauma-informed lens focused on compassion and empathy toward anyone trying their best to live authentically through peace and kindness.
My Passion
I learnt that turning toward myself and accepting my own weaknesses and strengths helps me realize my own true inner power. Being able to reunite with my inner self boosts my self-esteem and self-compassion.
I want to share my passion to inspire others by reminding them that each of us is special and unique with important and individual powers to offer the world despite what they have gone through.
How I Help
I learnt through my lived experiences that emotional healing and mental wellness are the key to abundance in life.
I’m passionate about guiding people through their journey by using my HEALing approach:
H - HELP people to increase awareness and gain clarity
E- EXPLORE past and present affecting emotions
A - ACCEPT and acknowledge authentic self
L - LETTING GO of control and feeling liberated to limitless possibilities
I want to use my passion to transform the world into a better place by empowering people to reunite with their own strengths and uniqueness. I want the world to truly HEAL.
When I’m not working with patients, I love relaxing by myself by enjoying my favorite music or spending time with my family and close group of friends over good food and delicious coffee. On top of that, I enjoy playing Taiko - the Japanese drums - which my husband and I do together.
I’m part of a book club, a facilitator for “Anti-Racism Discussion Club for Japanese Clinicians,” and a member of the NASW So-Cal API Council.
I’m here to help you become the best version of yourself that you’ve always wanted to be.
As a woman of color and first generation immigrant myself, I’m committed to supporting people of color and immigrants (including international students and working professionals) learning how to navigate daily stress, anxiety, and trauma.