Vivi Wu
Trusted therapist San Diego specializing in trauma, relationships, self-esteem, perfectionism, and life transitions
No matter what you’ve been through, I believe you already hold the innate ability to heal and create the life that you want. Through understanding the relationship we have with ourselves, we can begin to discover how it influences other areas of our lives. I value learning about your life and the unique stories that make you who you are. My own journey of self-discovery inspired me to enter this field and provide others with the guidance I once longed for. Whether this is your first time in therapy or a continuation of your journey, I strive to provide a space of comfort and warmth where you can simply be yourself.
I believe that genuine human connection forms the foundation of healing. With all my clients, I show up as my authentic and personable self in the therapy room. Some background about me is that I’m a first-generation Chinese-American immigrant and have experience in navigating acculturation, bridging cultural gaps, and learning to honor both my heritage and individuality. I understand the complexity of relational and familial dynamics and feel passionate about helping others gain insight into their own roles and discover ways to navigate, foster, and strengthen present or future relationships.
My areas of interest include:
- Relationship and family issues
- Trauma (personal, childhood, generational)
- Self-esteem and perfectionism
- Healthy communication
- Belonging and underrepresented communities
In our work together, we’ll figure out your needs and optimal learning style, whether that’s providing a compassionate space to process, encouraging you to take bold steps, or offering practical tools for everyday life. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Theory, Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and EMDR. I hold a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Washington and an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University. Outside of work, I love traveling, cafe-hopping, and experimenting with new recipes.
My experiences deeply influence my goal to practice cultural sensitivity and ongoing attunement with my clients. Ultimately, I hope to help you strengthen your trust in yourself to face whatever life brings— so you can become the strongest source of guidance in your own life.
