ABOUT
You’re feeling stuck in your relationship, unseen, or like you’re drifting apart.
I want you to know: there is a way back.
You don’t have to do this alone, and you don’t have to wait years for change.
Together, we can begin now.
I believe no one should feel alone in their relationship. Even when the path forward feels impossible, I trust that change is always possible. My work is not about blaming, fixing, or deciding who’s right — it’s about uncovering what’s really happening underneath, and finding new ways to connect that feel safe, authentic, and real.
“Fanshen’s approach is warm, individualized, efficient and effective. She is able to listen critically and respond with actionable, but manageable steps that make you feel empowered and not overwhelmed. She also is excellent at observing non-verbal communications, which may be particularly difficult for others in remote sessions. Each of those skills allow her to expertly adjust her suggestions to address my individual needs at that time, but that work towards my overall goals.”
— Previous client
How I work
My approach is both intuitive and practical.
I don’t shy away from conflict or intensity — there’s nothing you can bring into our sessions that I can’t sit with. At the same time, I’ll gently redirect you back to yourself, so instead of staying stuck in “they need to change,” you discover the power of “what can I do differently to bring us closer?”
Through this process, couples move from disconnection and overwhelm to self-awareness, emotional regulation, and genuine connection.
Many of my clients feel a shift after just one session — lighter, clearer, more hopeful. Over time, those small breakthroughs grow into lasting change.
A Blended Approach
In addition to my intuitive way of working (some even call it the Fanshen way), I weave together elements of the Gottman Method, Emotion Focused Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, and Internal Family Systems. This unique blend allows me to ground our work in the present moment while honoring that we all carry old wounds. These wounds — and the stress of our relationships — shape our nervous systems, and when we bring awareness, care, and healing to them, real transformation becomes possible.
A Little About Me
I’m Fanshen, a licensed therapist and relationship coach based in California. Beyond my professional work, I’m a partner, a parent, and a human always learning how to navigate love, family, and connection myself. My work, my life and relationships continue to teach me what it means to show up with honesty, care, and courage — and I bring that same spirit into my work with every couple and individual I see.
I hold a BA in Early Childhood Development + Culture from Mills College and a Masters in Social Work from San Francisco State University.
I obtained my license as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2008 and have been registered with the California Board of Behavioral Services since then (LCSW #25004).