Fusako Yamagiwa, LICSW
I celebrate our differences and enjoy working with folks from various identities, backgrounds, and relational configurations. I strive to create a safe space for all.
Welcome!
My specialty lies in issues rooted in cultural adjustment, identity development, and other traumatic experiences that might have impacted one’s ‘sense of self.’ As a trauma treatment specialist and EMDR practitioner, I see that symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or addiction develop as the mind’s way to cope with life challenges. My first goal as your therapist is to provide a place to listen without judgment. I, then work with you to develop alternative coping mechanisms, encouraging you to create a space for insight-oriented work. On a deeper level, I utilize somatic therapy tools such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Progressive Counting Therapy to assist you in healing past wounds and fostering Post-traumatic Growth. I also incorporate Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Therapy (MBSR) and other body-centered approaches in sessions to guide clients in employing self-calming skills.
Clinical Experiences: Private practice offering Intensive Trauma-Focused Therapy; Outpatient clinic therapist, Outreach at TAY (Transitional Age Youth and Young Adults) program, Clinical case management in community mental health, Western MA; Clinical training as Rape Crisis Counselor Advocate at Center for Women and Community, UMass Amherst; Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate, Safe Passage, Northampton, MA.
My roots and cultural background…
I grew up in Japan and first came to the United States over 20 years ago as an adult on a cultural exchange program to teach Japanese in a high school in the Midwest. I earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism at a public college in Manhattan. Partly inspired by my own experience of finding healing from trauma through therapy, I attended Smith College School of Social Work. Now, I am grateful to be able to use my life experiences and professional skills to help you expand your psychological awareness and become more flexible with your mind.
In my spare time, I like to visit friends and families in Japan, learn ballroom dancing, and hike and photograph the natural beauty of the mountains and woodlands of Western Massachusetts.
