"If we are peaceful, if we are happy, we can smile and
everyone in our family, our entire society, will benefit from our peace."
Thich Nhat Hanh
About Me
I'm Kaori Stram, a licensed psychotherapist with over 20-years of experience helping individuals (18+) navigate life’s challenges. My mission as a therapist is to provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can feel free to explore your emotional experiences, thoughts, and behaviors and work towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Professional Background
I hold a master’s degree in counseling from New York University (NYU). My training includes specialized certification in AEDP™︎ psychotherapy. I am a certified AEDP™︎ therapist and supervisor.
Over the years, I've worked in diverse clinical settings, including domestic violence agency, community mental health clinic & trauma center, college counseling office and private practice. My areas of specialization include anxiety disorders, depression, trauma recovery, and relationship issues. I also have extensive experience working with immigrant, Asian, Asian-American clients and understand the unique challenges they may face. With a deep belief in your innate ability to overcome obstacles, I'm dedicated to helping you thrive in every aspect of your life.
My Approach
My approach is collaborative and non-judgmental, rooted in the transformative principles of AEDP™ psychotherapy, which is an evidence-supported and experiential model. I describe it is a heart-to-heart, human-to-human psychotherapy. I strive to create a safe space where you can feel comfortable enough to express your thoughts and release emotions that you have been carrying alone. Together, we'll embark on a journey of discovery and healing. I often compare our therapeutic process to exploring a deep cave with flashlights: navigating through darkness and fear, we'll uncover the light of hope, joy, and vitality. These transformative experiences will help you rediscover your inner strength and restore wholeness to your life.
My Story
My journey to becoming a psychotherapist began with my personal experiences. I was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, where traditional values emphasized respecting others, reading the room, and maintaining harmony. While these values have their benefits, they also posed challenges, often requiring me to suppress my own feelings and thoughts.
After moving to the US, I realized how deeply ingrained these values were and how difficult it was to express myself, especially during times of need. My personal encounters with therapy during these challenging times provided me an opportunity to reevaluate and honor my familial and cultural legacy. They also taught me how to respect both myself and others. This journey of self-discovery has given me a deep empathy and respect for the therapeutic process.
Outside the Office
When I'm not working, I enjoy yoga, meditation🧘♀️ and karate🥋, all of which help cultivate my mind-body balance. I cherish my suburban life in Westchester, NY, with my husband, two teenagers, a dog 🐶 and kitties🐈⬛🐈⬛.
Values and Beliefs
At the core of my practice are the values of empathy, respect, and authenticity. I believe that every individual has the capacity for growth and healing, and my role is to guide and support you on that journey. My therapeutic style is warm and collaborative, encouraging open communication and mutual respect.
Let’s Connect
Taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting, but it's also a courageous move towards self-improvement and healing. I'm here to support you every step of the way. Feel free to reach out to schedule a consultation or ask any questions you might have. I look forward to working with you!