Esmeralda (Esme) L. Hoang,
LPC

Personal
I was raised in a Mexican border town and crossed the international bridge daily to attend school in the U.S. This made for a unique childhood straddling two cultures and using two languages on a daily basis. As a result, I am fully bilingual and love exploring the impact culture has in our lives and daily decisions. Before becoming a therapist I traveled the world recruiting international students and then later became a university academic counselor helping students transition into college life and adulthood. I enjoy working with children, teens, and young adults as they navigate the waves of life. I recharge by staying connected to my family and hanging out in my backyard hammock.

I have traveled an unconventional path on the road to becoming a therapist. I completed my master’s degree and 15 years later pursued my license. After graduating, I chose to not pursue licensure and instead stayed at a job I loved, traveling worldwide. Returning to therapy was always in the back of my mind, but the months quickly turned into years. Through it all, I remained connected to my work with children, teens, and young adults in an educational setting. My motivation to return to therapy was re-sparked when the small community I was working at suffered the loss of a parent. Throughout the course of those days, although extremely difficult, I felt fulfilled and called to a different purpose and began the journey back to therapy. I am fully bilingual (Spanish/English) and I refill my cup by staying connected to family and hanging out on my backyard hammock.

Professional
As a therapist with diverse life experiences, I will focus on providing a space where you can process life’s challenges while finding your inner strength. I aim to create a non-judgmental environment for you or your child to discover the skills and strengths to process trauma and life challenges that will lead to a peaceful life.  Trauma impacts our health, relationships, behavior, and all areas of life. Having a safe space to process emotions, calm the nervous system, and learn new coping skills can pave the way for a fulfilling life where you can care for yourself genuinely. 

I provide play-based therapy for young children which allows them to naturally communicate their feelings in a supportive space free of judgment. I engage teens by using games and music while honoring their autonomy and individuality. It is my goal to guide them in recognizing their strengths in spite of life challenges.