VELA LU, LMHC
LCSW
My name is Vela and I am a dedicated Mental Health Counselor based in New York City. I hold a B.A. in Experimental Psychology from Knox College and earned both my M.A. and Ed.M. in Counseling Psychology from Columbia University’s Teachers College. I have worked to hone my clinical skills through extensive experience in community clinics and private agencies, with a particular focus on working closely with first-generation immigrants, their families, and other minority groups.
FROM VELA
I take pride in fostering trust and connection with my clients and am committed to the helping profession. My foundation of love for the community shines through my enthusiasm about embarking on a lifelong learning journey with all my clients, creating a secure space, and offering guidance through challenging times. I am dedicated to facilitating positive transformations and am excited to be a supportive partner on your path to well-being.
BACKGROUND
Fluent in both English and Mandarin Chinese, I provide sessions that cater to diverse needs. Collaborating closely with my clients, I address a range of issues including self-identity exploration, relationships, family dynamics, career anxiety, and life adjustments. While I utilize a psychodynamic relational model, my clinical approach is further personalized through the incorporation of evidence-based practices tailored to the unique needs of each individual.