Annie Kao
A bit about me
I’m Annie (she/her), a Registered Clinical Counsellor and a first-generation Taiwanese Canadian who grew up between Taipei, Los Angeles, and the unceded Coast Salish lands / Vancouver. Before becoming a counsellor, I spent over a decade building a career in the corporate world. My own experiences navigating my sense of belonging and the challenges I experienced during my early years of parenthood became the catalyst for my healing journey, reshaping my sense of purpose. These personal stories weave into the ways I show up in my work as a counsellor.
I specialize in supporting adult individuals from BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ communities who are looking for an affirming space to explore their identities, relationships, and personal challenges. I also work with young couples and parents navigating life transitions, communication patterns, repair, and emotional intimacy. My approach is grounded in inner wisdom, compassion, and expansion — holding space for growth and change that feels co-created rather than prescribed.
What is it like working with me?
I work from a person centred, trauma informed approach that is grounded in cultural sensitivity and integrating various modalities to best support each person’s unique needs. In our work together, we may explore cultural nuances and personal narratives, while making space for the in-betweens—where new insights and possibilities can emerge. I help bring attention to the various parts of us that show up as we learn to sit and understand these feelings (emotionally and somatically) and see where they might lead us. The modalities I often draw from include Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy (helping you connect to body's cues), and Internal Family Systems (parts work).
In my work with couples, I help facilitate meaningful conversations and hold space for tender moments as we strengthen communication, foster repair, and deepen emotional connection. I support couples in rebuilding trust by gently guiding each partner to address challenges and co-create a relationship where emotional safety and understanding are prioritized in the room.
Fun Facts
I am a parent to a vibrant child and a cat mom. In my spare time, I like to connect with different parts of myself by making pottery on the wheel, binging manga/anime, trying different group fitness classes, and travelling. As a serial hobbyist, I’m open to try new things and learn more about myself along the way.
Annie is taking on new clients! In-person on Fridays.
Online and in-person sessions upon request. Sliding scale from $100/session until Annie becomes an RCC. Book today!
Session type:
Individuals, Couples, Adults, Young Adults
Approach:
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Anti-Oppressive, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Internal Family Systems,
Narrative Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy, Neurodivergent Affirming, Trauma Informed, LGBTQIA2S+ Affirmative, Health at Every Size Perspective, Culturally
Sensitive
Specialties:
Relationships, Immigration + Cultural Adjustment, Perinatal + Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, BIPOC, Anxiety, Depression, Life Challenges + Transitions,
LGBTQIA+, Grief, Career Stress +
Burnout, Family Relations, Intergenerational Trauma, Self-Esteem
Languages:
English, Conversational Mandarin Chinese