TOMOMI MIKAWA

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFC #86499)
Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional (CMIP)    

MBSR Facilitator

PREPARE/ENRICH Facilitator
Life Coach

I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families navigating a wide range of challenges, including grief and loss, trauma, relationship and marital concerns, work-related stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.

I have particular experience working with:

• Interracial and cross-cultural couples
• Professionals in high-pressure fields (e.g., healthcare, corporate, law enforcement)
• Individuals affected by suicide loss
• Young adults seeking direction and clarity

My clinical background also includes equine- and animal-assisted psychotherapy, as well as walk-and-talk therapy in natural settings.

Approach & Philosophy

My work is client-centered, collaborative, and grounded in mindfulness.

I believe that each person already holds the inner strengths and resources needed for growth and healing. With the right support, those strengths can be rediscovered and strengthened.

My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives.

Background & Experience

My work is deeply informed by both my professional and personal experiences.

Having lived in multiple countries, I bring a strong understanding of cultural differences, identity, and the challenges of adapting to new environments. I approach each client with openness, curiosity, and respect for their unique background, values, and beliefs.

I also bring personal insight into grief, caregiving, and navigating the healthcare system, which allows me to connect more deeply with clients facing loss, illness, or family-related stress.

Before becoming a therapist, I worked in corporate, medical, and international environments as an executive assistant, interpreter/translator, and medical journal editor.

Education & Affiliations

• M.A. in Marital and Family Therapy
  California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University
• B.A. in French Studies & Studio Art
  Mills College
• Clinical Member
  California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)

Interests & Passions

Outside of my work, I enjoy nature, gardening, meditation, cooking, Japanese fermentation, baking, farmers markets, traveling, and spending time with my dogs.

I also collaborate with others to help preserve traditional Japanese food culture, and I am passionate about animal welfare and responsible pet ownership through education and volunteer work.

A Personal Message

A teacher I deeply respect once said, “There is nobody who does not have issues.”

Life brings both joy and hardship. Yet many people feel they must carry their struggles alone or wait until things become overwhelming before seeking support.

Reaching out for help can take courage—but it can also be the beginning of meaningful change.

I view therapy as a collaborative, person-to-person process. My intention is to create a space where you feel safe to explore your experiences honestly, develop self-understanding, and move toward growth and healing.

I will offer practical tools, guidance, and support, while drawing from both my professional training and life experience. Together, we can work toward helping you navigate challenges and build a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Tomomi