Background
I was born in Vietnam and came to the United States at the age of 11. Navigating the complexities of adolescence while adapting to a new language, customs, and societal norms, I learned firsthand the challenges and rewards of straddling two worlds. The resilience cultivated during these formative years would later become a cornerstone of my approach to psychiatry. As an Asian American physician and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I understand the unique challenge within these spaces. My mission is to empower individuals to achieve their optimal mental health through holistic practices while leading their most authentic and fulfilling lives.
Education and Qualifications
My undergraduate at Saint Louis University focused on Biology and Anthropology. I earned my Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia followed by specialized training in Adult Psychiatry at the University of Arizona in Tucson, a leader in Integrative Medicine. I moved to Los Angeles, California after my training and currently hold a position as an outpatient attending psychiatrist at UCLA. I am board certified in adult psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Integrative Approach
In my culture, traditional practices such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, and mindfulness techniques are commonly embraced. As I pursued my education and training in psychiatry, I recognized the potential synergies between Western psychiatric practices and the holistic approach inherent in Eastern medicine. During my residency training at the University of Arizona, I focused on an Integrative curriculum through the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine. This internationally recognized program was the first and most comprehensive academic curriculum in evidence-based clinical practice of integrative health. It was here that I learned to take into consideration all factors that influence health, wellness, and disease including mind, spirit, and community, along with the body. I became skilled in the appropriate use of both conventional and alternative methods to facilitate the body’s innate healing response. My philosophy is that effective interventions that are natural and less invasive should be used whenever possible.
Why Pomelo?
I love using metaphors as they can help us better engage different areas of our brain. While it may seem unusual to connect integrative psychiatry with a pomelo, I imagine this metaphor serves to highlight the holistic and comprehensive nature of this approach to mental health. The pomelo is a Southeast Asian citrus with various layers that contribute to its unique flavor and texture. Much like the balance of sweet, tart, and bitter flavors found in a pomelo, integrative psychiatry combines various elements to address the complexities of mental well-being. For me, the pomelo is a powerful symbol for the depth, richness, and interconnectedness that define my practice.
Pomelo Psychiatry 