Clinician Spotlight: Yao-Szu (Carolyn) Tsou
Internal Family Systems SM (IFS) therapy, developed by Richard Schwartz Ph.D., is more than just a method — it is a paradigm-shifting approach for deeply understanding and appreciating every part of ourselves. The IFS framework encourages a gentle inquiry that allows us to understand ourselves, our families, and our world in a new and holistic way.
We are thrilled to welcome Yao-Szu Tsou, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, to the IFS Telehealth Collective clinical team in California. With extensive training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and certification as an EMDR practitioner, Yao-Szu brings a wealth of expertise providing therapy in English, Mandarin or Taiwanese.
Q: What Personal experiences drew you to this field? How did you know this is the career path you wanted to pursue?
I wanted to work in community when I was in college in Taiwan. In Taiwan, we didn't have counseling or therapy back then. People would get severely ill and then went to the hospital to see someone. I wanted to work with people before they got too sick. Community mental health has been a passion. I had an opportunity to come to the US with my husband. That is when I started my mental health counseling process. I have lots of passion around community work. I have worked in the US in behavioral health/substance use for about 15 years since then.
Q: How do you stay grounded in Self energy?
I have lots of tools that I see (visually). I have crystals and marbles in a glass jar. These help in sending good wishes. I learned in Level 2 to pay attention to my body and where it feels tension. I relax my body so I have more access to myself. Of course, when I notice other unhelpful parts are there, I acknowledge them and find a way to bring ease.
Q: What is it about IFS that speaks to you?
It is a lifestyle for me. I also receive IFS therapy. It helps me professionally and personally to be Self-led. IFS helps me feel like my internal system is a team. I have more clarity, and am more calm. I can also access Self when I am more playful. I love that the IFS approach isn't looking for a “fix”. I can connect and provide a space. That feels very powerful.
Q: Therapy is for you when…
… you want to have someone to talk to. Ever since I started to learn about my own IFS, I wish back then in adolescent years that I had someone to talk to. Growing up in Taiwan we didn’t have that support. We are so lucky here in the US to have more support. Sometimes it’s hard to share the darkness with parents and friends, and it can feel so lonely.
Q: What is your favorite analogy that you use with your clients that seems to be helpful to them?
Janina Fisher says, “There isn't a 100% solution. What we have is 10% solution. There is no such thing as a 100% magic solution.” Different tools add to the % such as exercise, diet, habits, medicine. But with all of that added up, then we can reach 100%. We need to have holistic type of experience.
Q: What have clients said about what it's like to work with you?
Most of them share that I provide a lot of space for them. We laugh and cry together. There is opportunity to connect. Non-judgmental. They realize all of their parts are welcome.
Q: How have your clients benefited from the care you have provided?
The IFS model has been beneficial. They become more aware of their parts with compassion. There is more ease and calm with how they present. They deepen the relationships to themself. With a spectrum of therapy approaches, clients have benefited from IFS knowing their parts are all welcome.
Q: What specialties and clinical interests do you have?
I am also EMDR certified. I am specialized in trauma work, community mental health, and substance use.
Q: What social issues, populations, or presenting problems are you passionate about?
Trauma work is a strong passion of mine. I work with UCLA students- undergrad, grad school, PHD. Young adults, helping them with day to day stress. Perfectionism. First generation, second generation of Asian-Americans, ways to connect with previous generations in the adjustments. New immigrants adjusting to the US. I also like to work with parents.
Q: Shout-out to any of your parts?
My supervisor/Self-like parts, they are very powerful. They work very hard to be organized, clean, and professional. My high-functioning part helps to make sure things are taken care of. Lots of good insights. Very helpful.
Q: Outside of your therapeutic work, what do you like to do for fun?
I love to travel and explore- even weekend trips. We just recently went water rafting. It was cold, but so fun! I enjoy good foods and visiting local restaurants. I also like gardening and plants. I have to say, having Google is helpful to know what and how to plant.
Does Yao-Szu (Carolyn) Tsou sound like the right therapist to guide you on your journey? If you are based in California, contact our Client Care Coordinator or call 503-447-3244 to schedule a consultation.
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