Julia Tomoyasu Silveira (she/ her)

I am a clinical social worker specializing in adult psychotherapy and family therapy. As a multicultural therapist of Japanese and Brazilian heritage, I bring a rich, global perspective to my practice. Having lived in Japan, Brazil, and the United States, I am fluent in English, Japanese, and Portuguese, and I offer therapy in all three languages. My work is grounded in cultural humility, and I honor each client’s unique background, identity, and lived experience.

I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions freely. My approach is gentle and collaborative—I listen actively, meet my clients where they are, and walk alongside them as we explore their challenges together. I believe in slowing down the healing process when needed, breaking down difficulties into manageable steps, and highlighting each client’s strengths as sources of power and motivation.

I incorporate mindfulness into my work, helping clients attune to the present moment and explore what can be done now. I also guide clients in developing a new relationship with their thoughts and feelings—one rooted in acceptance, gratitude, and a calm, compassionate view of life.

I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Columbia University with a specialization in Advanced Clinical Practice. My clinical training includes internships in diverse settings, including a university disability services center, a dental school, and outpatient mental health clinics. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a medical science researcher. I hold a Master’s degree in Pharmacology from Weill Cornell Medical College and a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Rochester.

My therapeutic approach integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and other evidence-based modalities. I have experience working with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief, and family or couples’ relationship issues.