Hello, I am Dr. Yishan Xu, a licensed clinical psychologist, Board-Certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist (DBSM) and AASECT Board-Certified S*x Therapist (CST). Currently, I serve as the chair of the Society of Behavioral Sleep Medicine (SBSM) OPEC committee, and the adjunct clinical faculty at the School of Medicine of Stanford University.
I have 3 clinical specialties: 1) treatment f
or sleep disorders such as insomnia/circadian rhythm disorders, 2) treatment for sexual dysfunction and promoting sexual well-being, and 3) treatment for children/teen mental health.
I am the founder and director of our clinic: Mind & Body Garden Psychology. We are one of the largest multilingual mental health clinics in California right now, with 20+ psychologists, therapists, psychiatrists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists. We provide a variety of services:
psychotherapy
neuropsychological assessment (IQ test, ASD/ADHD diagnostic evaluation, etc.)
medication management
occupational therapy evaluation
speech therapy, etc.
I always see the role of a psychologist as a gardener. When people come to us seeking support, they may have too many branches of mental blocks and bushes of stress in their lives. What we can do is to help people be more aware of the branches and bushes that impact their quality of life, and then assist them to trim these parts, cope with stress, and live healthier and happier lives.
I grew up in China and speak both Mandarin and English. I strongly advocate evidence-based treatment to develop a more positive attitude, and to build a life that is happier, more balanced, and more meaningful. Many of my clients have a hard time dealing with stress or transitions in life. Others may use some help with improving communication and relationship. They all have a common desire to take active steps to make meaningful and lasting changes.
MY APPROACHES TO THERAPY & TESTING
I have been trained in various evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), CBT for Insomnia (CBT-I), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness Compassionate Approaches. I believe that therapy requires teamwork and I love to work with my clients collaboratively and tailor treatment to meet their needs. I always try my best to provide a warm and safe environment for my clients so they have a private space to share their thoughts and feelings freely. I often invite my clients to explore their own strengths with me together and practice effective coping skills. The most important aspect of my approach is: It works! I think that is the beauty of applying evidence-based therapy into practice.
I believe that everyone is unique, and we all have our own potential and needs. I want to use psychological testing such as neuropsychological testing as a tool, to help us understand ourselves better, explore our potential, and seek appropriate help as needed.
