AP's Focus
Grief & Loss Counseling
Change is hard, especially when a loved one dies, a relationship ends, there is estrangement from a family member or friend, you lose a job or home due to circumstances beyond your control, and many other unexpected losses or sudden changes. The pain, both emotional and physical, can sometimes be debilitating. What you are experiencing is grief. Grieving can feel isolating, frustrating, and confusing as a host of emotions show up, relentless and unbidden. Most of us do not come equipped with the tools to deal with this very intense emotion, and so we get stuck, mired down and unable to find a way out. Grief counseling can help. I can be your companion and witness in grief as you walk this difficult journey. I can help you get unstuck and move forward with your life. You do not have to face this alone.
AP's Other Specialities
Couples Counseling
Did your marriage or partnership start with exciting thoughts of new beginnings, plans and dreams, and hope for the future? Did you merge your lives and friendships, and think of plans to grow your family? Were you in love, with a deep connection and shared togetherness? Did you imagine yourselves growing old together, committed and in love, knowing that your marriage would beat the odds? Has your relationship changed to having more conflict and less connection? Is there more arguing (or silence) and less understanding? Does it feel more like a job, with assigned tasks, and going through the motions—make breakfast, take kids to school, rush to work, etc? Have you drifted apart, leaving you longing for more? Has one or both of you started overworking, over-parenting, and being less available? Is there infidelity, anxiety, anger, or depression? Has the stress affected you or your children’s health?
If any of these things are true, I can help.
Marriage and intimate relationships are challenging because we come to them with our individual life experiences, both good and bad, our unique personalities, and wants desires, and expectations, which end up clashing as the years go by. But, this doesn’t mean we can’t turn things around and find the love and joy you used to have! If you’re struggling, it’s not your fault. Most of us were not given the tools to engage and grow with one another as a spouse, partner, lover, and parent, in a healthy way. That’s where I come into the picture— to help you sort through the challenges, identify areas you may not be aware of, and work to inject joy and create healing and connection. And, I will do this in a supportive and caring, non-judgmental way, not taking sides, letting you both feel heard, supported, and understood.
Divorce and Mediation Services
Whether you are considering or are certain about divorcing, let’s talk. As a couples therapist, I have years of experience helping couples make that ultimate decision in a way that is best for them. Before hiring an attorney, consider speaking to a mediator. Meditation helps to reduce conflicts, establish agreements, and save you a great deal of time and money. I am a trained attorney and certified mediator and have worked with many families over the years. You will see that I am objective and neutral, and do not take sides. Instead, I help to resolve conflicts and facilitate negotiations to help ensure that your family unit “wins”.
Individual Counseling
I also specialize in helping adults thrive in their relationships with their partners, friends, and family. I can help you with feelings of perfectionism unworthiness, shame, and grief or loss. I utilize a strength-based and solution-focused approach to ensure you are always meeting your goals in sessions with me. I know it can be hard to reach out for help, especially if you are worried about increased conflict or fighting, etc., talking to someone you’ve never met about private matters, and if therapy or mediation will work for you. Taking the step to meet with me and talk is better than staying stuck or adversarial. I truly want to help you through this challenging time in your life. So, take the next step towards healing and bringing peace to you and your family.
More About AP
On a personal note…
When I’m not working, I seek quiet time, like reading and taking in nature. I love springtime and seeing when bluebonnets and Indian Paintbrushes are in full bloom! I enjoy long, relaxing lunches, practicing the piano, and getting a full 8 hours of sleep!
History And Qualifications
An Phong Hoang “AP” Vo is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, license #67285, a licensed Attorney, and holds a Mediation certification. She has a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from the University of Houston, and a dual Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Civil Law (JD/BCL) from Louisiana State University.
AP is a member of the National Association of Social Workers and a lifetime member of the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT). AP is also trained in Complicated grief therapy (CGT).
She is bilingual in English and Vietnamese.
Graduate Degree: University of Houston - Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW)
Counselor Affiliations: Licensed Attorney, and holds Mediation certification, Member of the National Association of Social Workers, Lifetime member of the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT), Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT), Completed Intensive Training from the Center on Prolonged Grief
Undergraduate Degree: Louisiana State University - dual Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Civil Law (JD/BCL)
What Clients Are Saying
Real Progress
From day 1 my husband and I have both felt like our counselor has really helped us overcome some of our issues. I can see real progress being made both through our sessions with her and through the exercises and homework she recommends.
Alabama