M. Sara Yap (She/Her)

Psychologist
Accepting Clients

Welcome! I'm glad you are here. My hope is to create a supportive space where you feel understood and empowered to create meaningful change.

Addictions Counselor in San Mateo, CA

About My Clients

I work with young adults, women and female identifying folx and 1st & 2nd generation immigrants navigating major life transitions, career uncertainty, relationships, and financial well-being. My clients are thoughtful and often balance cultural / familial expectations with personal aspirations. They seek clarity, confidence, and deeper connections—wanting to move past self-doubt, burnout, or overwhelm to build a life that feels meaningful, fulfilling, and aligned with their values.

My Background and Approach

As a licensed psychologist with extensive experience in mental health, coaching, and financial well-being, I take a holistic, practical approach to therapy. I integrate evidence-based modalities like CBT, mindfulness, and values-based work to help clients develop self-awareness, confidence, and meaningful direction in their lives. My approach is warm, collaborative, and culturally attuned, recognizing the unique challenges of navigating personal identity, family expectations, and professional aspirations. I believe therapy should feel both supportive and actionable, so I work with clients to explore underlying patterns, challenge self-limiting beliefs, and build tangible skills to create lasting change. Whether you're facing uncertainty whether that's in your life, career or elsewhere, relationship challenges, or feelings of burnout and overwhelm, I’m here to help you reconnect with your strengths and move forward with clarity, purpose, and fulfillment.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I believe therapy is a space for healing, empowerment, and growth. As a 1st generation immigrant, I understand the challenges of balancing cultural identity, expectations, and personal aspirations. I’m passionate about supporting diverse communities, including BIPOC individuals, women, 1st/2nd generation immigrants, and LGBTQ+ clients. I also care deeply about mental health advocacy, financial empowerment, and equity in education. My experience working with middle and high school students, young adults, and professionals has reinforced my belief that access to support can change lives. I’ve worked in community mental health, hospitals, and academic settings, and I’m committed to making therapy an inclusive, affirming space. I believe stability—emotional, relational, and financial—creates the foundation for fulfillment. Like building a house, a strong base comes first. My goal is to help clients create that foundation, one step at a time.

I offer online counseling in the following states:

At A Glance

  • Experience: 13 years of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $250/session

Info

650-204-0594 Email M. Sara
122 2nd Street
Suite 212
San Mateo, CA 94044

Reach out to M. Sara