For many South Asian Americans, there’s a quiet, persistent ache that comes with watching your immigrant parents struggle in a world they weren’t born into. You see their confusion at new systems, their exhaustion, their longing for familiarity—and you feel torn. And while there’s truth in their hardship, this narrative misses something vital: our parents are not helpless. They are incredibly resourceful people who survived what most of us can barely imagine.

Choosing the right kind of therapy can feel overwhelming—especially when you’ve grown up balancing two worlds. You might find yourself explaining the weight of family expectations, the quiet sense of duty, or the guilt that follows when you set boundaries—and still feel unseen.

That’s why I designed my practice around culturally sensitive therapy—an approach that doesn’t just treat symptoms but deeply understands the cultural and emotional context behind them. This is therapy that meets you where you are.

If you find yourself caught between wanting to honor your family, your culture, and needing to protect your peace, you are not alone. Protecting your holiday mental health is not selfish—it’s a necessary step toward healing, balance, and authenticity.

Inside are five South Asian mental health tips to help you navigate the holidays with more ease and intention–from a licensed therapist who’s been there!