Meet the Co-Founders: Diana Liao, LMHC

Hello! I’m a licensed mental health counselor based in NYC as well as one of the co-founders of Bridges. I help adults in NY and NJ navigate challenges related to life transitions, identity and belonging, self-worth, relationships, and career. I also speak and facilitate corporate interactive healing circles on mental health.

What do you think people should know before beginning therapy?

Some of my clients come to me when they’re at a breaking point, but you don’t have to wait to meet a checklist of “serious enough” symptoms before seeking support. Therapy can be valuable for anyone and we all deserve to have someone help us navigate our lives with more ease.

How do you think your clients experience therapy with you?

I think clients find me relatable, warm, and straightforward. Many have said that I encourage them to think more deeply about their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I think clients also appreciate that I’m not a blank slate and bring my personality and a sense of humor into the session.

What would you share with someone who is considering a career as a therapist/mental health clinician?

Becoming a therapist has been a transformative process for me, in particular as I spent the first part of my career in marketing. The work is rewarding, challenging, and creative. It’s allowed me to use different skills and grow in unexpected ways. One thing I’ve learned is that a career in mental health can be as wide-ranging and diverse as you want it to be: you don’t just have to be a full-time therapist.

How do you care for yourself?

It changes, but at the moment it ranges from getting out into nature, running, yoga, connecting with friends, and being intentional with setting and maintaining healthy boundaries.

What is bringing you joy right now?

I love and have missed live music so it’s been bringing me so much joy to experience that with others again.

What inspires you to continue your work as a clinician?

I’m continually inspired by my clients’ capacity to grow and change; it’s incredibly moving to witness and is a big part of why I do this work. Other sources of inspiration and energy include the community of therapists I have met through Bridges who are some of the most talented, passionate, and compassionate individuals that I have the honor of calling my colleagues.

Diana Liao, LMHC (she/hers) is a Bridges Co-Founder and psychotherapist practicing in NYC. Learn more about her and her work on her Bridges Therapist Directory Listing.