Therapist listings are provided by BetterHelp. We will earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you sign up through our links.

Aya Okumura

Aya Okumura, LCSW

Therapist in Hawaii

Compassionate LCSW helping people through depression and stress

Continue with Aya Review online therapy options on BetterHelp.
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Grief and loss
  • Strengths focused

About Aya

Aya Okumura is a licensed clinical social worker with two decades of experience helping people navigate depression, anxiety, stress, and major life changes. She works with individuals who are coping with grief, low self-esteem, or the strain of caregiving. Conversations are grounded in respect and sensitivity, and she aims to make each session feel approachable and practical.

Her approach begins with listening. She tailors dialogue and a plan to each person's situation rather than using one fixed method. Sessions focus on small, doable steps that build motivation and confidence over time. Aya emphasizes strengths and practical coping strategies that can be used between meetings.

Over 20 years she has supported people facing cancer, hospice and end-of-life issues, and chronic health challenges including HIV and AIDS. She also addresses workplace stress, social anxiety, panic, and the effects of multicultural and life-stage challenges. The work can include talking through difficult memories, shifting unhelpful stories about oneself, and setting clear short-term goals.

Aya holds a Licensed Clinical Social Worker credential, listed as LCSW. She provides care in English and Japanese and works with people both locally in Hawaii and internationally. She does not provide documentation for disability, legal, or employer requirements.

Starting therapy involves a few simple steps: complete a short matching questionnaire, then schedule sessions based on availability. Aya aims to support people who want clearer direction and better daily coping skills.

This summary is based on the profile information listed on BetterHelp.

Approaches that guide online sessions

Aya uses client-centered work to create a respectful, collaborative space where the person sets the pace. This approach focuses on listening closely and supporting each person to find their own solutions, which helps with depression, low self-esteem, and life transitions.

She also uses motivational interviewing to clarify goals and strengthen a person’s own reasons for change. This method is useful for building momentum when motivation is low or when someone faces competing demands like caregiving or chronic illness.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. Aya will help you decide which methods fit your needs, goals, and preferences. She frames treatment as a conversation where adjustments are made as progress unfolds.

Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current options before booking. Online therapy can make scheduling easier and help sessions fit into a busy life, such as shorter check-ins during a workday or meetings that avoid travel time. It can also help maintain continuity of care when someone is traveling or living outside Hawaii. Licensed professionals can adapt techniques like narrative therapy and solution-focused planning to an online setting to keep sessions goal-oriented and practical.

Frequently asked questions

What concerns does Aya commonly help with?

She supports people facing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem challenges, and coping with life changes. Additional focuses include caregiver stress, workplace issues, and mood disorders.

What is her therapeutic style like?

She starts by listening and then tailors conversation and goals to each person. Sessions are practical and aim for small steps that build confidence and motivation.

How long has she been practicing?

She has 20 years of professional experience in social work and clinical practice.

What credentials and location are on record?

She is listed as LCSW and works from Hawaii while holding licensure in both HI and CA as LCSW.

Which languages are supported for sessions?

Sessions are offered in English and Japanese.

Does she accept clients outside the United States?

Yes, international clients are accepted. Confirm session options and scheduling when you begin the intake process.

How does cost and billing work?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

What steps do I take to begin work with her?

Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to therapist availability.

Therapists on BetterHelp do not prescribe medication. A doctor can talk with you about medical options. If you are thinking about suicide, call or text 988; in an emergency, call 911.

Aya OkumuraContinue with Aya