I received my Master's in Social Work at Columbia University in 2003, followed by 10 years working in New York City, and 10 in the Bay Area. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults, as well as parents. I also have extensive experience working with neurodiverse teens and adults.
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I approach my work with curiosity, honesty, and humor. Important things we hold dear to our hearts should always be taken seriously with intention. And while there are so many things in this world to take seriously, I like to find ways to see the humor, the light, and even the absurdity in things. Some might be surprised how healing it can be.
About Me
My Story
​​"Kilaine" is a mix of my parent's first names. My mother is from the Midwestern United States, the daughter of an Australian immigrant with Czech roots. My father is an immigrant from Hong Kong, who came to the US solo at 19 years old for school. When they met in college, they found family in one another. Over time, they built a life together based on love, trust, and adventure.
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I relate to the adventurous side of my father, who took a chance on moving 8000 miles away to a place he had only read about. I think I inherited his energy, playful personality, and his direct and honest approach.
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I do my best to exude my mother's kindness, dedication to her family, and her drive to help others. Growing up, she always created a home where I felt safe, loved, and heard. I try to be the kind of mother that she was to me.
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We lived in Tokyo in the 1980s for the majority of my childhood. I grew up with kids from all over the world, mostly who were living in a place that they were not from and likely would not stay. It allowed me to learn the importance of adaptation to change and how to see the world through a global perspective.
