Mental Health Counselor
Pronouns: He/Him
Fe’ofo’ofani [verb] – a Tongan word meaning shared respect or love for one another
Kalisi is a Marriage and Family Therapy Clinical Associate who is passionate about working with Pacific Islanders and first generation immigrants to the U.S. His interest in mental health began while pursuing his undergraduate degree at Vanguard University in Southern California. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on experiences, he has gained an appreciation for the complexities of family systems and their profound impact on emotional well-being. With a solid understanding of psychology and a commitment to fostering healthy relationships, he brings a wealth of knowledge to this transformative role. Kalisi holds a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle University. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on experiences, he has gained an appreciation for the complexities of family systems and their profound impact on emotional well-being. With a solid understanding of psychology and a commitment to fostering healthy relationships, he brings a wealth of knowledge to this transformative role.
Kalisi has seen what a difference mental health awareness can make in counteracting life’s challenges. He is strongly motivated to increase access to care amongst Pacific Islanders and immigrant populations, and has worked with the prime minister of Tonga to improve mental health fluency and services in the islands. He aims to cultivate fe’ofo’ofani in his practice, creating a safe place for clients to express their feelings freely.
Kalisi’s academic journey has equipped him with evidence-based techniques and interventions that empower clients to navigate life’s transitions and adversities. He is adept in communication, conflict resolution, and guiding clients toward healthy coping strategies. Kalisi utilizes solution-focused therapy and object relations theory in his work with clients, and is excited to pursue further study and training in these modalities.
In his therapeutic practice, Kalisi places a strong emphasis on empathy, collaboration, and cultural sensitivity. He believes in providing a secure and nonjudgmental environment where individuals and families can share their stories. By tailoring his approach to suit each client’s distinct needs and values, he fosters an atmosphere of trust and personal growth. He is committed to nurturing resilience and enhancing mental and emotional well-being within the context of relationships.
Joining the esteemed team at Twin Lakes Counseling is a privilege for Kalisi, as it offers not only an invaluable learning experience but also a platform to deeply comprehend the diverse needs of individuals and families. He is enthusiastic about combining dedication, knowledge, and empathy to facilitate healing and promote positive change.
Kalisi is a licensed mental health counselor associate in Washington State (MG61601233; NPI# 1073332318). He is supervised by Dr. Laura Wallace, LMFT (NPI 1659515013, License LF60750759) and Anthony O'Leary, LMHC (NPI 1376195073, License LH00004150).
