Our Therapists

 
Photo of Jixia Ao. Jixia has glasses, asymmetrical hair, and is smiling while looking at the camera.

Jixia Ao, LICSW

they/them/theirs

I work with teens and adults who are navigating life transitions, seeking to understand themselves better, or who are struggling with the effects of depression, anxiety, or trauma. As a queer and genderqueer second-generation Chinese American, I offer an affirming environment for LGBTQ, BIPOC, and QTPOC folks, and people with other marginalized identities. 

I value collaboration, self-determination, and collective liberation. I take a person in environment approach to understanding the issues that individuals struggle with. Our lives are impacted and shaped by many systems and relationships, and I acknowledge and explore the impacts of those connections within individual therapy.

I combine a variety of therapeutic approaches and techniques, including psychodynamic, interpersonal, narrative, CBT, and DBT. My core approach is to listen to my clients and work together with them to help them build the self-reflection, skills, and insights they need to reach their goals and potential. I believe that the best healing happens in relationship, and as a result I prioritize building safety, trust, and client autonomy within therapy.

I’m currently offering telehealth appointments only, and can accept clients anywhere in Washington State.

 

Insurance & Fees

My standard fee for a 55 minute session is $160. I am currently in network with Premera, Molina Apple Health/Medicaid, and the First Choice Health Network which includes Kaiser PPO, Providence PPO, and a variety of other PPO plans.

If you do not have one of these plans, I may be covered out of network by your insurance. Call your insurance company to see if you have out of network mental health benefits. If you have out of network benefits, I provide a monthly superbill that you can use to receive reimbursement from your insurance.

I am able to offer sliding scale/lower cost fees to a limited number of people. If you feel you may benefit from this and be eligible, reach out to me and we can discuss if I have the capacity at this time.

Qualifications

I licensed in Washington state as a licensed independent clinical social worker (license number LW61245925). I received my Master of Social Work from the Smith College School of Social Work in 2018, and I have been working in the mental health field ever since I graduated. I have training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, DBT skills, CBT, and interpersonal and relational therapy.

I have 6 years of experience including my two clinical internships while in graduate school. I have worked with clients ages 13 to over 60, and in a variety of settings including outpatient clinics, first episode psychosis program, homeless youth shelters and drop in centers, and transitional living programs. I’ve worked with people with diagnoses including PTSD, complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, and psychosis.

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