Sarah Yang Mumma, PhD

In therapy, I strive to create space where clients may explore their inner landscapes and make sense of themselves in their relationships and larger social contexts. I believe that most people have parts of themselves that are affirmed and other parts that have gone underground — perhaps as a result of relational injury, lack of environmental mirroring, or trauma. I seek to develop a supportive relationship where clients can begin to see the unseen and speak the unspeakable and, with self compassion and courage, work to integrate those parts and reduce suffering and experience deeper connection and meaning.

That describes, in part, the process of exploratory therapy but what is a session actually like? We talk. People share their stories— maybe the latest relationship entanglement, feeling burdened with perfectionism, dissecting a racial microaggression that happened in class, or a painful memory from elementary school. I’m curious about nuance and felt experience and I reflect and ask questions to help deepen understanding. I work through psychodynamic, intersectional, and multicultural lenses. I have worked extensively with undergraduate and graduate students in both domestic and international settings. And, I have experience working with a range of presenting concerns including anxiety, stress, complex identity, immigration, and loss. I’ve been described as kind, patient, inquisitive, and discerning.

Prior to moving to Princeton in 2015, I lived in China for five years during which I worked as a therapist at Community Center Shanghai and NYU Shanghai. I am originally from Taiwan and immigrated to the US as a child. My biracial and bicultural heritage along with my immigrant and expatriate experiences have created a particular interest in working with international students, immigrants, people who identify as mixed race, and students either preparing for or returning from studying abroad.

My private practice is conveniently located a few minutes walk from Princeton University campus on 40 Witherspoon Street. I work extensively with graduate and undergraduate students and accept PU student health insurance (students are responsible for their $20 copay).