Pronounced "Vill- Yena"

Through my creative self-exploration and therapy I was able to embrace the beauty and challenges of being a girl, woman, partner, and mother; and accept my childhood and adolescent experiences as an American-Filipina. 

I was born in the midwest from immigrant parents and lived most of my life in the bay area; as I matured, I found myself lost in different cultures as I struggled to form an identity of my own. I grew up looking different and feeling different.  I have a large scar on my face and struggle with my appearance and self-esteem issues. 

Therapy, art, movement, yoga and mindfulness played a vital role in helping me to get in touch with my feelings and emotions, gain confidence, and self-acceptance.  It became essential for me to help others who also struggle to express themselves, gain self-understanding, to develop their own identities and help them to accept themselves just as they are.