CLINICAL INTERN
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 intern 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 and has continued to expand during his graduate studies at 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 bachelor's-level marriage and family therapy intern. He is supervised by Dr. Laura Wallace, LMFT (NPI 1659515013, License LF60750759) and Cherie McKale, LMHC (NPI 1528620010, License LH61317695).
