Asian/Pacific Islander (API)
The API group is intended to provide a unique and safe space for API identifying PLU students and alumni, to show up “as they are” and be unapologetically themselves. Having a space to discuss how our API identities can exist in our professional and personal lives while maintaining healthy boundaries can be instrumental in seeking community while promoting longevity in this field. It is common in Asian Pacific Islander culture to have feelings of shame and guilt in asking for any support. This space is created to help break that stigma and to give individuals who are API identifying, permission to seek support while still navigating those existing feelings of weakness and shame that may arise. The hope is for this space to provide an opportunity to celebrate our heritage and be proud of the experiences that have brought us to where we are today.
- This space is for us to be genuine and respectful when speaking to one another. However, there is room for passion and respect to coexist!
- Please feel free to give feedback on how this space can improve or feel more comfortable.
- Confidentiality.
- No set leader or facilitator but Alvin will “host” space.
- Attempting to have some physical events to build sense of community.
- Be compassionate. This space can be very vulnerable for folks, so let’s handle with care.
MONTHLY MEETINGS
This group is for current MFT students and alumni of the program who identify within the Asian/Pacific Islander Community
Every Fourth Monday of the month from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Friday July 25th, 2025
Friday August 29th, 2025
Friday September 26th, 2025
Friday October 31st, 2025
Friday November 28th, 2025
To join or inquire further, please email mfth@plu.edu
GUEST SPEAKERS: (TBD)
Alvin Yip - Group Host
Alvin Yip (he/him) is a second generation immigrant from Hong Kong and a first generation college graduate. Alvin identifies as Chinese-American and speaks fluent Cantonese. He has a Bachelors in Applied Behavioral Science from Seattle Central College and is a current graduate student in Pacific Lutheran University’s Marriage and Family Therapy program. Alvin has professional experience as a Case Manager, Clinician, and Clinical Behavioral Specialist. Alvin has volunteer/intern experience at Asian Counseling Referral Service located in Seattle.
As a son of immigrant parents Alvin is passionate about understanding intergenerational-trauma while promoting family healing. Alvin thrives to use his studies, professional experience, and personal experiences to support other API individuals in creating healthy boundaries with loved ones while embracing the rich history and values that API heritage brings. Alvin has a high sense of belief in individuals’ resilience and capability to push past their comfort zones!
Alvin grew up in south Seattle and enjoys long walks at Seward Park. Other activities he enjoys are going to the gym, playing tennis, volleyball, singing, watching romantic comedy movies, and drinking dirty chai lattes.
Chrissy Galipeau - Group Host
Chrissy Galipeau (she/her) is a first-generation college graduate who identifies as a Pacific Islander (Chamoru). She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Washington State University, with a minor in Human Development, and is currently pursuing graduate studies in the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Pacific Lutheran University.
Chrissy’s passion for helping others stems from her years as a military spouse. She is well acquainted with the unique challenges of military culture and the specific struggles that spouses and mothers may face. Over her 15 years as a military spouse, her experiences and insights have prepared her to tackle various challenges.
Although Chrissy’s roots are in the Pacific Northwest, she was fortunate to have lived in Italy and Germany before returning home. Beyond her professional life, she actively supports her two children and is a loving partner. She enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and immersing herself in different cultures.