Fabio Cardoso

Education: I am currently pursuing a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology in Marriage and Family Therapy at Chaminade University.

Experience: My journey to the world of counseling and therapy has been shaped by a diverse background. Initially, I graduated with a degree in film from Pratt Institute and later completed my MFA in acting from the Actor's Studio Drama School at the New School University in New York City. Following my passion for the arts, I immersed myself in theater and film. In 2003, my wife and I relocated to Honolulu, where I embarked on a new chapter in my career. I began working in the wedding industry, while expanding the breadth of my work to include commercials, non-profit, corporate, and event videos. During this time, I was an active member of the award-winning filmmakers’ collective known as 3toad films. Through my experiences as a writer and filmmaker, I deepen my empathy and fortified my belief in the significance of context when understanding the human experience. 

Beliefs: I hold the conviction that every individual yearns for connection, a sense of belonging, and acceptance. We all desire to be understood and cared for, and to find purpose and meaning in our lives. Moreover, I firmly believe that given the right conditions, people can experience remarkable personal growth. I am a strong advocate for the idea that we shape our identities through the stories we create and the meanings we attribute to the events and actions in our lives. Emotions, in my view, serve as our guides, influencing our perceptions, beliefs, thoughts, and behaviors. By embracing and understanding our emotions, by truly listening to their messages, we can discover our genuine needs and desires.

Approach: In my therapeutic practice, I emphasize collaboration and equality. I approach therapy with compassion, authenticity, and empathy. I consider myself a humanist who views individuals through a systemic and contextual lens. I firmly believe that one's identity is inseparable from their social, cultural, political, and historical context. This awareness of context enriches our capacity for empathy, and empathy, coupled with humility, enables us to uncover deeper insights beyond surface-level explanations.

Clients: My practice is inclusive, catering to children, adolescents, and adults seeking support and guidance.

Languages: I provide therapy services in English and have a working proficiency in Portuguese.