Jennifer M. Cui, MSW, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
she/her
Today’s world can be chaotic and challenging to navigate, perhaps in ways that we have not encountered before. Jennifer strives to create a safe space for couples and individuals to be their authentic selves, particularly in times of life transitions such as the death of a loved one, new parenthood, and retirement or job change. She is passionate about diversity and inclusion, and knows that not all people or families look the same, sound the same, or act the same. She utilizes a holistic, collaborative approach that meets each individual where they are. Jennifer implements techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness, amongst others, to tailor the therapeutic experience for each client’s unique situation.
Qualifications |
Jennifer graduated from Tulane University with a BS as a double major in biology and psychology, after which she stayed at Tulane and completed her masters degree in neuroscience. She then attended North Carolina State University, where she completed her masters degree in social work (MSW) and is currently a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in North Carolina.
|
Background |
Jennifer began her counseling career in hospice and palliative care, where she learned the importance of supporting entire family systems through difficult transitions. Her work in a regional hospital's birth center provided invaluable experience supporting new parents during the vulnerable perinatal period. This combination of experiences allows her to help couples navigate both relationship challenges and the profound changes that come with expanding their family.
In her community-based practice, Jennifer has worked extensively with individuals, couples, and families in their homes, developing practical strategies that fit real-life situations. Her approach to couples therapy integrates communication skills, emotional connection techniques, and practical tools couples can use in their daily interactions. |
Specialization |
The benefit of social work training is the wide range of tools and techniques that one can utilize for a broad range of issues. Jennifer has experience in many specialties, including perinatal mental health, parenting, loss, grief, caregiving, and aging. In addition, she has training in sex therapy, couples therapy, and family counseling. She utilizes a solutions-focused, client-centered approach to support and empower all of her clients in a way that is best suited to their own unique needs.
As a certified therapeutic horticulture practitioner, Jennifer offers couples and individuals an innovative path to healing through nature-based interventions. This approach complements traditional therapy methods, particularly for clients who benefit from experiential learning and mindfulness practices. Jennifer's certification in nutrition counseling further enhances her holistic approach, allowing her to address the important connections between physical well-being, mental health, and relationship functioning— especially critical during the perinatal period when nutritional needs impact both maternal mental health and family dynamics. |
Personal Life |
Growing up in a mixed race multicultural military family, Jennifer lived internationally, including the UK, South Korea, and Japan, until her high school years. She settled in Winston Salem 15 years ago with her husband, two children, and rambunctious dog Archie. Time at home includes fostering dogs through a local rescue agency, hot yoga, exploring all of the fun new restaurants and cafes that Winston Salem has to offer, and adventuring in the outdoors with her family.
|
