awareness | compassion | connection

Therapy is a process of being exactly as you are, while taking the next step into who you are becoming.

Aloha and welcome to Shima Therapy, a therapy practice serving residents of California, Hawai‘i, and Japan. We work with those who feel stuck and hear the quiet call toward something more—more aliveness, more clarity, more ease in simply being. Whether you’re feeling lost, stressed, burnt out, or lonely, our work embraces the mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual dimensions of your life. Rooted in Zen Buddhism and Contemporary Relational Gestalt Therapy, we cultivate awareness and compassion as foundations for connection, wholeness, stillness, and the steady joy of coming home to yourself.

Therapy

Therapy offers a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what matters most. Therapy is a collaborative and alive process, grounded in real relationship and present-moment awareness. Together, we give light and air to the aspects of you that have been tucked away—feelings, needs, and stories that haven’t been given a voice. As we hold those parts with compassion and care, they can begin to breathe again.

Therapy becomes a place where new insight, vitality, and choice can emerge. Therapy is not about fixing what’s broken—it’s about expanding what’s possible. You’re invited into a fuller experience of yourself and your life, with more authenticity, aliveness, and connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Our office is in Wailuku, Maui and online therapy is available for residents of California, Hawai’i and Japan.

    Please see the location section of your preferred therapist.

  • Many of the people we work with are successful professionals across various fields. While they are competent in many parts of their lives, often there is a sense of something missing, or some area in which they are struggling. It is common for many people to have difficulty in their relationships, to worry about the future, or feel stuck in their lives. Our clients tend to be deeply interested and curious about the emotional, relational, and spiritual aspects of their lives and are committed to growth and developing their awareness.

  • Sessions are 45 minutes long and meet weekly.

  • In-office therapy is available with Matthew Shima on Maui.

    All other appointments are held remotely through a secure video platform and can be attended on a computer, tablet, or smart phone.

  • Session fees range from $150-$250.

    Please see the individual page of your preferred therapist for rates.

  • Not at this time. All services are considered private-pay, giving you full control over your therapy process and investment in your well-being. Please inquire with your therapist if you would like a statement that can be submitted to your insurance for possible reimbursement, sometimes called a “superbill”.

  • We are unable to provide specialized letters of any kind such as for an emotional support animal.

  • We practice Relational Gestalt Therapy informed by Zen Buddhism.

  • The way for us to get started is to set up an initial consultation by filling out our contact form.  This will give us a chance to discuss your reasons for seeking therapy and for you to ask any questions that you may have. Our initial meeting will give us a sense of what it’s like to work together, which will help us decide if we’re a good fit for ongoing therapy.