Kamryn Nina, Director of Operations
Kamryn plays a vital role at LivingInsights Counseling, overseeing our day-to-day office operations with care and precision. With a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in organizational leadership, she manages business development, personnel, client relations, accounts receivables, and a wide range of administrative tasks that keep our Japan site running smoothly. Her dedication helps create a warm, organized environment where both clients and counselors can focus on what matters most: meaningful care and connection.
Hilary Valdez, Counselor
Hilary is a published author and brings a unique blend of deep resilience, global experience, and compassionate understanding to his work in trauma, relationships, and high-stress work environments. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Hilary holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, an MS in Counseling from San Diego State University, and advanced post-graduate training in Master Resiliency and Emergency Trauma Services. His Department of Defense career has spanned continents and cultures, helping individuals navigate life’s most complex emotional challenges with strength and clarity. Hilary resides in Japan with his wife of 35+ years. Note: caseload full, not currently taking new clients.
Esther Dacanay, Associate Counselor
Esther holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from San Diego State University, a master’s in School Counseling from Azusa Pacific University, coach certifications in career, executive, life transformation, and neuroscience, and is at the tail end of completing a second master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University, with core coursework completion in Marriage & Family Therapy.
Esther currently resides in Japan with her husband of 20+ years, their teen daughter, and their two Norwegian Forest Cats. She has proven to be a vital member of the LivingInsights team, conducting intake assessments, co-facilitating group therapy sessions, and assisting with strategic communications. Esther’s vast career experience includes work in media/public affairs in both private and government sectors. She is also a seasoned school counselor with experience in public, private, and Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools.
Esther is a member of the American Counseling Association. Her current and valid licensure includes a School Counseling credential from the State of California, and a QMHP-A (Qualified Mental Health Professional – Associate) license from the State of Virginia. She plans to serve as a Military Family Life Counselor (MFLC) at some point in her counseling career. Some of her counseling modalities include Existential, Gestalt, Cognitive Behavioral, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. Under the clinical supervision of a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Esther is currently taking new English-speaking clients residing in Japan who are in need of EAP services for working professionals and/or clinical counseling for individuals, couples, families, children, and adolescents.
