LONG BEACH - Sam Keo, a clinical psychologist and Cambodian genocide survivor, has opened a practice in Long Beach geared mostly toward Khmer patients.
Keo is one of few clinical psychologists in the Southland with intimate and first-hand understanding of the Cambodian-American experience and the mental disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety, suffered by the many refugees and genocide survivors and their families in Long Beach.
Keo's practice, which opened its doors Friday at 338 E. Anaheim St., is available by appointment only, although he hopes to add hours and staff as the practice expands. Keo can be reached by phone at 562-661-3656 or e-mail at samkeopsyd@yahoo.com.

The author of a memoir of the Khmer-Rouge genocide, which left upwards of 2 million Cambodians dead from mass executions, starvation and deprivation between April 1975 and January 1976, Keo has more than 20 years experience working with a wide range of mental disorders in public mental health.
Keo suffered from severe PTSD and depression after escaping from Cambodia and brings first-hand understanding of language, culture and the struggles of Khmer sufferers.
Keo calls his practice KEOMHAT, which is an acronym for Khmer Expert On Mental Health Assessment and Treatment.
His practice is for those who either don't qualify for county assistance, or fear the stigma of seeking public mental health services.