Meet Asian Australian Counsellor, Yuying Zhao

We know that it's not always easy trying to work out which therapist we might like to work with: Because the decision isn't just about where they're located and when they're available, but there's a bit more of a human, relational element to the decision too.

So here at Shapes and Sounds, we want to help make that process just a little easier.

Every month, we'll be introducing a therapist from the Asian Australian Mental Health Practitioner List to help you gain a bit more insight into who you feel might be a good fit for you or someone that you know.

This month we're excited to connect you with Yuying who is a Counsellor offering services in Mount Waverley, VIC and Telehealth Australia-wide. We hope you enjoy connecting with Yuying below!

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1. What led you to choosing mental health as a career?

My journey into mental health was driven by a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of their emotions and life challenges. Witnessing the transformative power of counseling inspired me to pursue this path, fostering a deep commitment to supporting others in their personal growth and well-being.

2. What is your unique cultural heritage?

My unique cultural identity is an integral part of who I am as a counsellor. I grew up in China and I am living in Australia now, my experience shapes my understanding of diverse perspectives and informs my approach to therapy. Embracing cultural sensitivity, I strive to create an inclusive and empathetic space where clients feel seen and valued for their individual backgrounds.

3. What are your areas of specialty and what kind of frameworks do you work from?

I specialise in areas such as anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. My therapeutic frameworks include CBT, EFT, and psychodynamic techniques. I tailor my approach to each client's unique needs, drawing from these frameworks to create a collaborative and effective therapeutic alliance.

4. What kind of clients are you best able to support?

I am best equipped to support individuals, couples and families dealing with anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. I work with diverse clients, but mostly with Chinese cultural background, considering their unique experiences and backgrounds.

5. If you could be your own therapist right now, what do you think you would say to yourself?

In this moment, I would encourage myself to practice self-compassion and acknowledge the efforts I'm making. I might explore any underlying thoughts or emotions that are surfacing and work towards fostering a positive and nurturing internal dialogue. Self-reflection and self-care would be key components of my therapeutic approach to myself.

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Connect with Yuying via our Asian Australian Mental Health Practitioner List HERE.

Alternatively, if you feel like Yuying may be a good fit for someone that you know, be sure to forward this page on to them too. Let us continue to not only support ourselves but all those around us too!

If you require urgent assistance, please do not contact Yuying or any of the practitioners on this list. Instead, please call emergency services on 000 or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Shapes and Sounds does not recommend or endorse Yuying or any of the practitioners listed on the Asian Australian Mental Health Practitioner List.

Please always consult your GP before making changes to your mental health care plan.