A Mandarin-speaking counsellor for Halifax and all of Nova Scotia

Why language matters in counselling

Counselling is about putting feelings into words. When those feelings formed in Chinese, translating them into English can take you one step away from what you actually mean. Some things simply don't have an English equivalent: the weight of 面子, the quiet expectations wrapped up in 孝顺, or the particular loneliness of being 一个人在外.

Being able to speak in your first language often means you can say things more precisely, get to the heart of things faster, and feel more at ease. Many of my clients switch between Mandarin and English in the same session, sometimes in the same sentence. That's completely welcome here.

Who I work with

I work with adults across Nova Scotia, including:

• International students at Dalhousie, Saint Mary's, Acadia, Cape Breton University and other schools

• Newcomers and immigrants building a life in Nova Scotia

• Professionals and parents juggling work, family, and expectations from two cultures

• Chinese-Canadians who grew up between two worlds and feel at home in neither language alone

• LGBTQ2S+ people from Chinese backgrounds

What we can work on

People come to me for many reasons. Some of the most common are anxiety and overthinking, stress from study or work, loneliness and homesickness, pressure from family, relationship difficulties, low mood, and big life changes such as immigration, a new job, or a breakup. You don't need to have a clear "problem" to start. Feeling stuck, or just wanting someone outside your circle to talk to, is reason enough.

Someone who understands the context

I grew up in China and moved to Canada on my own in my early twenties. I know what it's like to adjust to a new language and culture far from home, and to carry family expectations across an ocean. I also know that seeking counselling isn't always viewed positively in Chinese families, and that it can feel like a big step. What we talk about stays confidential, and there's no judgment here.

My approach draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and person-centred therapy. In practice, that means I listen closely, help you make sense of what you're feeling, and work with you on practical steps toward the life you want, at a pace that feels right for you.

New to Canada? You might like my article on culture shock and loneliness after moving to Canada, also available in Chinese.

Other ways I can help