Lori Wang

Since high school, I have been drawn to psychology and have always felt this inner passion to connect to and help others.

I saw that Psychology is a discipline that has both scientific rationality with sensitive emotional insight. It allows us to explore the complexity of human nature through scientific methods while also helping us actively understand the inner and outer conflicts and contradictions we might face in the emotional world. This always captivated me and as I learned more, I became more curious and more understanding of humility and the complexity and power of our minds.

With a passion for psychology and a genuine desire to help others, I firmly chose the path of becoming a counsellor. As a counsellor, I have also experienced the reciprocal healing power that this profession brings. Sometimes, what I feel is an indescribable sense of connection and inspiration, and it is these subtle touches that have fueled my initial motivation and belief in pursuing this path.

I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Victoria in Canada, where I earned a double major in Psychology and Philosophy. After that, I obtained my Master’s degree in the Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology program from the University of Toronto.

Additionally, I have received specialized training in the Gottman Method for Couples Therapy, Applied Mindfulness Meditation, Psychological First Aid, and so on, which have greatly enhanced my skills and competence as a counsellor.

I grew up in Beijing, China, where I was immersed in rich historical culture while also experiencing personal learning and growth in the fast-paced urban lifestyle. After completing high school studies, I moved to Canada to continue my studies. This cross-cultural journey helped me witness both my own and many of my peers’ similar adaptation processes. I had the opportunity to experience a variety of cultural differences, including language, religious beliefs, lifestyles, and different perspectives on various issues.

These experiences have also helped me adopt a more open and inclusive mindset towards the world, deepening my understanding of how cultural diversity impacts individual mental health. They have laid a solid foundation for my work in the field of mental health, enabling me to provide effective counseling to clients from diverse cultural backgrounds.

In our counseling sessions, we will focus on two core areas: self-exploration and care, as well as growth and change.

From the very beginning, a safe and welcoming space will be established for our counselling sessions. During each session, I will listen attentively to your feelings and needs, ensuring that your perspectives and preferences are respected. You can explore your inner self, fostering habits of self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-care in a collaborative process. As we work together, you will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and develop positive beliefs, embracing the warmth and strength within.

Therapy is also a journey of growth and change. Sometimes, this involves letting go of familiar habits and embracing new experiences. While change can bring challenges, I believe that in counselling, this process can feel less isolating and become a source of inspiration and transformation. As your counselor, I am here to support you, providing an environment that is safe, trusting, and free from judgment, and nurturing your mental well-being, encouraging positive changes to take root.

My view of the relationship between a counsellor and a client is like that of “journey partners.” and our time together is a collaborative exploration, where we patiently navigate the complexities of life, embracing the questions themselves that arise and nurturing the souls seeking healing. It is my pleasure to walk alongside you on this journey, witnessing your exploration, growth, and blossoming into your fullest self.

I provide counselling sessions for children, youth, adults, and couples, using a variety of approaches tailored to each individual’s unique needs. These methods include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Gottman Method Couple Therapy, Art Therapy, and Sandplay Therapy. I also prioritize a client-centered approach, ensuring that treatment is tailored to the unique needs of each individual, helping them feel empowered and supported throughout the therapeutic process.

I work with clients with a variety of issues, including mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, phobias, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief and loss, family dynamics, academic pressures, career development, life transitions, and addiction issues.

I explored deeply how cultural diversity affects mental health. In my previous research, I looked into how Chinese culture and traditional values, like filial piety, harmony, and self-discipline, influence mental well-being. I also considered the differences between Eastern and Western cultures—such as individualism versus collectivism, ways of expressing emotions, views on mental health, and problem-solving styles—and how these differences show up in therapy. Additionally, I studied how Taoist ideas (like yin-yang and wu wei), Traditional Chinese Medicine, and other Asian therapeutic practices can work alongside Western methods like DBT. By bringing these insights into my work, I’ve been able to help many clients from different backgrounds make positive strides.

As a bilingual counsellor, the understanding of cultural diversity allows me to offer thoughtful and empathetic support to people from different cultural background. I also strive to create an inclusive and respectful space for clients of all genders, sexual orientations, and abilities, where we can warmly embrace each person’s uniqueness.

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending quiet time on journaling, keeping track of the moments, feelings, and things I am grateful for. I’m also a sunset lover—I cherish the moments sitting on the grass or by the sea in the evening, chatting with friends while watching the sun slowly dip below the horizon. On weekends, I often carve out time to fully immerse myself in LEGO, puzzles, and painting. These activities allow me to enter a state of flow, which is my way of recharging and finding peace.