Asian Therapists in East York, ON
Your relationship is worth it. As a couples specialist, I help partners rediscover intimacy—even in the midst of intense conflict. Together, we’ll break the cycle of unresolved issues and replace escalating arguments with empathy and understanding. I support couples at every stage, giving them tools and a safe space to address challenges such as communication breakdowns, mistrust, bitterness, and differences in values, personality, parenting, in-laws, cultural dynamics, or finances. There is a formula for a healthy relationship, and I believe anyone can learn this and find a deep sense of partnership and belonging wherever they are.
Your relationship is worth it. As a couples specialist, I help partners rediscover intimacy—even in the midst of intense conflict. Together, we’ll break the cycle of unresolved issues and replace escalating arguments with empathy and understanding. I support couples at every stage, giving them tools and a safe space to address challenges such as communication breakdowns, mistrust, bitterness, and differences in values, personality, parenting, in-laws, cultural dynamics, or finances. There is a formula for a healthy relationship, and I believe anyone can learn this and find a deep sense of partnership and belonging wherever they are.
You may feel that no matter what you do, it's not enough. You carry a huge weight on your shoulders, which can be overwhelming. It takes courage to face the pain and grief of life's challenges. In my work as an arts-based psychotherapist, I am witness to my clients' courage and resilience on a daily basis. I offer a safe, supportive space to explore one's heart and uncover hidden strengths and resources together. My approach is collaborative, person-centred and trauma-informed. I have worked for over fifteen years supporting clients experiencing anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, family conflict, trauma, and disability.
You may feel that no matter what you do, it's not enough. You carry a huge weight on your shoulders, which can be overwhelming. It takes courage to face the pain and grief of life's challenges. In my work as an arts-based psychotherapist, I am witness to my clients' courage and resilience on a daily basis. I offer a safe, supportive space to explore one's heart and uncover hidden strengths and resources together. My approach is collaborative, person-centred and trauma-informed. I have worked for over fifteen years supporting clients experiencing anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, family conflict, trauma, and disability.
Zahra Jamal - Psychotherapy Services
Occupational Therapist, MSc OT, OT(Reg)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can feel challenging at times, leaving you feeling overwhelmed or stuck. You may be experiencing feelings of sadness, worry, anger, shame, fear, grief or despair. Struggling with difficult emotions can take away from living in the present moment. Instead you may find yourself dealing with anxiety, self-criticism, over-thinking, reliving painful memories and stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Together we will slow things down so we can explore your experiences and the parts of you that may be hard to understand.
Life can feel challenging at times, leaving you feeling overwhelmed or stuck. You may be experiencing feelings of sadness, worry, anger, shame, fear, grief or despair. Struggling with difficult emotions can take away from living in the present moment. Instead you may find yourself dealing with anxiety, self-criticism, over-thinking, reliving painful memories and stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Together we will slow things down so we can explore your experiences and the parts of you that may be hard to understand.
Jocelyn Hsu
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, like life is especially hard right now. You might be overwhelmed by current challenges, exhausted from past trauma, or anxious about the future. If you’re ready to focus on growth and mental well-being, I’m here to support you. With over 18 years of experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds, I’ve helped many through tough situations, including trauma across various stages of life. I offer individual, couple, and family sessions, each tailored to meet your unique needs as you face these challenges.
Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, like life is especially hard right now. You might be overwhelmed by current challenges, exhausted from past trauma, or anxious about the future. If you’re ready to focus on growth and mental well-being, I’m here to support you. With over 18 years of experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds, I’ve helped many through tough situations, including trauma across various stages of life. I offer individual, couple, and family sessions, each tailored to meet your unique needs as you face these challenges.
More Therapists Nearby
Harry Au | Asian Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
There’s a reason you have a “giver” personality…because the Asian family experience is unique…and as such, you need a guide who can understand these intricacies – your sense of duty to family, saving face, constant comparisons to others, and sometimes even family violence.
You’re a giver, and you put in 1000% to care for everyone around you. On the surface, everyone seems to love you, and you seem to have it all. But underneath all that, you feel a sense of loneliness. This is a common experience for many clients I help. Stuck in a web of family and friends, and a hurricane of obligations, you find yourself sacrificing your own needs for others. And the worst part is, sometimes, you don’t even know what you want for yourself! Then your Inner Critic sets in, and you beat yourself up for all the things you feel like you did wrong. And you wonder to yourself, "Will I ever be happy?"
There’s a reason you have a “giver” personality…because the Asian family experience is unique…and as such, you need a guide who can understand these intricacies – your sense of duty to family, saving face, constant comparisons to others, and sometimes even family violence.
You’re a giver, and you put in 1000% to care for everyone around you. On the surface, everyone seems to love you, and you seem to have it all. But underneath all that, you feel a sense of loneliness. This is a common experience for many clients I help. Stuck in a web of family and friends, and a hurricane of obligations, you find yourself sacrificing your own needs for others. And the worst part is, sometimes, you don’t even know what you want for yourself! Then your Inner Critic sets in, and you beat yourself up for all the things you feel like you did wrong. And you wonder to yourself, "Will I ever be happy?"
Isayah Alexander Javier Alman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Proudly serving the Filipino and East Asian community.
I support youth and adults who struggle with self-doubt, lack of motivation, and feeling “stuck”. I am a Registered Social Worker with experience in crisis response, addictions counseling, child and youth work, and academic research. My approach integrates psychology and social work. I help people examine how life events and their living environment influences overall mental well-being. I believe that you are the expert of your lived experience, and I work with you to analyze your life story, reveal patterns of difficulty, and uncover hidden strengths.
Proudly serving the Filipino and East Asian community.
I support youth and adults who struggle with self-doubt, lack of motivation, and feeling “stuck”. I am a Registered Social Worker with experience in crisis response, addictions counseling, child and youth work, and academic research. My approach integrates psychology and social work. I help people examine how life events and their living environment influences overall mental well-being. I believe that you are the expert of your lived experience, and I work with you to analyze your life story, reveal patterns of difficulty, and uncover hidden strengths.
I focus on helping South Asian women navigate family conflict, people-pleasing, and self-care.
You’ve always put others first. You're keeping the peace, meeting expectations, and making sure no one is disappointed. But lately, it’s exhausting. You feel guilty setting boundaries, struggle with family dynamics, and wonder if you’ll ever feel truly at ease. Stress, self-doubt, and people-pleasing have taken a toll on your well-being. You want to find balance between honouring your cultural values and prioritizing yourself, but you’re unsure how. Therapy can help you untangle these patterns and build the confidence to make choices that align with your needs and not just everyone else’s.
I focus on helping South Asian women navigate family conflict, people-pleasing, and self-care.
You’ve always put others first. You're keeping the peace, meeting expectations, and making sure no one is disappointed. But lately, it’s exhausting. You feel guilty setting boundaries, struggle with family dynamics, and wonder if you’ll ever feel truly at ease. Stress, self-doubt, and people-pleasing have taken a toll on your well-being. You want to find balance between honouring your cultural values and prioritizing yourself, but you’re unsure how. Therapy can help you untangle these patterns and build the confidence to make choices that align with your needs and not just everyone else’s.
As someone with South Asian roots, I recognize the complexities that culture and religion can bring to life experiences.
I have extensive experience working with non-profit organizations, supporting marginalized populations. In addition to my private practice, I am committed to serving the community as a counselor with Fraser Health.
As someone with South Asian roots, I recognize the complexities that culture and religion can bring to life experiences.
I have extensive experience working with non-profit organizations, supporting marginalized populations. In addition to my private practice, I am committed to serving the community as a counselor with Fraser Health.
Eva Sin, RP--Essence of Light
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5A
I identify as a cis-gender, racialized Asian woman whose approach embraces a wholistic, reflective, equity-seeking, anti-oppressive/anti-racist decolonized lens.
Healing begins with reclaiming ALL of who YOU are, especially the forgotten and hidden parts that were too painful to feel. Using various combinations of EFT, Parts Work, Reclaiming Your Inner Child, Reparenting, Chakra Balancing, Body Centered Psychotherapy, and Energy Healing recalibrates you back into the safety of Now. THIS is where your power lies.
I identify as a cis-gender, racialized Asian woman whose approach embraces a wholistic, reflective, equity-seeking, anti-oppressive/anti-racist decolonized lens.
Healing begins with reclaiming ALL of who YOU are, especially the forgotten and hidden parts that were too painful to feel. Using various combinations of EFT, Parts Work, Reclaiming Your Inner Child, Reparenting, Chakra Balancing, Body Centered Psychotherapy, and Energy Healing recalibrates you back into the safety of Now. THIS is where your power lies.
Also, as South Asian woman and an immigrant myself, I can very well understand and relate to the culture and struggles of being an immigrant.
I believe that when we come to therapy, we have the potential to heal ourselves. We are the masters of our own paths in life. It’s the circumstances in our lives—such as our social environment and various other factors—which can prevent us from living up to our full potential. I believe that through therapy, these hidden potentials can be realized. As a therapist, I act as a facilitator to help my clients see what they already have inside of them, foster self-acceptance, and help them reach their life goals through discovery of the self and of one’s own strengths.
Also, as South Asian woman and an immigrant myself, I can very well understand and relate to the culture and struggles of being an immigrant.
I believe that when we come to therapy, we have the potential to heal ourselves. We are the masters of our own paths in life. It’s the circumstances in our lives—such as our social environment and various other factors—which can prevent us from living up to our full potential. I believe that through therapy, these hidden potentials can be realized. As a therapist, I act as a facilitator to help my clients see what they already have inside of them, foster self-acceptance, and help them reach their life goals through discovery of the self and of one’s own strengths.
People connect with me to help understand and address the negative impact of how they were raised, specifically within Asian cultures.
Work we do will go deep to help tackle the root cause of your concerns. The hope is to help you feel more confident about yourself, learn to set healthy boundaries with others, and better express your needs. You will understand and manage unpleasant emotions better, learn to accept yourself, improve your self-worth and stand up for yourself.
People connect with me to help understand and address the negative impact of how they were raised, specifically within Asian cultures.
Work we do will go deep to help tackle the root cause of your concerns. The hope is to help you feel more confident about yourself, learn to set healthy boundaries with others, and better express your needs. You will understand and manage unpleasant emotions better, learn to accept yourself, improve your self-worth and stand up for yourself.
5 generation Asian Canadian Psychologist.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in helping people feel more secure. Whether that is within your relationships, or within yourself, you deserve to feel confident, valued, and worthwhile. I assist clients who struggle with self-doubt, low self-esteem, or feel self-critical or inadequate. Together, we will transform how you connect to yourself and others. We will work towards greater self-understanding, develop emotional awareness and self-compassion, and develop coping skills so that you can feel more at ease in your life and relationships.
5 generation Asian Canadian Psychologist.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in helping people feel more secure. Whether that is within your relationships, or within yourself, you deserve to feel confident, valued, and worthwhile. I assist clients who struggle with self-doubt, low self-esteem, or feel self-critical or inadequate. Together, we will transform how you connect to yourself and others. We will work towards greater self-understanding, develop emotional awareness and self-compassion, and develop coping skills so that you can feel more at ease in your life and relationships.
Zhirui Rae Zhao
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M3B
I have particular expertise in East Asian family trauma, offering culturally sensitive support.
You’re the go-to person for everyone else—but who supports you? You may be the ones juggling responsibility, emotions, and relationships (sometimes barely) while quietly wondering, “When is it my turn?”. You may be an over-compromised partner, an exhausted parent, a burnt-out employee, a high-achiever, a lost soul in the self-discovery journey, or someone navigating the long tail of trauma and chronic illness. You want to stop repeating old patterns, feel more at home in your relationships—and in yourself. You’re looking for insight, clarity, and tools that actually work in the real world, not just in theory.
I have particular expertise in East Asian family trauma, offering culturally sensitive support.
You’re the go-to person for everyone else—but who supports you? You may be the ones juggling responsibility, emotions, and relationships (sometimes barely) while quietly wondering, “When is it my turn?”. You may be an over-compromised partner, an exhausted parent, a burnt-out employee, a high-achiever, a lost soul in the self-discovery journey, or someone navigating the long tail of trauma and chronic illness. You want to stop repeating old patterns, feel more at home in your relationships—and in yourself. You’re looking for insight, clarity, and tools that actually work in the real world, not just in theory.
Viveka Ichikawa
Registered Social Worker, PhD (C), MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5S
I specialize in Trauma and PTSD, racial, gender/sexual identity, mixed-race identity, Asian identity, and critical multi-cultural/language couple therapy
Whether this is a new journey for you or a return— I'm glad you're here!
I work with individuals, couples and families primarily from immigrant, racialized, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities, both in-person and virtually in Ontario, and virtually in BC.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in trauma-informed, culturally-responsive, intersectional, anti-racist, feminist, and 2SLGBTQ+-affirming values. I support individuals living with identity-based trauma, experiences related to mixed-race identity, settlement and migration, family dynamics, mental health concerns, and stress management.
I specialize in Trauma and PTSD, racial, gender/sexual identity, mixed-race identity, Asian identity, and critical multi-cultural/language couple therapy
Whether this is a new journey for you or a return— I'm glad you're here!
I work with individuals, couples and families primarily from immigrant, racialized, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities, both in-person and virtually in Ontario, and virtually in BC.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in trauma-informed, culturally-responsive, intersectional, anti-racist, feminist, and 2SLGBTQ+-affirming values. I support individuals living with identity-based trauma, experiences related to mixed-race identity, settlement and migration, family dynamics, mental health concerns, and stress management.
5-2nd generation Asian experience), hindered in decision-making and experiencing emotional overload.
My name is Joe, a registered social worker with over ten years of experience in various settings (i.e. community mental health, schools, treatment centers..). I'm currently accepting new clients and offer free initial consultations (please connect via email). My approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative, finding a balance between different evidence-informed approaches that are anti-oppressive. Whether you're an individual, a young adult, or part of a couple or family, I'm here to collaborate with you on enhancing your mental health that is sensitive to the intersections of your identity.
5-2nd generation Asian experience), hindered in decision-making and experiencing emotional overload.
My name is Joe, a registered social worker with over ten years of experience in various settings (i.e. community mental health, schools, treatment centers..). I'm currently accepting new clients and offer free initial consultations (please connect via email). My approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative, finding a balance between different evidence-informed approaches that are anti-oppressive. Whether you're an individual, a young adult, or part of a couple or family, I'm here to collaborate with you on enhancing your mental health that is sensitive to the intersections of your identity.
As an Asian first-generation immigrant, I have personal experience with cultural conflict in my relationships and career.
I help neurodivergent (autism, ADHD), queer, immigrant, and minority clients build their self-esteem and cultivate meaningful relationships. I also support students and working professionals with career transitions and stress management. Poor boundaries, people-pleasing, and relationship anxiety can come about when you consistently receive the message that your needs are not as important as somebody else's. Although masking your genuine self may have aided you through difficult times, losing touch with who you really are will only bring you farther from what you actually want and need.
As an Asian first-generation immigrant, I have personal experience with cultural conflict in my relationships and career.
I help neurodivergent (autism, ADHD), queer, immigrant, and minority clients build their self-esteem and cultivate meaningful relationships. I also support students and working professionals with career transitions and stress management. Poor boundaries, people-pleasing, and relationship anxiety can come about when you consistently receive the message that your needs are not as important as somebody else's. Although masking your genuine self may have aided you through difficult times, losing touch with who you really are will only bring you farther from what you actually want and need.
I am an open and approachable 2nd gen Asian-Canadian who believes that therapy should feel like an authentic partnership.
It can be difficult to reach out for support when we feel as though we are caught in the currents of life. Perhaps you've momentarily lost track of your anchor and don't know how to find your way back or maybe you've been floating in the ocean for as long as you remember. Your circumstances and experiences are unique, but you don't have to be alone on your journey. I strive to use my professional training and unique insight from my lived experience to create a safe, non-judgmental and collaborative space where you can be free to explore your identity, experiences and internal processes.
I am an open and approachable 2nd gen Asian-Canadian who believes that therapy should feel like an authentic partnership.
It can be difficult to reach out for support when we feel as though we are caught in the currents of life. Perhaps you've momentarily lost track of your anchor and don't know how to find your way back or maybe you've been floating in the ocean for as long as you remember. Your circumstances and experiences are unique, but you don't have to be alone on your journey. I strive to use my professional training and unique insight from my lived experience to create a safe, non-judgmental and collaborative space where you can be free to explore your identity, experiences and internal processes.
Jenny Liu
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BHSc, MEd
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm Jenny, and I specialize in supporting first- and second-generation immigrants of Asian backgrounds through life transitions, anxiety, perfectionism, relationship challenges, and family dynamics.
With my experience working in hospital-based settings, I understand the importance of tailoring therapy to honor your cultural context and unique experiences. I specialize in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy with mindfulness-based techniques, Attachment-Focused Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I'm Jenny, and I specialize in supporting first- and second-generation immigrants of Asian backgrounds through life transitions, anxiety, perfectionism, relationship challenges, and family dynamics.
With my experience working in hospital-based settings, I understand the importance of tailoring therapy to honor your cultural context and unique experiences. I specialize in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy with mindfulness-based techniques, Attachment-Focused Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
As a visibly Muslim, hijab-wearing, South Asian woman, I understand firsthand the complexities of navigating mental health while balancing cultural expectations, systemic barriers, and personal growth.
As a child of immigrants, I know how hard it can be to prioritize mental health, especially in cultures where it's stigmatized. Thus, I believe seeking therapy is a courageous act of self-care, particularly amid the isolation of mental health challenges. I take an intersectional approach, understanding how culture, race, gender, and unseen identities shape well-being. I aim to create a safe space to explore your emotions without having to justify them. I don't believe one part of our identity defines us—instead, I help you uncover strengths, foster growth, and create meaningful change that reflects your own experiences and contexts.
As a visibly Muslim, hijab-wearing, South Asian woman, I understand firsthand the complexities of navigating mental health while balancing cultural expectations, systemic barriers, and personal growth.
As a child of immigrants, I know how hard it can be to prioritize mental health, especially in cultures where it's stigmatized. Thus, I believe seeking therapy is a courageous act of self-care, particularly amid the isolation of mental health challenges. I take an intersectional approach, understanding how culture, race, gender, and unseen identities shape well-being. I aim to create a safe space to explore your emotions without having to justify them. I don't believe one part of our identity defines us—instead, I help you uncover strengths, foster growth, and create meaningful change that reflects your own experiences and contexts.
In Asian cultures like mine, you're expected to sacrifice yourself for the good of others, and in Canadian culture, you're expected to be assertive.
I use experiential therapies to address the parts of you that hold trauma or pain, often connected to childhood, so these parts help you rather than block you in your relationships and personal goals. I use modalities like internal family systems, emotion-focused therapy and focusing, which promote mind-body and right-left brain integration.
In Asian cultures like mine, you're expected to sacrifice yourself for the good of others, and in Canadian culture, you're expected to be assertive.
I use experiential therapies to address the parts of you that hold trauma or pain, often connected to childhood, so these parts help you rather than block you in your relationships and personal goals. I use modalities like internal family systems, emotion-focused therapy and focusing, which promote mind-body and right-left brain integration.
Nearby Asian Counsellors Searches for East York
- Etobicoke
- Markham
- Mississauga
- North York
- Pickering
- Richmond Hill
- Scarborough
- Thornhill
- Toronto
- Unionville
- Vaughan
- York
Asian Counsellors
Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?
A culturally sensitive therapist would be respectful and considerate of different groups, with regard to race, sexual orientation, gender, and other factors that are important to an individual. These considerations can help a client feel understood as well as validated. While some people think highlighting race could promote stereotypes and bias, more understanding and knowledge about cultural differences is a positive for a healthy therapeutic alliance.
How can I recognise an effective Asian therapist?
You can discern a lot by asking how familiar the potential therapist is with different cultures, as well as asking how they might address issues related to identity, values, and beliefs. Also inquire about their education, as well as any particular training they may have completed, such as cultural sensitivity or diversity and inclusion programs.
What if the therapist does not have my exact background?
The therapist may not share a client’s exact background, but the therapist may have plenty of hands-on experience as well as the sensitivity needed for therapeutic progress. Their sensitivity to different populations will help the client feel accepted and comfortable in sharing their concerns and difficulties.
How might I inquire about a therapist's experience with Asian clients?
A therapist with an Asian background may have experience within their community, as well as broader cultural sensitivity. Ask the potential therapist whether they've worked with individuals who share your background. If they have not worked with similar clients, they may well know someone who has such experience.
Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of Asian therapists?
The directory of Asian therapists includes professionals who have shared their ethnicity in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist who can provide a cultural match. However, not all therapists choose to disclose their ethnicity in their profiles, and they may not appear in search results for this reason; also, when the number of therapists identified as Asian is limited, the directory will also show therapists with comprehensive experience working with clients from relevant backgrounds.