About Me
Yiyan Ma, M.C.
Registered Psychologist
My ease with life and people comes as a result of years of personal healing work and my continuous efforts to turn all life struggles into opportunities for growth. Having an interest in the concept of healing at a young age, I often wondered about the meaning, purpose and true manifestation of spirituality in human life. Blessed with an inquisitive mind, determination and perseverance, I have searched for answers to the bigger questions life offers throughout the many chapters of my life. I have cultivated an ever-expanding sense of self and perspective on life and my purpose from a daily practice of mindfulness over the years.
I believe that struggles with the self, others and the world around us can create imbalances within us that can manifest as symptoms of depression, anxiety and many other disorders.
I am fluent in English, Mandarin and Cantonese and can communicate, support and empathize from a lived understanding of cultural diversity. My own experiences as someone from a different culture and background enable me to support people who are facing similar challenges or going through difficult life transitions.
My explorations in higher learning include the completion of a Master’s degree in Counselling from City University of Seattle, a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Alberta and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Law from Tianjin University of Commerce in China. I continue to draw skills, self-awareness, insight and introspection from therapeutic applications which include Mindfulness, training of various therapeutic modalities (Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Compassion Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existential Therapy) and life itself.
My absolute joy in life is to discover inner beauty and the wholeness that expands from it, and to support clients in reconnecting to their true selves from a place of being previously lost, broken or disconnected. I have always had a profound reverence for the wisdom that we all possess and for the unlimited potential we can optimize in life through a journey of self-discovery, healing and faith (or a positive attitude).
I am especially drawn to the areas of healing related to trauma, dysfunctional relationships and family dynamics. My way of counselling is gentle, creative, insightful and compassionate. I am committed to creating a safe and transformative space for you to reconnect to your own capacity for healing. I have the utmost admiration, respect and enthusiasm for anyone who is willing to pursue a path of personal healing on any level. It is my greatest honor and privilege to support you along the way.
Besides doing counselling, I have been teaching elementary and junior high students and working with families for the last eleven years.
Yiyan
