Christina Hong

Hi there! I’m Christina Hong, I’m a provisionally registered psychologist on the journey to becoming a fully registered psychologist. Ever since I can remember, I’ve been a people person, naturally drawn to listening, connecting, and supporting those around me. I found psychology to be the perfect fit for my curious, empathetic nature, allowing me to blend my inquisitive mind with my passion for understanding people. I'm thrilled to be in a career where I can foster growth and support my clients on their path to mental and emotional well-being.

What do you do at Shift?

At Shift, I strive to offer empathetic and impactful therapy sessions, guiding clients through their mental health journeys with compassion and understanding. My aim is to empower individuals to reach their full potential and emotional wellness, employing a range of therapeutic techniques customized to their specific needs. I work collaboratively with clients to foster a trusting relationship and establish a safe space where they feel comfortable freely exploring their thoughts, emotions, and experiences.

What are your academic credentials?

I hold a Masters in Counselling Psychology, which has equipped me with comprehensive knowledge and skills in mental health care. Additionally, I have a Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, which enriches my practice by delving into the intricate biological facets of psychology such as the effects of genetics, hormones, and neuroscience. This fusion of disciplines enables me to adopt a holistic approach to mental wellness, integrating both biological and psychological insights into my work.

Why did you decide to become a therapist?

I decided to become a therapist because of my innate curiosity about people and a genuine desire to connect with them. Ever since I could remember, I enjoyed talking and learning from strangers, I would talk to strangers at parks and on buses. A friend once jokingly suggested I turn this knack into a career, and it struck a chord. That combined with my own positive experiences in personal counseling, solidified my decision to enter this field. To me, I believe that counselling at its core is the genuine collaborative connection of individuals coming together to navigate this wonderfully bizarrely life of ours. In my role, my mission is to create a warm, supportive, and judgment-free space where you can authentically explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

What do you bring to your therapy sessions, and what are some goals?

In my therapy sessions, I aim to cultivate a warm and inviting atmosphere where clients feel heard and valued. My priority is to foster a sense of safety and trust, allowing clients to feel comfortable expressing themselves wholeheartedly. I believe in the power of acceptance and self-discovery, guiding clients toward embracing their authentic selves. Through personalized approaches, I empower clients to embark on a journey of personal growth and fulfillment. Together, we work towards creating meaningful and balanced lives that align with their values and aspirations.

Who do you work with?

I work primarily with children over the age of 12, adolescents, and adults, guiding them through their journey towards mental wellness. My experience spans a wide range of diverse individuals and populations, allowing me to connect effectively with clients from different backgrounds. I believe in the importance of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in therapy, ensuring that their unique experiences and backgrounds are honoured and respected. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, I empower clients to navigate through their mental health challenges and achieve personal growth and resilience.

Why are you passionate about what you do?

I'm deeply passionate about being a therapist because I truly believe in the transformative power of authentic human connection. Seeing my clients achieve their goals and witness their mental well-being flourish is incredibly fulfilling and drives me to continue this meaningful work. I am driven by the resilience and strength of my clients, who inspire me with their continual courage and determination. My passion for helping others navigate life’s complexities and discover their inner strengths fuels my dedication to this field.

What do you do in your spare time?

In my free time, I find peace and rejuvenation in the great outdoors, often spending time in nature to recharge and ground myself. If warm enough and there's a body of water, I will most likely jump in! The beauty and serenity of nature inspire my creative side, leading me to immerse in painting and photography to capture its essence. Whenever possible, I love to embark on adventures to explore diverse cultures, try new experiences, and indulge in yummy cuisines from around the world. Additionally, I enjoy delving into psychology-related literature and podcasts, as they offer valuable insights and perspectives that deepen my understanding even off the clock.

What is a skill that you are currently working on?

I'm currently dedicated to enhancing my skills in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) parts work, recognizing that there is so much to learn! On a personal level, I’m refining my photography style and working through the thousands of photos I’ve taken, which brings me joy in the great memories. Additionally, I'm exploring new interests like pickleball and yoga, embracing these activities for both physical wellness and mental relaxation.

What motivates or inspires you?

I am motivated by the resilience and strength of those around me, including my loved ones, the clients I get to work with, and our community, who continually inspire me with their courage and determination. Time and time again, I’ve seen strength, hope, and goodness prevail against the odds, renewing my trusted faith in humanity. This drives my passion to support individuals wherever and whenever I can. There's so much bliss and radiance among us that I also find inspiration in the world around me—in nature, art, and the unifying universal human experience.

What are your additional areas of clinical interest?

My additional areas of clinical interest include play therapy, art therapy, the Gottman Method, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) parts work. I'm excited to dive deeper into these modalities to better serve my clients and meet their unique needs. By incorporating these approaches into my practice, I can offer more personalized and holistic care, ensuring that each client feels supported and understood on their journey.

Do you have any lived or personal experiences that can be utilized in therapy with you?

Yes, my lived experiences have profoundly shaped my approach to therapy. As a first-generation immigrant and ethnic minority, I've navigated my own journey of self-discovery and finding my place in adulthood. I still continue on my own counselling and healing journey to navigate the ebbs and flows of life. These personal experiences enable me to walk hand in hand with clients, deeply empathizing with their experiences. This fosters a compassionate and culturally sensitive therapeutic environment where they feel secure enough to express themselves openly.

Additional Qualifications

Your qualifications, such as certifications and licenses, are not just titles—they’re proof of your commitment and expertise in mental health.
I hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and a Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences. These academic credentials, along with my practicum experience in Thailand and ongoing professional development, equip me to serve my clients with empathy and expertise. My time in Thailand allowed me to connect with diverse individuals, significantly enhancing my cultural competence and enriching my therapeutic approach. Additionally, I have completed specialized training in trauma-informed care, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), Mental Health First Aid, and over 20 courses of continued competency through The Mental Health Academy.

Available for:

Couples/Marriage Counselling | Anxiety-related symptoms (GAD, Phobia, Panic, Social, etc.) | BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder) | Depression | Exposure Therapy | Inter-generational trauma | Grief and Loss | Building boundaries | Attachment concerns | PTSD | Self Esteem | Stress and Burnout | Boundary Adherence | Life Changes | Grief | Stress & Burnout | and much more...