Professional Mental Health Support in Hong Kong
facing test anxiety in your final semester,
balancing demands from home and work,
trying to understand your child's emotions,
feeling a sense of lost after retirement,
Whether you are
navigating life's challenges can be made easier.
Our counselling services are designed to meet the unique needs of each person. We will work collaboratively with you to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. We are dedicated to helping you find clarity and strength through your challenges, ensuring that you won't have to face them alone.
Whether you are seeking a deeper understanding on emotional well-being, mental health, or life transitions, we are here to listen, support, and empower you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
Counselling Approach
Collaborative
We believe in fostering a partnership where you can actively participating in your healing journey. This collaboration empowers you in the long-run and enhances the effectiveness of our work.
Strength-based
We focus on your inherent strengths and resources, helping you leverage your skills and resilience to facilitate growth and healing. Our goal is to build a foundation of confidence with you to help you navigate challenges effectively.
Integrative strategies
We use a range of therapeutic techniques that are customized to fit each person’s unique situation. Whether it’s helping you identify and increase emotional awareness, or processing negative thoughts without fighting it every time, we will blend counselling techniques to help you confront life's issues with greater flexibility.
Meet the counsellor
MSocSc Counselling (Distinction) from the University of Hong Kong
BA Psychology, Family Studies from the University of British Columbia
Certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Anxiety and Depression (Beck Institute)
Certified in Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy Level 1 (ICEEFT)
Member of Hong Kong Professional Counselling Association
Hi, I'm James Pho. Born and raised in the vibrant city of Hong Kong, I have embraced diverse perspectives from my education and work in both local and overseas contexts, and have encountered many unique personalities. These transitions and changes have enriched my life with a deep understanding of the challenges that come with navigating different cultures, environments, and expectations. These experiences also form the foundation of my empathic approach to counselling. I strive to create a supportive space where people can feel understood and empowered as they navigate their own life transitions, whether they are dealing with stressors from work, family, or relationships. In my practice, I walk with individuals toward their personal growth and well-being, offering open ears to anyone who is ready to share. I have worked with issues surrounding anxiety, depression, stress management, test anxiety, relationship challenges, and parent-child conflict, to name a few.
Having worked in academic research in psychology, I emphasize using research-backed strategies to help individuals shape their path to recovery and personal growth. By tailoring these methods, I work alongside individuals to modify specific habits and behaviours, thoughtfully reflect on and learn from past pain and trauma, and discover ways to nurture meaningful relationships. Based on my experience, I firmly believe that regardless of the size of your challenges, we can move towards significant transformation.
FAQ
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Counselling typically involves regular sessions where you discuss your concerns with a trained professional. The first two to three sessions usually involve understanding the background of the issue you wish to tackle. The process is then tailored to your individual needs and can vary in duration and frequency.
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Individual sessions will usually last 50 minutes. Couples or family session will usually last between 50-90 minutes.
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If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling with emotional or psychological issues, counselling may be a good option. You can reach out to me for a brief chat on what to expect. It can be helpful to speak with a trained mental health professional to discuss your concerns and explore whether their approach aligns with your needs.
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Yes, counselling is confidential. Trained mental health professionals are bound by ethical guidelines to protect your privacy. However, there are legal exceptions, such as if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or if there is suspected abuse.
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Consider what you would want to discuss, as well as your goals for therapy. It can be helpful to reflect on your feelings and experiences leading up to the first meeting. Being open and honest will also help me understand your needs better.