Professional background
Shiyu is an Illinois Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and a full-time mental health counselor at a Chicago community organization. Shiyu previously interned at a Chicago outpatient mental health clinic, providing one-on-one counseling to Chinese clients across age groups. Shiyu has more than 1,000 total practice hours, including more than 150 counseling hours (including group work). Before becoming a full-time counselor, Shiyu worked in rural education development at a nonprofit organization in China.
How I work
My counseling style blends psychodynamic, humanistic, and cognitive behavioral approaches with evidence-based methods including trauma-informed care, mindful self-compassion, and motivational interviewing. I believe each person carries a unique and profound life story that deserves to be carefully heard and understood. In counseling, I hope to build a genuine, equal, curious, and mutually accountable relationship with clients: a space where it is safe to explore. Here, we can work together to understand ourselves and our connections with others and the world, gradually developing inner steadiness and resilience.
Areas of focus
Self-identity and cultural adjustment. For people growing up or living across cultures, I pay particular attention to the struggles and growth involved in identity, belonging, and cultural tension. I would like to explore with you the experience of being “between two cultures,” rebuilding self-acceptance and affirmation, and finding your own place and voice.
Relationships. Whether in intimate relationships, friendships, or at work, if you find yourself people-pleasing, withdrawing, dealing with unclear boundaries, or struggling to express your needs, I will support you in recognizing and adjusting recurring patterns. Together, we can explore how to remain true to yourself while building healthier, stronger connections.
Trauma recovery. Trauma can be like the elephant in the room: it affects us while often going unspoken. At a pace that feels safe and respectful to you, I will accompany you in understanding its deeper effects on the body, emotions, and relationships. Together, we can repair a wounded sense of self, rebuild inner strength and connection, and regain a sense of control in life.
A note from Shiyu
Hi, I am glad to meet you here. Seeking support is not easy. Thank you for taking this step for yourself. We can walk together from here; there is no need to rush, and you do not have to face it alone.