What Is Counseling and Is It Right for Me? A Gentle Introduction

Have you ever wondered what counseling actually is, or found yourself asking whether it might be right for you? Many people feel curious, hesitant, or unsure where to even begin. This gentle, story-driven session is designed to meet you exactly where you are.

Hosted by counselor Ivy Chen, this workshop offers an honest, approachable look at counseling from the inside. Together, we will explore how psychology and counseling have evolved over time, using the idea of changing lenses to better understand human thoughts, emotions, and lived experience. You will also learn what counseling is and is not, what happens in the room, and what it can feel like to step through the door for the first time.

In this workshop, you will:

• Gain a clearer understanding of what counseling actually looks like in practice
• Explore common reasons people seek counseling, along with the hesitations they carry
• Reflect on fit, readiness, and emotional safety when considering support
• Learn how to choose counseling that respects your pace, values, and inner world

The session includes interactive activities to invite reflection and connection, as well as time for open Q&A. No prior experience with counseling is needed. Just bring your curiosity.

About the speaker

Ivy Chen

Ivy Chen is a licensed counseling psychologist in Taiwan who works with adolescents and adults navigating life transitions, emotional challenges, and periods of uncertainty. She holds a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from National Kaohsiung Normal University and provides counseling in both English and Mandarin. Ivy frequently supports individuals facing major life changes, identity exploration, career stress, perinatal stress, and the emotional pressures of everyday life. With a warm, thoughtful, and nonjudgmental style, Ivy believes that meaningful conversations can spark insight, growth, and change. Her approach is grounded in building strong, trusting relationships and creating a supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions at their own pace. Having spent part of her early life in a multicultural environment, she is especially attuned to issues of identity, belonging, and cross-cultural experiences, and works collaboratively with clients to help them make sense of their inner world and discover new ways forward.

Workshop Web