Jim Cheung - Trauma, ADHD, Anxiety, Burnout, Chinese & LGBT Professional Therapist in Toronto

Jim Cheung

Registered Psychotherapist

(Qualifying)

About me

Let’s face it—life is hard. Many of us carry the weight of past experiences, feel trapped by self-doubt, or struggle to find connection and meaning. From the ache of loneliness to the turmoil of uncertainty and the sting of rejection, emotional pain can feel relentless and isolating. I understand that these struggles are not easy, and facing them can often feel like standing in the middle of a turbulent ocean, searching for calm in the waves.

I believe that while pain is inevitable, suffering is not. My goal is to help clients find an anchor—a sense of peace and steadiness—amid life’s storms. Together, we explore ways to weather emotional turbulence, reconnect with inner strengths, and develop tools to anchor themselves, no matter how rough the waters may become. In our work together, I strive to create a space where clients feel truly seen and supported. Through a compassionate and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I work to help clients deepen their self-awareness and understand the patterns that may be holding them back. We will explore skills to heal old wounds and foster new ways of coping with the challenges that they face today.

My journey as a therapist is deeply informed by both professional experience and personal understanding of life’s challenges. I have worked with clients facing a wide range of psychological struggles, from anxiety and depression to trauma, identity issues, relationship difficulties, and psychosexual challenges. As a recent immigrant from Hong Kong and a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, I know firsthand the complexities of navigating identity, belonging, and resilience. These experiences allow me to approach therapy with a unique empathy, supporting clients in finding strength and clarity as they move toward healing and a more fulfilling life.

Modalities Used by Jim

I take a person-centred, strength-based, and trauma-informed approach to therapy, meaning I tailor my work to your unique needs while recognizing your resilience and capacity for growth. To ensure effectiveness, evidence-based therapy modalities are at the core of my practice. These are the main modalities I use:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Helps identify and change unhelpful thought patterns that impact emotions and behaviours.

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Encourages emotional flexibility, mindfulness, and actions consistent with your values to help navigate life’s challenges.

• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Based on attachment science, EFT helps individuals and couples deepen emotional awareness, strengthen relationships, and rebuild trust.

• Motivational Interviewing (MI)

A collaborative approach that enhances motivation for change by exploring and resolving ambivalence.

Jim's experience

• Client Diversity: Have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of mental health needs, supporting them in navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, and interpersonal difficulties.
• 2SLGBTQIA+ Community: Have provided individual and group psychotherapy for clients who identify as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, using affirmative practices to create a safe and supportive environment.
• Couples Therapy: As a therapist trained in Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), an evidence-based approach grounded in attachment science, I help couples navigate challenges and build more fulfilling relationships. My experience includes working with a wide range of couples, including heterosexual, LGBTQ+, and those in consensual non-monogamous relationships. Together, we can work towards fostering a more secure and lasting partnership.
• Specialized Areas: Experienced in working with clients facing struggles related to and substance use, sexuality and gender identity, problematic sexual impulses and behaviours, sexual dysfunction with psychological components, challenges related to living with HIV/AIDS, offering focused care for complex, sensitive issues.

Fun Facts

Ask me if I’m a dog person or a cat person? Guess what—I’m both! I’m an animal lover and used to have two dogs and two cats, each bringing their own joy and personality into my life. My furry friends have been a source of comfort through my own emotional struggles, teaching me about resilience and the power of unconditional love. They remind me daily of the importance of companionship and connection.