Meet Jonathan Lau, MA
EMDR & Counselling Therapist

Client focus: Adults, teens, LGBTQ+
Languages spoken: English & Cantonese

I am a Chinese-Canadian and a child of immigrants. Like many, my upbringing was not always smooth. Growing up in a working-class family, access to resources was often limited, and I navigated stigmatizing experiences related to mental health, sexuality, masculinity, cultural identity, and multiple career transitions.

 

Over time, I have come to compassionately embrace the imperfections of my journey, not to minimize the difficulties I’ve experienced, but to recognize how they have shaped who I am and the future I continue to build. These experiences have led me to believe that there is no hierarchy of suffering and we all are equally valid and worthy of healing.

 

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Counselling. Prior to entering the counselling field, I worked with youth and adults across the lifespan, including LGBTQ+ folks, people of colour, newcomers, and refugees. I have supported those navigating school and career transitions, unemployment, housing instability, and access to community resources. I carry with me their stories, perseverance, and wisdom into my practice.

 

In my work, I seek to understand you as a whole person, recognizing your background and worldview. As we work together in ways that fit your needs, I welcome feedback and openness in shaping our path together. My approach is integrative, drawing from EMDR, parts work (IFS), sensorimotor approaches, solution-focused therapy, and CBT. I incorporate compassion-focused and mindfulness-based practices that blend Eastern philosophies with Western approaches.

 

Outside of work, I find balance with creative and physical hobbies, of body and mind. I like to immerse myself in story-rich video games, exploring new restaurants and recipes, hikes, and the occasional yoga session. ​​​