A young woman with dark hair tied back, sitting on a beige sofa in a bright room near a large window, smiling at the camera. She is wearing a white sleeveless top and blue jeans, with her legs crossed and her left arm resting on the sofa back. There is a patterned pillow behind her and a throw blanket on the sofa.

Hello, I’m Lifei

As a Registered Psychotherapist based in Toronto, I aim to create a space where you can be as uncensored and real as you need to be. I pay attention not only to what you say, but also to what may be difficult to express, what gets left unsaid, and the feelings or thoughts that may be hard to put into words.

My approach is rooted in psychodynamic therapy and Lacanian psychoanalysis. My style is conversational and engaged, attuned to what’s happening both inside and outside of the therapy room. At times, I may gently challenge long-standing patterns that no longer serve you, always with the goal of helping you move toward clarity, and regain a sense of agency in your life.

About Me

Born in China and immigrated to Canada early in life, my cross-cultural journey has granted me deep insight into how social systems shape emotions, relationships, and identity. This lived experience sparks my passion in understanding and supporting clients with multicultural identities while they navigate cultural complexities and belonging.

In my previous work with youth and young adults in the psychiatric field, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how attachment and family dynamics shape a person’s growth from childhood into adulthood. I was continually humbled by the resilience people can show, even in the face of profound childhood trauma. 

I came to understand that while we cannot undo what has happened, safe and nurturing relationships can offer the strength and support we need to live with those wounds, helping us find balance, meaning, and a deeper trust in our own resilience. 

This belief has become the heart of my work and led me to further my studies in human development and psychotherapy, with a focus on relational and attachment-based approaches.

Education

Master of Art in Counseling Psychology, Yorkville University 

Master of Education in Developmental Psychology & Education, University of Toronto

Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences, McMaster University 

Professional Training

Foundation in Psychoanalysis, British Psychoanalytical Society

Psychoanalytic Technique for a Contemporary Clinic, International Institute of Psychoanalysis

Emotional Focused Couple Therapy Externship, Centre for Psychology and Emotional Health

Affiliations & Licence

College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), #18663

Canadian Counseling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), #11249776