Serena is currently accepting new clients

Serena Geng (she/her)
BA(Hons.), BEd, OCT, MEd (in progress)
Master of Education in Counselling & Psychotherapy Student

(905) 527 - 6337
serena.geng@everwellcounselling.ca

Serena Geng

Therapist Intern

Hi there! My name is Serena, and I am so glad you're here. Whether you are navigating life transitions, seeking deeper self-understanding, or simply looking for someone to walk alongside you through the complexities of life, I am here to support you.

I bring over a decade of experience working with youth, children, and young adults. My advocacy work centres on creating intentional and supportive spaces for BIPOC and East-Asian individuals, ensuring that their voices are heard and their experiences are validated. I have also had the privilege of working with veterans at a neurofeedback clinic, and sexual assault survivors on a crisis phone line. My diverse background allows me to approach therapy with a deep understanding of the varied and nuanced experiences that shape each individual.

I honour your courage in taking this step, and I am committed to helping you express and understand all aspects of yourself. Together, we will work towards a greater sense of well-being, and I look forward to the privilege of being a part of your journey.

Q & A with Serena

What made you decide to choose your current profession?

Ever since I was a kid, I enjoyed listening to the experiences of others. As a result of this natural curiosity, I majored in psychology as an undergraduate student. Despite volunteer experiences in the field, I felt that this career path was never truly an option for me. No one I knew pursued this path at the time. Societal and cultural forces pushed me towards peripheral professions like academia and teaching. After attempting both, I circled back to psychotherapy and knew in my heart that this was the career for me. 

What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about mental health?

I think the biggest misconceptions about mental health are in regards to what mental health is and what it includes. In many parts of the world, people still regard mental health as something you only take notice of when something is seriously "wrong". Sometimes, when we mention we have a therapist, we are met with, "Why would you need that?" or "Is there something wrong?". Thankfully this is no longer the case in much of western society, yet, the misconception of what mental health is still prevails in various cultures.  

Additionally, another misconception about mental health might surround what mental health includes. By this I mean what mental health looks like and what therapy is meant to help us with. Mental health cannot fit neatly into a checklist or a set of self-care habits. According to psychoanalyst, Nancy McWilliams, mental health can be defined as certain capacities that exist on a continuum of health rather than a finite list of symptoms. These capacities may include a sense of safety & trust in oneself, others and the world, a sense of agency, self-esteem, acceptance, the capacity to love, work and play, and more! 

What do you want your clients to know about you and what it will be like working with you?

Something I'd like my clients to know about me is that I am committed to have your best intentions in mind. I hope to create a safe space for you to express your authentic self and feelings. I would also like my clients to know that I am human, and that I don't always have my life together! I may not have all the answers to the problems you bring, but I am dedicated and excited to explore them alongside you. 

What is your personal mantra or favourite quote?

Areas of Practice

• Youth

• East-Asian folks

• BIPOC folks

• Relationships (romantic & family)

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Stress

• Life Transitions

• Self-esteem

• Self-exploration

Education / Accomplishments /Awards

• Bachelor of Education

• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

• Master of Education in Counselling & Psychotherapy (in progress)

Average Cost 

• $70.00 (per session) - sliding scale available

What personal qualities are important for the job that you do?

Curiosity
Empathy
Non-judgement
Authenticity
Gentleness
Insight

Just for fun

What is your favourite place to find inspiration?

Somewhere in nature, or on a quiet train/bus.

What's your favourite thing to do on your off time?

I love sitting on the front porch with my orange cat, Jem. You can find me reading, journalling, listening to a podcast or just taking in the fresh air. Other than that, I love singing Musical Theatre songs at the top of my lungs (sorry, neighbours!) or letting my body flow to the music via interpretive dance in a VERY secluded room.