PENNY CHAI, Counselling Psychologist based in Perth.
Providing psychological & counselling therapy for adults & adolescents
About Penny Chai
Counselling Psychologist
BSc(Psych) Hons., M.Psych (Counselling), PsyBA Approved Supervisor
Languages: English, Mandarin & Cantonese
Since her graduation from Auckland University of Technology in New Zealand in 2011, Penny has established herself as a highly skilled Counselling Psychologist based in Perth, amassing a wealth of experience across diverse therapeutic settings within the public and private sectors. Her professional background encompasses roles in alcohol and drugs services, youth mental health, and as the manager of the psychology team at a reputable university counselling service.
Penny has extensive experience in providing counselling therapy with adolescents, young adults and adults. She is equipped to address a wide range of psychological concerns, such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief and etc.
Penny is an Asian, mandarin speaking Psychologist. She speaks English, Mandarin and Cantonese fluently. She is passionate in working with culturally diverse groups.
With her down-to-earth, caring, and friendly demeanour, Penny excels at establishing meaningful connections with people across all age groups. Her primary objective is to provide a supportive and non-judgmental space wherein people can feel safe while exploring their difficulties.
Committed to facilitating positive change, Penny employs a diverse range of evidence-based approaches in her therapeutic practice. These include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Schema Therapy
- Mindfulness based frameworks
- Compassion based interventions
As an AHPRA Board-Approved Supervisor, Penny is deeply committed to nurturing the growth and development of future psychologists. By cultivating a warm, open, and compassionate environment, she facilitates a rich learning experience that fosters the next generation of professionals in the field.
Services
Counselling for Adults
Counselling for Adolescents
Counselling for Adolescents
Life can sometimes feel overwhelming. As a Counselling Psychologist based in Perth, I am dedicated to enhancing your mental well-being by guiding you on a journey of self-discovery. Together, we will uncover what truly matters to you and explore what brings meaning and purpose to your life. My goal is to provide unwavering support as you identify and nurture your strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and unlock your full potential in our counselling therapy sessions.
I offer assistance in a wide range of areas, including but not limited to:
- Depression and mood disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress management
- Trauma recovery
- Grief and loss
- Relationship challenges and separation
- Low self-esteem
- Cultural identity and belonging
- ADHD support
Counselling for Adolescents
Counselling for Adolescents
Counselling for Adolescents
I am experienced in providing comprehensive support to adolescents who struggle with interpersonal, behavioural, and emotional difficulties. Through individualized and evidence-based interventions, I offer tailored approaches that align with their unique developmental stage. My primary objective as a psychologist is to foster the growth of adaptable, resilient, and resourceful individuals who are equipped to navigate life’s challenges.
Moreover, I extend my support to parents and caregivers, aiming to enhance their understanding and empower them with the tools to effectively assist their children. By collaborating with families, I strive to create a cohesive and supportive environment that maximizes positive outcomes.
I offer assistance in a wide range of areas, including but not limited to:
- Anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, phobias
- Depression
- Self-harm
- Adjustment issues
- Stress
- Self-esteem and body image issues
- School-related difficulties ( e.g. bullying, school refusal )
- Anger management
- Bullying and social skills
- Relationship difficulties ( e.g. siblings, friendships, parents)
- Sexuality & Gender issues
Workers' Compensation Counselling
Workers' Compensation Counselling
Workers' Compensation Counselling
Experiencing an injury or illness at work can be life-altering, not only physically but emotionally and mentally as well. Workers' compensation counselling service is designed to provide the support you need during this challenging time, helping you manage the psychological impact of your injury and navigate the often-complex workers' compensation process. As a psychologists based in Perth, I also offer telehealth options.
What I Offer:
- Emotional Support: Coping with trauma, stress, anxiety, or depression related to workplace incidents.
- Injury Adjustment Counselling: Helping you adapt to any changes in your life or work due to injury or illness.
- Pain Management Strategies: Developing mental techniques and therapies to help you manage physical pain.
- Return to Work Support: Assistance with the emotional and psychological challenges of returning to work or transitioning to a new role.
- Claim-Related Stress Management: Providing tools to cope with the stress that may arise from navigating the workers' compensation system.
My goal is to guide you through recovery, offering personalized counselling tailored to your needs to help you regain confidence, strength, and wellbeing.
Take the first step toward healing — Contact me today to book a session.
Supervision
Workers' Compensation Counselling
Workers' Compensation Counselling
As a psychologist and experienced board-approved supervisor, I provide professional supervision services to psychologists, counsellors, and other health professionals. My supervision is aimed at fostering professional growth, improving clinical skills, and enhancing the quality of care provided to clients.
What I Offer:
- Clinical Supervision: Guidance on case management, therapeutic approaches, and ethical considerations to support your clinical practice.
- Professional Development: Encouraging reflective practice, self-care strategies, and skill-building to help you reach your professional goals.
- Ethical and Legal Consultation: Assistance with understanding and navigating ethical dilemmas and legal issues that arise in your work.
- Supportive Environment: Creating a safe and collaborative space for open discussion about challenges, successes, and areas for growth.
- Tailored Approach: Supervision sessions customized to your individual needs and level of experience, whether you're a new practitioner or a seasoned professional.
Supervision is an essential aspect of maintaining high standards of care, fostering professional growth, and ensuring your wellbeing as a practitioner.
Reach Out for Support
Counselling for Anxiety
Anxiety can be overwhelming and exhausting — but it is also highly treatable.
You don’t have to face it alone.
I support adults experiencing:
- Generalised anxiety and excessive worry
- Panic attacks
- Social anxiety
- Health anxiety
- Workplace-related anxiety
Through evidence-based approaches such as CBT and mindfulness, we’ll work together to:
- Understand your anxiety triggers
- Build practical skills to manage symptoms
- Increase emotional resilience
- Regain a sense of calm and control in daily life
Let’s work together to manage anxiety — book your session today.
Counselling for Depression
Living with depression can feel isolating and exhausting. It can impact every part of your life — relationships, work, sleep, motivation, and self-esteem.
Counselling offers a safe space to:
- Explore and understand the root causes of your depression
- Learn effective strategies to manage symptoms
- Rebuild hope, motivation, and connection
- Move toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life
Seeking support is a strength, not a weakness. If you’re struggling with depression, help is available.
Reach out today — contact me to start your journey toward healing.
Culturally Sensitive Counselling for CALD clients
As a culturally sensitive psychologist, I am passionate about supporting clients from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
I understand that migration, cultural adjustment, and living between worlds can bring unique emotional challenges.
I work with CALD adults experiencing:
- Migration stress and identity adjustment
- Family expectations and intergenerational dynamics
- Discrimination and exclusion
- Isolation and loneliness
- Balancing multiple cultural identities
Together, we will create a respectful and inclusive space where your cultural values, experiences, and identity are honoured. You are welcome here — exactly as you are.
Find the support that understands your unique experience — contact me today to book a session.
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