About me – Chu Hee Yeon, PhD

Chu Hee Yeon, Ph.D.

I am a licensed professional counselor practicing in Seoul, South Korea. I completed a Ph.D. and a M.A. in Counseling and Coaching at Yonsei University and a B.A. in Psychology at Tufts University. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse cultural backgrounds. I provide empathetic, warm, and attentive care to my clients.

Theraphy Philosophy

I like to use the metaphor of life as a journey of becoming — as in becoming a whole, complete person, true to herself. I believe that all events in life can move us forward in this direction and that my role as a counselor is to be a companion in others’ journeys of becoming a better self.

My practice incorporates psychodynamic and humanistic therapies. The psychodynamic approach provides me with an analytical framework for a comprehensive, in-depth understanding of human behavior, feelings, and emotions. The humanistic perspective informs my attitude to counseling, which is always aimed at supporting my clients’ inherent capacity for growth and self-actualization.

When counseling, I provide a safe space for my clients to display their emotions and explore their past and current relational patterns. Through introspection and analysis, I help them to gain insights, identifying their inner strengths and potentials for growth. I also help my clients test new relationship patterns and learn new coping skills to improve their well-being and tackle life challenges.

Education and Certifications

Education
▪ Yonsei University, M.A./Ph.D. in Counseling & Coaching.
▪ Tufts University, B.A. in Psychology.

Certifications
▪ Multicultural Counselor, Korea Institute for Education Certification.
▪ Youth Counselor, Ministry of Gender Equality and Family.
▪ Professional Counselor, Korean Association of Christian Counseling & Psychology (KACCP).
▪ Family Counselor, Korean Family Culture Counseling Association (KFCCA).
▪ Member of Korean Counseling Association.
▪ Member of Korean Counseling Psychological Association.
▪ Professional Coach, Korea Coach Association.

Work Experience

▪ Lecturer, Yonsei University.
▪ Associate professor, Han Yang University.
▪ Radio panelist for TBS eFM Radio, This Morning.
▪ Mental Health Counselor, Minerva Schools at KGI.
▪ Clinical Coordinator, Global Diaspora Multicultural Coaching Network.
▪ Professional Counselor, Yonsei University Counseling & Coaching Center.
▪ Researcher, Network of College Counselors for International Students.
▪ Counselor, Seoul National University.
▪ Counselor/Coach, Mindcare Institute of Korea.

Publications, Presentations, and Workshops

Thesis
• Chu, H.Y.(2020). Crisis intervention for international students (Doctoral dissertation). Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea.

Journal Publications
• Sung, K.J., Kim, R.W., Kim, J.C., Chu, H.Y. (2018). Spiritual intelligence assessment for adolescents’ resource development in counseling setting: An exploratory case study. Korean Journal of Christian Counseling, 29(2), 131-161.
• Chu, H.Y. (2015). Grief counseling to help children’s adjustment following parental divorce. Yonsei Journal of Counseling and Coaching, 3, 265-286.

Chapters in Books
• Qualitative research methods: An ethnography of Sewol Ferry Square. Seoul: Pakyoung Story. (2019)
• Manual for counseling international students. Seoul: Korea College Counseling Association. (2017)

Invited Talks and Workshops
• Mental Health Awareness Workshop, Yonsei University.
• Sexual Violence Prevention Program, Hang Yang University, Kon Kuk University, University of Seoul.
• Work Life Balance, Future School.
• Stress Management, Ansan Multicultural Center.
• Coaching for Parents, Mapo Gu City Hall.
• Annual Mental Health Workshop, Itaewon Global Village.

Organized Courses and Projects
• Career Coaching Program, The Beautiful Foundation Project.
• Life Coaching Training, Global Diaspora Multicultural Coaching Network.
• Case Conference, College Counselors for International Students.