Meet Asian Australian Registered Psychologist: Shujuan (Tina) Liu

We know that it's not always easy trying to work out which therapist we might like to work with: Because the decision isn't just about where they're located and when they're available, but there's a bit more of a human, relational element to the decision too.

So here at Shapes and Sounds, we want to help make that process just a little easier.

Every month, we'll be introducing a therapist from the Asian Australian Mental Health Practitioner List to help you gain a bit more insight into who you feel might be a good fit for you or someone that you know.

This month we're excited to connect you with Shujuan (Tina) Liu who is a Registered Psychologist offering services in Blackburn, VIC. We hope you enjoy connecting with Tina below!

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1. What led you to choosing mental health as a career?

Well, I went through a lot of family drama during my undergraduate year that affected my health to the point that I had to take an extended intermission from university. I was studying psychology out of interest at the time, without really knowing what it meant to be a psychologist. I made a promise to myself that if I ever get better, I want to become a psychologist and help people. So... here I am! .

2. What is your unique cultural heritage?

I was born in China and later studied and lived in Singapore before moving to Melbourne in high school. I used to struggle with my cultural identity quite a lot, but I now appreciate the diverse cultural experiences I have had throughout my life and recognise my identity as transnational.

3. What are your areas of specialty and what kind of frameworks do you work from?

As a psychologist trained in community psychology, my work is grounded in the ecological model. This means that I consider how a person's behaviour and development are uniquely influenced by various interacting systems and social environments, such as social relationships, the environment in which one grew up, cultural context, and existing systems and policies. This perspective helps me recognize the uniqueness of each individual, understanding that we are shaped by our experiences, beliefs, perspectives, social contexts, and environments—not just our biological dispositions.

I also adopt a client-centered and strength-based approach, which means I tailor my methods according to the needs and circumstances of each client. I acknowledge the clients as the expert in their own life, and they know what they need the most. My commitment is not only to help clients understand their difficulties and challenges but also to assist them in discovering their strengths and sparkles.

I am skilled in a variety of modelities like CBT, ACT, mindfulness etc.

4. What kind of clients are you best able to support?

I have had the privilege of working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, trauma, adjustment issues, and relationship difficulties, among others. Clients often appreciate the non-judgmental and safe space I provide, which helps them open up, unpack, understand, and process their past experiences.

I am particularly interested in conducting assessments and therapy with young adults and adults.

5. If you could be your own therapist right now, what do you think you would say to yourself?

It's ok to feel "i'm not ok". Life can be very overwhelming at times, but remember the challenges you've faced and overcome in the past. While it might not all make sense right now, trust that with time, you will find meaning and growth behind those painful moments. You are not alone in this.

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Connect with Tina via our Asian Australian Mental Health Practitioner List HERE.

Alternatively, if you feel like Tina may be a good fit for someone that you know, be sure to forward this page on to them too. Let us continue to not only support ourselves but all those around us too!

If you require urgent assistance, please do not contact Tina or any of the practitioners on this list. Instead, please call emergency services on 000 or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Shapes and Sounds does not recommend or endorse Tina or any of the practitioners listed on the Asian Australian Mental Health Practitioner List.

Please always consult your GP before making changes to your mental health care plan.