Mr Yu Chun-yeung (Isaac)’s journey in counselling psychology began at Hong Kong Shue Yan University (HKSYU). Despite early academic setbacks in public exams, he graduated at the top of his bachelor’s class. He then became a pioneer in the field as part of the inaugural cohort of HKSYU’s Master of Social Sciences in Counselling Psychology in 2012. Today, Isaac continues to advance counselling psychology through frontline practice, professional training, and teaching, driven by his vision of embedding the discipline within the community.

A pivotal counselling experience during his third year of undergraduate study opened his eyes to the profound power of counselling. Inspired by his professors, Isaac dedicated his career to supporting students with Special Education Needs (SEN). His early frontline work with autistic children was both physically and mentally demanding, motivating him to pursue his master’s degree to deepen his expertise.

As a pioneer, Isaac spent years practising counselling and promoting counselling psychology in the wider community, including delivering school talks to raise awareness. He is a strong advocate for preventive mental healthcare, emphasising the importance of addressing emotional struggles without pathologising them.

Today, public recognition of counselling psychologists has grown significantly. Since 2013, Isaac has been teaching at HKSYU to nurture the next generation. Now pursuing a PhD at the University of Edinburgh, he hopes to continue contributing to his alma mater, the counselling psychology profession, and the wider community in the years ahead.