
Ivan Chow
Ivan is a Registered Social Worker with the College of Alberta Social Workers. He has a Master’s degree in Social Work with a clinical specialization from the University of Calgary, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a minor in Psychology with distinction.
Ivan has 2 years of counselling experience as well as 5 years experience working with immigrants, children, youth and seniors. Ivan has experience counselling children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Ivan is fluent in both English and Cantonese, and provides counselling in both languages. He is also conversational in Mandarin
About Ivan
Ivan treasures moments where he is able to connect with someone in a place of genuineness, vulnerability, and humor. Whether with friends, family, clients, or strangers, these encounters are rejuvenating and life-giving for him.
As a Canadian-born Chinese male with parents from Hong Kong, Ivan has navigated his own identity as a second-generation Canadian. This journey has given him a heart for those who struggle to find their place in the world.
In his free time, Ivan enjoys indulging in a good cup of coffee at any hour of the day and exploring different cuisines. He finds joy in playing volleyball, lifting weights, playing the piano or guitar, watching NBA, k-dramas, and anime, spending time with his girlfriend, and sharing laughter with his friends and family over a meal.
Counselling
Ivan is passionate about providing a collaborative, non-judgmental therapeutic space for individuals, couples, and families. He patiently works to build a strong and warm connection with each person, welcoming all who are seeking support for various mental health issues they may be facing. Ivan is flexible and integrates feedback into his work with clients, believing that building rapport and trust in a therapeutic relationship is crucial for positive change.
Ivan has enjoys working with children and youth, and has experience helping them with mental health concerns. He also works with adults and seniors.
He utilizes a systems theory approach to understand clients within their context and draws from a diverse pool of models, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Attachment Therapy, and Existential Therapy, to work with clients based on their individual needs.
Ivan firmly believes that there is hope for everyone; hope that is not fleeting or distant, but close and attainable. He is excited to embark on this journey of hope with you!
What Issues Can Ivan Help With?
Cultural/Immigration
Depression
Family Relationships
Children
Trauma
Anxiety
Couples Counselling
Teens or Youth
Faith/Spirituality
Emotion Regulation
Self-Esteem
Domestic Violence
Stress
Grief and Loss
Let's Get Started!
Ivan looks forward to getting to know you and helping you on your mental health journey!