Helen Liu

Counselling Psychology master's student in the Faculty of Education

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

I'm a first-year masters student in SFU's Counselling Psychology program. The incredible faculty and peers I've had the pleasure to learn alongside so far have further strengthened my confidence in pursuing this program and career path.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I was particularly drawn to SFU's commitment to anti-oppressive practices and decolonizing mental health. I also strongly value the large number of hours dedicated to applying and refining our clinical skills in SFU Surrey's clinic and community-based practicum.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

Traditional eating disorder research largely neglects the experiences of those who are not thin, cis, white women. As a result, treatment and support services are often not appropriate or effective for individuals outside of that narrow demographic. My research is broadly focused on disordered eating in ethnic minorities, and how eating disorder treatment can be more culturally sensitive. My thesis will explore how immigrants' relationship to their cultural foods impacts their experiences with disordered eating, recovery, and "health".

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

immigrants, disordered eating, culture

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

My courses in the Counselling Psychology program so far have challenged me in ways that my undergraduate education did not, pushing me to find my own voice and articulate what matters to me as a future counsellor. Though overwhelming and daunting at first, the warm and safe classroom environment cultivated by my professors and peers allowed me to gain a newfound sense of confidence and curiosity.

Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research

I was awarded a Canadian Graduate Scholarship (CGS-M) from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research for the 2023-24 academic year. This award has granted me the opportunity to dedicate my time to my studies and research, and move across the country to a beautiful new city.

Contact Helen:helen_liu_4@sfu.ca