My Beginning
From a young age, I was exposed to the idea that empathy was necessary for building successful relationships. Instead of judging others solely by their behaviour, I strived to understand their perspectives, fears, and habits. As my interest in relationships deepened, so did my investment in personal growth. Through diverse reading and self-reflection, I gained a greater awareness of myself and began defining my values. As my sense of self developed, authenticity became my non-negotiable.
My interest in human psychology and relationships led me to pursue a Bachelor's and Honours degree at the University of Melbourne, followed by a PhD in Clinical Psychology at Monash University.
My Education
Growing up in Malaysia and transitioning into adulthood in Melbourne, I navigated the complexities of balancing two cultures. This experience sparked my exploration of how my background interacts with Melbourne’s culture.
I discovered that culture extends beyond race or nationality, encompassing family, neighbourhood, school environment, historical context, religion, sexuality, interests, the current sociopolitical climate, and more.
I became particularly attuned to the unique challenges faced by international students adjusting to a new country.
My studies also deepened my understanding of the profound impact of early attachment and family dynamics on individuals. These insights inspired my doctoral research, which investigated how international students from diverse family backgrounds cope with migration and minority culture stress. The findings from my research have been published in several academic journals.
My Work
After completing my doctoral program, I continued my research in parenting as a clinical research fellow at Monash University, where I also developed a clinical training program for therapists delivering online parenting interventions.
Additionally, I worked in both public and private hospitals, caring for individuals facing acute and chronic pain or life-limiting conditions. My patients ranged from teenagers with heart issues to elderly patients undergoing hip replacements.
While I found fulfilment in hospital work, my true passion lies in conducting long-term, deep therapeutic work with individuals in private practice. I derive immense satisfaction from offering clients support, validation, comfort, and a safe space to create change. For me, therapy is more than a profession — it’s a calling. Over time, I have fallen more in love with my work. As I have progressed in my career, I have become more attuned to the types of clients I am best fit to help and how my unique blend of personal and professional experiences can best serve them.
Kaki Psychology.
My specialised interest in authenticity, relationships, parenting, family, personal development, and cross-cultural issues led to my founding of this practice.
At Kaki Psychology, I combine my personal experience and professional training to provide you with culturally-contextualised, relationship-focused, agency-driven, non-pathologising therapy to help you feel more confident and comfortable with yourself and your relationships.
About The Name
Originally, ‘kaki’ means legs in Malay and my own in Hokkien. Over time, Kaki has evolved to mean my friend or mate in Malaysia. I chose this name to embody my philosophy as a therapist. I see us as fellow travellers in life, sharing a common humanity. I hope to be a supportive companion who helps you find your footing.
The fusion of these languages also beautifully symbolises how we borrow from and influence each other. We are an amalgamation of the cultures and relationships we experience, and we are all connected in some way. In the space where we meet, we can also make new meaning.