Jiyea Kim, Ph.D Candidate

How I decided to be a therapist

My academic journey began with a passion for politics, driven by a desire to understand and influence large-scale systems of human interaction. However, a single psychology course became a pivotal turning point. I came to the profound realisation that my genuine fascination lay not in grand societal structures, but in the intricate, often unseen dynamics of human relationships—from couples to families. I understood that by focusing on and helping individuals to transform their lives, I was, in effect, participating in and contributing to the change of the wider world. This led me to pursue a master's in psychotherapy, where I dedicated myself to understanding and resolving these more intimate connections.

Working as a therapist, I had a profound realization. There is a fundamental difference between rehabilitating an injured arm and helping someone who has lost an arm entirely. The former focuses on restoring function, while the latter is about empowering an individual to forge a whole life with what they have. I felt it would be irresponsible to discuss a "full life" without first deeply understanding the biological and neurological underpinnings of my clients’ challenges.

This conviction fueled my decision to pursue a Ph.D. in neurobiology, specialising in the neuroscientific basis of mental health in children and adolescents. By bridging the gap between my psychotherapeutic expertise and a profound understanding of the brain, I am dedicated to providing a more comprehensive and empathetic level of care—one that is grounded in both the human experience and the biological realities of the mind.

How I would like to help clients as a therapist

From a positive psychology perspective, I'm passionate about fostering mental well-being and helping individuals realise their full potential. I believe in the innate capacity of every person to become fully functioning—a state achieved through an openness to new experiences and a deep trust in one's judgment.

My approach is to facilitate your journey toward building and enhancing a strong sense of self. In our work together, we'll focus on your ability to freely and creatively adapt to life’s challenges without the pressure to conform. Through a safe and healthy therapeutic relationship, you will find the space to explore your inner world, share your story, and receive the care needed to thrive.