Lina Chen is an online psychosexual and relationship therapist
What attracted you to become a therapist?
I always liked to help people in emotional need. Being a certified therapist, I have the right skills and tools to help people more effectively.
Where did you train?
I trained in London for a diploma in psychosexual and relationship therapy and abstained PGDip qualification Level 7 .
Can you tell us about the type of therapy you practise?
I'm specialised in psychosexual and relationship therapy. I work with the client with presenting issues such as sex dysfunction, low sex drive/desire, lack of intimacy, relationship issues, communication issues, etc.
How does relationship therapy help?
In relationship therapy, I will guide the clients to look at the factors that impact their relationship, such as their ways of communication, previous life experiences, dysfunctional behaviours, emotional avoidance, etc.
We then look for a possible solution to improve the individual's and couple's relationships and interactions.
What sort of people do you usually see?
My clients are all over 18. They can be individuals, or couples.
Have you noticed any recent mental health trends or wider changes in attitude?
Yes, I have. It's either because the stress and pressure people experience are increasing, or people are more confident to look for help.
What do you like about being a therapist?
Making a positive change in people's lives.
How long have you been with Welldoing and what you think of us?
I only just joined last week. I like the support groups and CPDs you provided to therapist.
What books have been important to you in terms of your professional and personal development? Do you ever recommend books to clients?
I very often recommend books to my clients, such as Come As you Are by Dr Emily Nagoski, The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel van der Kolk, Attached by Dr Amir Levine and Rachel Heller.
What you do for your own mental health?
Self-therapy; journaling and writing; exercises; my own support group.
You are a therapist in Torquay, Devon. What can you share with us about seeing clients in this area?
I don't feel there is any specific difference between my clients from Devon and from other areas of the country. They are all human beings and can experience similar life difficulties.
What's your consultation room like?
Spacious, bright and quiet.
What do you wish people knew about therapy?
The most important thing is people need to understand that we will all experience difficulties in life. Sometimes, we can work it out ourselves, but sometimes we need external help. When difficulties arise, people should feel free to look for external help.
