
Asta Chan
She/HerMSW
Registered Social Worker
EnglishCantoneseMandarinHello and welcome. I’m Asta Chan, a Registered Social Worker. I’m so glad you’re here. Reaching out for support, especially for the first time, could be overwhelming, and I want you to know that you’re not alone. Whether you’re here for yourself, your child, or your family, this space is for you. Please don't hesitate to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation whenever you need someone to talk to.
Background
Hi! I'm Asta. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming—whether you’re a child struggling to express emotions, a young adult navigating anxiety or self-doubt, or a parent seeking support. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals and families can explore their experiences, build resilience, and work toward meaningful change. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, ADHD, family conflict, and life transitions. I use Narrative Therapy and other evidence-based approaches to help you reshape your story and rediscover your strengths. Please don't hesitate to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation. I’m here when you’re ready. We’ll get started on your journey together!
Your therapeutic experience with me
I believe that everyone and every family deserves the chance to thrive. With the right support, people can overcome challenges and achieve a better quality of life. My goal is to colaborate with you to find that balance, offering guidance and strategies tailored to you and your family’s unique needs. At Gray Matter Health, we promote healthy minds and relationships using the most successful therapeutic approaches delivered in a genuinely caring, compassionate, and approachable way. We tailor our approach for each of our clients with the understanding that you are unique. We collaborate with you to discover so that you can move forward towards recovery, restoration, and rejuvenation.
Areas of expertise
These are the areas I commonly work with, and they form a big part of the support I offer in my practice:
Therapeutic approaches
These are the approaches at the heart of my work, and I use them often because they help create meaningful change:

Play-based Approach
For children and families, I offer Play-based Approach, a powerful approach that allows children to express themselves in a natural, developmentally appropriate way. Through play, children can work through emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and strengthen family connections. I also support parents in navigating behavioral challenges and enhancing communication with their children.

Narrative Therapy
I integrate Narrative Therapy as a core part of my approach, grounded in the belief that you are not the problem—the problem is the problem. Narrative Therapy invites us to explore how the stories we tell about ourselves are shaped by relationships, culture, and past experiences. These stories can sometimes limit how we see ourselves and what we believe is possible.

Strength-based Approach
I practice from a strength-based perspective, which means I focus on what’s working in your life—your values, skills, resources, and resilience—rather than just the problems or symptoms you’re facing. Everyone has strengths, even in their most challenging moments. Sometimes, we just need help recognizing them.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help clients understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Sometimes, the way we think about ourselves, others, or the world can reinforce anxiety, low mood, or unhelpful habits. CBT offers practical tools to identify and shift these patterns.
I also draw on other evidence based approaches that can gently support you when they align with what you need:

Trauma-informed Therapy
Focused populations and cultural backgrounds
These are the communities and cultural backgrounds I focus on, and I bring a sincere commitment to supporting you in a way that feels respectful and genuine:
Populations

Children

Youth And Young Adults

Parents

Individuals With Mental Health Challenges

Families
Cultural communities

Hong Konger

Newcomer And Refugee

Chinese

East Asian

1st And 2nd Generation Immigrant
Professional credentials

Registered Social Worker
- No.850361
Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
Educational background

Master of Social Work
City University of Hong Kong, Canada
Specialized training
Summer Narrative Intensive
The Narrative Therapy Centre of Toronto
Practice locations & services
FAQ
Did you know?

“Memories can be sad, but they also hold the key to healing.” – Inside Out
Immediate crisis support available
If you're experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available right now:
- 🚨 Call 911 for immediate emergency assistance
- 💬 Call or text 988 for mental health crisis support and suicide prevention







