Ivory (Yiqing) Xiang, MMT, MT-BC, MTA, RP(Q)
* Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) /CRPO
* Certified Music Therapist / Canadian Music Therapy Association
* Master of Music Therapy / Temple University (USA)
My journey into the mental health field began in 2021 after I completed my master's degree in Music Therapy at Temple University (USA). This intensive three-year program trained me to work clinically with a wide range of populations—including those in developmental, mental health, and medical care settings—through 1,200 hours of clinical internship and a comprehensive research experience.
As someone with a background in music therapy, I experienced a transformative shift in how I connect with music. It became a way to explore deep emotional expression and foster connection. During my clinical training, I learned to approach music as a powerful instrument for healing and personal growth, which ignited my passion for supporting others.
My approach is rooted in evidence-based psychotherapy, offering flexibility and ensuring that each session is tailored to meet the unique needs of the client. I integrate a variety of therapy approaches tailored to each individual’s needs, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Trauma, Music Psychotherapy, and Internal Family System-Informed.
I work with individuals of all ages, with a focus on young children (from the age of 3), youth, and young adults (under 35 years old) experiencing emotional and behavioral challenges, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief and loss, past or present trauma, and more.
With 4 years of specialized experience supporting neurodivergent individuals (e.g., Autistic, ADHD, Intellectual Disabilities, etc.), I emphasize fostering emotional regulation, self-expression, sensory integration, and social confidence through a neurodiversity-affirming, strength-based lens. My background also includes working as a Crisis and Suicide text hotline responder and supporting youth in foster care, dropout programs, and behavioral hospital settings.
My therapy style is warm, collaborative, and creative. I use art, games, and music so the clients can engage adaptively through talking. I'm passionate about providing a non-judgmental space where individuals feel heard, and about building strong therapeutic relationships that empower clients to develop resilience and healthy coping skills.
I'm fluent in English and Mandarin.
Modalities & Approach
- Music Psychotherapy (Primary Approach)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (Primary Approach)
- Internal Family System Informed
- Attachment theory from Emotion Focused Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, including CBT for Trauma, and CBT for Anxiety
Specialties
- Children (from the age of 3,) teens, young adults
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- Neurodivergent (e.g., Autistic, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Physical Disabilities, etc.)
- Adverse Childhood Experience: abuse, neglect, substance use, parent mental health issues, parent separation, bully.
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- Emotion and Behavior Regulation for young children, Parental Support
- Anxiety, Stress, Anger Management, Panic Attacks
- Grief & Loss, Life Transitions, Trauma, Immigration Struggles
- Self-Esteem, Family Dynamics & Communications, Relationships
- Self-Harm and Suicide Ideation
- Musician, Stage Performers, and Artists
As a therapist, how my personal background will help understand your experience?
Ivory is fluent in English and Mandarin.
As a first-generation immigrant, Ivory deeply understands how cultural factors influence personal, relational, intergenerational, and systemic aspects of the human experience.
Ivory is neurotypical, but she actively immerses herself in learning from the perspectives of the Autistic & ADHD community with an open mind and critical thinking.
Ivory is a musician and loves oil pastel painting, and she uses creative arts for self-care. She learned piano at a young age and later learned to play guitar. Her preferred music genres include pop, indie, Latino, & Lo-fi. Outside of work, Ivory enjoys reading and hyrox.
