Yuhua Lei

Welcome, I'm Crystal. Maybe you feel lost or alone in relationships. Maybe you don’t feel at home in your own body. Or perhaps you feel broken by trauma. Whatever you're going through right now, you are welcome here, just as you are.

I am a fully qualified, BACP-registered psychodynamic and humanistic counsellor based in Edinburgh. I specialise in:

• Anxiety and depression
• Identity issues (such as low self-esteem, feeling different, lost, or alone; body image concerns or illness)
• Relationship issues (such as feeling disconnected, struggling with boundaries, or navigating conflict)
• Adult and childhood trauma (including sexual violence and abuse)

I'm also experienced in counselling LGBTQ+ individuals and students, and the issues they face. You will find me to be warm, gentle, genuine, and engaging. Drawing from my experience working with trauma, I adopt a trauma-informed approach in my practice.

How I work

You’ll find me to be warm, gentle, and engaging as we work together to explore whatever issue you're facing.

As a psychodynamic therapist, I will focus on helping you understand the root of your struggles. We’ll look at how your past experiences shape who you are today and the ways you see yourself and relate to others, and help you break free from patterns that no longer serve you.

My approach is also deeply relational. At the heart of my practice, I focus on you as a whole person, listening to your story and the experiences we share in our therapeutic relationship. My hope is that my approach, firmly rooted in trust, compassion, and a deep understanding of your unique journey, will enable you to feel truly seen and heard, as we work together to navigate your inner world and relationships. 

What Can You Expect in Therapy with Me?

During our sessions, we will delve into the history of your issues, your experience and emotions in a gentle way and at your own pace. Through this process, you may feel relieved, know yourself better, learn to be yourself and gradually improve. 

The Next Step

Change can be tough, and deciding to start/restart counselling is often one of the hardest steps we take. If you think we may be a good fit, I'd be delighted to offer a free 15-30 minute intro meeting online or by phone, so that we can meet and I can answer any questions you may have.