Yue Yun Aw Yong, B.Sc(Psych)
I’m currently a trainee clinical psychologist at Relate Malaysia, a mental health nonprofit. As a therapist, what truly brings me joy is guiding others on their mental health journeys. Previously, I was a research assistant at Monash University, helping conduct studies on cultural and indigenous psychology, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
I resonate with the mission of Deeper Conversations, because I, too, am socially anxious, and I want to build deeper and more meaningful connections.
Oftentimes, the drive back home — after socializing with my friends — is filled with doubts about what I said, whether I have offended anyone, and how I should have responded better. I’ve also pulled out of good opportunities or social events because of my anxiety.
As a result, I find it difficult to get closer to others, and I always envy those who have friends they could share their life with.
With Deeper Conversations, I hope that we can further normalize the experience of social anxiety. People with social anxiety like us are not alone, and we can find strength together and support each other.
Education
Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honors), Monash University Malaysia
Master of Clinical Psychology, HELP University
Certifications
Malaysian Society of Clinical Psychology (MSCP), Student Member (CP3-0164)
Basics of CBT: Essentials I, Beck Institute
CBT in Practice: Essentials II, Beck Institute
Academic publications
Aw Yong, Y. Y., & Ting, R.S.K. (2021). Perceived stress and helpful resources for Chinese in Malaysia religious communities during COVID-19. Poster presentation at the 129th American Psychological Association (APA) Virtual Convention 2021, August 14-16. (Division 36, Poster Session I)
Ting, R.S.K., Aw Yong, Y.Y., Tan, M.M., Tan, N.L.T., & Yap, C.K. (2021). Cultural responses to COVID-19 pandemic: Religions, illness belief, and perceived stress. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 634863.
Yap, C.K., Ting, R.S.K., Tan, N.L.T., Aw Yong, Y.Y., & Tan, M.M. (2020). Religion, illness perception and coping in pandemics: A systematic review. In R. W. Hood & S. Cheruvallil-Contractor (Eds.), Research in the Social Scientific Study of Religion, Volume 32: Lesser Heard Voices in Studies of Religion (pp. 427–470). BRILL.