Pyae Phyo Wai
I am a writer and therapist. To me, people are not problems to be fixed. What interests me is what happens between us, in our relationships, families, communities, cultures, and the larger systems that shape our lives. I’m curious about the stories we inherit through generations and how they shape the way we see ourselves. Our struggles to make sense of the worlds we live in are understandable. I believe change can happen through authentic connection.
Mental Health Specialist
My Story
I am a relational and systemic-oriented therapist. I am currently completing a Master’s in Children and Young People’s Mental Health, with a focus on Psychological Practices, at the University of Edinburgh in the UK.I believe that a sense of togetherness between two people can bring genuine healing. There is something about being truly with another person that can make it possible to feel less alone, and perhaps to see ourselves and our lives a little differently.I also feel it is important to say that I am a creative writer. Perhaps because of this, I have a particular interest in words. Words are expansive. They are deep. Each word can open a way into a world that is uniquely one’s own. I take the other person’s world seriously.I graduated as a medical doctor in 2009. As I worked in clinical care in private hospitals, people’s emotional suffering gradually became part of my everyday life. At that time, mental health was not yet widely recognised or talked about in Myanmar in the way it is today. Training opportunities and professional pathways were also limited. It was an uncertain path, but I chose it.Beginning in 2017, I studied two diploma programmes in psychological counselling and clinical psychology. In 2018, I began working as a counsellor. Over nearly a decade in the mental health field, I have worked with individuals and groups and supported organisations in developing and implementing mental health programmes. My background as a medical doctor has shaped how I understand the relationship between the mind and body and the many ways they affect one another.As a counsellor, I have developed a clear sense of how I work. This allows me to offer direction and guidance when it is needed, while remaining attentive to the person and their own way of making sense of the world. Working with people from different backgrounds has taught me to place great importance on the culture and context of the person sitting across from me. I see how the world around us shapes our emotional lives, just as we shape the worlds we live in.I provide a safe space where we can explore complex life experiences. Together, we can find ways forward that bring greater ease to your heart.
Books
I am the author of two books. My first book, Sate-Kuu-Hte’-Ka-Chay-Than, is a collection of three short stories and a novella. My second book, Dan-Yar-Ku-Sarr-Nee, is a collection of essays.
Mental Health Specialist
craft
Since 2024, I have been making my own jewelry. Craft-making is one way I reconnect with memories of being with my primary attachment figure, who was a seamstress.
