(Cherie) Hoi Yee Mak
MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker
CREDENTIALS
Cherie Mak is a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW), and a member of both the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW) and the Social Workers Registration Board in Hong Kong. She is also a certified Mental Health First Aider through the Mental Health Association of Hong Kong.
Verify registration: https://onlineservices.ocswssw.org/en-US/Online-Register-Search/
AREAS OF FOCUS
Cherie’s areas of focus include depression and low mood, anxiety and worry, stress management, emotional regulation challenges, self-esteem concerns, interpersonal relationship difficulties, and suicide and self-harm prevention. She also supports clients navigating parenting challenges and learning difficulties.
Cherie specializes in working with children and youth, providing compassionate support to help them manage emotional challenges, build resilience, and develop positive coping strategies to strengthen their overall well-being.
LANGUAGES
Cherie is fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Cherie earned her Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.) from Hong Kong Baptist University and her Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Before immigrating to Canada, she worked in schools and non-governmental organizations, providing case management, crisis intervention, group facilitation, and workshops. Her expertise includes youth mental health, supporting students with special educational needs, and strengthening parent–child relationships.
In Canada, Cherie completed her practicum at the Centre for Immigrant & Community Services and later worked at the University of Toronto as a Mental Health Programs Officer.
APPROACH TO TREATMENT
Cherie is known for her empathetic and non-judgmental approach, creating a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard, connected, and empowered. She values understanding each client’s background and unique experiences to help them identify their strengths, develop coping strategies, and create lasting change.
Cherie recognizes the complexities of family dynamics, including intergenerational communication differences and the stress that can arise from academic or workplace demands. She empowers clients by walking alongside them as they navigate challenges at their own pace, helping them grow with confidence and reach their full potential.
Her therapeutic approach integrates Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
PERSONAL BACKGROUND
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Cherie is passionate about bringing happiness and positivity to those around her. She enjoys playing board games, trying new recipes, and spending time outdoors. In her free time, she volunteers with local charities and community initiatives, continuing her commitment to helping others thrive.