Léi Y. Sun, M.S.Ed.

My name is Lei Y. Sun, and I am a 3rd year graduate student pursuing my Ph.D. in counseling psychology at the University of Miami. I am thrilled and privileged to serve the Society for the Advancement of Psychotherapy and its student members as the Chair of the Student Development Committee for the 2021-2022 term! As a biracial individual with diverse lived experiences, I am fascinated by the processes through which one develops self and cultural identity in attachment relationships. This interest facilitated my passion for psychotherapy research. Specifically, I am interested in exploring how attachment and aspects of identity play into therapeutic relationships. I initially joined the Society to advance my knowledge of the field of psychotherapy process research and foster my connections in the broader professional community. Further, I was involved in the Student Mentorship Program to enhance peer collaboration and development of professional skills. As the student chair, I plan to work to facilitate support for student involvement, connection, and growth at divisional and APA levels. I am particularly passionate about encouraging student engagement in promoting diversity, inclusivity, and social justice in our profession. In addition, I would like to foster conversation among students regarding advocacy for relationship-based psychotherapy. Together with my brilliant peers on the Student Development Committee, I hope to facilitate a diverse and enriching growth experience for fellow student members.