Although Chengdu and its 10 million citizens have seen particularly fast development in recent years, the plight of its married women is not unique, according to Yan.
"Every city in China needs an agency like ours," she said. "And as China develops they will probably all get one."
Ten years of working with the dark side of China's rapidly transforming society have not left Yan unchanged. But the changes have only been for the better, she said.
"When I was young, all I was thinking about was living a perfect and happy family life. It's probably right to say I was too naive," she said.
"Through my work, I have become stronger and more independent and more aware of the values of modern women. I think that will be of great assistance in my future efforts to help others."
RSS