We all have issues… counselling can help!

Are you feeling that the stress and pressure of daily life are impacting your mental or emotional health? It’s comforting to know that there’s plenty of professional support available. Here, we profile counselling services that can help, from family, couples or teen therapy to marriage counselling in Singapore.

Embracing change and navigating expat life with family therapy and marriage counselling in Singapore

“It’s difficult to leave behind your original support network and the familiar knowledge you’re used to,” says Claudia Doig, Senior Clinical Psychologist at Psychology Blossom. “Being in a foreign country comes with myriad challenges. Each family member not only has to adjust to new systems, but also form new social networks, adapt to unfamiliar school curriculums or job scopes, and keep up with Singapore’s fast-paced lifestyle. All of this can be daunting!”

To guide expats through the transition and beyond, the multicultural team at Psychology Blossom offers therapy in a wide range of languages. They include English, Mandarin, French, Slovak, Tamil, Italian, Romanian, Japanese, Bahasa Melayu, Hindi, Spanish and Burmese.

At its centrally located therapy space on Cecil Street, Psychology Blossom provides a variety of individual, family, couples and group therapy options, as well as psychological assessments. For individuals, the team can help address challenges encountered from childhood through seniority. For families, they offer therapy and support with issues such as helping a teenager with depression or navigating life transitions like separation or loss. As for couples interested in couples therapy or marriage counselling in Singapore? The clinic has experienced therapists who can guide you through challenges related to communication, intimacy and betrayal.

Psychology Blossom also offers art therapy and group therapy for both children and adults. These cover topics like parenting skills, social anxiety, communication and addiction.

The WhatsApp admin team are ready to assist anytime between 8am and 10pm, both during the week and on weekends. Reach out to learn more about selecting a suitable therapist and your options.

Psychology Blossom
#07-02 Wing On Life Building, 150 Cecil Street
8800 0554 | psychologyblossom.com

Guiding teens and parents through change

The teen years are a phase of discovery, not only for teenagers but their parents too! From developing identity to navigating academic pressure, social media and friendship issues, the path to adulthood is complex. Additionally, for expat families, there can be a few unique challenges too. The team at Alliance Counselling recognises these and provides a safe space for teens to express themselves and work through their concerns.

“Adolescence is a time of trial and error. It’s when we face new experiences, people, feelings and ways of understanding ourselves,” says Julianne Bjørk Yang, a counsellor at Alliance Counselling. “Understandably, teens grapple with self-doubt and worry. Our role is to support them in developing self-awareness and resilience.”

The therapists at the centre offer personalised support tailored to each teen’s needs and strengths, helping them address various issues. They range from anxiety, perfectionism, low mood and bullying to sleep problems, screen time management, body image concerns, family conflict, grief and adjustment to change.

Founded in 2009, Alliance Counselling in Singapore comprises a team of 30 multilingual counsellors and psychologists. They provide a wide range of services. These include marriage counselling, couples therapy and family therapy. Empathetic professional support and guidance are also available for men, women, couples, children and families. Their goal is to equip clients with the skills and tools needed to cope with life’s challenges at every stage.

In addition to its counselling services – such as Marathon Couples Therapy, Single Session Therapy, sexual health and intimacy services, and pre-postnatal services – the team partners with educational institutions and offers clinical supervision, corporate workshops, employee assistance programmes and psychological assessments, such as ADHD, ASD and gender identity assessments. It also offers free monthly support groups.

Alliance Counselling
• #04-03 & #03-02 Cluny Court, 501 Bukit Timah Road
• 121 Upper East Coast Road, #02-01
6466 8120 | alliancecounselling.com.sg

Unlocking personal and professional potential

Since 2006, The Counselling Place has been dedicated to promoting mental wellbeing and professional success for expats under the guidance of founder and psychologist Ho Shee Wai. Notable here is the commitment to ensuring that everyone can access support in their preferred language. In fact, the multicultural team of psychologists, counsellors, sex therapists and coaches speak 12 languages between them: English, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean, Indonesian, Malay, Mandarin, Hokkien, Teochew and Cantonese. This greatly helps to alleviate common issues of miscommunication.

You’ll find a broad range of services, from marriage counselling, couples therapy and family therapy to assessments for children, teens, adults, couples and families. There are also specialised coaching services in career development, parenting and academic performance. The team is dedicated to helping every client reach their goals, whether it’s overcoming personal challenges or excelling in their careers.

Accessing support from The Counselling Place has never been easier, too. Services are available both in-person and online to suit your needs. Appointments are available seven days a week (from early mornings to late evenings) via a 24/7 online booking platform.

The Counselling Place
#11-00 The Octagon, 105 Cecil Street
thecounsellingplace.com

The transformative impact of life and career coaching

When it comes to navigating the complexities of careers, relationships and corporate dynamics, a guiding hand can make all the difference. Dr Jade Kua is master-certified by the International Coaching Federation, placing her in the top four percent of coaches globally.

From shaping career paths and the trajectories of corporate teams, to fostering meaningful connections, finding fulfilment and helping individuals and corporates set and achieve goals, Dr Kua’s holistic approach aims to elevate individuals and propel entire teams towards high performance.

Her medical background in paediatric emergency medicine and trauma makes her sought-after among clients who need to make critical decisions in stressful conditions. Offering both in-person and online consultations, Dr Kua employs unique coaching strategies whose positive ripple effects she says can be felt across personal, interpersonal and professional spheres. “Coaching is statistically proven to improve demonstrable skills like work performance as well as important attributes like self-confidence or communication with others,” she adds.

Jade Life and Wellness Coaching Clinic & Academy runs professional coaching courses, along with masterclasses and workshops.

Jade Life and Wellness Coaching Clinic & Academy
#03-01 Camden Medical Centre, 1 Orchard Boulevard
hello@jadelifeandwellness.com | jadelifeandwellness.com
IG @jadecoachingacademy

A holistic approach to school counselling in Singapore

School is more than just academics; it’s also where our children start to navigate the complexities of growing up. Therefore, the role of caring school counsellors is crucial in their development. “Young people often face challenges like social anxiety, identity formation, and the unique stress of being global citizens,” says Zanthe Ng, ACCTS, CSAccred (Advanced), who is Senior Counsellor at Nexus International School. “Many come from expatriate families, adding layers of complexity to their emotional experiences.”

That’s why the school’s experienced counselling team adopts a holistic, learner-centric approach. This creates a safe environment for learners to explore their thoughts and emotions. Prioritising preventive care, developmental care and continuous support, its services include individual and group counselling, crisis intervention, and a wide range of care programmes aimed at fostering resilience, emotional regulation and social skills. The focus is on helping learners build self awareness, positive coping strategies and self-compassion, as well as a strong support network within the school community.

School counsellors also collaborate with parents to ensure that the support aligns with each learner’s needs. Beyond the school gates, Zanthe advocates for a balanced daily schedule that includes relaxation, physical activity and social connections. Open communication within the family is also crucial.

Beyond regular staff training, the school’s comprehensive approach is strengthened by the innovative “NEXWell” app, developed by Nexus learners. This app provides 24/7 access to mental health self-help resources. “Seeking help is a courageous decision that can lead to significant personal growth,” says Zanthe. “While taking that first step may seem daunting, it often marks a turning point. We aim to support learners in overcoming challenges and achieving their full potential.”

4 signs your child may be struggling:

• Physical – fatigue, headaches, weight changes, altered eating or sleeping habits
• Socio-behavioural – withdrawal from social activities, loss of interest, trouble maintaining friendships
• Emotional – increased irritability, mood swings, persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness
• Psychological – negative thought patterns, heightened worry or fears, excessive self-criticism

Nexus International School
1 Aljunied Walk
6536 6566 | nexus.edu.sg | enquiry@nexus.edu.sg

Trendsetters in mental health

Lyra Singapore (formerly SACAC Counselling) is a comprehensive mental health practice that uses a range of evidence-based and technologically advanced techniques to provide holistic psychological support such as marriage counselling, psychotherapy, expressive therapy, neurodevelopmental and psychometric assessments. It also provides personality assessments for kids (from as young as two), adolescents, adults and families.

A subsidiary of Lyra, a US-based provider of Workforce Mental Health solutions, Lyra Singapore operates with the same mission to transform access to life-changing mental healthcare globally. Blending experienced providers, advanced technology and a commitment to quality care for all, the local business continues to grow under the helm of director Vinti Mittal, a counsellor with 15 years’ experience in psychology.

The central Orchard premises is home to a team of multicultural and multilingual counsellors, clinical psychologists and an educational psychologist. Together, they’re able to address various needs. They range from emotional and behavioural, to psychological and relationship issues with services like family therapy and marriage counselling in Singapore. It’s also noteworthy that the team speaks 14 languages between them! Needless to say, being able to access therapy in their native language is a big drawcard for clients.

The team services private clients, both with and without insurance, as well as major EAP providers and multinational companies. Consultations are provided in-person and virtually via various platforms seven days a week until late, with clients based in Singapore and beyond. Importantly, Lyra Singapore says it believes in providing support within 48 hours of a client making contact. So you can get help when you most need it.

Lyra Singapore
15 Scotts Road, #09-12
6733 9249 | sacac.sg

Mental wellness and self-discovery for adults

Are you looking to gain a deeper understanding into your thoughts, feelings and past experiences, and how they may be affecting your relationships, mood and behaviour today?

Samant Psychotherapy, founded by Anita Samant – an experienced, UK-trained and accredited adult psychodynamic psychotherapist – offers an opportunity to do just that thanks to its personalised, multicultural therapy services for both the local and expat communities.

Specialising in assessing and treating psychological, emotional and relational issues in adults, Samant Psychotherapy welcomes clients of all ages, genders, sexual orientations and levels of neurodiversity. You can choose from short- or long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy to gain insight into previously unconscious thoughts and feelings, and address how they may be impacting you. There is also dynamic interpersonal therapy available for those dealing with anxiety and depression within the context of relationships.

“My advice for anyone who is fearful about reaching out for help is to make that first call. Arrange an initial consultation to learn how therapy could be beneficial,”says Anita. “I wish seeking mental health support was as natural as visiting a doctor for a physical issue, free from barriers or cultural stigma. Taking care of your mental wellness is essential, and many difficulties are treatable with the right support.”

Samant Psychotherapy
6 Handy Road
9030 1092 | anitasamant.com

Family-focused therapy and marriage counselling in Singapore

Relocating to a new country can be both exciting and challenging. As an expat in Singapore, you might encounter unique stressors, from cultural adjustments to balancing work and family life. Luckily, the experienced team at Counseling Perspective can offer support every step of the way.

All three locations across the island provide a comprehensive range of psychological, coaching and wellness services tailored to the diverse needs of the expat community. There’s a multicultural team of seasoned professionals in place who speak several languages. This ensures patients feel understood and supported, no matter their background.

This counselling centre also has a no-waiting-list policy, which means it can provide timely care, especially for children. Whether your child is adjusting to a new school, managing anxiety or navigating social challenges, the team offers compassionate and effective support.

In addition to traditional family and couples therapy and marriage counselling in Singapore, Counseling Perspective’s wellness services include mindfulness training, stress management techniques and lifestyle coaching to promote holistic wellbeing. They offer neurofeedback, a cutting-edge technique that enhances brain function and can aid in the treatment of anxiety, ADHD and sleep disorders. They also host regular community-focused programmes, including workshops for parents, children and adults, wellness and transformation retreats and support groups.

The centre’s integrated approach strives to ensure that mental, emotional and physical health are all addressed, helping you achieve balance and thrive in your new environment.

“At Counseling Perspective, we believe in empowering our clients to live their best lives,” says founder and American psychologist Dr Glenn Graves.

Counseling Perspective
9th Floor, Republic Plaza I, 9 Raffles Place
#03-01 The Oasis, 87 Science Park Drive
291 Joo Chiat Road, #05-02
9853 7253 | 9636 8060 | counselingperspective.com

Personalised couples therapy and marriage counselling for emotional and relational resilience

Relationship issues are a common catalyst that drive individuals to seek help. Tensions with partners, strained family dynamics and difficulties in relationships can deeply affect emotional stability. These often stem from unmet emotional needs, past traumas or unresolved conflicts.

“Our goal is to empower our clients to build emotional resilience and confidence to face life’s challenges head-on. We want to equip them with the tools they need for long-term mental and emotional wellbeing,” says Muhammad Haikal Bin Jamil, founder and Senior Clinical Psychologist at ImPossible Psychological Services.

His team of mood and relationship specialists have distinct personalities and areas of specialty. They are uniquely equipped to delve into the intricacies of emotions and interpersonal dynamics. With a repertoire of evidence-based therapeutic methods, including Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Choice Therapy and Reality Therapy (CTRT), and Psychodynamic Therapy, the practice aims to match clients with the therapist who most aligns with their personality, values, and type of support needed.

“We prioritise understanding the personal goals and comfort levels of our clients,” says Haikal. “This personalised approach ensures meaningful and lasting transformation.”

ImPossible Psychological Services offers a spectrum of client-centred services. These include counselling for adults, children and adolescents (ages six to 18). There are also corporate wellness programmes, psychological assessments, couples therapy, family therapy and marriage counselling in Singapore. By fostering a partnership between therapist and client, says Haikal, the path to emotional and relational resilience becomes a collaborative process, drawing on the client’s innate strengths to achieve breakthroughs.

ImPossible Psychological Services
360A Joo Chiat Road
9099 9081 | impossiblepsychservices.com.sg

An inviting sanctuary for therapy sessions

Therapy spaces can often be very formal and clinical-looking. But not at The Other Clinic, which founder Dr Ronina Stevens lovingly designed to “feel more like a home”. Tucked in a 1930s heritage building in Geylang, the clinic is filled with charming décor and features an outdoor deck and dedicated zones for children. This creates a welcoming atmosphere for both adults and young patients.

Here, you’ll find a wide range of services. These range from counselling in Singapore for all ages to neurological assessments, family therapy, couples therapy, occupational therapy and corporate wellness programmes. “Living in Singapore often drives people to be high-achieving and hard-working, which can create anxiety and pressure,” notes Dr Ronina. “It has been harder for men to take that first step in getting help. At TOC, we aim to create a safe space where tending to your mental wellbeing is as natural as tending to your physical health.”

Dr Ronina and her team of international therapists can deliver therapy in multiple languages to accommodate Singapore’s diverse local and expat communities. Another aim here is to make affordable mental health support more accessible. This is why the clinic offers low-cost therapy options through its clinicians in training, supervised in its NEST (Nurturing, Evidence Based Supportive Therapy) programme. Short-term and single-session therapies are also available. And the team is ready to help you find the right approach and therapist that suit your needs.

“Therapy is a wonderful judgment-free zone for everyone, including those without a mental health diagnosis,” says Dr Ronina. “If you can be open to therapy, it can be a great gift to yourself.”

The Other Clinic
35 Lorong 23 Geylang
6957 9100 | theotherclinic.sg | hello@theotherclinic.sg

Psychological support and counselling in Singapore for your whole family

As a parent, it can be distressing to hear a statement like “I wish I was dead” coming out of your child’s mouth. But, before dismissing it as “just acting out”, know that depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicide are not reserved for adults.

Dr Sanveen Kang, clinical psychologist and founder of Psych Connect, urges parents to take their child’s mental health seriously. “Child and adolescent mental health is a cornerstone of lifelong wellbeing,” she says. “During these formative years, emotional, psychological and social development sets the foundation for future resilience, relationships and overall health.”

That’s why Dr Kang believes early intervention is key to preventing the escalation of mental health issues. Prioritising mental health in children and adolescents helps them build strong coping mechanisms and foster a positive self-image. This, in turn, leads to more productive and fulfilling lives.

Luckily, you don’t have to deal with this alone. “Reaching out for professional help is important for your wellbeing and that of your child,” says Dr Kang. “When parents accept their child’s reality and seek help, they can steer them toward a healthier place. This helps prevent dark feelings from bubbling up later on.”

Psych Connect’s team of psychotherapists, psychologists and counsellors have years of experience in family therapy (as well as marriage counselling, psychological assessments and more). Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is one of the most effective treatment options for depression in children and teenagers. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Circle of Security, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Solutions Focused Therapy and Art Psychotherapy are among the other psychotherapies used at the centre.

Warning signs to watch out for in children:

• Verbal threats
• Changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Frequent or pervasive sadness
• Withdrawal from friends, family and regular activities
• Complaints about physical symptoms such as stomach aches and headaches
• A decline in energy levels and in the quality of schoolwork
• An inability to think clearly or concentrate
• Preoccupation with death and dying
• Not caring about activities or things that previously mattered
• Engagement in risky behaviours and carelessness with safety
• Increased irritability

Psych Connect
10 Winstedt Road, #03-07/12/13/14/17
6493 0244 | psychconnect.sg

Navigating life’s challenges with Gestalt therapy

As one of the few certified Integrative Gestalt psychotherapists in Singapore, Nicole Chew-Helbig brings a deep passion and fresh approach to mental health and personal growth. Her practice is rooted in Gestalt therapy. It’s a method developed by Fritz and Lore Perls in the 1940s that emphasises present-moment awareness and one’s relationship with their environment.

Nicole’s journey as a therapist began in Vienna, where she worked with asylum seekers during the refugee crisis. “This experience, along with training from renowned Gestalt therapists Claudio Naranjo and Bob Resnick, honed my courage to be present with clients through challenging situations,” she explains.

Specifically, Gestalt therapy’s integrative and dialogic nature acknowledges the individual’s connection to their social, cultural and physical environment. It also emphasises compassion, acceptance and the courage to include oneself in dialogue. For expats in Singapore navigating cultural transitions and tackling relational and emotional challenges, Gestalt therapy could serve as a framework for fostering adaptation and growth through honouring each individual’s background and childhood experiences.

Working primarily with adults and couples, Nicole offers services like marriage counselling, couples therapy and group therapy. She focuses on being fully present to each client’s “unique truth” and “individual experience”, empowering them to find their path forward. “Gestalt therapy, though not widely known in Singapore, has a large international community. As a theoretician and researcher in this field, I believe its principles are especially relevant in Singapore’s multicultural context,” she says. “While it’s challenging to fully explain Gestalt therapy in brief, the best way to understand its benefits is through direct experience.”

Psychotherapy Nicole Chew-Helbig Singapore
#01-13 The Riverwalk, 20 Upper Circular Road
8797 8848 | psychotherapist.sg

Strengthening bonds and building resilience in your fertility journey

Embarking on a fertility journey as a couple can be an emotionally charged experience, filled with hopes, uncertainties and often frustrations. The ups and downs of trying to conceive, undergoing medical treatments and dealing with potential setbacks can take a toll on any relationship. This can lead to stress, anxiety and communication challenges.

“Counselling can offer invaluable support during this time,” shares the team at Fertilityconnectz. A professional therapist provides a compassionate and neutral space – it’s where couples can openly discuss their feelings, fears and frustrations. Counselling can help couples navigate the emotional rollercoaster of infertility, enhance their communication skills, and strengthen their connection amidst the challenges.”

Fertilityconnectz has a dedicated and compassionate team that specialises in helping couples navigate the emotional challenges of fertility issues. The team offers support in managing the stress and emotional impact of treatments, exploring effective coping strategies, and setting realistic expectations. Additionally, they provide a guiding hand through the complexities of decision-making, helping couples maintain a healthy, supportive relationship throughout their journey.

“Remember, you’re not alone – our mission is to be there for you whenever you need us. Our goal is to provide you with the best personalised approach to addressing the emotional and mental aspects of infertility.”

By seeking support, couples can foster resilience, improve their emotional wellbeing, and maintain a strong partnership as they work toward their family goals.

Fertilityconnectz
#04-07 The Riverside Plaza, 11 Keng Cheow Street
9784 4889 | fertilityconnectz.com

Counselling in Singapore for professionals

Executive Counselling is the first counselling practice in Singapore dedicated exclusively to serving the needs of professionals. Using a unique blend of counselling and coaching, the team helps clients at all stages of their careers manage both personal and work-related struggles.

The practice was founded in 2023 by former CNBC Asia presenter Lisa Oake. As the co-host of the network’s morning show, Squawk Box, Lisa noticed a common thread among top performers: they quietly recognised and accepted that mental health challenges were normal and sought support in those areas.

This article on counselling practices in Singapore offering marriage counselling and family and couples therapy first appeared in the October 2024 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!

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