Think your child may need some extra support as they navigate school life? Many international schools have programmes and therapies that support the mental health of students and youths who are facing challenges, be they learning difficulties, emotional issues, special needs or others. Find out more about what’s available at these two schools from learning support to kids’ therapy and counselling in Singapore.
Counselling in Singapore – Integrated International School
At Integrated International School (IIS), support for mental health in students is provided to all students. This ensures that everyone’s social, emotional and psychological needs are met. The professionals at IIS work collaboratively with students and parents to meet their therapy goals and enhance their quality of life in school and in their everyday lives. Counselling for students involves the use of evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy, and utilises a range of expressive therapies to maximise engagement during sessions.
To cater to their diverse needs, the school’s students may seek counselling in Singapore via personal request or through a referral from a teacher or parent. Counsellors work closely with students in one-to-one or small group sessions to address difficulties related to academic stress, emotional dysregulation, managing social conflicts, self-esteem and more.
Tips for parents from IIS
#1 Encourage healthy coping mechanisms
“Help your child develop healthy ways to manage stress and emotions. Teach them relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness or progressive muscle relaxation. These can be done through modelling or videos found online – YouTube, for example. Encourage physical activity as a way to release tension and improve mood. Create a safe space for them to express their feelings through talking, drawing or writing. Helping your child recognise and label their emotions through their daily activities can also be beneficial in effectively managing mental health in young people.”
– Audrey Low, psychologist
#2 Collaborate by finding options that work for everyone
“Instil values of empathy and compassion by encouraging your child to consider others’ feelings and perspectives. Discuss the importance of kindness and understanding in their interactions with others. Model empathetic behaviour by showing compassion in your daily interactions and discussing how to handle situations with empathy. Encouraging acts of kindness, such as helping a friend or volunteering, can also foster a sense of empathy and social responsibility.”
– Kenneth Lee, psychologist
#01-01 Capital Square Two, 21 Church Street
6466 4475 | iis.edu.sg
Counselling in Singapore – Australian International School
Australian International School says that it makes the academic wellbeing of students an absolute priority. It strives to ensure that students and families receive the best care and up-to-date advice from their school counsellor and wellness team.
The school is using what’s known as C.A.R.E.S. (Connection, Attitude, Relationships, Engagement, Safety), a self-reflection and reporting tool. It’s a way for the school community to identify, monitor and address the social and mental health in students. This simple survey is delivered twice a term through the AIS pastoral programme. It’s designed to capture a snapshot of how students are feeling at a given point in time. This data is used to have informed conversations about academic wellbeing with students, teachers and families.
Tips for parents from AIS on the mental health of youths
#1 Minimise screen time
“Screen time can be part of a healthy lifestyle for teenagers when it’s balanced with other activities that are good for issues of mental health in youths. Physical activity keeps teenage bodies and minds fit and healthy. Teenagers need at least one hour of moderate exercise every day; this needs to be planned to balance it with other activities, including screen time.”
#2 Making the most of the time with the family
“It’s important to make the most of family time in an intentional and mindful manner. This is the opportunity to get creative with family time and strengthen the bonds or even explore new aspects of relationships. You can always invite family or friends in Singapore to join or include the overseas extended family in a game of virtual charades, for example.”
– The AIS Wellbeing Team
1 Lorong Chuan
6664 81274 | ais.com.sg
Enjoyed reading this article on school counselling? There’s more about international schools in Singapore, reviewed by parents and Have a look at some fun things to do in Singapore with kids and cool kids’ birthday party places in Singapore.
Planning to live in Singapore or new to our sunny island? Make sure to read the digital edition of our latest City Guide.
