There are quite a few options for counselling and therapy in Singapore. But if you’re interested in measuring your progress, it’s hard to do this with traditional therapy. Here we speak to VINTI MITTAL, Director of Lyra Singapore (previously SACAC Counselling), about how she’s finding success with outcome-based therapy, which offers help with goal setting.
Tell us about this new therapy in Singapore and how it differs from traditional approaches.
In recent years, mental health care has evolved significantly, with an increasing emphasis on measurable outcomes and evidence-based practices. It’s core to our work. Put simply, it means focusing on achieving specific, measurable results in the therapeutic process. This method contrasts with more traditional approaches, which often prioritise process over results. In outcome-based therapy, the central question is: “What improvements or changes can we achieve?”
What are some of the main benefits of this goal setting therapy in Singapore?
The outcome-based approach offers several significant advantages not just for the client but also for the therapists. These include:
#1 Enhanced accountability on both sides
Clear well-defined goals and regular assessment in the process hold both the therapist and client accountable for the progress. This shared responsibility motivates the client and provides a sense of direction and purpose.
#2 Improved transparency
By focusing on measurable outcomes, clients can better understand the progress they are making. This transparency and clarity enhances trust in the therapeutic process and improves client satisfaction. Who doesn’t want to know how well they are doing?
#3 Greater efficiency
Regular monitoring and adjustment of treatment plans by the therapist can lead to more efficient and effective therapy outcomes. Clients can see faster improvements because interventions are continually being refined based on the latest needs, keeping in mind the definitive end goal.
#4 Data-driven adjustments
Therapists can use data from assessments to make informed decisions about modifying the treatment approach. This ensures that therapy is dynamic and responsive to the client’s evolving needs as they move ahead in the process.
How do you measure and evaluate the progress of a client during treatment?
Outcome-based therapy can be applied across various therapeutic settings and populations, from individual counselling to group therapy, and from children to adults. In working with children and adolescents, setting clear behavioural or emotional goals can help track progress and adapt interventions. Knowing where you are in the process not only helps the therapist or the child, it also helps the parent gauge the progress. For example, having no anger outbursts at home or being able to convey to the teacher why the homework was incomplete.
Outcome-based therapy can also help families and couples set relational goals, such as improving communication or resolving conflicts. Regular assessments can track improvements in relationship dynamics.
In substance abuse therapy, clear goals like achieving sobriety milestones, reducing relapse rates, and improving overall wellbeing are critical. Regular progress checks can help maintain focus and motivation.
And, for individuals dealing with depression or anxiety, this therapy can involve setting goals related to symptom reduction, improving daily functioning, and enhancing quality of life. Regular feedback helps in tweaking the treatment as necessary.
You mentioned that this process involves goal setting. Tell us more.
Outcome-based therapy focuses on setting clear, specific goals and regularly evaluating your progress toward these goals. It emphasises collaboration between you and your therapist to establish what you want to achieve and how you plan to get there. As you progress, your goals may evolve, which is a natural part of the therapeutic journey. The key is maintaining awareness of your direction and staying engaged with your therapist in a safe, non-judgmental space. This approach ensures that you have a clear understanding of your objectives and can measure your advancements, allowing for adjustments as needed to achieve your desired outcomes.
Do you have any advice for people starting out with therapy in Singapore?
I’m all about spreading the message that an outcome-based approach in therapy is now possible! Setting specific goals and continuous evaluation of progress helps you feel more in control of your therapeutic journey. It’s essential to ask questions and specify your goals about the outcomes you wish to achieve before starting therapy. If your therapist is unfamiliar with outcome-based therapy, discussing these expectations can help establish a mutual understanding and set the stage for a productive therapeutic relationship.
Do you see outcome-based therapy becoming more mainstream?
Yes! I think it’s a better way of engaging in a therapeutic relationship more than anything else. Many clients appreciate having a structured plan that allows them to see tangible results and make adjustments as needed. Additionally, clients who prefer this approach feel more empowered by taking an active role in their progress. Without it, it can seem more like engaging in something indefinitely without having an end in sight to aim for. Outcome-based therapy ensures you know what to expect at the end of the process.
Lyra Singapore (previously SACAC Counselling)
15 Scotts Road, #09-12
6733 9249 | sacac.sg
This article about outcome-based therapy in Singapore first appeared in the August 2024 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
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