Overwhelmed? Check Out These 5 Affordable Therapy Services In Singapore
Need to find an outlet as a stressed parent? Here are five counselling services in Singapore that are easy on the pocket
Therapy, it seems, is everywhere. Whether it’s inspirational posts on Instagram, motivational speeches on TikTok, or empowering podcasts, there are plenty of counselling resources out there for overwhelmed mothers who are constantly juggling the stress of work and parenting. Despite all that, finding an actual therapist or counsellor can feel extremely daunting – especially when you factor in the cost.
Unlike a cold or flu, mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression often require a longer period to treat. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), different people require a varied range of therapy sessions – some people might find eight sessions effective, some require six months, and for others, therapy might be an ongoing journey with no end date.
To translate: therapy is a commitment, and the costs can rack up over time. But costs alone shouldn’t deter you from seeking help when you need it – which is why we’ve gathered some quality and affordable counselling options in Singapore that are open to the public, below.
AWARE
Women’s rights advocacy group AWARE has a wealth of programmes and services, including counsellors who have experience in working with women who are dealing with issues such as trauma, violence and sexuality.
Walk-in services have been suspended due to the pandemic, so it’s best to call ahead to book an appointment. It’s also best to note that AWARE only provides counselling for women above 21 years of age, though exceptions are made for those who are referred by their Sexual Assault Care Centre.
Fees: Counselling fees are charged at 2% of your monthly income. For example, if you earn $4,000 monthly, you will pay $80 per session. For those who are not working or who earn below $3,000 monthly, counselling fees are at a flat rate of $35 per session. For sexual assault and harassment cases through the Sexual Assault Care Centre, the first three sessions are free.
Shan You Counselling Centre
Established in 1995, the Shan You Counselling Centre (SYCC) is a non-profit organisation that offers professional counselling at affordable rates. While the charity has Buddhist roots, its services are open to everyone regardless of ethnic background and religion – they simply follow the guiding values of compassion, mindfulness, morality and wisdom.
Fees: Each session will cause individuals $80 per session (50 to 60 mins), or $100 per session (65 to 75 mins) if you’re heading to the therapy sessions as a couple or with your family. If the rates are still considered too expensive for you, requests for discounts or waivers can be made; they’ll be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the clinical director of the centre.
TOUCH Family Support
With a focus on family-related issues, TOUCH offers counselling services for couples, primarily focusing on premarital/marital issues, domestic violence, emotional and mental distress as well as management of interpersonal relationships.
There’s also specific counselling services for youths, which aim to improve their emotional and relational wellbeing through youth-oriented, systemic and values-driven counselling approaches in both individual and group settings, which are supported by the Ministry of Social and Family Development. Areas of focus include cyber wellness, mental health and youth issues.
Fees: Fees for couples counselling range from $100 to $120 per session. A subsidised rate is available for those with a household monthly income of less than $2,800. For counselling services for youths, rates are not published, but can be discussed with the organisation.
Counselling And Care Centre
Non-profit organisation Counselling and Care Centre (CCC) is dedicated in their mission to provide quality professional counselling. The organisation, which is non-governmental but is affiliated with the National Council of Social Service, also offers psychological counselling services, psychotherapy training and consultation to professionals in the mental health and social services.
Fees: The fees begin from $180 per hour, but for those who earn less than $10,000 monthly, enquire for the subsidy system that will offer you lower rates. Note that you’ll have to be a Singaporean or PR in order to receive the subsidised rates.
Polyclinics and General Practitioners (GP)
Going through the polyclinic/GP route can offer you a subsidised and much more affordable rate to seek professional treatment and in-depth psychiatric help at hospitals.
Fees: To be a subsidised patient, you’d have to obtain a referral from a doctor at a polyclinic (consultations cost around $10.70) or at your GP. If you’re a subsidised patient, you can get counselling services at IMH, which will cost $40 for the first consultation, and $37 for subsequent consultations.
Text: Cheryl Lai-Lim/HerWorld