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The demand for trained counsellors in Singapore continues to rise in Singapore. While counsellors offer critical support to those in need, they themselves require a robust support system to manage the emotional and psychological toll of their work.
For that reason, this article explores the networks, communities, and resources available in Singapore to aid the wellbeing and professional development of counsellors in Singapore.
The Importance of Support for Counsellors in Singapore
Counsellors regularly encounter emotionally charged and complex situations with clients. While they are equipped to guide others through life’s challenges, they are human after all and not immune to the stresses of their profession.
Counsellor burnout, secondary trauma, and emotional fatigue are real issues they may face. Without the right support, counsellors may find themselves overwhelmed or even struggling with their own mental health.
Hence, support networks and resources are vital for counsellors to ensure they remain effective in their roles and can continue to provide high-quality care to clients. Fortunately, Singapore offers a range of resources—from professional associations to peer support groups—that counsellors can rely on.
Professional Associations and Networks
Singapore Association for Counselling (SAC)
The SAC is the primary professional body for counsellors in Singapore. SAC provides a platform for counsellors to network, access professional development, and stay updated on the latest counselling trends. The association hosts regular workshops, webinars, and conferences aimed at enhancing counsellors’ skills and knowledge.
Website: Singapore Association for Counselling
Singapore Psychological Society (SPS)
While mainly catering to psychologists, SPS also provides valuable resources for counsellors. The society promotes research, best practices, and professional development opportunities. SPS members can participate in forums and events that foster knowledge exchange and peer support.
Website: Singapore Psychological Society
Association of Psychotherapists and Counsellors (Singapore) – APCS
The APCS is another key association offering resources and networking opportunities for psychotherapists and counsellors. It focuses on maintaining high standards of professionalism and ethical practice, offering members access to seminars, continuing education, and peer consultation sessions.
Website: APCS Singapore
Singapore Counselling Centre (SCC)
SCC is not only a counselling service provider but also a hub for professional development. It offers various certification programs, workshops, and peer consultations for counsellors to hone their skills. SCC also provides counsellor-specific support services, such as supervision and mentoring.
Website: Singapore Counselling Centre
Peer Support Groups and Communities
Peer Supervision Groups
Supervision is crucial for counsellors, providing a structured space for reflection, learning, and feedback. Many organisations, including SAC and SCC, offer peer supervision groups where counsellors can share experiences, discuss difficult cases, and receive guidance from peers or senior counsellors. These groups are often held monthly and are a valuable resource for counsellors seeking ongoing professional support.
A Space Between
A Space Between is a sanctuary for therapists in Singapore as it extends meticulously designed therapy rooms for mental health practitioners and counsellors to conduct their practice. Aside from that, A Space Between prides itself on its growing community of over 90 practising therapists and counsellors, regularly hosting member meetups, workshops, and events as support for counsellors in Singapore.
Counsellor Networking on Meetup.com
Various online communities, such as those found on Meetup.com, can provide informal networking and peer support opportunities for counsellors in Singapore. These groups often host regular gatherings, allowing counsellors to connect, share insights, and engage in collaborative learning outside of a formal professional setting. These meetups can be particularly helpful for those new to the profession or looking to expand their network.
Online Forums and Facebook Groups
Platforms like Facebook offer a range of counsellor-specific groups where professionals can engage in discussions, share resources, and support one another. These groups can provide counsellors with immediate advice, whether pertaining to resources, referrals, or personal support from others.
Training and Continuing Education
National Council of Social Services (NCSS)
The NCSS offers a wide array of training programs and workshops that counsellors can attend to further their professional development. Many of these sessions focus on specialised areas such as trauma counselling, child psychology, and crisis intervention so counsellors can diversify their skill set. NCSS also offers grants and subsidies to support counsellors seeking further education.
Website: NCSS Training Hub
Institute of Mental Health (IMH)
The IMH in Singapore extends a variety of training programs for mental health professionals, such as counsellors. IMH’s Continuing Education & Training (CET) programs cover topics like mental health assessment, therapeutic techniques, and managing burnout, ensuring counsellors have access to current evidence-based practices.
Website: Institute of Mental Health
Local Universities and Polytechnics
Universities such as the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) offer post-graduate diplomas and advanced degrees in counselling and related fields. These institutions frequently run workshops and certificate programs, providing counsellors with opportunities for ongoing learning and professional growth.
Mental Health and Well-being for Counsellors
Supervision and Monitoring
Regular supervision is essential for counsellors to process the emotional demands of their work. Organisations like SAC and SCC provide access to trained supervisors who offer counsellors a safe space to reflect on their cases, receive feedback, and manage personal emotions. This helps counsellors avoid burnout, giving them professional guidance and emotional support.
Therapy for Counsellors
It is not uncommon for counsellors to seek therapy themselves. Engaging in personal therapy allows counsellors to work through their own emotional challenges and maintain personal well-being. Many professional counsellors recommend seeking therapy, especially when dealing with emotionally intense or traumatic cases.
Mindfulness and Self-care Workshops
Various mental health organisations, including Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) and Silver Ribbon (Singapore), afford workshops focused on self-care, mindfulness, and stress management. These programs can help counsellors develop personal coping mechanisms, build resilience, and maintain emotional balance in their daily lives.
Final Thoughts
Support for counsellors in Singapore is crucial for maintaining a thriving mental health ecosystem. By staying connected to these resources, counsellors can continue to grow personally and professionally while delivering high-quality care to those who need it most.
A Word from A Space Between
At a Space Between, we have over 90 members of practising therapists and counsellors in Singapore. We also often host work member events and workshops as support for counsellors in Singapore, which you can be a part of.
Should you be a practising therapist or counsellor wishing to work with A Space Between, we have now transitioned to a referral-based membership model and for more information, you may refer to this Instagram post.
Considering being a part of A Space Between? Book a personalised, in-person tour here to get started.
