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Month: May 2025

5 Times Movies & TV Shows Got Mental Health Representation Right

Posted on by Manassa Shrikanth
  • Published on 31 May 2025

Have you ever watched a movie or binged a TV show and felt, ‘Yes – that’s exactly what I’m going through’?

It’s a very rare but incredibly validating experience – one that makes us feel less alone in our struggles.

Portrayal of mental health in mass media has always been a tricky terrain to traverse. It’s often filled with stereotypes, prejudice, and stigmatised representations. Many a time, mental health challenges are trivialised, shamed or worse, used as comedic relief.

And so, when we do come across a rare gem that represents mental health the right way and showcases our struggles in a realistic, relatable and empathetic way, it’s that much more special!

Join us as we take a quick look at five such movies and TV shows that gave mental health the kind of representation it deserves.

This Article Contains:

Why ‘Right’ Mental Health Representation Matters

Given how stigmatised mental health already is in our society, the wrong kind of representation can have far-reaching adverse effects.

Here are some negative effects of ‘wrong’ representation of mental health:

  • Perpetuates stigma, shame, and public apprehension about mental health issues, therapy, and other forms of support
  • Spreads misinformation by oversimplifying or dramatising conditions (eg showcasing bipolar disorder as just extreme mood swings)
  • Creates and perpetuates fear and stigma around seeking help by mocking therapy and showing asking for help as a weakness
  • Leads to or worsens self-criticism and self-hate in individuals dealing with mental health challenges
  • Diminishes or trivialises lived experiences and the extent of struggles by romanticising or portraying mental health issues as edgy or mysterious
  • Poses a risk of triggering vulnerable viewers through insensitive or graphic depictions of suicide, self-harm, assault or trauma (without appropriate warnings and nuance)
  • Reinforces stereotypes and reduces mental health struggles to tropes like ‘the crazy ex-girlfriend,’ ‘the psychotic villain,’ or ‘the manic genius’

The ‘right’ representation, on the other hand, holds immense power; its positive effects rippling through society and time.

Here’s the case for the ‘right’ side of mental health portrayal in media:

  • It normalises and de-stigmatises mental wellness, and encourages open conversations about mental health, therapy and challenges in real life.
  • Seeing characters seek therapy or get mental health support can help viewers going through similar struggles do the same.
  • Accurate and relatable portrayals of mental health issues can validate personal experiences, making people feel seen and less alone.
  • Authentic representation also educates the audience, helping them understand conditions like depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), etc.
  • Seeing characters with mental health issues as complex, functioning individuals, with nuanced storylines and an everyday life similar to theirs, can help people replace fear with empathy and understanding.
  • Stories of people recovering and healing from mental health conditions or challenges inspire hope.

5 Movies & TV Shows that Portray Relatable Mental Health Storylines

1) Inside Out

Inside Out is a nostalgic embrace that wraps you up in warmth and transports you to a relatable world full of colour!

Told through the story of a young girl named Riley, this animated movie (and its equally fantastic sequel) tells the story of her emotions, offering a fun yet meaningful take on the inner workings of the human mind.

The first part spotlights primary or early-childhood emotions such as joy, sadness, fear and disgust, while the second part adds more complex emotions into the mix – anxiety, embarrassment, envy and ennui.

Inside Out 2’s portrayal of anxiety is perhaps one of the most accurate depictions of the complex emotion. We all felt it deep within when Joy tells Anxiety, “You don’t get to choose who Riley is, Anxiety, you need to let go”.

It teaches us important lessons, such as the fact that all emotions have their role and that no emotion is ‘bad’. Over the course of the two movies, we see Riley learn to create space for all emotions to exist, even difficult ones such as sadness and anxiety. 

By representing emotions as characters, Inside Out humanises mental health, making it less scary and a lot more relatable. It’s undoubtedly a movie for children and adults alike.

Issues Represented

Mental health in general, sadness, anxiety & emotional regulation

A kid watching a movie involving mental health themes with their parents.

2) Ginny & Georgia

Ginny & Georgia may start out like your usual family comedy-drama set in the scenic suburbs, but you’ll quickly realise that it’s so much more. 

The show brings together witty comedy, excellent screenplay and fantastic acting to tell a story that highlights numerous mental health issues. 

Named after its protagonists, the mother-daughter duo – Georgia and Ginny – the show follows their lives after a recent move to Wellsbury, Massachusetts.

Ginny engages in self-harm to cope with anxiety and overwhelm, as well as long-standing trauma from her difficult childhood. 

She meets and falls in love with Marcus, her next-door neighbour, who has a mental health journey of his own. He deals with depression and grief after the loss of his best friend. Marcus tells Ginny how therapy helped him through difficult times, and after a while, Ginny, too, reaches out for help. 

The show also showcases the struggles of an Eating Disorders (ED) through the storyline of Abby, one of Ginny’s new friends.

The beauty of Ginny and Georgia lies in how sensitively it portrays heavy issues, without being overly graphic or triggering. This one is a gem that is close to the hearts of many.

Issues Represented

Anxiety, depression, self-harm & ED

3) Sex Education

Sex Education is a coming-of-age series that revolves around the lives of the teenage students of Moordale Secondary School. Characters face mental health issues ranging from anxiety and panic attacks to grief and PTSD. 

The protagonist’s mother, Jean, is a sex therapist, and through her storyline, we see an accurate representation of sex therapy. We see teenagers come to her about issues like erectile dysfunction and navigating an asexual identity. 

The show’s portrayal of Aimee’s experience with sexual assault and PTSD is handled with nuance and care, resonating with many.

Jackson Marchetti is a stellar student and a champion swimmer who struggles with anxiety and panic attacks. His experience speaks to a lot of teenagers who struggle with extreme perfectionism and anxiety.

Sex Education’s representation of mental health challenges, therapy, as well as queerness is authentic, heart-warming and a source of hope and comfort for many.

Issues Represented

Therapy, navigating sexuality, PTSD, anxiety & panic attacks

4) This is Us

Among the hundreds of shows that romanticise stoicism and portray men feeling emotional as ‘weak’, This is Us is a rarity that depicts not one, but several male mental health storylines. 

One of the show’s leads, Randall Pearson, is a successful professional who deals with severe panic attacks. This is Us handles Randall’s mental health arc with empathy and sensitivity, showing him lean on loved ones for help. 

We also see Kevin (Randall’s brother and another protagonist) struggle with and recover from recurring substance abuse and addiction. 

The third main character, Kate (Randall and Kevin’s sister), goes through her own mental health journey – including body image issues, self-love, depression and unhealthy relationships with food. Later in the show, we meet Madison, who goes on to be Kate’s best friend and lives with an eating disorder.

The show also features the trio’s uncle, Nick, who’s a war veteran and takes us through his experience with PTSD.

Throughout the show, we travel with the characters, living their struggles and developing much-needed empathy and acceptance towards mental well-being.

Issues Represented

Panic attacks, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, addictions, ED, body-image issues, grief & PTSD

5) Heartstopper

Heartstopper is a heartwarming webtoon-turned-TV show that follows the budding relationship between two teenage boys, Nick and Charlie. 

While the early seasons showcase accurate portrayals of bullying and identity crises (Nick coming to terms with his bisexuality), later seasons explore heavier topics such as anxiety, eating disorders and self-harm.

Through therapy, Charlie gradually understands that he’s dealing with anorexia and OCD. His therapist helps him name the experiences, validate them, understand their roots, and recover slowly.

Nick’s journey as a supportive partner shows us how we, too, can stay present and support a loved one or partner dealing with mental health issues.

Hearstopper also tackles many often-overlooked emotions that mental health issues can cause, such as shame, guilt, anger, denial and confusion.

Issues Represented

Anxiety, ED, navigating identity & sexuality, bullying & OCD

Conclusion

Watching relatable characters from our favourite shows and movies deal with mental health challenges helps normalise them and spread awareness. 

In these characters and storylines, we either see ourselves or those we know, and we feel heard, seen and validated. Further still, we live their struggles vicariously, thus cultivating strong empathy and understanding.

Authentic mental health representation is akin to that one friend who always gets you, who says, ‘I see you,’ and offers a warm, comforting and understanding shoulder.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, relationship struggles or wants to explore therapy for personal growth, Therapists at Talk Your Heart Out (TYHO) can help. 

Our team of accredited Therapists provides a safe, inclusive, and confidential space to support your mental wellness journey. Get started with TYHO today! 💜

5 Types of Couples Therapy Techniques

Posted on by Prath
  • Published on 30 May 2025

Did you fall in love first slowly and then all at once? (Remember Hazel?) Or was it the opposite for you? 

Nevertheless, it is during the ‘slow’ stage of love that you may actually get to know your partner.  

You love them but dislike how they leave their plates unwashed. You love them but find their hairstyle boring. You love them but think their friends are unkind. And so it goes. 

In love, you can also dislike someone’s traits. But what if these preferences go beyond dislike? That’s where couples therapy comes in.  

Sometimes, small habits, like being angry at your partner for not washing dishes, can pile up stress – quickly and without your notice.  

Time and time again, it’s been proven that relationships are complicated. But they don’t have to be if you learn how to seek help when it matters the most.  

Since couples therapy has evolved into its own branch, we use our magnifying glasses to dissect it and share five common techniques that are used in sessions.  

What is Couples Therapy?

Couples therapy is a specialised branch of psychotherapy designed to help couples navigate the various phases of their relationship.  

The professional will work with you and your partner to: 

  • Address issues like conflict and heated arguments 
  • Help both of you gain a deeper understanding of each other’s needs, preferences, and personalities 
  • Teach therapeutic tools to improve your communication, assertiveness, boundary-setting, and emotional intelligence skills 
  • Encourage healthy patterns of interaction 

Unlike individual therapy, couples therapy may focus on the dynamic between two people. This includes how the couple interacts, the language they use, and how they support each other, among other aspects.  

Couples typically wait two whole years before seeking help. Even after that, some may drop off before realising the true benefits of talking to a professional. 

We’re here to break the myths for you. You can seek couples therapy even if you’re not struggling in the relationship.  

Think of it this way: Would you wait for your mobile to shut down entirely before giving it to service? You’d go to the technician right away if you noticed those lags and flickers, wouldn’t you?  

Treat your relationship the same way.  

A couple talking to a couples therapist during in-person session.

3 Couples Therapy Benefits

What are the benefits of couples therapy that make it so worthwhile? No, the relationship doesn’t become perfect by default (there is no such thing as a ‘perfect relationship’). But it does become better, stronger, and full of love.  

After all, ‘Love does not begin and end the way we seem to think it does. Love is a battle, love is a war; love is a growing up.’ – James Baldwin.  

Let’s explore a few benefits that stand out.  

1) Improved Communication

Many couples say that they talk all the time. Yet, do they listen?  

Communication is more about trying to understand the other person rather than voicing your point of view. In fact, a great deal of communication occurs in silence.  

Of course, when your thoughts pile up, it’s also important that you bring them up to your partner. However, in most cases, it’s best to listen actively and engage in the discussion in a way that best serves both your needs.  

Couples therapy helps with this: It slows you down, and the conversation. Therapy helps you to notice all the details you may have previously missed.  

2) Conflict Resolution Skills

Arguments often follow a script: negative interaction pattern -> triggering vulnerabilities -> emotional breakdown -> emotional distance.  

Let’s explore an example. A couple named Mob and Oaf often argue over trivial disagreements. Say, Mob forgets to buy milk. In this case, Oaf feels that their requests were ignored, eventually leading to feelings of frustration.  

Oaf feels unloved and says, ‘You never think about me or what I want.’ This triggers Mob’s fear of failure. Now, Mob shuts down completely and gives Oaf the silent treatment.  

However, with couples therapy, people can learn that it’s never about the surface issues, never about the ‘milk’. You and your partner may learn to: 

  • Express your feelings without blame (‘I feel unloved when this happens’ and not ‘You don’t love me’) 
  • Stay present and leave space for emotions to be felt instead of lashing out or shutting down (like Mob and Oaf did) 
  • Apply cognitive behavioural tools like reframing negative thoughts with helpful ones to resolve conflicts 

3) Rebuilding Trust

If you lack trust in your partner, it can be a tricky and sensitive situation to navigate.  

There are many ways you may lose trust. For example, on the one hand, if your partner has drifted away from you, you may face emotional distrust (‘Do they even love me anymore?’). On the other hand, if you suspect that your partner may be lying about their income, it could lead to financial distrust.  

With a lack of trust and communication, you may start to walk on eggshells in the relationship.  

However, in couples therapy, you can learn how to: 

  • Rebuild trust mutually and respectfully  
  • Show up for each other in ways that matter the most to you 
  • Be honest during conversations and arguments 

5 Couples Counselling Techniques

There are many approaches and types of couples counselling. Most of them work with a biopsychosocial foundation.  

In other words, your couples therapist may take into consideration your: 

  • Inner psychological and emotional processes 
  • Family and personal history  
  • Past and current relationships 

The core idea is to tap into the multifaceted nature of the human experience. Some techniques are structured and rigid, while others could be flexible or eclectic (ie incorporating several techniques simultaneously).  

Let’s look into the five common couples counselling techniques in this section.  

A couple learning therapeutic techniques during couples therapy in Australia.

1) Affect Regulation

Have you ever experienced an insignificant argument blowing up into a heated one? That’s affect regulation (or rather, the lack of it).  

It is the ability to manage your emotions and process them in a healthy way, even during conflicts.  

In couples therapy, you may learn to identify what triggers your emotions, how you react and the ideal way to respond to a heated situation.  

For example, think of two fictional characters, Blue and Tom. Every time they discussed finances, Tom would ignore the topic, and Blue would try to push it further.  

In this case, couples therapy may help Tom recognise his avoidance as a defence mechanism and help him explore new and healthier ways of reacting to the situation. In turn, Blue would learn how to bring up the topic without confronting or accusing Tom. 

Emotional check-ins

Over time, with the right support, you can develop emotional resilience, assertiveness, and conflict-resolution skills.  

Here are some ways to check in with yourself and your partner when things are starting to heat up: 

  • Rate your emotional intensity on a scale of 1 to 10 before replying to a comment.  
  • If you score 7 or above, let your partner know that you need to take a breather. Try saying, ‘I feel too emotional right now and need a moment to think before I respond.’ 
  • If you score below 7, take a deep breath and handle the situation with compassion and gentleness. Try saying, ‘Okay, we’re in the middle of this now, and fighting won’t help. Let’s sit down and figure this out together?’ 

2) Tracking Patterns

Most couples argue about the same few things repeatedly. This is because we’re all used to certain patterns and habits and rely on them even when we feel differently.  

Tracking patterns is a technique couples therapists use to help: 

  • Identify repetitive patterns of conflict or arguments 
  • Identify why the patterns repeat and how best to break them 

For example, let’s assume your partner always argues about household chores with you. But the interesting part is that the arguments are actually never about the dishes. Instead, your therapist may help you identify if your partner feels unsupported, if you feel frustrated, and how to manage the interaction in a respectful way.  

Couples therapy activity: Pattern mapping

During couples therapy sessions, you may learn to map your interaction patterns. This includes: 

  • Writing down your last three arguments 
  • Identifying what triggered each one 
  • Noticing any recurring patterns (ie is it really about the dishes, or about feeling unheard?) 

Once you recognise your cycle, the therapist may help you change it. It’s similar to turning off autopilot mode and truly interacting with intention.  

3) Psychoeducation

Sometimes, just understanding why things happen in a relationship can solve more than half of your problems. 

Psychoeducation involves learning about: 

  • Relationship dynamics 
  • Communication habits 

Think of it as Relationship 101. It helps couples understand that many of their struggles are normal—and resolvable. 

4) The Four Horsemen

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse is an analogy that signifies the end of times, encompassing conquest, war, hunger, and death.  

Within the context of relationships, Gottman and Gottman (2017) theorised that all issues couples face are rooted in the ‘four horsemen’. But here, these include: 

  • Criticism 
  • Defensiveness 
  • Stonewalling 
  • Contempt 

Criticism includes accusing your partner of having bad character or finding faults in them. Contempt involves mocking or being disrespectful (ever rolled your eyes during an argument?). Defensiveness involves playing the victim, and finally, stonewalling refers to shutting down or ignoring the situation altogether.  

Couples therapy can help you replace each of the horsemen with practical and helpful alternatives.  

For example, contempt is replaced with appreciation, defensiveness with accountability, and more.  

5) A Conscious Relationship

Relationships thrive best when both partners are intentional in their love, effort, and interest. Also known as a conscious relationship. 

Rather than just getting through the days in a blur, it’s more about actively choosing each other and prioritising the relationship together.  

For example, let’s assume you’ve been together with your partner for almost a decade. Things are going fine, but something’s missing. You don’t feel the spark anymore. Conversations have become monotonous, and you barely remember what your partner loves anymore.  

However, a couples therapist can help you reignite that spark and focus on creating a conscious relationship. This is done through techniques such as: 

  • Connecting goals (ie trying new activities together) 
  • Value-setting (ie aligning both of your values, desires and hopes for the future) 

Some questions to ask yourself to focus on the relationship include: 

  • What went well for us this week? 
  • What could we have done better? 
  • How can I support you next week? 

These micro-moments of reflection build a strong foundation for long-term connection. 

Key Takeaways

  • Couples therapy is not only for those in crisis; everyone can seek help to build a healthy relationship. 
  • There are many types of couples counselling techniques, some structured and some flexible.  
  • Understanding your own emotional responses, communication patterns, and attachment style can change the way you interact with your partner. 
  • Simple couples therapy activities, such as weekly check-ins or pattern mapping, can make a big difference. 

At the heart of every strong relationship is the willingness to grow together.  

Talk to a couples therapist today to work on things that matter the most. If your partner is hesitant to try therapy, we also have some tips for you to encourage them. 

Love might not always be easy, but it’s always worth everything.  

How Therapists in Singapore Can Help with Postpartum Depression

Posted on by Prath
  • Published on 30 May 2025

Having a baby can change your life – in ways both happy and complicated.  

The happy part is easy to identify. You’re in love! The baby is healthy, things are smooth, you’re financially stable, and you have a supportive partner.  

And if you’ve guessed, the complicated part is, of course, not easy. Your days are filled with mood swings, anxious thoughts, and a deep fear. The nights are sleepless.  

Postpartum is a lot to take in. How do you begin to understand and navigate these changes? The answer is quite simple: By talking to a therapist in Singapore.  

Here, we talk about the causes and signs of postpartum depression, how therapists can help, and what you can do to cope with the new and often uncontrollable emotions. 

What is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression is a mental health issue that may commonly affect: 

  • Women who’ve given birth  
  • Pregnant people 
  • Individuals, even long after delivery  

The signs are beyond ‘baby blues’. When you have symptoms of postpartum depression, your life may take such a turn that you’re unable to cope with your thoughts and feelings on your own.  

Everyday tasks can feel impossible to accomplish. Some moms may even experience complicated emotions revolving around their babies. However, most symptoms may manifest differently in different individuals.  

Approximately 1 in 10 women in Singapore experience postpartum anxiety or depression. And the tricky part is that the signs often remain unnoticed. In fact, merely the pressure to be the ‘perfect mom’ can contribute to the symptoms. We’ll explore the causes in the later sections.  

Other mental health issues, like generalised anxiety or phobias, may also co-exist with postpartum depression. But the good news is that this condition is manageable, and recovery is possible through the right support.  

Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

Not every low mood or crying spell automatically links to depression. These could either be signs of baby blues or simply because you’re experiencing a lot of physical and psychological changes in a short span of time.  

That said, we recommend talking to a therapist in Singapore even if one crying spell makes you feel uncomfortable or worried.  

This is because moms are not meant to carry all the weight alone. You deserve the same support, love, and care that you give to your baby.  

And self-care starts with understanding what the signs look like. So, in this section, let’s go into the signs of both blues and postpartum depression.  

A pregnant mom looking upset due to postpartum symptoms and hoping to talk to a therapist in Singapore.

Signs of Baby Blues

Symptoms of baby blues last only for a few days, or at best, a week or two after your baby is born.  

Common signs include: 

  • Mood swings 
  • Feeling too emotional 
  • Trouble sleeping (even when the baby sleeps) 
  • Mild anger or irritability 
  • Crying spells for a short period of time 
  • Feeling overwhelmed 
  • Inattention and feeling ‘on edge’ 

Signs of Postpartum Depression

Symptoms of postpartum depression can sometimes be mistaken for baby blues. However, here is the key distinction: Depression lasts longer and feels more intense.  

The signs eventually seep into your daily life and affect your ability to function in a healthy way. These develop within the first few weeks of giving birth and last for up to a year or more.  

Common symptoms include: 

  • Long-term sadness  
  • Severe mood swings 
  • Intense irritability and anger 
  • Insomnia or sleeping too much and still feeling tired 
  • Hopelessness, lack of self-worth and confidence 
  • Difficulty connecting with your baby 
  • Thoughts of harming yourself or the child 
  • Physical and emotional fatigue 

Causes of Postpartum Depression

Like any other mental health issue, postpartum depression does not have a universal cause.  

Therapists in Singapore can help you identify the factors that may have contributed to your condition.  

Some common factors include: 

  • Genetics or hormonal changes: After childbirth, the body goes through several changes to adapt to the new reality. For example, your oestrogen and progesterone may drop, leading to mood swings. Thyroid hormone levels may increase and cause signs of depression.  
  • Sleep deprivation: It’s no secret that you may have to wake up multiple times at night to breastfeed or care for the baby. The human body cannot function properly without sufficient quality sleep. Hence, until you adapt to the change, sleep deprivation could also cause postpartum depression.  
  • Emotional factors: As a new mom, you may feel anxious about the entire experience. What if you say or do the wrong thing? The stress that comes with pregnancy is no joke and can trigger intense symptoms such as panic attacks or psychological distress.  
  • Lack of support: Not every individual has a loving household or partner. In fact, the lack of medical or community support can also have a negative impact on a new parent’s mental health.  
  • Personal history of mental health issues: If you’re someone who’s already been struggling with issues such as chronic depression or anxiety, you may be more susceptible to postpartum depression.  

Can Therapists in Singapore Help With Postpartum Depression?

Yes, absolutely. At Talk Your Heart Out (TYHO), we have Therapists trained in: 

  • Premarital mental health 
  • Marriage preparation (including childbirth) 
  • Parental stress 
  • Relationship issues 

Therapy can be a safe environment for you to talk about what you’re going through and find the tools to help you cope with the changes that occur due to pregnancy.  

Singapore has seen a rise in postpartum depression due to advancements in screening. Hence, more organisations and mental health platforms are offering personalised support for new moms.  

Going a step further, TYHO Therapists are also culturally attuned to their clients. This means that the therapeutic treatment you receive is tailored to your cultural background, parental values, expectations, and personality characteristics. 

Finding help

If you’re wondering where to find help for postpartum depression in Singapore, consider the options below: 

  • Private therapy clinicians who offer personalised support 
  • Polyclinics or hospitals with referrals to clinical psychologists  
  • Peer support groups, which may help you feel less alone in your experience  

You don’t have to wait until things get worse. Therapists can help you even if you feel emotionally unstable and stuck.  

What to Expect in Therapy

Starting therapy can be scary, especially if you’re unsure what to expect or do not have the emotional bandwidth to research the process.  

Worry not; here, we want to share a simple guide on what you can expect before consulting a therapist in Singapore. 

Most professionals begin by asking about your personal background and getting to know you better. This is known as the rapport-building stage.  

At this time, you can expect to talk about: 

  • Your family background 
  • Past and current relationships 
  • Work and personal life 
  • Personal history of any mental health issues 
  • Birth experience 
  • Current emotional state 
  • Support systems you can rely on 

From there, therapy may include: 

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps you challenge unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier perspectives. 
  • Talk therapy: Simply having a space to vent without judgment and stereotypical opinions on being a mom or dad for the first time.  
  • Mindfulness practices: Many therapists incorporate grounding techniques, breathing exercises, and guided meditations to help you feel calm and prepare better for the baby’s arrival.  
  • Couples counselling: Some therapists may encourage you to seek couples counselling to improve your relationship before welcoming the baby.

Finding the right therapist in Singapore

Finding the right therapist in Singapore can be daunting. Where do you start? What do you even look for?  

Here are some tips to help you get started: 

  • Look for specialisation: Not all therapists specialise in perinatal mental health. Look for those experienced in postpartum issues or women’s mental health. 
  • Review the language and cultural fit: Choose someone you feel comfortable speaking to. At TYHO, you can watch introductory videos, read Therapist descriptions and client reviews before making a decision.  
  • Consider logistics: Online therapy can be helpful if you’re unable to leave the house, either due to your preferences or because of the psychological symptoms of pregnancy. You can attend online sessions from anywhere in the world. However, if you still prefer talking to someone face-to-face, we also provide in-person therapy in several major locations in Singapore.  
  • Ask questions: It’s okay to ask questions during therapy sessions. In fact, questions can help you get to know the therapist better and decide if they’re the right fit for you.  
  • Listen to your gut: After the first session, ask yourself, ‘Did I feel heard?’ Safe? Understood? If yes, you’re at the right place! If not, it’s okay to look for a new therapist.  

How to Cope With Postpartum Depression

Besides therapy, you can do some simple things to cope with postpartum depression. These activities can be performed alone or along with your partner.  

1) Ask for help

While this may seem very basic, sometimes, we forget to ask for help when we need it the most. Asking for help could mean: 

  • Requesting your friend to cook dinner for you 
  • Opening up to your partner about your emotional struggles 
  • Talk to a therapist in Singapore for better support 

2) Prioritise rest

We know it’s not easy to rest when you have a baby to look after. But did you know that your baby thrives when you’re actually well-rested?  

If you’re unable to spend a lot of time on self-care, take time for short naps, walks, or meditation sessions. 

Anything small is still something meaningful. 

A pregnant mom sleeping on the couch and using relaxation techniques after talking to a therapist in Singapore.

3) Eat nourishing food

Postpartum recovery isn’t just about your body; it’s also about your mind.  

Eat balanced meals that include plenty of whole grains, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.  

4) Connect with others

Prioritising social activities during the postpartum period can be challenging. But having a baby does not mean that you stop needing love and support.  

Simply call a friend and have a short chat, meet your neighbours, or arrange date nights with your partner every other weekend.  

5) Gentle movement

If you’ve been cleared by your doctor, gentle and slow movements can have a profoundly positive impact on both your body and mental well-being.  

Try stretching your body, taking a short walk around the park, or doing easy yoga poses.  

6) Track your feelings

Tracking your feelings can help you identify any emotional triggers and avoid engaging in negative thought patterns.  

Journal a couple of sentences every morning after waking up and at night before sleeping. You can also use mood-tracking apps to gain a better understanding of your emotional health.  

Key Takeaways

  • Postpartum depression is different from baby blues.  
  • The common symptoms of postpartum depression include persistent low mood, guilt, panic attacks, and insomnia. 
  • Genetic factors, hormonal issues, lack of support, and personal history of mental health issues can cause postpartum depression.  
  • A qualified therapist in Singapore can help you manage and reduce the signs of depression.  

This is your new chapter, and you deserve to be a happy version of yourself in it! 

If you think you have postpartum depression, talk to a therapist in Singapore. 

3 Tips to Help a Loved One Find the Right Therapist in Singapore

Posted on by Prath
  • Published on 30 May 2025

Ever had a gut feeling that your friend isn’t quite themselves lately? Or, perhaps your sibling has been avoiding having conversations or meet-ups with you.  

Sometimes, we all have phases when we want to be left alone. Other times, we could be struggling with a mental health issue.  

How do you even find the difference?  

Here’s our tip: Observe your loved ones for a couple of days. If the signs persist, you may need to help them find a therapist in Singapore.  

All a person needs to feel better is 8 minutes of your time. If you’ve heard Simon Sinek talk about this, you’d know how powerful a text message can be.  

But even after all that, it can get awkward to bring up therapy. ‘You need help’ can either mean ‘I care about you and want the best for you’ or ‘Your behaviour is vexing me.’ 

We’re here to make sure you handle these conversations in a way that conveys your care and affection for your loved ones. At the end, find answers to some burning questions you may have about starting therapy in Singapore.  

Signs Someone Needs to Talk to a Therapist in Singapore

The truth is that not everyone who needs therapy will admit to it. Sometimes, people don’t even know they’re struggling in the first place.  

When you’re knee-deep into a problem, you start perceiving it as the ‘normal reality.’ This is why it’s important to have conversations about mental health.  

With psycho-education, you begin to identify the difference between ‘It’s just one of those days’ and ‘Oh, this is something I genuinely need help with.’ 

When you learn the difference, you will also know what to look out for when someone else needs to talk to a therapist in Singapore.  

Below are some signs to give you clarity on when your loved ones need help: 

  • Persistent sadness or anxiety for more than a week 
  • Withdrawal from social interactions, events, and situations 
  • Loss of interest in the things that your loved ones used to enjoy 
  • Significant and concerning changes in appetite or sleep habits 
  • Difficulty concentrating or making small decisions 
  • Talking negatively about themselves, the world, and the future 

What struggling might actually look like

Let’s take an example. A woman named Tina is the life of the party, super-extroverted, and always gets everyone hyped up. She’s the kind of person who radiates her energy to others. You’d never guess anything’s wrong. 

But lately, even though she still shows up everywhere, posts fun stories on Instagram, and cracks jokes, something feels…off. 

She laughs at the right moments, but you see the tiredness in it. When a friend brings up something emotional, Tina quickly changes the topic. Tina says she’s ‘just tired.’  

Is she really?  

Most people wouldn’t think twice if the person is still exhibiting the same behaviours. But masking mental health issues becomes easier, especially for people like Tina, who are extroverted.  

If you weren’t paying attention, you’d miss the subtle change in your loved ones’ moods, habits, and patterns.  

Although it’s unrealistic to notice every single detail about somebody, checking in every once in a while is always worth the effort.  

You never know when someone needs those 8 minutes from you.  

3 Ways to Encourage Your Loved Ones to Seek Therapy

Now, we get to the crux of it all. How do you gently suggest a therapist in Singapore to someone without making them uncomfortable?  

Here are three practical and realistic ways to do it.  

1) Choose the Right Moment

Timing is everything. You wouldn’t want to bring up the topic of therapy with someone who is busy at work or scrolling through social media.  

High-energy activities release the dopamine that we all crave. Interrupting someone at this time could snap them out of their good mood and make things worse.  

Look for a moment when your loved one is not: 

  • On the phone 
  • Working 
  • Engaging in any intense activities like playing a video game 
  • Socialising with other people 
  • Feeling too emotional 

And a moment when they’re: 

  • Feeling calm and relaxed 
  • Alone or surrounded by people they trust and feel comfortable with 

Grab hold of that moment and initiate a conversation. Nothing has to be dramatic, intense, or detailed. Try something casual – almost like testing the waters.  

For example, use this dialogue: 

‘Hey, I’ve noticed you don’t talk about your thoughts as much as you used to. I just want to check in and see how you’re doing.’ 

If they open up even a little, you can gently suggest: 

‘You know, therapy really helped when I was feeling anxious. Have you ever thought about seeing a therapist in Singapore?’ 

If they shut the conversation down, that’s okay. Let them know you’re here whenever they feel ready. Sometimes, planting the seed is good enough. 

An individual approaching their partner seated on the couch to encourage them to speak to a therapist in Singapore.

2) Offer Help to Find a Therapist

Once your loved one gives you the green light, you can start looking for a therapist in Singapore.  

This is where your contributions will have the most impact.  

Try saying: 

‘There are so many types of therapists out there. Want me to help you look up a few options?’ 

You can go a step further and: 

  • Research therapists who specialise in what your loved one is experiencing (eg social anxiety, work burnout, grief) 
  • Help them understand what to expect from a first session 
  • Offer to walk them through how to book an appointment 

All TYHO Therapists in Singapore are well-qualified and vetted and provide high-quality support.  

For other options, you can also look into: 

  • Counsellors available through public hospitals 
  • Community mental health services 
  • University centres 

The goal is to make the entire process less intimidating and more comfortable. All the cards are with your loved one; you’re merely helping them play the right game.  

3) Prepare Your Arguments

Resistance will happen, and that’s completely normal. It’s best to be prepared for it.  

Even before initiating the conversation, come up with a few compelling reasons why the person may need therapy.  

Here’s how you could frame it: 

‘I know therapy sounds intense, but it doesn’t mean something’s wrong with you. It just gives you space to figure things out with someone who’s trained to listen.’ 

Or: 

‘You don’t have to commit long-term. Even one session might help you feel better.’ 

Use examples they might relate to. If they love fitness, you can say: 

‘Just like we go to a trainer for our bodies, seeing a therapist in Singapore can help you look after your mind.’ 

You’re most likely to hear them say something like, ‘What if it doesn’t work?’ But this is where you can be the support they need and validate their feelings. Provide a counter-point by saying, ‘If it doesn’t work, what do you lose other than a few bucks? But what if it does work and you start feeling better?’ 

Ultimately, your efforts may not directly result in an action. But it sends the message that the individual is not alone and someone cares about them.  

In therapy, couples can learn how to resolve conflicts constructively.

Talk to a therapist

Frequently Asked Questions

1) What if my loved one refuses to go to therapy?

While you cannot force anyone to start therapy, you can still encourage them in a positive way.  

Here are some tips to deal with the resistance: 

  • Have you been to individual or couples therapy before? If yes, talk about your experience. Share, in specific, what helped you cope better, how you observed your life-changing, and the lessons you took away from therapy sessions.  
  • Have you already talked to the person about their problems? Sometimes, people may feel like they’re too broken to seek help. But that’s not true. Research shows that even individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder can heal through effective therapy. Let the person know that healing is possible for them.  
  • Do you know the benefits of therapy? If yes, talk to the person about it. Do the hard part (ie research) to take the pressure off their plate. Share a summary of points you think would benefit them the most.  

If your loved one still hesitates, know that you’ve done all you could. The rest depends on their willingness to explore therapy.  

2) What if a loved one needs inpatient care?

If your loved one is showing signs of severe distress, like suicidal thoughts or self-harm, it may be time to involve a medical professional urgently. In Singapore, you can: 

  • Call a mental health crisis helpline (eg Samaritans of Singapore: 1767) 
  • Bring them to the emergency department of IMH (Institute of Mental Health) 
  • Contact their GP or a trusted doctor 

In such situations, the priority should be protecting the person’s life and well-being, even if that means intervening. 

3) How do most people find their therapist?

Many people usually start with recommendations they receive from their friends or family.  

At TYHO, we provide a comprehensive outlook of Therapist profiles to help you make the right choice.  

Before finding a Therapist in Singapore, we urge you to: 

  • Review their educational background 
  • Look into their past clinical experiences 
  • Watch their introductory videos  
  • Read their full descriptions 
  • Go through client reviews  

From here, you can filter Therapists based on their specialisations, fees, locations, and availability.  

We offer online video and audio sessions globally, as well as in-person therapy in Singapore.  

4) How to find a therapist for depression?

Look for a TYHO Therapist in Singapore who specialises in mood swings or depression. This could be a clinical psychologist, counsellor, or psychotherapist. 

On our platform, you do not have to worry too much about labels. All professionals at TYHO are collectively referred to as ‘Therapists’.  

However, if you’re specifically looking to receive a diagnosis, a psychologist in Singapore can help you.  

5) How to find a therapist in Singapore for the first time?

If it’s your first time trying therapy, try to: 

  • Understand the types of therapy (eg, CBT, person-centred, EMDR) 
  • Identify whether you prefer in-person or online 
  • Shortlist a few options and read the Therapist bios 
  • Reach out via email or booking forms 

You can always try one session to gauge whether the Therapist is the right fit. If not, we recommend that you switch professionals.  

Note: Give therapy and the Therapist enough time (eg a couple of weeks) before deciding to book with someone else. If you need to find a Therapist, reach out to us at [email protected]. 

Conclusion

Not all battles are visible.  

It takes time and effort to recognise that an individual is struggling in the first place.  

But when you do notice the signs, don’t stop there. Whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, remember that therapy can change lives (in a good way).  

It all starts with a ‘Hey, how are you feeling today?’ – just 8 minutes of your time.  

So, if you’ve been wondering whether to mention therapy to your loved one, take this as a gentle nudge to do so. You’re not overstepping but lending a shoulder to someone when it actually matters.  

Find Therapists here. 

How to Improve Mental Wellness at Work: A Guide for Employers & HR Teams

Posted on by Manassa Shrikanth
  • Published on 30 May 2025

As hybrid work models evolve and employee expectations shift, one thing is clear: the future of work must prioritise mental wellness. 

Top talent today isn’t just looking for competitive pay – they’re seeking psychological safety, flexible policies, and organisations that know the importance of mental wellness at work.

If you’re an employer or Human Resources (HR) professional looking for ways to promote workplace mental wellbeing, our guide is just for you.

Join us as we explore the significance of employee mental health, key pillars of a mentally healthy workplace, and six practical workplace wellbeing initiatives (such as Employee Assistance Programs) to consider.

This Article Contains:

Understanding the Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace

You might not always see them, but they’re there. 

The team member who’s unusually quiet in meetings. The high performer who suddenly starts missing deadlines. The new joiner who smiles in every check-in but seems withdrawn. 

Mental health challenges such as anxiety, stress, and overwhelm often go unnoticed in the workplace – until they reach a crisis point. 

And for too long, mental wellness at work has been treated as a reactive issue – something to address only when such crises, burnouts or breakdowns occur. But by then, it’s often too late. 

A proactive approach to mental health in the workplace is not only more compassionate – it’s more effective. When employers and HR teams prioritise employee mental health, they create healthier, more motivated teams, a stronger and more positive culture, and a more resilient organisation.

Here are some reasons why promoting mental wellness at work is the need of the hour:

  • It helps employees stay focused, motivated, and productive.
  • It reduces absenteeism and the hidden cost of presenteeism.
  • It strengthens your organisational image and attracts top talent.
  • It helps prevent burnout and long-term mental health issues.
  • It ensures compliance with workplace health regulations.
  • It improves employee loyalty and reduces turnover.
  • It builds a more trusting, inclusive, and supportive work culture.

4 Key Pillars of Workplace Mental Health

For employers and HR teams, supporting employee mental health should be about more than just ticking boxes or offering perks; It also needs to be about creating a culture where people feel safe, heard, and supported every day.

Here are four key pillars that can help build that foundation:

1) Clear Mental Health Policies at Work

A mentally healthy workplace starts with clear, accessible, and well-communicated policies. These might include:

  • Guidelines on taking mental health leave
  • Flexible work arrangements such as remote/hybrid work policies, flexible working hours, etc
  • Anti-discrimination and anti-bullying protections
  • Clear procedures for raising concerns and voicing needs (eg reduced workloads or quiet spaces)
  • Return-to-work support plans after mental health-related leave
  • Confidentiality and privacy guidelines for employees seeking support
  • Clear referral pathways to in-house or external mental health services, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
  • Inclusion of mental health in overall health and safety policies

Such policies signal to employees that their mental well-being is a priority, not an afterthought. They also ensure consistency and transparency in how support is offered, making it easier for team members to reach out when they need help.

2) Leaders Who Walk the Talk

Culture always flows from the top. 

When leaders openly prioritise mental wellness at work – be it by speaking about it, modelling healthy boundaries, ensuring regular check-ins with employees, or using wellbeing resources themselves – it normalises those behaviours across the organisation. 

Leadership buy-in is a crucial part of breaking stigma, encouraging openness, and making mental wellness at work a shared value, not just an HR agenda item.

86% of our corporate clients continue to engage with us after 1 year

Explore OUR EAP SERVICES

3) Managers Who Listen and Support

Managers are often the first point of contact when an employee is struggling. That’s why it’s crucial that they’re equipped with the training, empathy, and tools to respond appropriately. 

Training managers to check in regularly, recognise signs of burnout, and have a clear process for addressing concerns can make a huge difference in how safe employees feel. 

Active listening, compassionate responses, absence of judgment, and a willingness to adjust workloads or timelines can significantly improve mental wellness at work.

4) Easy Access to Professional Mental Health Support

Employees should never feel lost or alone when seeking help. 

It’s essential for organisations to provide easy and confidential access to mental health support, whether through EAPs, onsite counsellors, group workshops, or trusted referrals. 

Clear communication on how to access these resources, along with assurances of confidentiality, can positively impact employee well-being. 

6 Workplace Wellbeing Initiatives to Consider

Improving workplace mental health is less about large workshops and events and more about the everyday details: the freedom to take mini-breaks during the day, flexibility to organise the workday, access to quiet spaces to pause and opportunities to pursue personal passions.

Below are six simple yet highly effective workplace well-being initiatives that can help you make a meaningful difference in employee mental health:

1) Flexible Work Policies and Mental Health Breaks

Flexibility helps employees manage stress, balance responsibilities, and stay productive without burning out.

Options like hybrid work setups, flexible start and end times, or compressed workweeks (eg 4-day workweeks) can show that the company values mental wellness at work.

Mental health breaks – longer leave policies as well as short, regular pauses in the day – can also help employees recharge and reset.

Tip

Encourage teams to block ‘reset’ slots in their daily calendars and take short screen-free breaks during the day.

2) Regular Workplace Mental Health Training for Managers & HR

Managers and HR teams need to feel confident in recognising signs of distress, having supportive conversations, and knowing how to direct employees to appropriate help. 

Training can help equip them with tools to respond with empathy, avoid common missteps, and contribute towards mental wellness at work.

Tip

Make workplace mental health training mandatory for people managers and organise annual refresher sessions with real-life scenarios and roleplays.

A group of corporate employees engaging in a group therapy session aimed at promoting mental health at work.

3) Peer Support Groups & Mental Health Workshops

Spaces for shared experiences among teams can foster a sense of belonging and positive association with mental wellness at work.

Peer support groups can provide employees a safe, voluntary forum to talk about challenges with colleagues who walk a similar path and face many of the same challenges.

Meanwhile, expert-led workplace mental health workshops can create awareness on topics such as stress management at work, setting professional boundaries, and navigating change.

Tip

Partner with mental health professionals or organisations to facilitate group sessions and workshops.

Talk Your Heart Out’s (TYHO’s) EAP services include empathy circles (group sessions) as well as wellness seminars and workshops.

4) Mental Health Zones to Breathe & Reset

Dedicated quiet spaces in the office – away from all the corporate noise and hustle – can help employees slow down, take breaks, or simply pause to prioritise mental wellness at work.

Remember, these zones don’t need to be fancy. Even a calm corner with comfortable seating, a few plants, and low lighting can make a big difference.

Tip

Involve employees in designing these spaces – this way, it can also double as a team-bonding activity!

5) Team-Bonding Activities & Recreational Clubs

Social connection is crucial to enhancing employee well-being and promoting mental wellness in the workplace.

Regular team-bonding activities, interest-based clubs (eg, book, gardening, fitness), or volunteer days can help employees connect beyond work and build a more connected, human-centred work culture.

Tip

When planning these activities, ask for suggestions from all team members to make sure everyone feels heard and respected.

6) Robust Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

EAPs are employer-sponsored mental health services that provide access to confidential, professional mental health support. 

Services often cover talk therapy, group sessions, workplace mental health workshops, mental wellness seminars, on-site support and crisis intervention. 

A well-communicated and easy-to-access EAP can be a lifeline for employees dealing with workplace mental health issues.

Tip

Regularly remind employees that EAP services are free, confidential, and easily accessible. 

A person engaging in therapy provided through their company's EAP in order to navigate stress management at work.

Key Takeaways

A mentally healthy workplace is one where people feel seen, safe, and supported, both during challenging times and in their everyday work life.

As a leader or HR professional, you have the power to improve mental wellness at work and foster a positive work culture.

Remember, change doesn’t always have to be big – you can start with the small things, the things that often matter most to your employees.

Here’s a quick recap of the six workplace mental wellbeing initiatives we explored in this blog:

  • Offer flexible work options and encourage mini-breaks to support stress management at work
  • Provide regular mental health training for managers and HR teams
  • Facilitate workplace mental health initiatives like peer-led support groups and run engaging mental health workshops
  • Offer strong mental health support programs for employees, such as a robust EAP
  • Create quiet, calming spaces to help employees unwind and pause during the day
  • Create opportunities for social connection through recreational clubs and team-building activities

Explore TYHO’s EAP services and start offering accessible mental health support in your workplace today.

What Makes a Good Therapist in Singapore? 7 Questions to Ask Yourself

Posted on by Manassa Shrikanth
  • Published on 30 May 2025

You’ve taken that first brave step – you’ve reached out for help and started seeing a therapist in Singapore!

But as you navigate this new world of therapy, you may wonder how to know if your therapist is the right fit. We’re here to tell you that it’s a very valid question to have, especially in the early stages of therapy.

You’ve probably already checked your therapist’s qualifications, experience and focus areas. However, the truth is, that a good therapeutic relationship goes far beyond qualifications and experience – it has a lot more to do with how you feel during sessions.

Here are seven questions to gauge what makes a good therapist in Singapore. Read along and gently check in with yourself to understand if your therapist checks the boxes.

This Article Contains:

How to Know If a Therapist Is a Good Fit: 7 Vital Questions

Choosing the right therapist in Singapore isn’t always about checking credentials or looking for specialisations — it’s also about connection, trust, comfort, and feeling like you’re genuinely supported. 

If you’re wondering ‘how to know if a therapist is a good fit’, here are seven questions to help you with just that:

1) Do I Feel Emotionally Safe and Comfortable Around Them? Do I Trust Them?

Therapy works best when you feel safe enough to open up to your therapist, without holding back or second-guessing your emotions. 

Ask yourself: Do I feel calm, safe and comfortable in their presence? Can I speak honestly without fear?

Research indicates that trust between clients and therapists is associated with greater symptom improvement later in therapy.

However, it’s important to remember that trust won’t be instant, and that’s absolutely okay. After all, your therapist is a stranger, and trust always takes time to build. 

So, even if it feels difficult to gauge trust right off the bat, look for subtle signs like:

  • You feel a slight sense of relief or lightness after talking to them.
  • You don’t feel pressured to share more than you’re ready for.
  • You notice yourself being a little more open each time.
  • You’re not walking on eggshells – you feel like you can be real.

A good therapist in Singapore will strive to create a therapeutic environment where emotional safety and trust can slowly and steadily grow.

2) Do They Really Listen – and Make Me Feel Seen, Heard, and Validated?

It’s one thing for someone to just hear your words – it’s another to feel truly understood. A professional therapist in Singapore won’t just nod along; they’ll listen actively, tuning in to what you’re saying and what you’re feeling beneath the surface.

Pay attention to how your therapist responds when you share something:

  • Do they inquire and ask questions that add to your line of thought and not take you away from it? 
  • Do their responses make you feel heard and validated?
  • Do they remember and connect back to things you’ve shared previously?
  • Do their responses feel empathetic and understanding?

Validation doesn’t mean your therapist agrees with everything you say. In fact, your therapist in Singapore may often gently challenge you and move you towards your goals and healthy outcomes.

3) Do I Feel Free to Be Myself Without Fear of Being Judged?

We often hear the phrase ‘Therapy is a safe space’. But what does this actually mean?

It means that therapy is a space where you don’t have to perform, filter, or put on a mask – it’s a space that allows you to just be, without judgment. 

A good professional therapist in Singapore will ensure an environment where all parts of you – the messy, the confused, the unsure – feel welcome.

Ask yourself:

  • Can I speak openly without watching my words?
  • Am I afraid they’ll think less of me if I cry, vent, or get stuck?
  • Do I feel accepted as I am?

4) Do They Respect My Boundaries – Emotionally, Physically, and Culturally?

Feeling safe in therapy goes beyond just trust –  it also means knowing your personal and cultural boundaries will be respected.

Make a note of whether your therapist in Singapore does the following:

  • Ask for your consent before exploring sensitive/heavy topics or asking difficult questions
  • Stay mindful of your reactions, body language and comfort level and check in if something seems too overwhelming
  • Honour your pace, comfort levels, and cultural/religious identity
  • Avoid making assumptions or minimising your lived experience in any way

Mutual respect and trust are often born through a collection of such small gestures over time.

5) Do They Let Me Set the Pace and Direction of Therapy?

Therapy doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all roadmap. It’s a personal and collaborative journey where you should be in the driver’s seat.

A good therapist in Singapore will always take the back seat (being a gentle guide) and let you drive while offering directions.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I have space to pause, process, or take breaks when needed?
  • Am I able to speak up when something doesn’t feel helpful?
  • Does my therapist regularly ask for my opinions on the direction of therapy?
  • Do I ever feel rushed or pushed?

Studies show that the success rate of therapy increases when the client is actively involved in the therapeutic process.

A person sitting at a cafe with their laptop - searching for the right therapist in Singapore.

6) Do I Feel Like We’re Working Together, As a Team?

Contrary to what mass media would have us believe, therapists do not offer advice or ‘fix’ problems. 

Therapy is all about collaboration. You bring your experiences, emotions, and goals while your therapist brings tools, techniques, qualifications, and professional support.

The right therapist in Singapore will approach your sessions as a collaborative space where you work together to achieve your goals. 

Asking yourself the following questions can help you understand this better:

  • Do I feel like we’re creating progress together?
  • Do conversations ever feel one-sided?
  • Are they open to my feedback and/or actively ask for it?

Do I feel involved in my growth through therapy?

7) Do I Leave Sessions Feeling Better Than I Do Entering Them?

Not every session will end with a breakthrough. But ideally, you should leave therapy feeling lighter, clearer, or at least heard – definitely not more confused or weighed down.

Think about how you feel after sessions with your therapist in Singapore:

  • Do you feel more grounded or less overwhelmed?
  • Do you feel heard and understood, even if the session was tough?
  • Are you learning something new, about yourself, your patterns, and your strengths?

While therapy takes consistent effort and time, it’s also essential to check in with your gut from time to time – does it feel like it’s helping?

If you’re unsure about progress or compatibility, bring this up with your therapist. A professional therapist in Singapore will always be open to feedback and tailor the process to better suit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

1) How long should I give therapy before deciding if it’s working?

It’s normal to feel unsure during the first few sessions. Give yourself at least 3 to 5 sessions with your therapist in Singapore to get a better sense of their style and whether you feel safe, supported, and understood. 

Building trust takes time – but you should start noticing small shifts in how you feel after sessions.

2) What if I feel uncomfortable bringing up concerns with my therapist?

Firstly, know that it’s completely understandable to feel uncomfortable! Many people worry about offending their therapist. 

But a professional therapist in Singapore will always welcome feedback. If something doesn’t feel right, gently bring it up during your sessions – open communication is part of what makes therapy work.

3) Is it okay to switch therapists if I don’t feel a strong connection?

Yes, absolutely. Not every therapist might be the right fit for you, and that’s okay. Therapy is a deeply personal experience, and your comfort is always a top priority. 

If you’re still unsure after a few sessions, you can consider exploring other therapists in Singapore.

4) Can I request a therapist who understands my cultural or religious background?

Yes! In Singapore’s diverse landscape, many individuals seek therapists who understand their cultural, religious, and linguistic backgrounds.

Talk Your Heart Out (TYHO) allows you to filter therapists by language, gender, and specialisation so you can find someone who aligns better with your lived experiences.

5) What’s the difference between not ‘clicking’ with a therapist and feeling uncomfortable because therapy is hard?

This is a great question! Therapy can sometimes feel emotionally challenging, and it can be easy to confuse that with not clicking with your therapist.

But if you consistently feel unseen, dismissed, or emotionally unsafe, that could be a sign the therapist isn’t the right fit. Reflecting on how you feel between sessions can often help provide clarity.

6) What should I look for in a first session with a new therapist in Singapore?

During your first session, your therapist in Singapore may focus on getting to know you and your goals. 

Be open and note how the therapist interacts with you. Do they listen? Do they explain how therapy will work? Do you feel respected? These small cues can give you a glimpse of what working with them might feel like.

7) Can I ask my therapist questions about their approach or style?

Yes, it’s great to ask questions! Any good therapist in Singapore will be happy to explain their therapeutic approach and how they plan to support you. Questions can help you feel more informed and involved in the process.

A person talking to their therapist in Singapore from the comfort of their home.

Final Thoughts

Every person’s therapy journey is unique, but there’s one constant: the right therapist will help you feel safe, seen, and supported every step of the way. 

If you’re just starting therapy, let these questions guide you gently. Remember, you don’t have to know all the answers right away – just stay curious, honest with yourself (and your therapist), and open to what feels right.

If you’re still waiting for the best therapist in Singapore to come your way, thousands of Singaporeans have found their right fit at Talk Your Heart Out (TYHO).

Explore TYHO Therapists in Singapore, and book your first session today!

4 Types of Counselling for Depression

Posted on by Manassa Shrikanth
  • Published on 29 May 2025

Living with depression can often feel like carrying an invisible weight – one that’s hard to name and even harder to put down. You may not always know what’s wrong, but you can tell that something isn’t quite right.

Perhaps you’ve thought of starting counselling, but it can be a huge step when you’re already struggling. You may face questions and doubts like:

We’re here to help make the process of seeking help and healing easier for you. 

In this blog, we’ll walk you through four of the most common types of counselling for depression, when you should consider seeing a counsellor in Singapore and why online counselling can be an accessible and effective option.

This Article Contains:

Counselling for Depression: 4 Approaches to Consider

1) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

If you’re struggling with depression, you may often find yourself caught in a loop of negative self-talk or assumptions about yourself, others, and the future. These patterns, though unintentional, can deeply affect your emotions and behaviours.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help you become aware of these negative thought patterns, known as cognitive distortions, and challenge them actively and gradually. 

This type of counselling teaches you to notice your automatic responses, acknowledge cognitive distortions, reframe unhelpful thoughts and beliefs, and take small but steady steps towards your goals.

CBT is one of the most widely used evidence-based approaches of counselling for depression and is particularly helpful for those who:

  • Experience recurring cycles of negative thinking
  • Struggle with guilt, hopelessness, apathy or low self-esteem and self-worth
  • Want to understand how their thoughts influence mood and behaviour

Try This

Try noticing your automatic thoughts that pop up in response to situations for a week. Often, these may be self-criticisms. 

Keep a journal to note these down – the situation + your automatic thought(s).

Read and understand different types of cognitive distortions.

At the end of the week, spend some time reflecting on these thought patterns and ask yourself the following questions:

  • What kind of cognitive distortion does this thought fall under? Eg overgeneralisation, all-or-nothing thinking, fortune teller error, etc.
  • How did you feel at that moment when you were having the thought?
  • How true is the thought or belief? What’s the evidence for and against it?
  • Can you reframe it with a more balanced or rational response?
  • How do you feel at the end of the exercise?

2) Behavioural Therapy & Behavioural Activation

When you’re dealing with depression, even the smallest tasks like getting out of bed, replying to messages or eating a meal can feel overwhelming. You may slowly withdraw from activities that once brought you joy and meaning. 

Behavioural therapy and behavioural activation can help you gradually find your way back to yourself, finding motivation through movement, action and routine. 

While other types of counselling may focus more on talking, behavioural therapy is more action-driven. It rewards and encourages engagement in activities that make you feel better while discouraging activities that make you feel worse.

This type of counselling may be ideal for you if you:

  • Feel like you’ve lost interest in everyday activities
  • Feel stuck in a cycle of avoidance, inactivity and low motivation
  • Want to do certain activities, but can’t bring yourself to

Try This

Pick one simple activity that used to bring you a sense of joy or accomplishment (e.g. making your favourite drink or going for a walk). 

Plan to do it at a specific time tomorrow – break it down into smaller steps if needed.

Give yourself small rewards for each action taken towards this activity and when you complete it.

Even such small actions can make a big difference in lifting your mood when done consistently.

3) Psychodynamic Therapy

Sometimes, depression can be due to deeper emotional reasons, perhaps tied to early childhood experiences, unresolved grief, or recurring patterns in relationships. 

Psychodynamic counselling helps you explore these underlying issues and understand the real reasons why you’re feeling the way you are. 

While you may initially work on surface-level symptoms, a psychodynamic therapist will also encourage you to look inward, helping you uncover patterns from your past that may be influencing your present. 

Psychodynamic counselling provides a safe space for building understanding, self-awareness, and emotional resilience over time. It may be beneficial for those who:

  • Have struggled with depression for many years
  • Want to understand the ‘why’ behind recurring struggles
  • Don’t have as many presenting symptoms 
  • Are looking for deeper answers as opposed to practical strategies

Try This

Start paying attention to emotional reactions that seem stronger than the situation warrants – for example, feeling deeply hurt by minor criticism or feeling abandoned when someone cancels plans. 

These moments may hold clues to unresolved past experiences that psychodynamic counselling can help you explore and address.

4) Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines elements of CBT with mindfulness practices, teaching you to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment. 

The goal of this counselling approach isn’t to stop negative thoughts altogether, but to change your relationship with them, learning to notice them and let them pass, rather than spiralling.

MBCT may be the ideal type of counselling for you if you:

  • Tend to overthink or ruminate
  • Are prone to recurrent episodes of depression
  • Want to build emotional awareness, resilience and self-compassion

Try This

Try a 2-minute breathing exercise today. Sit comfortably, either lying down, sitting in a chair or cross-legged on a mat. Close your eyes and simply observe your breath. 

If your mind wanders, tell yourself it’s okay and gently bring it back to your breath – no judgment, just awareness. 

Small, mindful pauses such as these can be surprisingly grounding. Over time, you can start pausing for longer periods, at your own pace.

A Singaporean woman practising mindfulness breathing during an online counselling session.

When to Seek Counselling for Depression

We’re here to remind you that you don’t need to tick off a checklist or wait until things get ‘bad enough’ to start counselling in Singapore. If you feel like you’re struggling – be it in quiet or big ways – that’s reason enough to reach out for help. 

There’s no single way that depression looks or feels. For some, it’s a persistent heaviness that doesn’t even let you get out of bed. For others, it’s a quiet sense of disconnection, irritability, or emotional emptiness. For others still, it may not even be visible on the outside.

Whether your experience is loud or silent, obvious or hidden, remember that it’s all valid. Counselling isn’t just for moments of crisis. It can also be a space to understand what you’re feeling and start healing, even if you’re not sure what’s wrong.

That said, here are some red flags to be mindful of — gentle signals that may show extra support through counselling could be helpful:

  • You often feel tired, low, or drained, even after getting enough rest.
  • You’ve lost motivation and interest in things that usually bring you joy.
  • You find yourself withdrawing from people or avoiding social interaction.
  • You’re battling feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or self-doubt.
  • You’re stuck in a loop of overthinking or harsh self-criticism.
  • You’re using distractions or unhealthy habits just to get through the day.
  • Your sleep, appetite, or energy levels have noticeably changed.
  • You’re feeling emotionally numb, overwhelmed, or unusually irritable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

1) Do I need a formal diagnosis to start counselling for depression?

Not at all! You don’t need a label, diagnosis, or hit a certain ‘low’ to start counselling for depression. 

If you’re feeling sad, unmotivated, anxious, numb, or simply not yourself, counselling can help. You deserve support, no matter what you’re going through.

2) What happens during a counselling session for depression?

Counselling sessions in Singapore typically involve open conversations about your thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. 

Your counsellor may guide you using specific tools or techniques based on the type of therapy (such as CBT or MBCT), but everything happens at your pace, making sure you feel safe, comfortable and supported.

3) Does counselling help with depression? How long can it take to see results?

Yes, counselling can be greatly helpful in managing and reducing symptoms of depression, recovering from it and developing long-term coping strategies.

The timeline for seeing results may vary depending on the severity of your symptoms, the type of therapy you’re engaging in, and your therapy goals. 

Some people find relief within a couple of counselling sessions, while for others, it’s a longer journey. 

Although there’s no fixed timeline, most people start seeing positive results after around 15–20 counselling sessions.

4) Is everything I say in therapy confidential?

Yes. Counsellors are bound by strict confidentiality guidelines. What you share during your counselling sessions stays between you and your therapist, with very few necessary exceptions (such as risk of harm to yourself or others). 

At Talk Your Heart Out (TYHO), our counsellors always prioritise your privacy, safety and comfort.

5) Can online counselling really help with depression?

Absolutely! Online counselling offers the same level of professional care and support as in-person therapy. 

In fact, for many people, online counselling feels more accessible and flexible, which can be especially helpful when depression makes it hard to leave the house or stick to a routine.

6) How do I know which type of counselling is right for me?

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

Your therapist will assess your needs during the first few sessions and suggest a counselling approach that aligns with your goals, be it CBT, psychodynamic therapy, MBCT, or a combination of different methods.

A group of Asian men engaging in group counselling in Singapore.

Conclusion

Depression can feel like a heavy and invisible burden, but remember that you don’t have to carry it alone. 

Counselling offers a safe space for you to breathe, feel seen, and begin healing at your own pace and in your own time.

If you’re still feeling unsure, read our blog on how therapy in Singapore can help with Depression. 

When you feel ready to start your healing journey, click here to explore counselling for depression at TYHO💜

Pre-Marital Counselling in Singapore: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Posted on by Manassa Shrikanth
  • Published on 29 May 2025

Do you think pre-marital counselling is only for couples facing relationship issues?

It’s a common misconception, but the truth is that many couples in Singapore are turning to pre-marital counselling – not because they have problems, but because they want to prevent them. It’s a chance to learn more, connect deeper and future-proof your marriage with a strong foundation.

Join us in the following sections to learn more about pre-marital counselling in Singapore and how it can lay the groundwork for a long, happy and fulfilling marriage. 

This Article Contains:

What to Expect in Pre-Marital Counselling

How would you prepare for your wedding? You’d probably pore over wedding plans, run through itineraries multiple times and double-check guest lists, making sure everything is as perfect as possible.

Just as wedding planning prepares you for the big day, pre-marital counselling in Singapore prepares you for the marriage that follows! 

While pre-marital counselling does help address conflicts and differences, research shows that it’s also a proactive means to ensure you’re emotionally ready and start your marriage as strongly as you can.

If you’re wondering what couples counselling before marriage looks like, you’ve come to the right place! The following sections take you through common topics you may address, key skills you’ll learn, and the overall process of pre-marital counselling in Singapore.

A Safe Space: 7 Topics You May Address During Pre-Marital Counselling in Singapore

Considering that you’re planning to get married, you and your partner may already have a strong relationship where you talk openly and understand each other deeply.

Even so, pre-marital counselling can help you dig deeper into topics that are hard to discuss.

Here are some common topics that you may explore during pre-marital counselling in Singapore:

1) Roles & Expectations

Eg: What do you expect from your partner in daily life, be it housework, emotional availability or just active answers in conversations?

2) Finances

Eg: Are you aligned on how you approach spending, saving, debt, joint accounts, or budgeting for the future?

3) Intimacy & Affection

Eg: How do you typically express love, and how would you like your partner to express affection?

4) Religion, Culture, & Values

Eg: Are there any traditions or beliefs that matter to each of you? What happens when they differ or contradict each other?

5) Children & Parenting

Eg: Do you want to have children? If yes, when? What kind of parenting styles do you wish to practise?

6) Family Boundaries

Eg: How involved do you want your extended family to be in your relationship? What boundaries need to be set here?

6) Conflicts & Individual Struggles

Eg: How does each of you deal with individual stress? What support do you need during difficult times? How do you handle relationship conflicts?

A couple getting ready for their first pre-marital counselling session in Singapore.

A Toolkit for Life: 5 Skills You’ll Learn in Pre-Marital Counselling

Conflicts and difficulties are a natural part of life, and thus of marriage too. 

But what if you could start your married life armed with a toolkit of relationship skills? That’s precisely what pre-marital counselling in Singapore can equip you with!

Below are some tools, skills, and strategies you may learn during pre-marital counselling in Singapore:

1) Constructive Communication

Your marriage counsellor can help you learn how to speak so your partner truly hears you, and how to listen without defensiveness. 

Skills you may develop include active listening and managing tough conversations without shutting down reflexively or blowing up emotionally.

2) Conflict Resolution

As we already noted, disagreements are a natural part of relationships. What matters is the way you handle them. 

Counselling equips you with healthy strategies to de-escalate arguments and move forward without resentment or lingering hard feelings.

3) Problem-Solving as a Team

Whether it’s about money, family obligations, or career changes, pre-marital counselling in Singapore can help you build skills to work through challenges together instead of falling into blame or avoidance.

4) Emotional Regulation & Mutual Support

Understanding your own emotional triggers (as well as your partner’s) can help you show up for each other with more empathy and patience, especially during stressful times.

Through pre-marital counselling in Singapore, you can also learn effective ways to manage and regulate your emotions.

5) Long-Term Goal Setting

During pre-marital counselling in Singapore, you may discuss individual and shared dreams, such as starting a family, career goals, and retirement plans, and how to align them realistically.

Pre-marital counselling improves mutual understanding and trust

Book a session

The Process: How Marriage Counselling Sessions in Singapore Work

In Singapore, pre-marital counselling is widely accessible through private therapists, counselling centres, and some community organisations. 

Here’s what you can generally expect from counselling sessions:

a) Format

Pre-marital counselling sessions are typically conducted in-person, online or in a hybrid format, depending on what works best for you and your partner.

You may attend sessions as a couple, though some counsellors also prescribe occasional solo check-ins if needed.

Online pre-marital counselling is ideal for couples who live apart, in different cities or countries. It offers the unique option of partners attending sessions together, but from different places!

b) Number of Sessions

Most couples go for around four to eight sessions, but the timeline can vary from couple to couple. Some may require only a few focused conversations, while others may need more time and space to explore topics in depth.

Together with your marriage counsellor, you may decide on a therapeutic plan, one that lays out how often and for how long you wish to engage in pre-marital counselling in Singapore.

c) Session Length

Each pre-marital counselling session typically lasts between 45 and 90 minutes, giving you sufficient time to discuss a couple of key areas each time.

d) Approach

Sessions are guided by a counsellor and follow a structured approach. However, counselling is always flexible, and a good counsellor will always place you at the centre of your therapeutic journey.

Contrary to popular opinion, your pre-marital counsellor won’t provide advice or lectures – instead, they’ll help you both reflect, ask questions, and work through ideas together. 

4 Reasons Why Pre-Marital Counselling is More Important than You Think

As we saw in an earlier section, planning a wedding can involve a lengthy list of tasks, including dresses, venues, guest lists, honeymoon plans, and more. Amid all this, it can be easy to overlook perhaps the most important part: preparing for the marriage itself.

Pre-marital counselling offers you a safe, secure and professionally facilitated arena to do just that! Marriage counselling ensures a host of benefits. 

Here are some reasons why more and more couples are choosing to go for pre-marital counselling in Singapore:

1) It Helps You Spot Blind Spots Early & Prevent Future Issues

Every couple has blind spots – the day-to-day or long-term decisions that you haven’t thought to explore yet because things are going well, or ones that you’re subconsciously avoiding. 

Many a time, couples don’t even realise they need to talk about these until they actually happen. Pre-marital counselling helps address them much before they turn into misunderstandings.

During pre-marital counselling in Singapore, you might uncover and discuss the following blind spots:

  • Division of responsibilities at home – Who handles what when it comes to chores, errands, or caregiving?
  • Financial planning for the future – Will you be combining finances? Open a joint account? How do you handle budgeting, savings, or debt?
  • Decisions around family and children – Do you want kids? When? How do you feel about fertility planning or adoption?
  • Living arrangements and relocation – Where will you live? Is one partner moving in with the other? Are you open to moving for work or family?
  • Cultural and religious considerations – Are there religious differences, rituals, or celebrations to navigate?
  • Boundaries with extended family and friends – Where will you be spending holidays? How often will you visit extended family? What boundaries do you want to set with in-laws?
  • Health and ageing – Have you discussed things like health emergencies, caregiving roles, retirement plans and wills?

Remember that these differences and blind spots aren’t red flags. They’re simply opportunities to build understanding now, instead of repairing damage in case they become an issue later.

2) It’s a Reality Check (in a Good Way)

When you’re swept up in the excitement of planning a wedding, pre-marital counselling helps you hit pause and ask yourselves, ‘Are we really prepared for what comes after the celebration?’

It’s a reality check that may seem harsh, but it’s a healthy and much-needed one. It invites both partners to explore what being married actually means to them. 

Pre-marital counselling in Singapore also opens up space to talk about the real-life adjustments that follow the big day.

During counselling for engaged couples, you might reflect on the following questions:

  • Are you both emotionally ready for commitment, not just legally or socially, but mentally and emotionally?
  • Are you deciding to get married without any sort of external pressure? Eg peer pressure, familial influence or societal stigma?
  • What kind of marriage are you trying to build, or what does marriage mean to each of you?
  • How do you plan to deal with stress, setbacks, or changes that may come after marriage, individually and together?

Think of pre-marital counselling as holding up a mirror – not to judge your relationship, but to help you step into marriage with clarity and confidence.

3) It Brings Out Expectations & Assumptions

Pre-marital counselling can also help bring to light unspoken beliefs, expectations and assumptions. These are the ‘I thought we were on the same page about these’ moments. 

While blind spots tend to be external or practical gaps, assumptions and expectations are often internal or unconscious. Many of these may stem from how we were raised, what we internalised from relationships around us and our subconscious beliefs.

Pre-marital counselling in Singapore can dig out hidden expectations and assumptions, such as the following:

  • Emotional needs & love languages – Are there any unspoken emotional expectations? Do you expect your partner to know how you feel without expressing it verbally? Do you need words of affirmation, physical touch, or quality time, and does your partner know about these? 
  • Conflict and communication styles – Do you expect calm discussions, or were you raised around frequent arguments? Do you tend to avoid confrontation or prefer to talk things out? More importantly, have you discussed these with your partner?
  • Gender roles and emotional labour – Are there any internalised ideas about who should ‘take care of’ what? Is it expected for one partner to move in with the other? Is one partner expected to do all or most of the household chores?
  • Career and work-related expectations – Are there expectations about who works, who stays home, or who relocates?

4) It’s a Proven Investment for a Long & Happy Marriage

Would you ever build a house without a solid foundation? Of course not! Then, shouldn’t you have as strong a foundation as possible for a lifelong commitment like marriage?

Studies show that couples who undergo pre-marital counselling in Singapore report higher levels of marital satisfaction, better communication, and lower divorce rates than those who don’t. Why? Because they’ve already learned how to talk through tough topics, navigate differences, and support each other through change, long before those challenges arise.

Marriage is a big transition – one that’s exciting, meaningful, and yes, sometimes challenging. Pre-marital counselling is a life-long investment that gives you the tools to step into it with open eyes and open hearts.

A couple having a joyful moment after a session of pre-marital counselling in Singapore.

Final Thoughts

Remember, you don’t need to have existing problems to start pre-marital counselling in Singapore. 

Think of it as a proactive step – a way to learn more about each other, prevent future conflict, and begin married life on the same page. 

If you’re planning to get married or just starting to think about a life together, explore Talk Your Heart Out’s (TYHO’s) pre-marital counselling services in Singapore. 

Our accredited marriage counsellors provide a safe, supportive and confidential space to navigate this beautiful journey together.

Ready to get started? Book your marriage counselling session today!

Coping with Job Loss: 6 Strategies for Mental Health and Emotional Resilience

Posted on by Manassa Shrikanth
  • Published on 29 May 2025

Losing a job doesn’t just impact your finances – it can also deeply shake your sense of self, purpose, and security.

The emotional fallout often includes waves of societal stigma, anxiety, shame, and self-doubt. That’s why coping with job loss is as much a mental health journey as it is a career transition.

In fact, research shows that people who are unemployed are significantly more likely to experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress than those who are employed. 

Job loss can affect many areas of your life and well-being, such as:

  • Self-acceptance & self-compassion
  • Self-confidence
  • Self-esteem
  • Morale & motivation
  • Sense of satisfaction in life 
  • Sense of meaning & purpose
  • Social support & relationships

If you’ve recently experienced job loss and are feeling overwhelmed by a flood of emotions, doubts and uncertainties, remember that you’re not alone – and that help is just around the corner.

A trained counsellor can guide you in coping with job loss, whether that is through career transition counselling, stress management tools or emotional resilience skills.

This blog offers six practical coping strategies to help you manage this transition with strength, strategy and renewed hope. Following that, we examine how career transition counselling can help individuals who are coping with job loss and seeking to develop emotional resilience.

This Article Contains:

How Job Loss Affects Mental Health

As we briefly saw earlier, job loss often brings emotional and psychological challenges that aren’t always visible on the outside. 

Some ways in which job loss can affect a person’s mental health are:

  • Disruption of daily routine and structure
  • Anxiety about finances and the future
  • Loss of purpose or direction in day-to-day life
  • Feelings of shame, guilt, or failure
  • Low self-esteem and self-confidence
  • Increased risk of job loss depression, and emotional withdrawal
  • Strained relationships with loved ones
  • Low motivation or difficulty focusing
  • Social isolation or avoidance due to stigma
  • Uncertainty around identity and life goals

When coping with job loss, it’s essential to acknowledge the existence of these feelings and learn healthy ways to manage them. That’s where counselling comes in – providing the tools and mental health support you need.

6 Strategies for Coping with Job Loss

From the outside, coping with job loss can often seem to be all about revamping your resume, starting the job hunt and getting ready for the next big break. 

However, it’s vital to face the emotions that come with such a sudden change before you start moving on. The way you care for yourself during this period can significantly impact how you recover, both emotionally and professionally. 

Here are six practical coping strategies to help you regain control and move ahead with that job hunt:

1) Allow Yourself to Grieve

Change can always bring about a sense of grief, and coping with job loss is no exception. Give yourself permission to mourn what you’ve lost without judgment. 

Suppressing these feelings can delay healing, and it’s crucial to acknowledge them, creating space for closure and clarity, before you move on to future plans.

A person coping with job loss talking to their friends for support.

2) Lean on Your Support System

Whether it’s family, friends, a support group or a mental health professional, connection is central to healing of any kind. 

Talking about what you’re going through can ease the weight of the struggle and fight feelings of isolation, reminding you that you’re not alone in this experience.

3) Create a Doable Daily Routine

Coping with job loss can disrupt your daily rhythm, especially if your everyday life was planned mainly around your workday.

Re-establishing structure, even something as simple as setting a wake-up time, scheduling meals, picking up an old hobby or planning regular walks, can bring back a sense of stability and help improve your mental health.

4) Focus on the Small Wins

Set small, achievable goals that bring you a sense of progress. 

Start with simple tasks, such as updating your CV or changing your LinkedIn status to ‘Open to Work’, and gradually move your way up to more complex ones like applying for jobs or learning a new skill.

These steps, though small, can help gradually rebuild your confidence and motivation.

5) Reframe the Narrative

Remind yourself that this chapter of uncertainty can also become a chapter of growth. 

Take time to reflect on the things that matter the most to you – your values, strengths, and aspirations. You may discover new possibilities or directions that align more closely with who you are today, seeing this setback as a door towards such new possibilities. 

6) Seek Mental Health Support

Therapy can provide a safe and non-judgmental arena to explore and understand your emotions, challenge self-critical thoughts, and develop tools to foster emotional resilience. 

If you’re coping with job loss depression or are looking for stress management strategies, a trained counsellor can help you feel seen and supported, and guide you with moving forward.

EAPs provide compassionate mental health support during retrenchment

Explore OUR EAP Services

5 Ways Career Transition Counselling Helps Build Emotional Resilience

The silence that follows job loss can feel loud, filled with self-doubt, fear, and endless ‘what now?’ questions. The stress of uncertainty, the grief of letting go, and the pressure to ‘bounce back’ immediately can all feel overwhelming.

Career transition counselling offers a safe avenue to process, heal, rebuild and restart strong, with a strengthened sense of direction and emotional resilience.

Emotional resilience refers to a person’s ability to adapt to and recover from stressful situations, managing them effectively and using them as catalysts for growth. It’s a skill set that equips you to face the challenge now and also prepares you to handle it more effectively in the future.

Here are some ways in which career transition counselling can support you in coping with job loss and building emotional resilience:

1) Providing a Safe, Non-Judgmental Space

Counselling gives you room to unpack the emotional toll of job loss without the fear of being dismissed, judged or misunderstood. Simply having someone listen, really listen, can be incredibly grounding.

2) Processing Grief and Uncertainty

Losing a job often brings feelings of grief.

Counsellors can help you work through the loss, validate your emotions, and gently guide you toward acceptance and clarity.

3) Rebuilding Self-Confidence and Self-Worth

Coping with job loss can often make you question your value. Counsellors help reframe negative self-beliefs, reminding you that your value is not tied to your job. 

Counselling can also help you reconnect with your strengths, capabilities, and everything you bring to the table, both professionally and personally.

4) Strengthening Emotional Resilience for the Future

Counsellors use proven techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), to help you better manage stress, regulate emotions, and develop healthier coping strategies.

Beyond your current situation, career transition counselling can help you build lasting emotional resilience, so future uncertainties don’t feel quite as overwhelming.

5) Exploring New Directions and Possibilities

When it comes to the future, you may want to switch industries, join a similar role, or start something new. 

No matter which direction you wish to pursue, a counsellor can help you set realistic goals, navigate change, and move forward with clarity and intention.

Final Words

Job loss might feel like the end of a chapter, but it’s not the end of your story. 

With the right mental health support and guidance, you can work towards understanding that you’re so much more than your job and that this, too, shall pass. 

Career transition counselling can help you with building emotional resilience, retrenchment stress management, and coping with job loss. 

A counsellor can help rebuild not just your career, but also your confidence and mental well-being.

Healing and growth may take time, but Talk Your Heart Out (TYHO) Therapists are here to help you on this journey. 

If you’re an employer or HR professional searching for ways to help your employees cope with job loss and retrenchment, click here to explore our EAP services.

Therapy for Grief: What It Is, Types, and How to Cope

Posted on by Prath
  • Published on 29 May 2025

‘They say time heals all wounds, but that presumes the source of the grief is finite’ – Cassandra Clare. 

Indeed, grief is infinite, everlasting, and all-consuming. It is a manifestation of love with no outlets.  

Loss, in any form, is a deeply painful experience. Like childbirth, you may hear all about grief and feel well prepared for it – but when it actually happens, it’s faster, stranger, and more difficult than you could have ever imagined.  

But in all this pain, you are not alone. Therapy for grief can be a space to explore what it means to grieve and how to find comfort and hold on to the light of life.  

Let’s look into what therapy works best for grief, the types and interventions that can help, and learning how to deal with grief and loss. 

How Does Therapy for Grief Work?

Most people can deal with grief or loss after: 

  • Loss of a loved one 
  • Loss of a pet or animal 
  • Unemployment  
  • Growing up and mourning your childhood 
  • Breaking up  
  • Moving to a different country 

Loss can manifest in many ways. For some, it could mean feeling too emotional. In comparison, others may feel too numb or emotionally exhausted.  

When the distress becomes so prolonged that you’re unable to function normally, you may consider therapy for grief.  

Here, you can learn how to cope with grief through therapy, process your emotions, and replace maladaptive behaviours with positive habits. 

For example, a person grieving can experience many different emotions. These include fear, anger, frustration, confusion, or even relief.  

How do you make sense of these? What do you do with yourself when you’re unable to contain the anger? These are some questions you may explore with a grief therapist.  

A man sitting on a chair and looking upset about the loss of a loved one, considering seeking therapy for grief to cope.

The Goals of Grief Therapy

Therapists may usually focus on the grief process that’s related to bereavement. However, these therapeutic concepts can be extrapolated to other forms of loss (eg divorce). 

The core of grief therapy is to help you adapt to the following: 

  • Loss of a loved one; and 
  • A new reality 

Grief therapists often refer to the ‘four tasks of mourning’ during sessions. These include: 

  1. Accepting the reality of losing something or someone 
  2. Processing the pain of grief 
  3. Adjusting to a world without the deceased (or without the expected situation) 
  4. Finding a connection with the loss while moving on to a new life 

Therapy to help with the loss of a loved one may also mean that you: 

  • Learn to regulate your emotional and behavioural pain 
  • Overcome obstacles to readjustment after loss 
  • Find new ways to explore your identity after loss 

Rest assured, therapists are trained to tailor the sessions to align with your grief process and style.  

Signs you might benefit from therapy for grief

Therapy for sudden loss can help you if you face any kind of distress. The intensity of your feelings does not have to be ‘too high’ for you to talk to a therapist.  

That said, below are some common signs you may benefit from grief counselling: 

  • You feel stuck or frozen in your grief months after the loss 
  • You’re withdrawing from people, friends or colleagues at work 
  • You have intense feelings of guilt or anger that won’t go away 
  • You’re experiencing sleep or appetite changes 

3 Types of Grief

Identifying the type of grief you’re experiencing can help determine which therapy works best for you.  

Some common types of grief include: 

1) Complicated grief

Complicated grief is also known as persistent complex bereavement disorder.    

If you’re experiencing emotions like sadness or fear for a prolonged time, and if these emotions affect your life in a negative way, you may have complicated grief.  

Complicated grief therapy can help you better understand your experience and teach you healthy ways to respond to it.  

Common signs include: 

  • Feeling hopeless 
  • Suffering from short-term memory loss or relapses 
  • Exhibiting avoidance behaviour (eg avoiding people or situations that remind you of your loss) 
  • Isolating from your loved ones 

2) Traumatic Grief

Traumatic grief can be a response to post-traumatic stress disorder.  

Trauma, in general, may occur when you experience something deeply distressing or frightening. The symptoms can manifest emotionally, physically, or psychologically.  

Traumatic grief, specifically, may occur when you lose a loved one suddenly or violently. Examples could include losing someone in a car accident, a flight accident, due to war, genocide, or death due to a hate crime.  

At Talk Your Heart Out (TYHO), Therapists use trauma-informed therapy for grief to help you process and cope with unresolved trauma.  

3) Depression and Grief

Mental health issues like chronic depression may occur due to grief. The depression symptoms could be a direct result of your loss.  

Common signs of depression due to grief may include: 

  • Feeling down or numb for most of the day, nearly every day 
  • No longer enjoying activities you once loved  
  • Feeling tired or having low energy even after sleeping  
  • Eating significantly more or less than usual 
  • Experiencing brain fog, being forgetful, and struggling to make decisions 
  • Feeling guilty or worthless due to the loss 
  • Having headaches, stomachaches, or unexplained muscle pain 

Grief therapists can help you: 

  • Identify the differences between depression and grief symptoms 
  • Identify common symptoms in multiple mental health issues that may occur due to grief 
  • Learn evidence-based tools to address and manage the symptoms 
  • Create a roadmap of how your healing journey may look 

Case study of prolonged grief disorder & navigating identity loss

Find the detailed case study here.  

Background: 

 A man in his early 50s faced two significant and sudden losses: 

  1. Professional loss: He lost his role in a family-owned business 
  2. Personal loss: The man experienced the unexpected death of his son 

Presenting symptoms: 

Due to the complicated grief, the man showed signs of:  

  • Chronic low mood, feelings of hopelessness, and lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities. 
  • Difficulty falling and staying asleep. 
  • Intense longing for his deceased son and difficulty accepting the loss. 
  • Intrusive and distressing memories related to the traumatic loss of his son. 

Assessments indicated that he was experiencing symptoms consistent with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD). 

Therapeutic Interventions: 

A combination of therapeutic approaches was employed over six months: 

  • Reconsolidation of traumatic memories (RTM): This technique was used to address and reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories, particularly the flashbacks related to his son’s death. 
  • Inner child integration therapy: This approach helped him explore and heal unresolved emotional wounds from earlier in life, which may have been increasing his current grief and trauma. 
  • Medication: Prescribed to manage acute symptoms of depression and anxiety, with plans to reduce or remove from the treatment plan as therapy progresses. 

Outcomes: 

Throughout treatment, the person experienced reduced symptoms, improved functioning, and improved emotional processing.  

This case study highlights the importance of therapy for grief, the effectiveness of combining targeted therapeutic approaches to address complex grief and trauma and facilitating a return to a meaningful life.  

If you would like to seek therapeutic intervention for grief, talk to a Therapist today.  

Grief Therapy vs Grief Counselling

Therapy for grief and grief counselling are used interchangeably. However, you may notice some subtle differences, such as: 

  • Grief counselling: Grief counselling is usually a short-term intervention focused on helping you through a specific loss (eg losing a job you loved). This intervention is ideal for those who are looking to navigate normal grief (ie grief due to the loss of a loved one).  
  • Grief therapy: Grief therapy is often a long-term and in-depth intervention. Ideally, you may benefit from therapy for grief if you experience complicated emotions and other co-existing conditions like depression or generalised anxiety.  

At TYHO, all our Therapists provide both grief therapy and counselling. Hence, you may not need to worry about the difference in usage on our platform. 

Simply find a Therapist who can help you with grief and have this conversation with the professional directly. Some questions you can ask include: 

  • Can I seek grief counselling even though I feel like I may also have anxiety?  
  • Can you help with both grief therapy and counselling?  
  • Which intervention will I benefit from the most?  
  • Do you have past experience helping clients with grief?  

Best Counselling for Grief and Loss: 3 Effective Interventions

Each therapeutic intervention may focus on different aspects and may not work for everyone. Hence, it’s important to psycho-educate oneself and talk to your Therapist to identify which method works best for you.  

The three most effective therapies for grief include: 

1) Role-Play

Having imagined conversations with the person you lost helps you process unresolved feelings.  

The role-plays are conducted through expert guidance and support from the grief therapist.  

2) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

ACT is used to help you identify, accept, and process difficult emotions without letting them control your lifestyle.  

Therapists may use key ACT techniques like mindfulness, values clarification (ie identifying your personal values), and committed action to align your behaviours with your values.  

The overall goal is to improve your emotional resilience and improve your life after loss.  

3) Grief Rituals and Symbolism

Learning therapeutic rituals or symbolic actions to honour the deceased can be an effective tool to gain a healthy closure after loss. 

Your therapist may teach you skills to incorporate rituals into your daily life. Some tools taught in therapy for grief may include: 

  • Writing letters to the person you’ve lost 
  • Creating a memory box with photos or keepsakes that remind you of your loved one 
  • Establishing an annual ritual like cooking their favourite meal on their birthday or visiting a place both of you loved at the start of every year  

Nearly 67% of people learned how to cope with grief after talking to a therapist.

Talk to a therapist

How To Cope With Grief and Loss

Below are some strategies you can use to deal with grief and loss: 

  • Build a support system that can help you when you struggle to function at your best. These can involve your friends, family members, or community friends.  
  • Stay physically active for 4-5 days a week. Moving your body and stretching can help release the happy chemicals in your brain and release tension in your muscles.  
  • Maintain a routine to get through the day. You can start the morning with some meditation, journaling, and physical activity. Including some therapeutic rituals we discussed above, like writing a letter, can also make your day feel more meaningful.  
  • Set small and short-term goals you’d like to achieve for the hour, day, and week. These goals can help you hold on to the light and process grief healthily. Personal goals include talking to a friend or cooking a meal. Professional goals can involve finishing a project at the end of the week or visiting a networking event.  

Taking care of yourself during grief isn’t selfish. It’s necessary.  

Try asking yourself: If someone I cared about were in my shoes, would I want them to look after themselves? 

Chances are, the answer is yes – and you deserve that same kindness, too. 

Key Takeaways

  • Therapy for grief is not about forgetting the loss but helping you healthily process the loss. 
  • Understanding what kind of grief you’re experiencing can help you determine the kind of support you need.  
  • Therapy for grief may involve effective techniques like role-play, ACT, and meaningful rituals. 
  • You can also learn how to cope with grief by incorporating small habits daily. 

Experiencing grief can feel intense, but it doesn’t fundamentally change your core identity. If you feel stuck, lost, or overwhelmed due to grief, talk to one of our expert grief Therapists.  

Find an outlet to share your love, for it’s worth so much more than keeping it buried.