Professional Counselling & Therapy for Anxiety in Singapore
When anxiety feels overwhelming and begins to affect your daily life, seeking a compassionate space to explore these challenges can be deeply beneficial.
At The Psychology Atelier, we provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore evidence-based therapies and resources to help you understand and manage your anxiety. Our clinical psychologists and counsellors will journey alongside you, helping you discover personalised strategies for empowering you to move towards a richer, fulfilling life.
Understanding Anxiety: Causes, Signs & Symptoms
Anxiety affects people in different ways, but common causes and symptoms often provide insight into how it manifests. Knowing these can be an important first step toward seeking help from a therapist.
Causes of Anxiety
The exact causes of anxiety disorders are still not fully understood. However, certain life experiences, especially traumatic ones, can trigger anxiety in individuals who are predisposed to it. Genetic factors can also contribute to a person’s susceptibility to anxiety.
For some individuals, anxiety may be connected to an underlying medical condition. In fact, symptoms of anxiety can sometimes be the first signs of a medical issue. If a healthcare provider suspects this, they may recommend tests to rule out or identify any medical causes. Some medical conditions commonly linked to anxiety include heart disease, diabetes, substance misuse or withdrawal, alcohol withdrawal, and chronic pain, among others. Certain medications can also cause anxiety as a side effect.
Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety can manifest through a range of physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms. Common signs include:
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Having difficulty concentrating
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Feeling on edge or irritable
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Feeling panic, dread, fear, and uneasiness
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Uncontrollable, obsessive thoughts
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Heart palpitations
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Shortness of breath
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Muscle tension
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Restlessness
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Dry mouth
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Nausea
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Numbness
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Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms frequently and they’re impacting your daily life, it may be time to consider therapy and counselling in Singapore to help you manage your anxiety.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness—it takes courage to take the first step toward recovery, personal growth and well-being.
Common Triggers for Anxiety
Anxiety can be triggered by various life situations and circumstances, often amplifying stress and creating feelings of worry and unease. Understanding these common triggers can help identify potential sources of anxiety and guide steps for managing them. Some common triggers include:
Past or Childhood Experiences
Traumatic events, neglect, or adverse experiences in childhood can set the stage for anxiety in adulthood. These early experiences often leave lasting emotional effects that may resurface during challenging situations.
Major Life Changes
Events like moving to a new location, experiencing the loss of a loved one, or undergoing significant career changes can be disruptive. These major transitions can bring uncertainty and instability, making it challenging to feel grounded.
Work-Related Stress
High workloads, looming deadlines, demanding responsibilities, or conflicts with colleagues can create immense stress, leading to feelings of anxiety. This is particularly common in high-pressure careers or work environments with little support or work-life balance.
Perfectionism and High Self-Expectations
Individuals who place intense pressure on themselves to achieve or who fear making mistakes may experience constant anxiety. This “fear of failure” mindset can create continuous stress, impacting mental well-being and self-esteem.
Financial Concerns
Financial instability or debt can be a constant source of anxiety. Worries about budgeting, expenses, or debt repayments often weigh heavily, particularly when financial struggles impact family or lifestyle stability.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety can be triggered by various life situations and circumstances, often amplifying stress and creating feelings of worry and unease. Understanding these common triggers can help identify potential sources of anxiety and guide steps for managing them. Some common triggers include:
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
People with GAD experience persistent and excessive worry about a wide range of everyday matters, such as work, health, or personal issues. This worry is often disproportionate to the actual situation and can be challenging to control.
Phobias
Phobias are intense, irrational fears of specific objects, situations, or activities, such as heights, spiders, or flying. These fears often lead to avoidance behaviours that can impact a person’s quality of life.
Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)
Social anxiety disorder is characterised by an intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or scrutinised in social or performance situations. This can lead to avoidance of social interactions, which may interfere with personal and professional life. Common situations that trigger social anxiety include public speaking, meeting new people, or attending social gatherings.
Panic Disorder
Panic disorder involves recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain, or dizziness. People with panic disorder often develop a fear of future panic attacks, which can lead to avoidance behaviours.
Anxiety and Depression: The Link and Options for Therapy
Anxiety and depression frequently coexist, and their symptoms often overlap, creating a complex cycle that can be challenging to break without targeted therapeutic support. Therefore, whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or both, it’s essential to seek help and openly discuss all symptoms with a healthcare professional. That way, they can identify your condition and determine the appropriate approach that will help you address your symptoms.
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At The Psychology Atelier, we understand the complexities of co-occurring disorders and provide integrative approaches that address both anxiety and depression. Our team of clinical psychologists and counsellors use evidence-based methods designed to help clients manage anxiety symptoms, focusing on long-term mental well-being.
Our Approach to Counselling and Therapy for Anxiety
At Psychology Atelier, different strategies are used to help address and manage symptoms of anxiety in patients. The strategies we use for therapy for anxiety include:
Evidence-Based Techniques for Anxiety Management
Therapists primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a method that helps clients identify and shift negative thought patterns contributing to anxiety. This technique also incorporates mindfulness practices that help promote relaxation and grounding.
Addressing Different Types of Anxiety Disorders
Our therapists tailor their approach to each client, whether it’s generalised anxiety, social anxiety, or a specific phobia.
Long-Term Support and Empowerment
Our goal is to understand and address the root causes of anxiety, often linked to past experiences and early relationships. We equip clients with coping strategies to manage anxiety for the short- to medium-term while facilitating deeper explorations to achieve long-term mental well-being.
At The Psychology Atelier, our team is composed of distinguished psychologists and counsellors, each committed to fostering a therapeutic environment that values empathy, personal growth, and the journey towards mental wellness. Our professionals bring diverse expertise and a shared dedication to providing personalised and compassionate care.
Dr Clarissa Lui
Senior Clinical Psychologist
DPsychˆ, MClinPsych, BSc(Hons)Psych
Registered Clinical Psychologist (AHPRA; SRP)
Board-Approved Supervisor (AHPRA; SRP)
ˆnot a medical or dental qualification
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Clarissa graduated from The University of Queensland, Australia, with a Doctor of Psychology and Master of Clinical Psychology. She is a compassionate and skilled clinical psychologist working with culturally diverse clients of all ages. She has a particular passion for helping children, adolescents, families, and couples who present with varied concerns, including mental health problems, mild to moderate developmental difficulties, alcohol and/or other drug misuse and relationship issues.
Victoria Wong
Clinical Psychologist
MClinPsych., BPsychSc. (1st Hons)
Registered Clinical Psychologist (SRP, Singapore)
Accredited Triple P Provider
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Victoria Wong takes a deeply personal approach to therapy, exploring the profound depths of her clients' experiences. She has a special interest in supporting individuals navigating life transitions, such as those starting out in the workforce. Her therapeutic practice, which integrates cognitive-behavioural and schema therapies with mindfulness and self-compassion, is customised to each individual’s needs.
Jia Li
Senior Clinical Psychologist
MPsych. (Clinical Psychology), BSc.(Hons) Psych
Registered Clinical Psychologist (SRP)
Approved Clinical Supervisor (SRP)
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Jia Li obtained her Bachelor of Social Sciences and Master of clinical psychology under the National University of Singapore. As a member of the Singapore Psychological Society, she is also recognised as an SRP-approved supervisor under the Singapore Register of Psychologists.
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Over the years, Jia Li has worked in diverse settings, including public hospitals and community organisations, helping individuals navigate a wide range of challenges.
Lieu An An
Counsellor
Registered Counsellor (ACA, Australia; PACFA, Australia)
Master of Counselling (Oct 2024)
BSocSc. (Hons) Psychology
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Lieu An An leverages her training in the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy to support couples. With an empathetic and understanding approach, often incorporating humour to create a more light-hearted environment, she helps clients build fulfilling personal and relational dynamics.
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How much does a psychologist cost in Singapore?The cost of seeing a psychologist in Singapore varies widely based on the therapistās experience, session length, and specialisation. For more information and to find the best option for your needs, please contact us directly.
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What is the difference between a clinical psychologist and a counsellor?Clinical psychologists and counsellors are mental health professionals who help individuals cope with emotional, social, and physical stressors through therapeutic practices aimed at improving overall life functioning. While both clinical psychologists and counsellors provide services like therapy, clinical psychologists are able to conduct psychological assessments and support individuals with more complex clinical conditions.
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What do psychologists do in Singapore?Psychologists in Singapore provide a range of services, including the assessment of mental health issues. They work across various settings, employing therapeutic techniques to support mental well-being and help individuals, families, and groups achieve optimal psychological health.
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Do I need a referral to see a psychologist in Singapore?A referral is not necessary to see a psychologist in Singapore. You can contact a psychologist directly to schedule a consultation or therapy session.