Reflection on the Challenges Facing Counselling in Singapore

Today, let’s look at the Reddit page where individuals in Singapore shared their experiences with counselling services, and the insights are quite revealing.

The discussion highlights a significant distrust in the counselling profession, particularly within schools and public service settings. Many individuals recount negative experiences, such as a lack of follow-up, inadequate support, and feeling dismissed or invalidated by counsellors, which has led to a deep-seated mistrust in seeking professional help. While a few users mentioned positive outcomes, especially with university counsellors, the general sentiment is one of dissatisfaction, emphasizing the urgent need for improvements in the counselling profession to better meet the emotional and psychological needs of those seeking help.

As a counsellor, seeing the results of the poll shared by CARE Singapore, where 78% of respondents expressed distrust in counsellors, is both concerning and enlightening. It brings to light a significant issue that we, as mental health professionals, must address: the gap between the intended support we offer and the perceived value of that support by those we aim to help.

The stories shared in response to the poll are a stark reminder of the real-world experiences many individuals face when they seek counselling. Several key themes emerged from these accounts:

  1. Breach of Trust and Continuity of Care: Many respondents shared experiences where they felt abandoned or forgotten after their initial counselling sessions. This breach of trust is profoundly damaging, particularly for those who have mustered the courage to seek help in the first place. As counsellors, it is essential to understand that continuity of care is not just a professional responsibility; it is a cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship.
  2. Competency and Fit: The mismatch between counsellors’ qualifications and the specific needs of clients is another recurring issue. Stories of school counsellors being ineffective or even harmful highlight the importance of proper training and the need for counsellors to be well-equipped to handle the complexities of their clients’ situations. It also underscores the importance of “fit” – ensuring that the counsellor’s approach aligns with the client’s needs and that a genuine connection can be established.
  3. Confidentiality Concerns: Concerns about confidentiality, particularly in contexts like Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), were also prevalent. The fear that sensitive information might be shared with employers or other parties can deter individuals from seeking help altogether. As professionals, we must advocate for stronger confidentiality protections and clearly communicate these safeguards to our clients.
  4. The Stigma of Counselling: Many respondents associated counselling with punishment or failure, particularly within educational settings. This stigma is a barrier that prevents individuals from seeking the help they need and perpetuates the cycle of distrust. Part of our role as counsellors is to actively work to de-stigmatise mental health support, making it clear that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
  5. Empathy and Understanding: Perhaps the most striking aspect of the shared experiences was the perceived lack of empathy and understanding from counsellors. Comments about being told they were “overreacting” or that their feelings were invalid highlight a critical failure in the therapeutic process. Counselling is not just about offering solutions; it’s about providing a safe, empathetic space where clients feel heard and understood.

Moving Forward: Building Trust in the Counselling Profession

These reflections serve as a powerful reminder of the work that still needs to be done within our profession. Trust is the foundation of any therapeutic relationship, and rebuilding that trust requires us to:

  • Listen Actively: Every client’s experience is unique, and it is our duty to listen without judgment, offering support that is tailored to their specific needs.
  • Ensure Professionalism: Continuous professional development and a commitment to best practices are essential. Counsellors must be well-trained and equipped to handle the diverse challenges that clients bring to them.
  • Promote Confidentiality: Clear communication about confidentiality and the measures in place to protect clients’ privacy is vital in building trust.
  • Combat Stigma: We must continue to advocate for mental health awareness and work to remove the stigma associated with seeking counselling.
  • Prioritise Empathy: Above all, empathy should be at the heart of every counselling session. Our clients come to us in their most vulnerable states; it is our responsibility to treat them with the utmost care and respect.

In conclusion, while the poll results and the stories shared are sobering, they also present an opportunity for growth. As counsellors, we must take these reflections to heart, continuously strive to improve our practice, and work to restore the trust that is so essential to the healing process.

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