BACKGROUND 
I am a medical doctor by training. During my early years as a doctor, I worked in different hospitals and treated patients with various medical and surgical conditions. I even delivered more than 30 babies during my OB-GYN posting at the National University Hospital (NUH). However, with a deep interest in the human mind, I eventually decided to pursue further training in psychiatry so as to help people suffering from psychological illnesses. I also received training in the field of addiction medicine.

1. Where did your passion begin?
It all started with a novel called Doctors, written by Erich Segal. I became intrigued by Barney Livingston who was a psychiatrist and the main character in the story. It tells the story of the challenges and joy of helping people with psychological adversities.

2. How would you define mental health?

Imagine a tree. Mental health is like its roots, unseen but no less important than the other parts of the tree. Without its roots, the tree perishes. The root system going deep down into the ground also represents the complex neural network and intricate nervous system in our brain.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?

People are less afraid to talk about mental health issues or to seek help for psychological problems. But more can be done. More awareness is still needed. If you seek treatment without a second thought when you are having the flu or stomach upset, you should equally be ready to seek treatment when you are emotionally distressed.

4. Why do you enjoy working at RESILIENZ, and what do you think sets the company apart?

When I set up RESILIENZ, I had the vision of helping people build their psychological immunity to defend against life’s adversities so that they can be resilient and hardy. I believe that every individual can bounce back from any adversity. RESILIENZ lends that hand to help you rebound.

5. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

Watching movies and cycling at the beach.

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.” Nelson Mandela

BACKGROUND

I am a US-trained Clinical Psychologist licensed in the state of California. I have over 10 years of experience working with adult individuals, children and families from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Being a school teacher for children aged 6 – 14 prior to my current profession, it has also given me an added experience in communicating with children.

1. Where did your passion begin?

I think it started when I was in secondary school when I realized that listening to my friends’ woes never felt “too much” and they felt free to share things with me. My experiences through church as an adolescent also created an aspiration in me to pursue a helping profession. My passion for helping others from then on evolved from missions, to medicine, and teaching before I decided that listening to people and helping them with their sufferings was my path.

2. How would you define mental health?

Mental health includes the psychological, emotional, social, and physical aspects of one’s overall well-being. In addition, what is “healthy” for one person versus another depends on their social context and background (e.g. culture, class and religion), access to resources, abilities and individual temperament. Given our ever-changing modern world, mental health is about the flexibility to adapt to one’s circumstances – especially when they change! – and cope as adaptively as possible with the stresses of life.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?

I know I did not grow up with mental health being a subject at all in the home or community, so I think it’s hopeful and encouraging to see Singapore take mental health more seriously. Reducing the stigma around mental health remains a challenge (as it is in other countries), but as professionals we can do much to provide appropriate psychoeducation in our communities to create more understanding and acceptance in our communities whenever someone presents with mental health needs.

4. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

In my spare time I like to read (both fiction and non-fiction), hike, swim, run, and do yoga. When I can, I also dabble in writing short fiction, cooking, trying different cuisines, and gardening.

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“It is in playing and only in playing that the individual child or adult is able to be creative and to use the whole personality, and it is only in being creative that the individual discovers the self.” – Donald W. Winnicott

BACKGROUND

I am a HCPC-registered clinical psychologist. I have more than 10 years of experience working on cases of varying complexities in the United Kingdom and in Singapore. I served the international and local population, in both institutional and community settings. I am well-versed with adult and paediatric clients presenting with mood difficulties (depression and anxiety), personality disorders, dermatological conditions (e.g., eczema and trichotillomania), sleep issues, grief, coping with chronic and terminal illnesses, and neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism, etc.). 

1. Where did your passion begin?

I had the privilege of being from one of the top girls’ secondary school in Singapore. My peers were incredibly bright and hardworking. However, I couldn’t help but notice that some appeared to have trouble coping emotionally despite being all-rounders in their academics and their CCAs. That sparked my curiosity in understanding how and why people think and behave – at a time before there was greater mental health awareness. I was fortunate to be able to develop my interests at the University College of London under a MOHH scholarship, where I worked with some of the leading minds in the mental field health field.

2. How would you define mental health?

More often than not, there is a perception that mental health is the absence of mental illness. I believe that mental health is more than that. Mental health is the bringing mental wellness to the next level, by learning and developing skills to cope with daily life stressors which may threaten our mental wellbeing.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?

There is greater mental health awareness in light of the pandemic and the stressors it has brought upon society. With this, I believe there is reduced stigma in relation to help-seeking behaviours. This can set the stage to promote better wellbeing with early intervention.

4. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

Pre-pandemic plans to travel and hike, spending time with my family, as well as planning the grocery list each weekend.

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become” – Carl Jung

BACKGROUND

I obtained my Master of Psychology (Clinical) from James Cook University Singapore. My clinical experience includes working with youths, adults and the elderly in the primary healthcare services. I am skilled in providing psychotherapy for clients with a wide range of stress-related problems that affect both their mental and physical health.

1. Where did your passion begin?

As a student with no aspirations in life, I chose to study Psychology simply because I thought that it would be ‘cool’ to learn about the human mind. After my first work experience at a school for children with special needs, I realized that life challenges can take a huge toll on one’s wellbeing. This inspired me to further my studies in Clinical Psychology, so as to join the helping profession to support and empower others.

2. How would you define mental health?

Mental health is about how we think, feel and act as we live with our lives and relate to others. It does not indicate the presence of an illness or a problem. We want to focus on mental wellness – being cognitively, emotionally and socially healthy.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?

There is increased openness in talking about mental health issues, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the underlying fear of being stigmatized for seeking help still remains. A shift in mindset is important – the goal of taking care of your mental health is to improve your quality of life and your relationship with your loved ones.

4. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy spending quality time with my family and engaging in activities that my three young children love. I also set aside time for self-care through active engagement in physical activities.

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness.” – Charles Spurgeon.

BACKGROUND

I graduated with a Master of Psychology (Clinical) at National University of Singapore (NUS). Prior to joining Resilienz, I had been working many years in the community and subsequently in healthcare. I have worked with clients with a range of mental health conditions (e.g. mood and anxiety disorders, emotional and interpersonal difficulties), providing individual and group therapy to clients as well as training and consultation to teams.

1. Where did your passion begin?

My foray into Psychology started out with a curiosity about the self and the human mind. Interest grew into passion, and coupled with the desire to help, I decided to embark on the journey of helping others as a psychologist.

2. How would you define mental health?

Mental health is about how we feel, think, and function in various aspects of our lives. Actively cultivating positive mental health is important as it helps us to be well and handle life’s challenges more effectively.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?

There have been great strides forward no doubt in the awareness of mental health issues and the avenues for help, including some ground up initiatives. Nevertheless, there remains considerable stigma and misconceptions about mental health issues. There is also room for progress in terms of the appreciation of the importance of mental wellness and the work of mental health professionals.

4. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy playing and watching soccer, and look forward to my regular dose of soccer action. I love spending quality time with family, and when I’m on my own, I chill out to coffee, music, and some reading.

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“Everyone — and that includes therapists as well as patients — is destined to experience not only the exhilaration of life, but also its inevitable darkness…” – Irvin Yalom, on therapist and patient as ‘fellow travelers’.

BACKGROUND

I worked extensively with trauma patients in Changi General Hospital (CGH) and provided psychotrauma interventions and counselling. I was also deployed to local and overseas crises to provide psychological, humanitarian, and search and rescue assistance (e.g., the SQ006 crash in 2000, the collapse of the Nicoll Highway in 2004, and the Asian tsunami in 2005). I served on the National CARE (Caring Action in Response to Emergency) Management Committee as a board member, on top of being a CARE officer and trainer.

1. Where did your passion begin?

At 11, I was given a book “Introduction to Psychology”. I became intrigued with human behaviours, the mind, and what makes people tick. I was also fascinated with human psychopathology. I decided at that juncture that I would study human behaviours and the mental processes.

2. How would you define mental health?

Mental health equates to the psychological well-being of a person. It is about the person’s ability to function effectively, while realizing his/her own full potential in the society and within one’s community.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?

Owing to social media and increased awareness of mental health issues, the social stigma associated with mental illness have diminished over the years. The common misperceptions of mental illness were previously related to personal weakness and/or a lack of hard work to stay positive.
We are more willing to seek help today because of better awareness and education. Family members and friends are more open and supportive towards their loved ones seeking mental health services now compared to years ago.

4. Why do you enjoy working at RESILIENZ, and what do you think sets the company apart?

I appreciate the great synergy in our team as we work to improve the mental wellness of our community. My colleagues and I are like different parts of a body; each highly skilled in their own areas of expertise, while complementing each other. I love the genuine care and authenticity of the team towards our patients. We also learn and grow together as a team.

5. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

Needlework, crafting, and reading! I also enjoy sports, be it cycling, dancing, or swimming. When I have time, I bake. I can make a pretty mean traditional Kueh Lapis!

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” Jim Elliot

BACKGROUND

My clinical experience began with the Addiction Medicine Department at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH). I helped clients with addiction issues and other mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. I then obtained my Master of Arts (Applied Psychology) from the Nanyang Technological University (NTU). Driven by a keen interest in developing human potential and corporate training, I later became an Associate Trainer with the Ong Teng Cheong Labour Leadership Institute (OTCi) where I conducted workshops on leadership and soft skills. Before joining Resilienz, I served an entrepreneurial stint doing wellness talks, training workshops and individual coaching for private firms.

1. Where did your passion begin?

It started during my rotary club days where I had the opportunity to volunteer at orphanages and nursing homes. They were humbling experiences and also the most inspiring ones that ignited my passion in helping others.

2. How would you define mental health?

Mental health is the experience of being in harmony with our thoughts, feelings and environment. With change being a constant these days, it is also about how well we adapt and thrive in times of change and adversity.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?

There have been ongoing efforts to increase awareness and change perception towards mental health matters, even more so now considering the recent pandemic and the influence of social media. We pulled through a global crisis and emerged stronger than before. Currently, we are seeing greater awareness and more people receptive to the idea of coming forward and talking about mental health topics. There is still room for improvement for sure but we are heading in the right direction towards building a stronger and more resilient society.

4. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy going for a walk or a swim, watching dramas and comedies with family, catching up with friends, as well as traveling to widen my horizons.

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“The most beautiful way to start and end a day is with a grateful heart” – Charles M. Schulz

BACKGROUND 
I started as a counsellor at the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) and Institute of Mental Health (IMH). Drawing upon my counselling experience in these organisations, I joined the Family Justice Courts (FJC) as a Senior Court Counsellor and thereafter, transferred to the Singapore Prison Service. Being in the helping profession for more than a decade, I have developed extensive experience in working with at-risk youths, as well as families and individuals with complex issues such as child protection matters, family violence, mental disorders and addictions.

1. Where did your passion begin?

I aspired to be in the helping profession after watching the movie ‘Patch Adams’ when I was 18 years old. I was then pursuing an Engineering Diploma. This movie spoke to my heart deeply and propelled my decision to be in the helping profession; to work with human beings rather than with machines.

2. How would you define mental health?

Mental health is more than the absence of a mental disorder. It is a state of someone who is functioning at a satisfactory level of thinking, feeling and behaviour at their social context.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?

The national effort in promoting mental wellness, improving and coordinating mental health services and research had proven to be monumental in the Singapore mental health landscape. Though there is still so much to be done, the many hands approach and in depth look at the whole ecosystem of mental health resources is the way to go. As the saying goes, ‘It takes a village…’

4. Why do you enjoy working at RESILIENZ, and what do you think sets the company apart?

The folks at Resilienz make me feel very much at home. I appreciate the authentic and approachable qualities that my colleagues portray. I am also very impressed with everyone’s pursuit for clinical excellence in caring for our clients. Resilienz is a serious bunch of people who cares for every client’s mental well-being, learning and growth.

5. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

I do combat sports (Fencing, Muay Thai) and swimming. I also enjoy watching cartoons with my daughter.

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“You treat a disease, you win, you lose. You treat a person, I guarantee you, you’ll win, no matter what the outcome.” – Hunter Patch Adams

BACKGROUND 
I obtained my Master of Social Science (Counselling) from University of South Australia and a Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology from James Cook University. I am a registered Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor with the Singapore Association for Counselling, registered Social Service Practitioner with the Singapore Association of Social Workers and Master Solution Focused Practitioner with International Alliance of Solution Focused Teaching Institute. In addition, I am also a certified Substance Abuse Counsellor with Association of Professionals Specialising in Addiction Counselling, accredited Mediator with Singapore Mediation Centre and Professional Certified Coach with the International Coach Federation.

1. Where did your passion begin?

I had wanted to be a helping professional since my secondary school days. Hence, I embarked myself on a career that is meaningful and purposeful.

2. How would you define mental health?

Mental health is an important aspect of our life. Having the psychological ability to deal with different challenges in life is a key component of mental health, which goes beyond the absence of mental health conditions. We need to have a positive mental health in order to function daily and to live a life that is meaningful and purposeful. There are several ways to strengthen our mental health and they all begin with small steps.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?

I would say that in recent years, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Singapore has placed a greater emphasis on the significance of mental health. There are more targeted services for promoting mental wellness. People are focusing on strengthening their mental health, and those who need support with their mental health struggle are open to talk it out and seek support.

4. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

As part of my self-care, I do sports such as jogging and Muay Thai. I also love cooking and baking.

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass but learning to dance in the rain.” – Vivian Greene

BACKGROUND 
I started as a Programme Welfare staff in a female youth residential hostel. My work involved conducting needs analysis assessment to facilitate programmes for the clients in improving self-esteem and relationships; and case management for the clients.
I then obtained my Master in Counselling and continued with more in-depth work with the clients and their families. I provided individual counselling to help my clients bring about effective change and enhance their wellbeing, and family therapy sessions with an aim towards reconciliation and strengthening the emotional connection.

1. Where did your passion begin?

During my early years in the residential hostel, I was involved in the case management role for the clients. Having case consults with the counsellor sparked my interest in counselling as it facilitated deeper understanding about the underlying reasons for certain behaviour seen in the clients. This motivated me to further my studies in counselling so I can support my clients better.

2. How would you define mental health?

I see mental health as important as physical health. Paying attention and putting in effort to maintain our mental state is akin to attending to our basic physical needs for our own wellbeing.
Being well emotionally can promote a better lifestyle and maintain healthy relationships.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?

While mental wellness services in Singapore are mostly accessible, there are still some barriers such as financial or cultural concerns which may deter individuals from seeking help. With the increased of social media activities, there are more outreach work to help reduce the cultural barriers and stigma around mental health by not only raising awareness, but also providing support groups in the community. This could hopefully encourage more individuals to come forth and seek support when needed.

4. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy cycling, doing crafts and baking with my children. In my own time, I would do yoga, listen to music or watch dramas.

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them” – Albert Einstein

BACKGROUND 
I obtained my Masters of Arts (Counselling and Guidance) from Nanyang Technology University. I have extensive work experience in mental health rehabilitation setting and it helped me to understand some of the mental health conditions from the client’s worldview. From my interaction with the clients, it has deepened my belief that every individual has their unique strength and capacity to manage their life adversities.

1. Where did your passion begin?

I obtained my Masters of Arts (Counselling and Guidance) from Nanyang Technology University. I have extensive work experience in mental health rehabilitation setting and it helped me to understand some of the mental health conditions from the client’s worldview. From my interaction with the clients, it has deepened my belief that every individual has their unique strength and capacity to manage their life adversities.

2. How would you define mental health?

I think mental health is a connection between self and others; a purpose bigger than self and higher beings. It is a connection in life that promotes respect, growth, joy and love.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?

There has been a great effort in raising awareness in mental health. It is especially so during this pandemic. However, I feel that more should be done in prevention rather than intervention. It can start with a society that is compassionate towards one another.

4. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy reading, writing, listening to music, jogging, cycling, basketball and spending time with my family and close friends!

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“Small things make a big difference” – Anonymous

BACKGROUND 
I started out as an Education Therapist for special needs students. Thereafter, I have been in the social service and healthcare sector.  My experience in these sectors includes working with students in their life transition, supporting patients in recovery or end-of life issues.

1. Where did your passion begin?

My passion began when I was in my early teens. With a keen interest in Psychology, I studied psychology and actively volunteered as a para-counsellor and a volunteer coordinator. I worked closely with youth-at-risk and families who needed emotional support. I am also drawn to the science of addiction and Forensic Psychology which may be partially influenced by my love for thrillers and mystery.

2. How would you define mental health?

Though mental health is unseen and unspoken; it is an important aspect of life and how we function. Emphasis has always been placed on status and material possessions, but I believe that our internal resources are equally important. At any time, some life experiences can take a toll on our mental health and there are steps we can do to improve it.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?

I think that the current mental health scene is gaining more recognition, but the stigma and negative connotations of mental health conditions can hinder the progress of people seeking help. The presence of EAP and workplace support can gradually open the doors for a society welcoming of mental health support.

4. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy music and arts. I like reading, playing musical instruments and attending concerts. I also unwind by watching thrillers and crime-related dramas.

FAVOURITE QUOTE

It is often in the darkest skies that we see the brightest stars
— Richard Evan

BACKGROUND

Prior to joining RESILIENZ, I worked as an Administrative Assistant at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH)’s Department of Addiction Medicine. That was also where I met Dr. Thomas Lee.

Choosing to join the mental health industry was a unique experience for me. I was accustomed to managing family businesses and was expected to continue in this area. It came as a surprise to my family when I choose a totally different path.

1. Where did your passion begin?

A majority of my previous work experiences involved backend work, which severely limiting my exposure to the actual services rendered to IMH’s patients. After having the opportunity to set up RESILIENZ and be intricately involved in its daily operations, I fell in love with my work and there is no turning back!

2. How would you define mental health?

Mental health is about expressing one’s emotions from a drawing to a storyboard. When our emotions are well regulated, this drawing tells a clear and beautiful story. When our emotions are out of control, the story becomes blurry and confusing. In such times, we can engage the help of an editor (psychiatrist or therapist) to help us get back on track and to reorganize our storyboard again.

3. Why do you enjoy working at RESILIENZ, and what do you think sets the company apart?

We work hard and play hard as a team! All of us are closely bonded, like a big family. It is amazing that even our new colleagues can easily blend into the RESILIENZ family, as if they have been working with us for years!

4. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

Running and hunting down delicious local delights with friends and family!

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” Confucius

BACKGROUND

I have been in Sales and Business Development for over a decade. I travelled extensively, helping the businesses I worked for to expand and grow regionally and internationally. ‘One should always keep an open mind to explore the world of opportunities’, that’s my motto in life!

1. Where did your passion begin?
I was exposed to the mental health industry during my pharmaceutical tenure. The experience gave me new perspectives on our psychological wellness and its impact on the inner workings of our minds.

2. How would you define mental health?
Mental health is an intangible aspect of someone’s wellbeing. I believe it to be as important as our physical health. Our physical health is the window to our inner psychological state. If we become physically ill, we naturally do not feel well emotionally. As such, it is vital to take care of our inner psychological state so that we can glow with radiance and joy.

3. What do you think about the current mental health scene in Singapore?
People are open to talking about mental health issues in general. However, when it affects themselves or their loved ones, they tend to deny reality. It is perfectly normal to not feel like ourselves at some points in our lives, given our high stress environments. We are only human after all.

4. Why do you enjoy working for Resilienz, and what sets the company apart in your opinion?
The bond we have forged together and our work chemistry at RESILIENZ sets us apart! Get to know us and you will see why!

5. What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
I am a spontaneous individual and I do not have specific hobbies. A game of volleyball, badminton, jogging or family/friends gathering are some of the activities I enjoy. Sometimes, being present in-the-moment and not doing anything can be therapeutic too.

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“Resilience is very different than being numb. Resilience means you experience, you feel, you fail, you hurt. You fall. But, you keep going.” Yasmin Mogahed