Singapore Association for Mental Health ✓ ACRA Verified

SAMH does not publish a fixed per-session rate publicly, so you will need to contact them directly to confirm current fees. In Singapore, general counselling sessions typically run S$80–200 per hour at non-profit or social-service organisations, with sliding-scale or subsidised rates available for those who qualify on financial need. Ask whether a package of sessions is available at a lower per-session cost, whether there is a separate first-consultation or intake fee, and what the cancellation and no-show policy is. If you intend to claim through MediShield Life, an integrated shield plan, or an employer wellness benefit, confirm whether SAMH's counsellors are on your insurer's panel before booking. See the full counselling cost guide for Singapore →

A GP or specialist referral is not required to access counselling at SAMH — you can contact them directly by phone or through the online enquiry form. However, if your concerns have a clinical dimension (such as suspected depression, anxiety disorder, or post-traumatic stress), a GP referral letter can be useful: it provides the counsellor with background context, may satisfy insurer requirements for reimbursement, and can smooth any onward referral to a psychiatrist if medication is later considered. At the first visit you will typically complete an intake form covering your presenting concerns, relevant history, and any current medications. Be candid about contraindications or risk factors — this helps the counsellor assign the most appropriate support level and ensures safety for both parties.

Counselling in Singapore is not yet statutorily regulated in the same way as physiotherapy or TCM, meaning there is no single mandatory government register for counsellors. Professional membership bodies — principally the Singapore Association for Counselling (SAC) — offer voluntary accreditation, and accredited counsellors should display their SAC membership status. Psychologists may be registered with the Singapore Psychological Society (SPS) or hold a licence under the Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC) if they practise as registered psychologists. Before your first session, ask for the name and credentials of the counsellor assigned to you, including their academic qualification, accreditation body, and years of practice. You can verify SAC membership on the SAC's public directory and AHPC registration on the AHPC online register. Confirm professional indemnity insurance is held by the practitioner or organisation.