About autism
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition with differences in communication, social interaction and sensory processing. Professionals can carry out assessments and offer support adapted to each person and family, focused on wellbeing, autonomy and the environment rather than on “fixing” the person.
Educational psychologists are psychologists who work on learning, development and well-being at school: assessment of learning difficulties, ADHD or high abilities, support plans and guidance for families and teachers.
Getting mental health care in Brunei
Public health system · Ministry of Health – Psychiatry and Psychology Services
Public mental health care is run by the Ministry of Health, mainly through the Department of Psychiatry at RIPAS Hospital and the Ministry's psychology services. The Clinical Psychology Unit takes referrals from hospitals and private clinics. The Community Psychology Division takes referrals from government health centres and schools and sees patients at health centres by appointment. Ask your nearest health clinic or hospital for a referral. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Allied Health Professions Council of Brunei Darussalam (AHPCBD). Under the Allied Health Professions Order 2017, clinical psychologists and psychologists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists must be registered with the AHPCBD and hold a practising certificate. The Council publishes a directory of registered professionals. Search the official register
- Brunei Medical Board. Doctors, including psychiatrists, are registered with the Brunei Medical Board, which publishes a list of registered medical practitioners. Search the official register
Urgent help in Brunei
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 991 · Ambulance
- 145 · Talian Harapan 145 (Ministry of Health)
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: moh.gov.bn, moh.gov.bn
Signs to look out for
Autism is a lifelong difference in how a person communicates, relates and processes the world, not an illness. Signs that may prompt an assessment include differences in social communication, such as eye contact, conversation or understanding unspoken rules; strong, focused interests; a need for routine; and sensory sensitivities to noise, light or textures. In girls and adults these signs are often less obvious.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Assessment is usually carried out by specialised teams or professionals such as clinical psychologists, neuropsychologists, psychiatrists or paediatricians. Support focuses on the person’s needs and strengths: speech therapy for communication, occupational therapy for sensory and daily-living needs, educational support, and parent-mediated programmes. Psychologists can help with anxiety, emotional regulation and social situations, using approaches adapted to autistic people.
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent help if an autistic child or adult is at risk of harming themselves or others, goes missing, has a sudden loss of skills, stops eating or drinking, or expresses thoughts of suicide, which can be under-recognised in autistic people. In any situation of risk to life, contact your local emergency services and explain the person’s needs so responders can adapt.
What you can do in the meantime
Predictable routines, visual schedules and advance notice of changes can reduce stress. Pay attention to sensory needs, such as quiet spaces or headphones, and respect the need for recovery time after social activity. Learn about autism from reliable sources, including autistic voices. Connect with family associations or peer groups, and be cautious with programmes that promise to cure autism.
What does a educational psychologist do?
An educational psychologist supports children and young people’s learning, development and well-being in educational settings. Day to day they assess learning, attention, behaviour and emotional difficulties, observe pupils in class, write reports with recommendations, and work with families and teachers on support plans. Some also guide students on study habits, school transitions and career choices, or train school staff.
When to see a educational psychologist
It makes sense to consult an educational psychologist when a child struggles to read, write or do maths despite effort, has trouble concentrating, shows changes in behaviour at school, may have high abilities, or faces bullying or school refusal. If there are significant emotional problems at home as well, or a possible mental health condition, a clinical or child psychologist may also be needed.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in Brunei cover psychological care?
Public mental health care is run by the Ministry of Health, mainly through the Department of Psychiatry at RIPAS Hospital and the Ministry's psychology services. The Clinical Psychology Unit takes referrals from hospitals and private clinics. The Community Psychology Division takes referrals from government health centres and schools and sees patients at health centres by appointment. Ask your nearest health clinic or hospital for a referral.
How do I check that a educational psychologist is licensed in Brunei?
Allied Health Professions Council of Brunei Darussalam (AHPCBD): Under the Allied Health Professions Order 2017, clinical psychologists and psychologists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists must be registered with the AHPCBD and hold a practising certificate. The Council publishes a directory of registered professionals.