About LGBTQ+
LGBTQ+ affirmative professionals offer a safe, respectful space to explore identity, relationships, coming out, minority stress or discrimination, without pathologising sexual orientation or gender identity.
Clinical psychologists are psychologists with specialist training in assessing, diagnosing and treating mental health problems, from anxiety and depression to more complex conditions. In some countries it is a regulated health specialty; Therapy247 checks the registration.
Getting mental health care in Singapore
Public health system · Public healthcare (polyclinics, Institute of Mental Health and public hospitals)
Polyclinic doctors assess mental health concerns and can refer patients to public mental health services. To be seen as a subsidised patient at the Institute of Mental Health you need a referral from a polyclinic or, for CHAS cardholders, a CHAS GP; subsidised patients pay reduced consultation fees. In 2020 the median wait for a new subsidised appointment was about 32 days for a psychologist and 34 days for a psychiatrist. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Singapore Psychological Society – Singapore Register of Psychologists (voluntary). Psychology is not regulated by law and registration is not required to practise. The voluntary Singapore Register of Psychologists requires an applied postgraduate degree in psychology and adherence to the SPS Code of Ethics, so check for the title Registered Psychologist (Singapore). Search the official register
Urgent help in Singapore
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 995 · Ambulance / Fire (SCDF)
- 1767 · Samaritans of Singapore (SOS)
- 1771 · National Mindline 1771
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: nhghealth.com.sg, moh.gov.sg, moh.gov.sg, singaporepsychologicalsociety.org
Signs to look out for
Being LGBTQ+ is not a mental health problem. However, discrimination, rejection, hiding who you are or living in an unsupportive environment can create stress that affects well-being. It may help to seek support if you feel anxious or low, isolated, unsafe, conflicted about your identity, struggling with coming out, facing family rejection, or affected by harassment or violence.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Look for affirmative therapy: psychologists, psychotherapists and other professionals who respect your identity and have training in sexual and gender diversity. Evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and family therapy can be adapted to address minority stress. So-called conversion therapies are harmful and rejected by professional bodies. Peer and community groups can complement professional support.
When to seek urgent help
If you are in immediate danger, have been assaulted, or are being threatened because of your identity, contact your local emergency services. Seek urgent help too if you have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or if you have been thrown out of your home and have nowhere safe to go. Specialised LGBTQ+ organisations in many places can offer support and guidance.
What you can do in the meantime
Connect with people and spaces where you can be yourself, whether friends, community groups or trusted online communities. You decide when, how and to whom you come out; your safety comes first. Look for reliable, affirming information sources. Look after sleep, movement and routines, and limit exposure to hostile content online. Ask potential therapists directly about their experience with LGBTQ+ clients.
What does a clinical psychologist do?
A clinical psychologist assesses, diagnoses and treats mental health problems in children, adults or older people. Day to day they conduct clinical interviews, use validated questionnaires and tests, formulate what keeps the problem going, and deliver evidence-based therapies. They often work in hospitals, community mental health teams or private practice, and coordinate with psychiatrists, family doctors and social services.
When to see a clinical psychologist
A clinical psychologist is a good choice for moderate to severe or persistent difficulties: anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive problems, trauma, eating disorders, personality difficulties, or when a formal diagnosis or report is needed. If medication may be needed or there is a risk to safety, a psychiatrist should also be involved. For coaching or personal growth, other professionals may fit better.
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 Singapore cover psychological care?
Polyclinic doctors assess mental health concerns and can refer patients to public mental health services. To be seen as a subsidised patient at the Institute of Mental Health you need a referral from a polyclinic or, for CHAS cardholders, a CHAS GP; subsidised patients pay reduced consultation fees. In 2020 the median wait for a new subsidised appointment was about 32 days for a psychologist and 34 days for a psychiatrist.
How do I check that a clinical psychologist is licensed in Singapore?
Singapore Psychological Society – Singapore Register of Psychologists (voluntary): Psychology is not regulated by law and registration is not required to practise. The voluntary Singapore Register of Psychologists requires an applied postgraduate degree in psychology and adherence to the SPS Code of Ethics, so check for the title Registered Psychologist (Singapore).