Career Confessions: The clinical psychologist who is committed to ensuring inclusivity and quality mental health care In Singapore

Do you like your job? Or wonder what it would be like if you’d gone against your parents’ advice and pursued your dream career? Her World’s Career Confessions column spotlights the professional journeys of its subjects and reveals how each individual’s career path and the choices they have made can have an impact on their personal finances, psychological health, and interpersonal relationships.

“As a Singaporean-Indian girl growing up in the 90s/00s, I think the expectation was for me to marry well and make round rotis!” Dr Hanita Assudani, clinical psychologist at Alliance Counselling, confesses. However, her inherent curiosity from a young age about how people behave and why they do what they do took her down a different path.

Dr Assudani admits she's an empath who possess an innate ability to intuitively understand the thoughts and emotions of others and provide comfort when they're going through tough times. She initially wanted to be a brain doctor but when she found out what the term 'psychologist' meant when she was in secondary school, she felt it perfectly encapsulated her passion. 

“From that point on, there was no turning back. Although there was a brief moment when I considered a career in veterinary medicine, I quickly dismissed the idea because I’m not fond of domestic cats!” she reveals. 

Dr Assudani started interning and volunteering before graduating with her degree in social sciences (psychology) in 2008. After this, she worked for a few years doing research at Singapore Prisons and Institute of Mental Health's (IMH) research department. In 2011, she was one of five international students offered a place at the prestigious clinical psychology programme at University College London. She was also awarded the Healthcare Graduate Studies Award. 

After receiving her doctorate in 2014, she returned to Singapore to work at IMH for eight years. During her tenure here, a dedicated group of mental health professionals – including herself – recognised the need for more accessible and cost-effective care for gender diverse individuals. Their aim was to create a safe and inclusive space for individuals who were questioning their gender identity, facing challenges during their transition or in need of specialised support. 

This resulted in the launch of the Gender Care Clinic in 2017, a multidisciplinary service that provided doctor-psychologist joint assessments, therapy, support for referrals, family therapy as well as education for mental health professionals and the public. (The gender care service has since been reorganised under gender psychiatry, rather than as a specialist service.)

Dr Assudani left IMH to pursue private practice earlier this year, and now works at Alliance Counselling, as well as lectures at her alma mater, National University of Singapore (NUS).

With 15 years of experience in the psychological sphere, Dr Assudani still faces challenges being a clinical psychologist in Singapore in 2023, when it comes to getting the recognition her job and the industry deserves.

“Becoming a clinical psychologist is a journey that demands several years of dedicated training, encompassing undergraduate studies, practical work experience and postgraduate education,” she explains. “This path is often highly competitive, with candidates vying for limited spots in training programs.

“One of the predominant challenges faced by clinical psychologists in Singapore is the struggle for recognition of the scientific rigour and validity of our work. The interventions we employ in our work has years of rigorous scientific validation.”

Dr Assudani noted the example of the 'circuit breaker' period in Singapore during the covid pandemic, when psychologists were initially not classified as essential workers. 

“This reflects a broader issue in how the field of psychology is sometimes undervalued or misunderstood, despite its critical role in supporting mental health and well-being,” she adds. 

Name: Dr Hanita Assudani
Highest Education: Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
Job Title & Industry: Clinical Psychologist, Mental Health
Years of Work Experience: 15 years

What would you say is your biggest career achievement so far?

My most significant achievement has been working towards improving mental health care accessibility and inclusivity for gender-diverse individuals. Although there is still much work to be done, I've made progress through various initiatives.

My journey began with extensive training, practice and overseas attachments to gender services, which broadened my understanding and expertise in this field. A pivotal moment came when I co-developed the Gender Care service at my former workplace, IMH. The Gender Care service aimed to remove barriers that often hinder gender-diverse individuals from accessing much-needed mental health support. Our goal was to create a space where inclusivity was at the forefront.

Beyond IMH, I extended my efforts to education and awareness. I conducted training sessions and gave talks to therapists and the general public. The aim was to foster a community that not only understood but also embraced gender diversity, promoting empathy and acceptance.

Today, at Alliance Counselling, we've taken a significant step forward in this journey. Our services now encompass gender identity assessments, counselling and comprehensive support for individuals and families navigating the complexities of gender identity. This represents a tangible commitment to inclusivity and quality mental health care.

However, the true measure of success in this endeavour lies in the feedback from our clients. Many have expressed that meeting with me has given them a newfound sense of safety and authenticity. They no longer feel the need to hide their true selves; they can be unapologetically who they are.

What professional challenges have you faced?

Burnout – it's a daily challenge to witness the pain and suffering of others, especially during their darkest moments. In the setting I used to work in, which was inpatient care, I found myself having conversations about suicide with clients on a daily basis. Emotionally engaging in these situations exacts a heavy toll. I've shed tears and been haunted by nightmares, deeply affected by the profound injustice of my clients' childhood abuse experiences. I've felt helpless in the face of the discrimination endured by my clients who belong to gender and ethnic minority groups.

To prevent burnout, I prioritise self-care as a central part of my routine. This involves regular personal therapy sessions to process my own emotions and experiences. I've also found solace in engaging in leisure activities, like indulging in my passion for cooking and whipping up meals that could rival those on MasterChef. Laughter is another powerful remedy, so I make sure to watch comedies that lift my spirits.

Additionally, I've established a schedule where I take a break from work every three months. These breaks allow me to step away from the demands of my work, recharge and regain perspective. This combination of self-care practices and periodic breaks helps me maintain my well-being and resilience in the face of the emotional challenges I encounter in my profession.

What drives you as a clinical psychologist?

Cue Michael Jackson's 'Heal The World' and you'll find my motivation in both my clients and my kids. There are days when I wonder why I didn't choose an 'easier' job, one that doesn't tug at my heartstrings so much. But then, I think about the brave clients I work with, who somehow find the strength to make their lives better. That's what keeps me going and makes me feel like I'm on the right path.

In the end, what really drives me is the desire to make the world a kinder and safer place for my children. I also want my children to know that Indian women can be powerful and make an impact in the world. It's a constant reminder that the challenges I face in my career are all part of a bigger mission to create a brighter future, one where empathy and compassion rule the day.

Do you think the perception of psychologists in Singapore has changed in recent years with mental health being discussed a lot more? 

In 2021, the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) surveyed 2,000 Singapore residents about their perceptions in relation to mental health matters and persons with mental health conditions. They found that attitudes towards people with mental health problems have improved and people are more aware about mental health issues.

At Alliance Counselling, we have witnessed a growing number of individuals actively seeking support for their mental health. This suggests that people are embracing the idea that mental health services are not merely about symptom management but also serve as a means for personal growth. 

It also reflects a collective realisation that investing in mental health is not a luxury but a necessity, as individuals increasingly prioritise their mental well-being for a richer and more fulfilling life.

However, reducing mental health stigma is an ongoing effort that requires a combination of public awareness, education, policy changes and community support. For example, mental health services and access to care to ensure mental health are covered on par with physical health in insurance plans.

You also teach at NUS – what advice do you have for anyone who wants to be a clinical psychologist?

Becoming a clinical psychologist is a significant commitment! It is a highly rewarding and fulfilling career that allows you to make a positive impact on individuals' mental health and well-being.

Your journey to being a clinical psychologist will indeed involve academics and you will need higher educational (e.g. Masters or Doctorate in Clinical Psychology) qualifications for that. However, the most important aspect is personal growth and understanding about yourself. Consider personal therapy for yourself to cultivate your self-reflexive skills, deepen your awareness, understand your biases, values and build your resilience.