I know I wanted to become a counsellor since I was 18.

Where Passion Becomes Compassion

Since I was a child, I've realised I'm very sensitive to emotions (my own and others'), though I couldn't always pinpoint what those emotions were or meant. This persistent desire to understand myself and others eventually drove me towards the academic pursuit of psychology and now, a professional career as a counsellor. Hello, my name is Dax, and I am a Practising Counsellor and a Lecturer in Counselling at James Cook University (Singapore). I have been a counsellor for slightly over ten years, but I knew I would work with people and emotions all my life.

The passion for understanding emotions and the career choice towards counselling is not always well-received, given the social stigma towards mental health in the 2000s. It was with the support of loved ones, mentors, and friends that I finally realised my aspiration to become a counsellor in 2012. With a deep commitment to helping clients find meaning amidst life's inevitable struggles, I believe that seeking support is not a sign of weakness, but an act of courage and self-compassion.

Perhaps the secret of living well is not in having all the answers but in pursuing unanswerable questions in good company.

- Rachel Naomi Remen

I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.

- Brené Brown

My path has been shaped by diverse experiences: from eight years as an allied healthcare professional working with patients with debilitating conditions to ten years as a counsellor in university counselling centers and social service agencies, each role has deepened my understanding of human resilience and the power of authentic connection.

Whether I am counselling clients, teaching students, or conducting research, I am pursuing what I believe to be my highest calling to share whatever skills or knowledge that I have to help others feel less frustrated, anxious and lonely, and more love and kindness towards themselves and others.

My Background

My Counselling Approach

My therapeutic philosophy is mainly derived from Acceptance Commitment Therapy, with a focus on helping clients find means to live with daily emotional struggles while developing universal compassion. My clients come from diverse background and life stages, often seeking support for challenges such as anxiety, burnout, depression, trauma, grief, or self-esteem issues. I'm particularly passionate working with young adults as they navigate the complex transition into adulthood. As a mindfulness-trained and feedback-informed-treatment practitioner, I believe in meeting you exactly where you are. Every session is tailored to your unique needs, drawing from evidence-based approaches while honoring your individual experience and cultural background.

Beyond the Therapy Room

When I'm not in session with clients or teaching, you will find me doing research, providing FIT clinical consultation with counselling centers, clinical supervision with fellow practitioners, or at home with my two children who constantly remind me of life's simple joys.

Working Together

Whether you're seeking individual counselling, supervision (individual or group), or consultation services, my commitment remains the same: to create a space where emotions and psychological pain is acknowledged without judgment, where growth happens at your pace, and where compassion—for yourself and others—can flourish.

Your story matters. Your struggles are valid. And most importantly, you don't have to navigate them alone.

Education:

Doctorate in Philosophy PhD

Master of Counselling MCOU

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology BA (Hon)

Professional Membership:

Registered Counsellor with Singapore Association for Counselling (SAC #C0435)

Associate Editor for the Counselling & Psychotherapy Review Singapore journal