As a parent, it’s natural to worry when your child shows signs of emotional distress or behavioural challenges. But how do you know when your child’s big feelings or outbursts are part of normal development and when it might be time to seek help from a professional, such as a child psychologist?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what child psychologists do, signs that your child may need therapy, and how child therapy can support emotional regulation and overall well-being. If you’re in Singapore and wondering whether your child might benefit from professional support, this article is for you.
What Is a Child Psychologist?
A child psychologist is a trained mental health professional who specialises in understanding the emotional, cognitive, and social development of children and adolescents. They are equipped to assess and treat a wide range of concerns, from anxiety and mood issues to learning difficulties, trauma, and behaviour challenges.
Some child psychologists in Singapore work in private clinics, while others are found in hospitals, schools, or early intervention centres. Many work closely with speech therapists, occupational therapists, and educators to provide a holistic approach to a child’s development.
Signs Your Child Might Need to See a Child Psychologist
Emotional ups and downs are part of childhood — but there are certain signs that may indicate deeper struggles with emotional regulation or mental well-being.
Here are some common red flags:
1. Frequent Tantrums or Emotional Outbursts
While temper tantrums are common in toddlers, persistent emotional meltdowns in older children may suggest difficulty regulating emotions. If your child often becomes overwhelmed by small frustrations or struggles to calm down, it could be a sign they need extra support.
2. Excessive Anxiety or Worry
Does your child worry excessively about school, friends, or family matters? Anxiety can show up in different ways – clinginess, perfectionism, trouble sleeping, or even physical complaints like stomachaches.
3. Withdrawn or Isolated Behaviour
If your child is suddenly pulling away from friends or family, avoiding activities they once enjoyed, or showing signs of sadness or hopelessness, it may be time to check in with a professional.
4. Aggressive or Defiant Behaviour
Frequent outbursts, physical aggression, or refusal to follow rules can sometimes point to underlying emotional regulation issues, trauma, or undiagnosed neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD.
5. Struggles with Attention or Impulse Control
Difficulty staying focused, following instructions, or managing impulses may indicate a need for further assessment by a psychologist.
6. Regression in Development
If your child suddenly begins wetting the bed, using baby talk, or showing fear of separation at an age where they had already grown out of it, this could be a response to stress or trauma.
Emotional Regulation: Why It Matters
Emotional regulation refers to a child’s ability to manage and respond to their feelings in a socially appropriate way. It’s a vital part of social and academic development. Children who have difficulty with this skill often struggle in school, have trouble forming relationships, or feel misunderstood.
In some cases, poor emotional regulation can lead to long-term issues like anxiety, depression, or conduct disorders — which is why early intervention is so important.
What Happens During Child Therapy?
If you decide to consult a child psychologist in Singapore, here’s what you can expect:
1. Initial Assessment
The psychologist will begin by speaking with you (the parent or caregiver) to gather background information. They may also observe or interact with your child to understand their strengths and challenges.
2. Therapy Sessions
Depending on your child’s needs and age, therapy may include:
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Play therapy for younger children, which helps them express emotions non-verbally
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Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) to help older kids identify and reframe negative thought patterns
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Emotion coaching, breathing techniques, and mindfulness strategies to help with self-regulation
Sessions are typically weekly and may last between 30–60 minutes.
3. Parent Involvement
Most child psychologists involve parents in the process. You may be given tools and strategies to support your child at home, such as using emotion charts, calming routines, or validating your child’s feelings during tough moments.
How Much Does Child Therapy Cost in Singapore?
Private sessions with a child psychologist in Singapore typically range from SGD $160 to $250 per session, depending on the therapist’s experience and the clinic. Some centres offer packages or discounts for multiple sessions.
Do check whether your child’s therapy may be covered under personal insurance plans or medical subsidies such as the Baby Bonus or CHAS for eligible families. At Kaleidoscope, we accept Baby Bonus payout across all our services we offer.
Early Support Makes a Lasting Impact
If you’ve been asking yourself, “Is this just a phase or something more?”, it might be time to speak to a child psychologist. Trust your instincts as a parent, you don’t have to wait until things get worse.
Early support can make a world of difference in your child’s emotional health, school readiness, and self-esteem. Whether it’s learning to manage big feelings, handle frustrations, or communicate better, child therapy can help build strong foundations for lifelong resilience.
Need Support for Your Child’s Emotional Well-Being?
At Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre, we offer comprehensive psychological assessments and therapy services for children in Singapore. Our experienced team of psychologists and therapists work closely with families to support emotional regulation, behaviour management, and developmental needs.
👉 Learn More About Our Child Psychologists and Therapy Services
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