SACAC Counselling: business review & teen counselling tips
SACAC Counselling
10 Claymore Hill (office located within The American Club). Tel: 6733 9249, www.sacac.sg
Business established: 38 years
Niche: Counselling support for individuals, couples and families.
Under the umbrella of the Singapore American Community Action Council, SACAC Counselling was initially established to provide counselling and psychological support to American expatriate families. Today its services have expanded to assist people of all nationalities - both expatriate and Singaporean - coping with adjustment, anxiety, stress, anger management, relationship challenges, marital concerns, child/adolescent issues and substance misuse. SACAC also facilitates home study adoption processes, offers support networks and organises regular workshops. Currently, SACAC is developing an interactive website to allow online booking and payment of appointments.
TF: What are the specific issues teens struggle with?
CH: Adjusting to new responsibilities, becoming a teenager, communicating with their parents, peer pressure and opinions and doubts about sex, drugs and alcohol. We've noticed teens frequently want to talk about their relationships with their parents, siblings, friends and teachers. Some are also struggling with depression and anxiety. By providing a comprehensive assessment we can implement a strategy towards recovery. We also offer parent and adolescent appointments, to help both parties navigate differences
of opinions.
TF: What about third-culture kids?
CH: Not all third-culture kids are ready for a move to a foreign country. Some struggle with adjusting to a new and very different culture and others feel anxious about making new friends while maintaining previous friendships. Many feel insecure about "fitting in" and can harbour unresolved grief or sadness from the "break-up" of relationships with friends and family in another country. Third-culture kids also benefit in many ways. They possess an improved linguistic ability, develop cross-cultural skills, have a global perspective and are often more mature.
TF: What warning signs should parents watch for?
CH:
• Changes in mood, eating and sleeping habits.
• Inability to make decisions or solve problems independently.
• Lack of interest in formerly popular activities.
• An inability to communicate concerns or worries.
• An increase in anxiety.
• Reduced interest in socialising, or increased at the expense of their studies.
• Increased time alone or engaging in solitary activities such as playing computer games
or watching television.
• Keep the lines of communication open - even if your teen lacks interest.
• Listen and sympathise.
• Praise good deeds and achievements.
• Reward responsible behaviour with more freedom
• Encourage healthy sleep, eating, study, exercise and social habits.
• Watch for signs of depression, anxiety or anger. If you're unable to assist,
encourage your teen to seek professional help.
Posted on Jun 2011
