Tiara Wong

Registered Counsellor

I am a licensed and registered counsellor accredited by the Board of Counsellors Malaysia, bringing extensive qualifications and experience to support individuals in their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. My educational background includes a Master of Counselling from the International Medical University (IMU) and a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) from the University of Queensland. Over the course of my career, I have accumulated over 700 hours of training in various counselling modalities, encompassing individual therapy, group counselling, career guidance, and psychoeducation.

 

Dedicated to serving diverse communities, I have a strong commitment to supporting marginalised populations, including B40 groups, LGBTQ individuals, and the elderly. During my internship at MIASA, I gained invaluable experience assisting clients facing a spectrum of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, grief, and low self-esteem. I also provided guidance on career exploration and helped clients navigate complex issues related to gender and sexuality. Additionally, I have contributed to corporate environments through Employee Assistance Programs, providing vital support to enhance employee well-being and productivity.

 

My passion for advocating for the LGBTQ community extends beyond my professional practice. During my tenure, I initiated and facilitated multiple support groups aimed at creating a safe space for individuals to explore their identities and share their experiences. This commitment is underscored by my academic pursuits, including a thesis titled 'The Lived Experience of Individuals Reporting Same-Sex Attraction in Malaysia,' where I explored the impact of cultural, political, and religious factors on the lives of gays and lesbians in Malaysia.

 

In my counselling approach, I prioritise building a trusting therapeutic relationship grounded in unconditional positive regard, empathy, and authenticity. I strive to empower clients by helping them recognize their strengths and resilience, while offering insights and practical strategies that foster personal growth and well-being. Utilising a blend of evidence-based techniques and creative therapeutic tools such as sandtray, metaphorical cards, figurines, and collage, I tailor sessions to meet the unique needs and preferences of each client.

 

Beyond my clinical practice, I actively participate in community development initiatives such as Think City's K2K (Kita-untuk-Kita) program, which focuses on enhancing the liveability of public housing in Malaysia. By engaging in these efforts, I contribute to creating supportive environments that promote holistic well-being and social equity.

 

I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve, and I look forward to the opportunity to support you on your journey towards greater clarity, resilience, and emotional fulfilment.

 

Professional Affiliation(s):

  • Licensed and Registered Counsellor (KB11101, PA10708) (Lembaga Kaunselor Malaysia)

 

Educational Qualifications:

Bachelors in Psychological Science, University of Queensland, Australia

Master of Counselling, International Medical University

 

Professional Development and Qualifications:

  • Mental Health First Aider (MMHA)

 

Languages:

  • English
  • Bahasa Melayu

Therapeutic Approaches:

  • Person Centred Therapy

 

Years of Experience: 2 years

 

Areas of Expertise:

Anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, relationship issues, workplace conflicts, trauma, career, crisis intervention, career, gender and sexuality.

 

Population of Expertise:

Children, teens, couples, adults, elderly, organisational, B40 community, LGBTQ Community.