Dr Annabelle Chow — Clinical Psychologist in Singapore

About Dr Annabelle Chow

Dr Annabelle Chow is a clinical psychologist practising at Annabelle Psychology in Singapore. Their stated areas of focus are: Adults; complex trauma, personality disorders (including BPD), depression, anxiety and mood conditions, suicide prevention and self-harm.

Where they practise

• Practice: Annabelle Psychology

What a clinical psychologist does

Clinical psychologists assess and treat mental-health conditions in adults (and sometimes children) using talking therapies — such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and other evidence-based approaches — rather than medication. They commonly help with anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, stress and relationship or life difficulties, and carry out psychological assessments. They work independently and alongside psychiatrists and GPs when medication or medical review is also needed.

When to consider seeing one

Consider seeing a clinical psychologist if anxiety, low mood, stress, trauma, intrusive thoughts or difficult life events are affecting your daily life, relationships, sleep or work, and support from those around you has not been enough. You do not need to be in crisis — psychologists also help with milder but persistent difficulties and with building coping skills. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, seek urgent help rather than waiting for an appointment.

What to expect at a first session

A first appointment usually involves talking through your concerns and history so the psychologist can understand what is happening and what you hope to achieve. For some needs — particularly learning, developmental or cognitive questions — a formal psychological assessment over one or more sessions may be recommended. You should leave with a shared understanding of the plan, whether that is a course of therapy, an assessment, or a referral. Sessions are confidential within professional and legal limits.

Psychologist or psychiatrist — which do I need?

Psychologists provide assessment and talking therapies but do not prescribe medication; psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose and prescribe. Many people see one or the other, and sometimes both work together — for example a psychiatrist managing medication while a psychologist provides therapy. A GP can help you decide and refer you.

Fees and booking

Most private psychologists are booked directly, with fees charged per session (assessments, which take longer, cost more). Psychological therapy is generally not claimable the way medical treatment is, though some employer or insurance plans include mental-health benefits — check your coverage. Confirm current fees directly with the practice.

Common questions

Is Dr Annabelle Chow a psychologist or a psychiatrist?

Dr Annabelle Chow is a clinical psychologist — a psychologist, who provides assessment and talking therapy and does not prescribe medication. For medication, a psychiatrist (a medical doctor) is needed.

Do I need a referral?

Not usually for a private psychologist — most accept direct bookings. A GP referral can still help, especially if medication or a psychiatrist may also be involved.

Is what I share confidential?

Yes, within professional and legal limits. Psychologists keep sessions confidential, with limited exceptions (such as a serious risk of harm) that they will explain.

See also our directory of psychologists in Singapore and our mental health support guide.

Details can change — you can verify a psychologist’s standing with the Singapore Psychological Society (SPS) and the Singapore Register of Psychologists (SRP). Psychologists are not medical doctors and do not prescribe medication. This page is general information, not medical or psychological advice, and not a recommendation of any individual. See our editorial policy.