Kelly Chan — Child & Educational Psychologist in Singapore

About Kelly Chan

Kelly Chan is a child & educational psychologist practising at Think Psychological Services in Singapore. Their stated areas of focus are: Children, adolescents and families; early intervention across critical developmental periods, using CBT, psychodynamic therapy and family therapy.

Qualifications (as publicly listed)

• PhD (Candidate)
• M Psychology (Developmental & Clinical Practice), UK
• BSc Psychology, USA

Professional registration

Member, Singapore Psychological Society (SPS); full member, British Psychological Society (BPS).

Where they practise

• Practice: Think Psychological Services

What a child & educational psychologist does

Child, educational and developmental psychologists focus on children and young people — their learning, behaviour, emotions and development. A large part of the work is assessment: for ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia and other learning differences, and cognitive or developmental profiles that guide school and home support. They also provide intervention and work with parents and schools to put practical strategies in place.

When to consider seeing one

Consider a child, educational or developmental psychologist if a child is struggling with learning, attention, behaviour, emotions or social skills, if a school has raised concerns, or if you are seeking an assessment for ADHD, autism or a learning difference such as dyslexia. Understanding a child’s profile early helps put the right support in place at home and school, and parents are usually closely involved throughout.

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 Kelly Chan a psychologist or a psychiatrist?

Kelly is a child & educational 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.