Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte Ltd

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LGBTQIA+ Counselling @ LISTENING EAR COUNSELLING & CONSULTANCY PTE. LTD. SINGAPORE

LGBTQIA+ Counselling Singapore by Queer Affirmative Therapist

LGBTQIA2S+ Counselling: Wide Range of Affirming Services Tailored to You

At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy, we provide a wide range of LGBTQIA2S+ counselling services to support lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, and curious individuals, couples, and families. Picture a space where you are seen, your voice is heard, and you can confidently take steps to embrace your authentic self. Whether you’re navigating gender identity, exploring your sexual orientation, or making the life-changing decision to come out, we’re here to support and empower you every step of the way.

Imagine hearing words of encouragement that challenge the stigma and silence the doubts. Through our affirming counselling, we’ll help you face challenges like trauma, discrimination, and societal pressures with clarity, confidence, and resilience. With us, you can move forward feeling grounded, connected, and fully valued for who you are.

Our services are provided by Karl deSouza, an LGBTQIA+ ally and gay-affirming therapist, with over 20 years of experience working with multicultural and multigender clients. Karl helps guide individuals, couples, and families through the complexities of identity exploration, mental health, and relationship challenges with care, respect, and expertise.

Our services include:

  • Exploring gender identity and sexual orientation in a safe and affirming space.
  • Navigating the coming-out process with guidance and support.
  • Healing and breaking free from past trauma, including the effects of name-calling, bullying, and social rejection.
  • Managing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and the emotional impact of rejection or bullying.
  • Building resilience against discrimination and societal stigma.

Karl is here to support you on your journey toward self-discovery and empowerment, ensuring that you feel seen, heard, and valued in every aspect of your life.

Identity Exploration

Embracing your identity can be a powerful and transformative journey. At Listening Ear, we provide a warm and supportive environment to help you:

  • Coming Out: Take this meaningful step with confidence, knowing you are not alone.
  • Gender Identity: Explore your questions and feelings about gender in a non-judgmental space.
  • Sexual Orientation: Discover and affirm your unique identity while overcoming internalised stigma.

Relationship Challenges

Your relationships are essential to your well-being. We help you navigate:

  • Family Rejection: Heal from pain and rebuild stronger, healthier connections.
  • Non-Binary and Same-Sex Partnerships: Explore intimacy and communication with care and understanding.
  • Strengthening Connections: Create deeper and more supportive relationships with the people who matter most to you.

Mental Health Concerns

The unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA2S+ individuals can deeply affect mental health. We provide compassionate care for:

  • Anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem
  • Trauma, shame, and rejection
  • Addiction and self-harm

Other Challenges

In addition to identity and relationship challenges, we also support you through life transitions and broader challenges such as:

  • National Service stress and societal pressures
  • Grief, loss, and finding new purpose

Supporting Families and Loved Ones

We understand that your journey often involves those closest to you. At Listening Ear, we also offer support for families and loved ones, helping them:

  • Understand and Accept Your Identity: Equip families with knowledge and compassion to support you fully.
  • Navigate the Coming-Out Process: Help families create a safe and affirming environment during this significant step.
  • Foster Open Communication: Encourage understanding and build stronger family bonds.

When families grow together in understanding, the bonds they share become stronger and more meaningful.

Our LGBTQIA2S+ Counselling Approach Includes:

  • Affirming Your Identity: Ensuring you feel deeply valued and fully seen for who you truly are.
  • Providing a Safe Space: Offering a confidential environment where you can openly explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment.
  • Challenging Internalised Stigma: Addressing how internalised homophobia and stigma can affect your mental health, relationships, and coping mechanisms.
  • Addressing Minority Stress: Helping you build effective strategies to counter systemic discrimination, workplace biases, and societal rejection.
  • Acknowledging Trauma Responses: Working collaboratively to heal from trauma shaped by bullying, rejection, or exclusion, while fostering resilience.
  • Advocating for Equality: Empowering you to confidently embrace and express your identity in diverse societal contexts.
  • Recognising Intersectionality: Acknowledging how various aspects of your identity influence and shape your experiences, ensuring holistic support.

Flexible and Accessible LGBTQIA+ Counselling Services

At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy, we provide affirming LGBTQIA+ counselling services designed to meet your needs with flexibility and accessibility. Whether you prefer in-person sessions or secure online counselling, we’re here to support you in a way that fits your lifestyle.

Face to Face In-Person Location

Our counselling sessions are conducted in a safe and welcoming environment at:
10 Anson Road, International Plaza, Singapore 079903
Learn more about our space at A Space Between.

Counselling Formats

Choose the option that works best for you:

  • In-Person LGBTQIA+ Counselling: Starting from SGD 250 per session.
  • Online LGBTQIA+ Counselling: Starting from SGD 200 per session.

Session Fees

We are committed to transparency in our fees. For more information, visit our Counselling Fees and Payment page.

Financial Accessibility

We are committed to making counselling services accessible to everyone. If financial constraints are a concern, we can provide referrals to trusted organisations, such as Oogachaga, which offer free or subsidised LGBTQIA+ counselling services in Singapore.

Please note: While we aim to connect you with helpful resources, we recommend contacting

Why Choose Listening Ear Counselling?

  • Affirming and Inclusive Therapy: Celebrate who you are in a safe and welcoming environment.
  • Experienced LGBTQIA2S+ Ally: With over 20 years of experience, I’m here to support you with care and expertise.
  • Comprehensive Support: Address identity, relationships, mental health, and family dynamics with tailored guidance.
  • Accessible and Transparent Services: Clear, flexible options ensure you can access the help you need.
  • Family Support: Equip your loved ones to foster understanding and create a stronger, more supportive environment.

Take the First Step Toward Healing and Empowerment

You deserve to live authentically and without fear. At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd., I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate life’s complexities, heal from past wounds, and build a fulfilling future.

Reach out today to begin your journey toward self-discovery and empowerment. Together, we’ll create a space where you can thrive and embrace your unique identity with pride.


Explore More Free Resources

For additional information, support, and guidance, visit our Curated LGBTQIA+ Resource Page, where you’ll find helpful books, movies, helplines, and other tools tailored to support LGBTQIA+ individuals, families, and allies.

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What are the Challenges Faced by Queer Individuals in  the LGBTQIA+ Community    

Challenges Faced by LGBTQIA+ Individuals Navigating personal identity can be a complex and often challenging journey. Whether you’re questioning your sexual identity, coming out, or dealing with the effects of traumas, stigma, shame, and bullying, I am here to support you. My approach is designed to help you cope with any feelings of isolation or confusion, empowering you to live authentically.

Key areas of focus for LGBTQIA+ individuals include:

Questioning Sexual Orientation

Questioning Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity

Explore and understand your sexual orientation or gender identity in a supportive and non-judgmental environment

sexual orientation

Coming out (Self, Others)

Receive guidance and support as you disclose your sexual orientation or gender identity to others.

Childhood Traumas

Childhood Traumas

Address the impacts of Adverse Childhood Experiences, molestation, bullying, attachment wounds, family rejection, and shame.

Depression Anxiety

Mental Health - Depression Anxiety, Suicide Ideation

Discrimination and stigma in any form can seriously impact the well-being of those experiencing it and directly impacts mental health. Address issues such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, and suicidal ideation.

Gender Dysphoria Anxiety

Transgender - Navigating Gender Dysphoria and Anxiety

Understanding and addressing gender dysphoria can significantly alleviate anxiety and improve mental well-being. Seek support and explore your journey with professional guidance

Eating Disorders Body

Eating disorders and Positive Body Image

Foster a healthy relationship with food and body image.

Challenges Faced by Queer and LGBTQIA+ Couples

Relationship dynamics can present unique challenges for LGBTQIA+ couples. Whether you are in the initial stages of your relationship or navigating long-term commitment, I am here to help you restore hope and foster deeper connections.

Key areas of focus for LGBTQIA+ couples include:

Gay Intimacy Issues

Intimacy Issues

Address issues related to physical and emotional intimacy within the relationship.

Infidelity Counselling Singapore

Infidelity

Navigate the complexities of infidelity and work towards healing and rebuilding trust.

Addictions in the Relationship

Addictions in the Relationship

Provide support for couples dealing with addiction in either partner.

HIV Serodiscordant Relationship

HIV Serodiscordant Relationship

Offer guidance and support for couples where only partner is HIV+

Challenges Faced by  LGBTQIA+2S and Queer Families 

Family dynamics involving LGBTQIA+ members can be complex and require specialised support. Whether you are a parent, sibling, child, or other family member, I am here to help you navigate these challenges and foster a supportive family environment.

Family is the foundation of our lives, a safe space where each member should feel supported, validated, and not judged. It is crucial for every family member, regardless of their role, to feel safe and understood at home. However, when a family member identifies as LGBTQIA+, this safe space can be challenged, necessitating a journey of unlearning and relearning.

Supporting a Gay Family Member

Supporting a gay family member involves understanding their identity, navigating the coming out process, and addressing societal pressures. This process is deeply personal and can be fraught with fear and anxiety. The individual coming out may fear rejection and the potential breaking of family bonds, making it essential for families to offer unwavering support and love.

Supporting a Trans Family Member

Supporting a trans family member can be particularly challenging. Families may struggle with understanding their loved one’s journey, especially if it involves medical or social transitions. Common concerns include acceptance, providing unconditional love, and finding support for yourself. This support is crucial as family members may need to unlearn dominant narratives and deeply held beliefs, sometimes even religious ones, to truly support their trans family member.

When a Partner Comes Out of the Closet

When a partner comes out of the closet, it can feel almost similar to infidelity, with the other partner feeling betrayed and confused. Children may also be bewildered, wondering if the family will break up and how to reconcile the new dynamics. This situation can bring about a significant amount of shame and fear, requiring careful handling, open communication, and professional support to navigate these complex emotions and rebuild trust within the family.

Same-Sex Parenting

Parenting as a same-sex couple involves navigating societal judgments, legal challenges, and explaining family dynamics to children while fostering a positive family identity. Families in this situation may feel isolated and alone, lacking the tools to deal with external pressures or the usual support systems such as church and friends.

Acceptance and Understanding

Helping families accept and understand their LGBTQIA+ members is crucial for fostering a supportive home environment. This involves reducing conflict, promoting open communication, and enhancing education and awareness about LGBTQIA+ issues. Family members may need to relearn and unlearn certain beliefs and narratives to provide a loving and supportive environment.

Dealing with External Pressures

LGBTQIA+ families often face external pressures that can impact their well-being. Addressing these challenges includes developing strategies to deal with bullying and discrimination and building resilience within the family. For those who find out a parent or spouse was in the closet, the initial shock can be unnerving, requiring delicate handling and open dialogue to rebuild trust and understanding.

Each session is tailored to respect your individual experiences and paced according to your comfort, ensuring that you receive the most effective support on your path to well-being. Counselling at Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd. helps you face these challenges, restore hope, and foster deeper connections.

Key areas of focus for LGBTQIA+ families include:

Parenting Gay Child

When a Child is Gay

Supporting their identity, coming out, addressing societal pressures discrimination, stigma, bullying ,and fostering acceptance.

Parenting Transgender Child

When a Child is Trans

Navigating fears around transition, supporting identity, and addressing societal pressures and potential guilt.

Gay Partner

When a Spouse or Parent is Gay

Fostering acceptance while addressing societal judgments and internal conflicts.

Same Sex Parenting

Same Sex Parenting

 Navigating societal judgments, legal challenges, and explaining family dynamics to children while fostering a positive family identity.

General Issues Faced by the Queer Community and How Counselling Can Help

 

IssueApplicationEffectivenessBenefits at Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd.
Shame and Internalised StigmaExplore and challenge deeply ingrained negative beliefs about self-worth and identity.Encourages self-acceptance and fosters a positive, authentic sense of self.Provides a safe, non-judgmental space to affirm identity and build confidence in embracing queerness.
Trauma and Attachment WoundsAddress deep emotional pain from rejection, abuse, or abandonment.Heals relational patterns and builds healthier emotional connections.Uses trauma-informed methods like EMDR and somatic therapy to process wounds and foster emotional resilience.
Rejection and Social IsolationCope with feelings of loneliness or exclusion from families or communities.Reduces feelings of isolation and fosters meaningful relationships through connection-building strategies.Empowers individuals to develop chosen families and build supportive social networks.
Pressure to Conform to Heteronormative PracticesNavigate familial and societal expectations to conform to traditional roles, such as marriage, parenting, or gender norms.Reduces anxiety and helps individuals clarify their authentic values and choices.Offers tools to assert boundaries, explore identity, and develop the confidence to live authentically.
Pressure of Being a Circuit PersonCope with societal and peer expectations to maintain appearances, fitness, and social status in circuit culture.Reduces feelings of inadequacy and burnout by addressing underlying fears and values.Provides strategies to balance external pressures with internal needs for self-acceptance and well-being.
Fear of Aging in the CircuitAddress fears related to physical appearance, loss of desirability, and social acceptance within circuit culture.Promotes self-compassion and shifts focus to internal strengths and personal growth.Provides holistic approaches to embrace aging with dignity and confidence in the face of societal expectations.
Seropositive Partner DynamicsNavigate the complexities of relationships where one partner is living with HIV.Reduces stigma, improves communication, and fosters a deeper emotional connection.Offers a safe space to address fears, enhance understanding, and build trust between partners.
Trust IssuesExplore fears and past betrayals to develop tools for fostering trust in relationships.Helps rebuild confidence and establish healthy, secure attachment styles.Provides a supportive environment for exploring vulnerability and improving relational dynamics.
Homophobia and DiscriminationNavigate societal challenges, combat internalised fears, and reduce stress caused by bias and prejudice.Builds resilience and empowers individuals to face discrimination with strength and confidence.Offers culturally sensitive therapy to affirm and validate individual experiences.
Bullying and HarassmentDevelop skills to manage and recover from bullying or harassment, past or present.Equips individuals with tools to build confidence and self-empowerment.Helps process the emotional toll of bullying while fostering resilience and a stronger sense of self.
Addiction and Substance AbuseIdentify underlying triggers and address substance use as a coping mechanism for rejection or stigma.Supports recovery by offering healthier coping mechanisms and emotional stability.Tailored addiction counselling with affirming care specific to LGBTQIA2S+ experiences.
Infidelity and Relationship StrugglesWork through challenges such as infidelity, communication barriers, and relational conflict.Improves connection, understanding, and intimacy between partners.Tailored couples therapy for LGBTQIA2S+ relationships in a non-judgmental environment.
Gender Identity and TransitionProvide guidance for exploring gender identity, transitioning, and building confidence in expression.Supports alignment between gender identity and self-expression while reducing associated distress.Offers affirming care to navigate gender exploration and transitions without fear of judgment.
Coming Out ProcessSupport individuals in planning conversations about their identity with family, friends, or communities.Reduces anxiety and builds confidence and readiness for this significant step.Provides a structured and empathetic approach to manage reactions and emotions during the coming-out process.
Parental Shame and ExpectationsHelp parents process feelings of shame or unmet expectations about their LGBTQIA2S+ children.Promotes understanding, compassion, and stronger familial bonds.Offers family therapy to guide parents toward acceptance and support for their child’s journey.

How a Queer Affirmative Therapist Helps

  1. Empowers Individuals to Arrive at Their Own Choices

    • Respects the autonomy of LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, fostering confidence in decision-making.
    • Supports clients in exploring personal values, creating meaningful paths forward, and reclaiming their power in navigating challenges.
  2. Non-Judgmental Approach

    • Provides a space free from bias or prejudice, where clients can openly express their thoughts, feelings, and identities.
    • Ensures unconditional positive regard to build trust and safety, encouraging authentic exploration without fear of judgement.
  3. Acceptance of Queerness as Organic Richness of Humanity

    • Views queerness as a natural and valuable aspect of the human experience.
    • Celebrates diversity and uniqueness, reinforcing that every individual’s identity contributes to the richness of humanity.
  4. Honouring the Present State of Gender Identity, Orientation, and Expression

    • Affirms individuals wherever they are in their journey of self-discovery or transition.
    • Encourages self-acceptance and exploration without pressure, validating each client’s lived experience.
  5. Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment

    • Prioritises emotional and psychological safety to ensure clients feel secure in sharing their stories.
    • Provides a warm, welcoming, and inclusive space where clients can feel supported and free from societal judgment.
  6. Building Mutual Respect

    • Ensures respect for the client’s individuality, boundaries, and personal journey, fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
    • Acknowledges the challenges clients face in navigating intersecting identities and works to uplift their resilience and strengths.
  7. Supporting Healing from Societal Oppression

    • Recognises the unique stressors that LGBTQIA2S+ individuals face, such as homophobia, transphobia, and systemic discrimination.
    • Provides tools to manage societal pressures, reduce internalised stigma, and build resilience against external biases.
  8. Encouraging Wholeness and Authenticity

    • Supports clients in embracing their whole selves, recognising that healing involves integrating all aspects of identity.
    • Guides individuals to find peace with their personal narratives and to thrive as their authentic selves in every aspect of life.
  9. Strengthening Inner Resources

    • Helps clients identify and cultivate their inner strengths and external support systems.
    • Encourages a focus on resource-building to foster emotional resilience, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging.

How Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd. Can Help:

  • Safe and Affirming Space: A non-judgmental environment to explore identity and challenges.
  • Experienced LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapist: Expertise in the unique issues faced by the community.
  • Tailored Therapy Approaches: Evidence-based modalities like EMDR, EFT, and somatic therapy to address trauma, relationships, and self-esteem.
  • Inclusive Support: Honouring all identities and experiences while fostering resilience and personal growth.

Our Approach to Affirmative Therapy at Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd.

 Affirming LGBTQIA2S+ Identities Through Queer Affirmative Therapy

Therapy has come a long way since the harmful practices of conversion therapy or revulsion therapy. LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, including those identifying as Queer, have endured immense challenges such as stigma, discrimination, rejection, bullying, and more. Too often, their very existence is questioned or devalued, leading to profound pain and suffering. At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd., we are deeply committed to providing responsive and Queer Affirmative Therapy that honours, validates, and celebrates the identities and experiences of LGBTQIA2S+ individuals.


What is Queer Affirmative Therapy?

Queer Affirmative Therapy is grounded in the belief that every individual’s identity, choices and expression are valid, celebrated, and integral to the diversity and richness of humanity. This approach emphasises working collaboratively and respectfully, never seeing the person as the problem, but rather focusing on how the impact of a situation shapes their thoughts, beliefs, expectations, values, and perceptions—a perspective inspired by the teachings of Virginia Satir who believed restoring self esteem can help people make responsible choices.

At Listening Ear, we provide a safe, non-judgemental space where your unique journey is honoured. Our therapy has no agenda other than empowering you to explore and express your gender identity, sexual orientation, and authentic self. By meeting you where you are, we foster an environment that respects your individuality, choices, and pace.


Our Queer Affirmative Therapy Approach Focuses On:

Validation of LGBTQIA2S+ Identities

We actively validate and celebrate the diverse identities and experiences of our LGBTQIA2S+ clients, acknowledging the unique challenges they face and affirming their lived realities as valid and valuable.

Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment

We prioritise emotional and psychological safety, providing a welcoming space where clients feel secure expressing their true selves. This includes using inclusive language, respecting chosen names and pronouns, and addressing individual needs.

Collaborative Problem-Solving

Inspired by Virginia Satir’s approach, we view the person as inherently whole and capable. The problem is not the individual but the impact of the situation on their thoughts, beliefs, and behaviours. This perspective fosters healing and empowers clients to address challenges collaboratively.

Addressing Internalised Stigma

Societal prejudice often leads to internalised stigma. Through Queer Affirmative Therapy, we identify and challenge these harmful beliefs, replacing them with self-compassion and a positive self-concept.

Promoting Self-Acceptance

Our therapy centres on helping clients embrace their identities fully and without shame. By exploring all aspects of their identity, we foster a positive, holistic self-image.

Supporting Coming Out Processes

Coming out is a deeply personal and often complex journey. We provide guidance and support, helping clients navigate the emotional and social aspects of disclosing their identities.

Advocating for Social Justice

Recognising the systemic discrimination LGBTQIA2S+ individuals face, we advocate for social justice and promote awareness to create a more equitable society.

Integrating Intersectionality

We understand that each client’s experience is shaped by multiple intersecting identities, including race, ethnicity, religion, and socioeconomic status. Our holistic approach ensures that all aspects of a client’s identity are respected and valued.


Empowering Clients Through Queer Affirmative Therapy

At Listening Ear, our Queer Affirmative Therapy helps clients:

  • Heal from stigma, rejection, and internalised homophobia or transphobia.
  • Navigate challenges collaboratively, focusing on solutions aligned with their values and perceptions.
  • Embrace their authentic selves with confidence and clarity.
  • Recognise their unique identity as a gift to the richness of humanity.

Integrating Therapeutic Modalities

We combine Queer Affirmative Therapy with a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the unique needs of LGBTQIA2S+ clients:

  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Couples Therapy (EFCT): Reshape emotional experiences and attachment patterns, building healthier relationships.
  • Person-Centred Therapy: Foster empathy and self-acceptance in a non-judgemental environment.
  • Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT): Help clients focus on their goals and create actionable steps to achieve them.
  • Narrative Therapy: Deconstruct limiting narratives and create empowering personal stories.
  • Nonviolent Communication (NVC): Enhance empathetic and effective communication.
  • Satir Method: Promote authenticity and congruence in communication and behaviour.
  • Transactional Analysis (TA): Address relational dynamics, breaking unproductive patterns.
  • Trauma Therapies:
    • EMDR: Process trauma with guided eye movements.
    • Brainspotting: Focus on specific trauma points through eye positions.
    • Somatic Experiencing (SE) and Integral Somatic Psychotherapy (ISP): Address trauma stored in the body.

By combining these modalities with Queer Affirmative Therapy, we provide a holistic, personalised therapeutic experience that addresses mental, emotional, and relational well-being.


Discover Queer Affirmative Therapy at Listening Ear

At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd., located at 10 Anson Road, International Plaza, Singapore 079903, we are dedicated to celebrating your identity, empowering your voice, and fostering your well-being. Let us help you embrace your authentic self, heal from past challenges, and build a confident, fulfilling future.

How Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd is a Premier  LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Counselling Centre in Singapore

At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd. Singapore, we are committed to being an affirmative place. Here’s how we achieve this:

  1. Self-reflection:

    • We reflect on our own upbringing, attitudes, and beliefs.
    • We acknowledge areas of privilege.
    • We recognize bias stemming from living in a heteronormative and gender-binaristic society.
  2. Getting involved:

    • We live an affirmative life.
    • We become familiar with the issues faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals.
    • We strive for social justice and social change.
  3. Creating an affirmative setting:

    • We provide LGBTQIA+ friendly reading material, literature, and resources.
    • We include affirming language on all paperwork.
    • We use the client’s preferred name, gender, and pronouns.
    • We avoid heteronormative assumptions; instead, we ask about a client’s partner.
  4. Being open about our commitment:

    • We communicate our dedication to providing affirmative therapy with all clients, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
  5. Acting as advocates:

    • With heterosexual and/or cisgender clients, we help present the cause by promoting understanding and awareness about LGBTQIA+ issues.

How to Get Started with Queer and LGBTQIA2S+ Affirmative Counselling at Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd.

Getting started with queer and LGBTQIA2S+ affirmative counselling at Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd. is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Reach Out via WhatsApp or Email

Send us a message on WhatsApp (+65-89502162) or email us at karl@listeningearclinic.com, briefly describing your concerns and goals for therapy. Please feel free to share your preferred mode of consultation (in-person or virtual), and rest assured that your privacy will always be respected.

2. Initial Screening

We’ll respond promptly with follow-up questions to better understand your needs. These may include inquiries about the challenges you’re facing, whether you’ve engaged in therapy before, your schedule preferences, and any relevant medical history. Occasionally, we may offer a complimentary 15-minute courtesy call to assess alignment and ensure our services are a good fit for your needs.

3. Confirm Appointment Details

Once we confirm mutual suitability, we’ll schedule a session at a convenient time and finalise the mode of consultation—either in person at International Plaza, Anson Road, Singapore, or virtually via Zoom.

4. Complete Payment

Complete the payment for your session using one of our accepted methods. Once the payment is received, we’ll send you a confirmation email along with pre-session forms to help us better prepare for your first appointment.

5. Show Up for Your Session

Attend your session at the scheduled time and mode. Whether you prefer to meet in person or online, our focus is to provide a compassionate, professional, and affirming environment tailored to your unique experiences and goals.


How Much Does Queer and LGBTQIA2S+ Affirmative Counselling Sessions Cost?

At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd., we pride ourselves on offering transparent pricing for our queer-affirmative counselling and LGBTQIA2S+ mental health services. Led by Karl deSouza, our highly experienced and sought-after queer-affirmative therapist, we ensure every session is confidential, respectful, and tailored to your individual needs.

ModeSession RatePayment MethodsCancellation Policy
In-Person SessionsSGD 250 (within published timings)
Additional fees for transportation or out-of-office-hour surcharges
PAYNOW: UEN 202121229W or QR code on our website.
Credit/Debit Cards: Via STRIPE gateway.
PayPal: SGD only.
Insurance GOP: SGD 50 admin fee for deferred payment.
Rescheduling Flexibility: Changes allowed if made 36+ hours in advance.
Late Cancellations/No-Shows: Full session fee applies or donation to Pro Bono Fund.
Special Hours: Extra charges for sessions after 8 pm or on public holidays.
Virtual SessionsSGD 200 (within published timings)PAYNOW: UEN 202121229W or QR code on our website.
Credit/Debit Cards: Via STRIPE gateway.
PayPal: SGD only.
Insurance GOP: SGD 50 admin fee for deferred payment.
Rescheduling Flexibility: Changes allowed if made 36+ hours in advance.
Late Cancellations/No-Shows: Full session fee applies or donation to Pro Bono Fund.
Special Hours: Extra charges for sessions after 8 pm or on public holidays.

Our Pricing Philosophy

At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd., we prioritise individualised care over standardised packages. Each session is designed to meet your unique needs and reflect the value of our queer-affirmative and LGBTQIA2S+ counselling expertise. We maintain consistent rates across individual, couple, and family sessions to ensure fairness and transparency.

Our philosophy focuses on delivering high-quality care without compromising your therapeutic experience. This commitment ensures that every session supports your journey toward healing, understanding, and growth in a safe, inclusive, and affirming space.

About Us – Our Queer Affirmative LGBTQIA2S+ Therapist

 

Karl deSouza
Queer Affirmative & Sex Therapist

Karl deSouza is the lead therapist at Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy, recognised as a trusted name in sex and relationship counselling. With a compassionate and inclusive approach, Karl is widely regarded as a top Queer Affirmative LGBTQIA2S+ therapist and sex therapist, known for his ability to navigate complex personal and relational challenges with empathy and skill.

Karl’s LGBTQIA2S+ affirmative care is rooted in his belief that everyone deserves a space to feel seen, valued, and understood. With over 20 years of experience in mental health, trauma-informed care, and relationship therapy, Karl specialises in working with the unique needs of the LGBTQIA2S+ and Queer community. Whether you are exploring your identity, facing relationship struggles, or navigating societal pressures, Karl offers personalised support to help you move toward healing and self-discovery.

Karl also has a deep understanding of cross-cultural dynamics, which allows him to support clients from diverse backgrounds with sensitivity and respect. His work extends to HIV/AIDS prevention and sex therapy, addressing concerns related to intimacy, seropositive dynamics, and sexual health with a non-judgmental and empowering approach.

As a husband and father, Karl combines professional expertise with a grounded, personal perspective. This unique blend ensures that clients feel safe, respected, and supported as they work through their challenges.

Why Choose Karl?

  • Queer Affirmative Therapist: Dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQIA2S+ clients.
  • Trauma-Informed Expertise: Specialises in addressing attachment wounds, stigma, and the effects of discrimination.
  • Sex Therapy and Relationship Counselling: Comprehensive support for intimacy, communication, and sexual health.
  • Cross-Cultural Sensitivity: Skilled in navigating the nuances of diverse identities and backgrounds.

At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy, Karl’s mission is to provide a compassionate and affirming space where you can explore your journey at your own pace.

Learn more about Karl and our values and counselling approach here.

Why Choose Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Clinic for LGBTQIA+ Counselling?

Experienced & Queer Affirming Professionally Trained Therapist

Personalised Care & Evidence Based Approach

Cultural and Gender Sensitivity

Holistic Understanding of LGBTQIA+ Issues

Confidential and Non Judgmental Supportive Space

Testimonials -
What Clients Say About Us

Explore More Free Resources

For additional information, support, and guidance, visit our Curated LGBTQIA+ Resource Page, where you’ll find helpful books, movies, helplines, and other tools tailored to support LGBTQIA+ individuals, families, and allies.

FAQ- Frequently Asked Questions

 

  • LGBTQIA+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and other identities. It is an inclusive term that represents the diversity of sexual orientations and gender identities.
  • Ally – a member of a majority group to works to end oppression
  • Asexual – an individual who has no significant interest in sexual activity
  • Bisexual – an individual who is attracted to men and women
  • Cisgender – a person who’s gender identity is in line with the gender assigned at birth
  • Drag – involves the performance of gender expression; not based on sexual orientation
  • Gay – a man who is attracted to men
  • Gender expression– outward expression of gender (clothing, mannerisms, activities, etc…)
  • Gender Identity – a person’s deeply held sense of their own gender, regardless of what they were assigned at birth.
  • Gender non-conforming – people whose experiences, behaviors, interests, or identities fall outside stereotypical gender expectations
  • Gender roles – culturally defined behaviors, attitudes, emotions, traits, mannerisms, appearances and occupations
  • Genderqueer – a person who feels their gender identity is outside the binary
  1. Gender Identity

    • Gender identity refers to an individual’s personal sense of their gender, which may be different from the sex they were assigned at birth. This can include identifying as male, female, both, neither, or anywhere along the gender spectrum. Gender identity is about how one perceives themselves and how they wish to be recognized by others .
  2. Sexual Identity

    • Sexual identity (or sexual orientation) describes the type of sexual, romantic, or emotional attraction one has to others. This includes being attracted to people of the same gender (gay or lesbian), different gender (heterosexual), both genders (bisexual), or lack of attraction (asexual). It’s about who one is attracted to and wishes to form relationships with .
  3. Identity

    • Identity in the context of LGBTQIA+ refers to how individuals perceive themselves and what they call themselves. This includes a wide range of factors such as gender identity, sexual orientation, cultural identity, and other personal attributes. Identity is how people understand themselves and how they fit into the world around them .
  • Determining your sexual orientation involves reflecting on your feelings of attraction and emotional connections. If you are consistently attracted to the same sex or both sexes, you might identify as gay or bisexual. Counselling can provide a safe space to explore these feelings.
  • Support and acceptance are crucial. Listen to your child without judgment, educate yourself about LGBTQIA+ issues, and seek support from resources and counselling services to help navigate this journey together.
  • Trans issues refer to the challenges faced by transgender individuals, including gender dysphoria, transitioning, social acceptance, and legal rights. Counselling can provide support in exploring gender identity and navigating the transition process.
    • Discovering that your partner is gay can be challenging. It’s important to communicate openly and seek counselling to navigate the emotional complexities. This can help both partners understand their feelings and decide on the best path forward.

For more in-depth answers and support, please contact Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy or refer to reputable LGBTQIA+ resources.

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LGBTQIA+ Counselling in Singapore: Affirmative Therapy