Meet The Team @ Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte Ltd - Singapore
Discover the diverse team behind Listening Ear, Counselling & Consultancy Pte Ltd where unique backgrounds and a shared commitment to inclusion foster trust and collaboration.
The Dreamer
Karl deSouza is the founder of Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy, and with over two decades of experience, he’s proof that helping people navigate life’s ups and downs is both a science and an art. Known for his approachable, down-to-earth style, Karl believes therapy is a partnership—one where laughter, humility, and breakthroughs go hand in hand.
As the visionary behind Listening Ear, Karl’s mission extends beyond individual healing; it’s rooted in his belief in a more compassionate, non-violent, and united world. Inspired by the principle that "it is in giving that one receives," Karl dedicates his practice to empowering others, fostering connection, and creating spaces where hope and healing can flourish.Specialising in childhood attachment wounds, relationship struggles, LGBTQIA+ concerns, addictions, and trauma, Karl blends creativity with expertise. His approach combines therapies like EMDR and Somatic Body Modalities for trauma with postmodern gems such as Narrative Therapy and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
When working with couples, Karl wields the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) like a maestro tuning harmony back into relationships. For families, he draws on Satir’s warmth-filled approach and the transformative power of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) to help nurture understanding and unity.
What sets Karl apart is his ability to create a safe space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to take steps toward a better future. As a true dreamer, Karl weaves his vision into every session, reminding clients (and himself) that healing isn’t just about personal growth—it’s about contributing to a world where compassion, giving, and unity thrive.
Whether you’re patching up old wounds, navigating a tricky relationship, or simply trying to figure out what’s next, Karl is here to guide you—with compassion, expertise, and maybe a light-hearted joke or two.
(The Anchor)
Josephine is the steady hand behind Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy, ensuring everything runs smoothly while radiating her quiet strength and compassion. A native Chinese Singaporean and a CPA and Public Auditor by training, Josephine once thrived in the world of numbers and balance sheets. But life had a different plan when she fell in love with Karl and his mission to lend a helping hand to those in need.
Now, as Director and Administrator, Josephine brings the same precision and care she honed in her auditing days to her role, ensuring the team can focus on what they do best—supporting clients. Her presence is a testament to the power of love and purpose coming together, making her not just the team’s rock, but its heart.
(The Fun Element)
Michael is the tech wizard and creative force behind Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy’s digital presence. Growing up as a third-culture kid, Michael carries a vibrant blend of Chinese, Indian, and Portuguese heritage, shaped by life in both India and Singapore. This unique cultural tapestry fuels his creativity and gives him a fresh perspective on connecting with diverse audiences.
A Singaporean with a passion for innovation, Michael grew up inspired by the family mission to support others. Now, he adds his own flair, ensuring that Listening Ear remains not only digitally accessible but also relevant to younger generations. By keeping Gen Z and youth considerations in mind, he crafts dynamic, relatable content and designs that resonate across age groups.
With a keen eye for colour combinations, visual storytelling, and modern trends, Michael ensures every aspect of the website and marketing materials reflects the vibrancy of Karl’s dreams. Equal parts problem-solver, fun-bringer, and dream-weaver, Michael ensures Listening Ear’s mission of hope and healing reaches hearts across cultures, generations, and digital platforms alike.
(The Joy and Sparkle Element)
Rachel is the creative heartbeat of Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy’s social media presence. With a deep understanding of modern trends and the ever-evolving pulse of youth culture, she crafts content that connects meaningfully with audiences across generations. Her work ensures that Listening Ear’s message of hope and inclusivity resonates with today’s digitally savvy Gen Z and millennial communities.
Growing up surrounded by the family’s commitment to making a difference, Rachel naturally channels this passion into her creative work. With a flair for design, storytelling, and social media strategy, she ensures every post reflects Listening Ear’s values of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her vibrant personality and ability to stay in touch with the latest trends make her an invaluable bridge between the organisation’s timeless mission and the dynamic online world.
Through thoughtful content, innovative campaigns, and her ever-present spark of joy, Rachel keeps Listening Ear connected to the world, one post and story at a time.
My Story – Karl deSouza
I was born in the bustling city of Bombay, India, to Goan-Portuguese parents. A third-culture kid from the start, I was never quite sure if I was Indian, Goan, or Portuguese. But the beauty of it all? I never felt like a minority. I’ve always been fascinated by people—their cultures, religions, and the incredible diversity that makes us human. I grew up loving conversations, differences, and stories that connected us across divides.
I studied hard and became a computer engineer, launching a successful career in IT. For over a decade, I worked in diverse countries and cultures—first in the UK, then Hong Kong, Singapore, and in short stints across the globe, from the USA to Tokyo, Paris, and beyond. As a Global Implementation Manager at SG Securities, and later a Consultant in IT Strategy for PwC Financial Services, I excelled in corporate life, but something inside me was always calling for more.
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The Call to Serve
From a young age, I’ve been drawn to helping others. First, it was as a volunteer at my local church, then as a Boy Scout, and later with the Novena Church in Singapore. Compassion was my compass, guiding me toward meaningful ways to give back. I discovered joy in being spontaneous and out-of-the-box, whether playing Santa Claus or a clown while visiting old age homes. Movies like Patch Adams and characters like Robin Williams inspired me to use humour and empathy to connect with people.
Volunteering became more than a hobby—it became my passion. I joined the Novena Church’s school mission team, working with students in a counselling capacity. Those experiences planted the seed for something bigger. I knew I needed to answer the call to give back in a deeper, more lasting way.
From Corporate to Counselling
In a leap of faith, my wife and I became lay missionaries, dedicating ourselves to service. We studied and discerned at Hawkstone Hall before returning to Singapore, only to find that counselling hadn’t fully taken off yet. Undeterred, we moved to India, where I worked with some of society’s most marginalised—people living with HIV/AIDS, migrants, commercial sex workers, those battling addiction, and members of the LGBTQ community.
I helped start a community hospital but realised that true, sustainable impact required proper training. I pursued a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling, followed by a Master’s in Clinical Psychology. During my internships, I worked at a Child Guidance Clinic and a day care rehab for individuals with schizophrenia. These experiences deepened my understanding of the human spirit and the resilience people have in the face of adversity.
Listening Ear Counselling – A Dream Realised
In 2005, I first founded Listening Ear Clinic in Goa India while continuing formal training under a supervisor from Brazil. Over time, I branched out independently, carving a path that blended formal psychology training with a deeply humanistic approach.
I’ve always been inspired by therapists like Carl Rogers, whose collaborative and compassionate methods resonate with me. Movies like Good Will Hunting shaped my belief that therapy should be humane, accessible, and grounded in real connection. I’ve even presented at the World Congress of Psychology, advocating for “bringing therapy out of the clinic and into the marketplace.”
Who I Am Today
I believe therapy is not about “fixing” people but helping them navigate life’s challenges. As Virginia Satir says, “The problem is not the person; the problem is the situation.” I work with clients to uncover strengths, explore new coping mechanisms, and embrace the diversity of their experiences.
I’ve spent years extensively trained in sex therapy and supervising HIV/AIDS counsellors in hospitals, LGBTQ+ settings, and beyond. My approach is deeply grounded in inclusivity and non-judgment. DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) isn’t just a professional framework for me—it’s a way of life.
Why I Do This Work
At heart, I’m a curious, compassionate, and approachable person who sees every client as a unique story waiting to unfold. My work is shaped by the belief that therapy is a partnership—a shared journey of discovery, healing, and growth.
Whether it’s through Gestalt’s “here and now” methods, narrative approaches, or solution-focused collaboration, my goal is to help clients feel seen, heard, and empowered.
I’m humbled by the privilege of walking with people through their most vulnerable moments and inspired every day by their courage to embrace change.
Professional Qualifications:
- Masters in Psychology (Clinical)
- Masters in Sociology
- Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Guidance
- Bachelor of Law (LLB)
- Bachelor of Engineering (BE) in Computers
Certifications And Training
- EMDR: Levels 1 and 2 by EMDR HAP USA
- REBT: Basic, Advanced, and Associate Fellowship by Albert Ellis Institute, NY, USA
- Choice/Reality Therapy: Certified by William Glasser International
- Gottman Method for Couples: Levels 1, 2, and 3 by The Gottman Institute, USA
- Solution Focused Brief Therapy: Certified by the International Alliance of Solution Focused Teaching Institutes
- Nonviolent Communication: Certified by NVC UK
- Dynamic Attachment Repatterning Experience (DARe): by Trauma Solutions, USA
- Integral Somatic Psychology: by Trauma Vidya, USA
Professional Associations: Local (Singapore)
- Singapore Psychological Society (SPS) – Full Member
- Singapore Association for Counselling (SAC) – Clinical Member & Registered Counsellor
- Association of Psychotherapists and Counsellors Singapore (APACS) – Level 4, Certified Master Practitioner
- EMDR Singapore – Full Member
- William Glasser Institute Singapore – Full Member
- Transactional Analysis (TA) Association of Singapore – Full Member
- Association of Christian Counsellors Singapore (ACCS) – Clinical Member
- The Singapore Community for Emotionally Focused Therapy (SGEFT) – Full Member
Professional Associations: International
- American Counselling Association (ACA) – Professional Member
- American Psychological Association (APA) – International Member
- International Association for Cross Cultural Psychology (IACCP)-Fellow Member
- EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) – Full Member
- International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT) – Life Member
- Trauma Association of Malaysia – Overseas Member
- National Association of Psychology (NAOP) India – Full Member
- EMDR India – Life Member
- Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists (IACP) – Life Associate Member
- Bombay Psychological Association (BPA) Bombay India – Life Member
- Goa Psychology Association (GPA) Goa India – Life Member
Additional Therapeutic Approaches:
- Family Systems (IFS)
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Satir Model Family Therapy
- Brainspotting
- Somatic Experiencing (SE)
- Person-Centred Therapy (PCT)
- Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
- Transactional Analysis (TA)
- Gestalt Therapy
Institutes I am Accredited By, Member Of , Trained By:-
What Sets Our Team Apart
At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd., we combine a passion for helping others with a professional yet down-to-earth approach. Guided by humanistic principles, ethical integrity, and scientific expertise, we provide compassionate care that is both evidence-based and collaborative. With a strong commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), we strive to create a space where every client feels safe supported, seen heard, valued, and empowered. service unique:
A Humanistic, Hope-Focused Philosophy:
Inspired by humanistic values and a belief in the inherent potential of every individual, we approach therapy with warmth, curiosity, and humility. Our motto is simple yet powerful: to bring hope, foster growth, and help clients notice meaningful change in their lives.
Approachable, Collaborative Relationships:
We believe that therapy works best when it’s a partnership. Known for his approachable, friendly demeanour, Karl builds deep, meaningful connections with clients. These relationships, rooted in mutual respect and collaboration, are essential for achieving successful therapeutic outcomes.
Cultural and Gender Sensitivity:
Our practice celebrates the richness of every client’s identity. Karl’s extensive experience working with diverse ethnicities, gender expressions, and cultural backgrounds ensures that each individual feels respected, valued, and understood. Inclusivity is a cornerstone of our work, reflecting our commitment to DEI.
Expertise Across Life Stages:
From navigating the challenges of adolescence to addressing the complexities of midlife and beyond, our approach evolves with your needs. Karl’s ability to connect with clients at all stages of life ensures that the guidance and support you receive are relevant and effective.
Exceptional Therapist-Client Relationships:
Known for his friendly demeanour and ability to establish deep, meaningful connections, Karl builds strong, personal bonds with his clients. These relationships are central to our consistently high levels of client satisfaction and are integral to the effective therapeutic outcomes we achieve. These pillars of our practice highlight how Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte Ltd stands out as a leader in mental health services, committed to delivering outstanding care and support to every client.