Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte Ltd

Meet the Team behind 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.

Karl deSouza
Director & Lead Psychotherapist

(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 sees therapy as a partnership—where humility, healing, breakthroughs and even laughter can coexist. 

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. 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.
Read More
WhatsAppLinkedInEmailInstagramFacebook
Josephine Tay (Him Suan)
Director & Administrator

(The Anchor)

Josephine is the steady hand behind Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy, ensuring everything runs smoothly while radiating quiet strength and compassion. A native Chinese Singaporean and a trained CPA and Public Auditor, she brings years of precision, discipline, and care from the world of finance into her current role as Director and Administrator.

With a deep sense of responsibility and purpose...

Josephine has worked alongside Karl from the beginning, going the extra mile to build a space where people feel safe, heard, and supported. Whether managing operations, overseeing finances, or coordinating day-to-day logistics, she ensures the team has everything they need to focus on what matters most — their clients. Her presence at Listening Ear is more than operational — it’s foundational. 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 keeping the organisation grounded and growing.
Read More
Tay Desousa Michael Orlando
Digital & Marketing Lead

(The Architect)

Michael is the digital architect and creative brain behind Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy’s evolving online presence. He leads the brand’s digital strategy across Web Design & Maintenance, Content creation, SEO, Social Media and marketing communications. As the point of contact (POC) for all marketing-related matters, he ensures that Listening Ear remains accessible, impactful, and relevant in today’s digital landscape.

Growing up as a third-culture kid, Michael carries a vibrant blend of Chinese, Indian and Portuguese heritage. 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. 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.
Read More
Rachel Tay DeSousa
Social Media Coordinator

(The Sparkle) 

Rachel is the creative heartbeat of Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy’s social media presence. With a strong 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 digital world.

While not involved in daily operations, Rachel supports the team with creative direction and visual input for social media — helping shape the tone, style, and emotional resonance of our online content. Her playful energy and aesthetic instincts add warmth, personality, and polish to our digital outreach. Through thoughtful content, engaging campaigns, and her ever-present spark of joy, Rachel keeps Listening Ear connected to the world — one post and story at a time.
Read More

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.

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.

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.

 

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.”

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.

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.

What Sets Karl Apart?

At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd., Karl combines a deep passion for helping others with a grounded, professional approach. Guided by humanistic values, ethical integrity, and evidence-based practice, he offers compassionate care that is both scientifically informed and emotionally attuned. With a strong commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Karl ensures that every client feels safe, supported, seen, heard, and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey.

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

With years of experience working across cultures, gender expressions, and diverse backgrounds, Karl offers a therapeutic space where every part of a person’s identity is honoured. His inclusive lens reflects a strong commitment to cultural humility and gender sensitivity in practice.

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

Karl’s ability to truly see and hear his clients — without judgment — is at the heart of his work. His calm, affirming presence and intuitive listening style foster trust and allow space for transformation. These relational strengths are a key part of what makes his therapeutic outcomes effective and lasting.

Professional Credentials

• Masters in Psychology (Clinical)
• Masters in Sociology
• Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Guidance
• Bachelor of Law (LLB)
• Bachelor of Engineering (BE) in Computers

• 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

 

• 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

• 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

• 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 and Trained By

Get in Touch