“I started seeing Xinyi when I was 12, as I was getting bullied in school, had family stress, and was struggling to accept and live with having an autoimmune disorder. I needed a lot of reassurance that I wasn’t a “weirdo” or an “attention-seeking and irritating person” like my classmates said, because I had to be hospitalised many times for my illness, was allowed to skip more physically strenuous activities, or brought my own special food for recess. I was also lonely and sad because my parents would complain that my medical fees were expensive, and told me that looking after me when I was sick was very stressful for them; I felt that I was troublesome and was a burden to my family for spending so much money. Sometimes, I would have such horrible days that I would journal or draw out my dark fantasies of killing myself to escape the emotional, mental and physical pain I was going through.

Xinyi gave me the assurance and relief that it was ok for me to feel upset about the bullying, and that it would take time for me to accept that the autoimmune disorder would cause a lot of changes in my life. I learnt ways to deal with my negative emotions, and Xinyi taught me practical skills to manage my autoimmune disorder, such as making picture flash cards of foods that I am allergic to so I can bring them with me during holidays to keep myself safe. Therapy also made me feel more normal, and gave me a safe space to vent and talk about things that other people might not be comfortable hearing about. Xinyi was very good at making me feel comfortable and not judged, and I don’t feel alone in this world any longer. I look forward to our sessions because I learn new skills to deal with my problems, and I feel like Xinyi really listens to what I say and even remembers little details from many months ago!

If any kid or teen, or their parent is wondering about therapy, I would tell them to see Xinyi because it makes things better. At first, I felt a bit scared because it was a new experience, and I had never seen a counsellor or psychologist before. However, in the first session, I already felt better about myself and could manage my negative moods in a healthier way.  I feel much more confident that although I still have some unhappy experiences and bad days, the future is brighter and I have a reason to live on and pursue my dreams.”