According to the WHO, Thailand has the highest suicide rate in Southeast Asia. Unfortunately, mental health care and resources are severely limited due to the long-standing stigma against mental health conditions. According to a study, mental illnesses are often viewed as aggressive or a weakness of character in Asian countries. So, while visiting a doctor for a broken leg is normal, seeking help for mental health issues is considered a personal weakness.
Mental health conditions affect how a person thinks, feels and acts– if swept under the rug, they could deteriorate your daily life’s functionality. One of the common treatments for mental illness is counselling, also known as talk therapy or psychotherapy. Talking to a certified counsellor will help you navigate challenging life situations by learning tools and insight into your mental health issues. Just as we take care of our physical health, taking care of our mental health is essential. However, amidst the scarcity of mental health services in Thailand, finding an English-speaking counsellor or therapist is significantly more challenging. But don’t fret; we have compiled a list of mental health services offering English-speaking counselling/ therapy in Bangkok.
Lighthouse Human Services & Consulting
Lighthouse Human Services & Consulting was founded in 2012 by Dr Eric K. Mason. Dr Eric K. Mason is an American-trained psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience in counselling and psychological services. It is also one of the clinics officially approved to offer psychological and counselling services in Thailand!
The mental health clinic provides individual counselling, psychotherapy, relationship and marriage counselling, life coaching, addiction treatment (drug, alcohol and sex), and psychological services such as ADHD assessments. Moreover, Dr Mason speaks English, Thai and German, so language most likely won’t be a barrier for you.
You can book an appointment with Dr Mason HERE.
Bangkok Counselling Service Co. Ltd
Bangkok Counselling Service (BCS) offers psychological and mental health support, counselling, and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families, young people, and groups in Bangkok and the surrounding areas. Therapeutic services are provided by professionally trained and accredited counsellors and psychotherapists who live full-time in Bangkok.
Additionally, BCS provides Thai businesses training, conferences, seminars, corporate assistance, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The highlight is that online counselling sessions are also available for people outside of Bangkok or clients who cannot come to the office.
Book an appointment at Bangkok Counselling Service by filling out the appointment request form HERE.
Bangkok Psychological Services
Bangkok Psychological Services (BPS) is a private psychological and therapy practice founded by psychologist/ psychotherapist Dr Natalie Chantagul. BPS offers a wide range of psychological and therapy services, such as individual, family and group therapy, clinical supervision and partnership and executive counselling (EAP), for adults and children.
Most therapists at BPS are researchers, meaning that all the practices are evidence-based and up-to-date. Moreover, since the service is located in a discrete private location in the Romklao area, clients visiting the clinic are given complete confidentiality.
Make an appointment at Bangkok Psychological Services (BPS) HERE.
MindMatters Counseling and Psychotherapy
At MindMatters Counseling and Psychotherapy, Dr Simone Negrini, a mental health consultant, psychologist and CBT therapist, offers counselling and psychotherapy practices. The practices are offered to assist you with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders and navigating love and relationship issues.
MindMatters is based in Bangkok; however, they also offer online therapy for clients all over Southeast Asia. This could be a more convenient and affordable since you can open up to your therapist in the comfort of your home.
Make an appointment with Dr Simone Negrini HERE.
Scott Berry & Associates
Scott Berry & Associates is a mental health coaching and counselling service found for English speakers in Bangkok by Dr Scott Berry. Dr Scott Berry is a professionally certified coach and counsellor who has been living in Bangkok for more than 5 years. He offers services for English-speaking ex-pats in Bangkok and across Asia. But, if you’re outside Bangkok or unable to travel, online sessions are also available!
“Expat living can be exciting and full of adventure. It can also be isolating, lonely and alienating… that’s where we come in.” – Scott Berry & Associates.
Book an appointment with Dr Scott Berry HERE.
Seeking professional help can be daunting, especially in a society where mental health issues are heavily stigmatized. What’s important to know is that mental health is as important as physical health. Therapy is for everyone; seeing a counsellor is helpful whether you’re feeling stressed, stuck or inadequate. It is essentially self-care.
If you are in crisis, please contact The Samaritans of Thailand via this number +66 21136789 (Press 2).