Meet Joanne
Joanne Tan
Licensed and Registered Counsellor (KB12595, PA12206)
About Me
English, Bahasa Malaysia, Cantonese (Conversational)
Individual & Couples Counselling
LGBTQIA+ affirmed
Education
- Master of Professional Counselling (Monash University, Malaysia)
- Bachelor of Business and Commerce (Monash University, Malaysia)
Certifications
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1) (2025)
- Complete IFS Therapy Immersion: Integrating the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model Across Clinical Applications (2024)
- Fundamentals of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) (2024)
- Introduction to Psychotraumatology Workshop (2024)
I see mental wellbeing as a journey, much like life – ongoing, essential to care for, and worthy of learning and discovery. At certain junctures, we can feel lost, stuck or overwhelmed, and all that you feel and experience is completely valid. Therapy can be a place to find your bearings, heal wounds and aid in building the fulfilling life you deserve. I believe that when you begin to turn toward your experiences with kindness and understanding, healing and growth will follow.
As your therapist, I strive to support you in navigating your inner experiences with patience and curiosity. I use modalities that help you understand different parts of yourself and manage challenging thoughts, which makes our sessions filled with deep insight and tangible strategies that you can apply to your daily life. If you’re coming in as a couple, know that my focus lies in helping your relationship thrive, so you may get back to experiencing a fulfilling relationship. I am trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and that would supplement my sessions with you.
I hold a Master’s degree in Professional Counselling from Monash University Malaysia and come from a background in corporate and Human Resources (HR). My professional journey drove frequent reflections on how few opportunities are created for genuine connection in daily life, and it is my intention to create an environment in therapy where you can share openly and find self-understanding. I work with individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds, especially those who feel stuck, disconnected, overly self-critical, or burdened by expectations. I also have experience supporting clients through family conflict, childhood trauma, caregiver stress, depression, anxiety, grief, and identity exploration. My HR experience also enhances my understanding on workplace dynamics and career-related stress.
In my personal time, I nurture my own wellbeing through Pilates, hiking local trails, and winding down with a good movie. I also find joy exploring local bazaars and connecting with my loved ones.
Whenever you’re ready, I invite you to come as you are.
Therapeutic Approach
- Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Person-centered Therapy (PCT)
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1)
Focus Areas
- Relationship issues (with self and others)
- Childhood trauma
- Family conflict
- Anxiety and Stress
- Workplace-related concerns
- Gender and sexuality
- Grief and Loss
- Life transitions
- Personal growth and self-development
“If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can’t survive.” — Brené Brown