We believe that every journey to recovery begins with hope and support. Our evidence-based treatment programs for substance and behavioral addictions provide personalized care in a supportive environment.
Leading Alcohol and Drug Rehab Center in Asia
Treated over 2000 clients locally and internationally
Our stellar staff teamed with our renowned clinical advisory board use the latest modalities of addiction treatment.
Physiological, Psychiatric and Psychological Assessments for creating an effective program
The best support system post treatment, backed by research
Family plays a big role in addiction. We tackle this through education and tailored awareness programs
It's a journey to a fulfilling life. A brighter future. A renewed sense of self.
Accredited by:
We treat a wide range of addictions, including substance abuse and behavioural addictions.
Substance Addictions:
At low doses, alcohol causes loss of emotional restraint, vivaciousness, feeling of warmth, flushing of skin, and mild impairment of judgment. As blood alcohol levels increase, speech becomes slurred and the intoxicated person begins losing motor control. At higher levels, memory is affected and the person becomes stuporous and unable to be aroused. Coma and death can, rarely, ensue.
Ecstasy (MDMA), a synthetic drug popular in party scenes, induces euphoria, energy, and sensory distortion. It boosts serotonin but can cause severe crashes, dehydration, and organ failure. Illegal and risky, it may also damage mood and memory with prolonged use.
Heroin is an opioid drug that is synthesized from morphine. Morphine is a naturally occurring substance extracted from the seed pod of the Asian opium poppy plant. Heroin is an addictive drug. It is available in either a black sticky substance called Black tar heroin or in powder form as a white or brown powder.” In Malaysia, opiates (heroin, 32%; morphine, 22%) are the most commonly abused drugs, followed by cannabis (33%) and amphetamine-based stimulants (8%).
Marijuana is a psychoactive drug that can lead to several negative effects on the body and mind. Marijuana is mostly smoked in hand rolled cigarettes, pipes, bongs, or emptied cigars, and can also be inhaled through vaporizers and also ingested. The effects of Marijuana can be different when it is mixed with other dangerous drugs. Marijuana has some medicinal effects too, such as – to reduce nausea, to improve hunger in Chemotherapy patients, and to reduce pressure in the eye due to Glaucoma, to name a few. It has the properties of a depressant, hallucinogen, and a stimulant. The effects of Marijuana may differ in each person according to the medium of use and the amount of drug taken. It has both long and short term effects.
Ketamine, developed in the 1960s as an anesthetic during the Vietnam War, is now widely used in medicine for pain relief, convulsions, and veterinary care. In prescribed doses, it may aid asthma and cancer treatment. However, its hallucinogenic effects, euphoria, and detachment from reality make it a highly addictive club drug. Users seek the "K-hole," a near-death-like state, but high doses can cause paralysis, visual distortions, and even coma or death. Tasteless and water-soluble, Ketamine is easily abused and also linked to its use as a "date rape drug" due to its paralyzing effects.
LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) is a powerful hallucinogen that alters perception, mood, and reality. Synthesized in 1938, it became infamous for its hallucinatory effects after accidental discovery in 1943. Initially tested for medical uses like treating alcoholism and depression, LSD showed no positive results and was linked to personality disorders. Declared illegal in the 1960s, it remains a popular street drug known as acid, blotter, or microdot.LSD induces hallucinations, synesthesia, and spiritual-like experiences but can lead to dangerous behavior, such as suicide or reckless actions during a "bad trip." Although not physically addictive, its psychological effects can be intense, and frequent use may delay a return to normalcy. Flashbacks can occur long after use.
Behavioural addictions:
Social gambling involves limited time and acceptable losses without issues. Problem gambling disrupts lives, risking addiction. Pathological gambling, a mental disorder, leads to compulsive behavior despite severe consequences. It's treatable under addiction care.
Sex addiction is best described as a progressive intimacy disorder characterized by compulsive sexual thoughts and acts. Like all addictions, the negative impact on you and your family members increases as the disorder progresses. Over time, you will intensify the addictive behaviour to achieve the same results. For some sex addicts, behaviour does not progress beyond compulsive masturbation or the extensive use of pornography, phone, or computer sex services. For others, addiction can involve illegal activities such as exhibitionism, voyeurism, obscene phone calls, child molestation, or rape. As a sex addict, you may not necessarily be sex offenders. In this article, we'll delve into the nitty-gritty of sex addiction, its causes, symptoms, and most importantly, the road to recovery through Sex Addiction Rehab.
Social gambling involves controlled time and acceptable losses, causing no long-term issues. Problem gambling disrupts lives, with losses, excessive time spent, and gambling as a primary activity, risking addiction. Pathological gambling, the most severe form, is a mental disorder marked by compulsive gambling despite harmful consequences. It is treatable.
Dr Prem Kumar Shanmugam is Founder & CEO of Solace Asia Addiction Retreat. He has worked in the field of addictions and psychology for more than 10 years.Prem is the past President of the Association of Psychotherapists and Counsellors (Singapore) and the Regional Director of the Asia Pacific Certification Board (Singapore) while being one of the founding members as well. Prem is a psychologist, psychotherapist, trainer, facilitator and is actively involved in research in the addiction field.
He works with people with addiction issues from all walks of life exposed to multicultural settings.Prem specializes in developing and evaluating substance abuse treatment programmes and group. He brings with him vast experience in working with relationship issues, marital counselling one interpersonal issues. Prem is a certified practitioner in Management of Family Violence Counselling with the Ministry of Community Development Youth and Sports.
Prem reviews and writes articles and frequently presents at international conferences.Prem has authored two handbooks for Masters Students on a counselling course with a UK based University and Treatment Manuals for addictions treatment programme in Solace.
Professor Dato’ Dr Andrew Mohanraj is the President of the Malaysian Mental Health Association and Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry at Taylor's University Medical School,Malaysia.
Dr.Andrew served the Ministry of Health Malaysia for 12 years before moving on to an international assignment as Consultant Psychiatrist and Mental Health Development Adviser in the establishment of sustainable psychosocial rehabilitation services in Indonesia, The Philippines and Timor Leste.He subsequently joined Perdana University Graduate School of Medicine (in collaboration with Johns Hopkins Medical School, Baltimore) as Associate Professor in Psychiatry and Director of Clinical Clerkship.
Besides his ongoing consultancy work for local and international government and non-government organizations, Dr. Mohanraj is also a member of the Mental Health Promotion Advisory Council to the Minister of Health Malaysia.
In 2013, in recognition of Dr. Andrew Mohanraj’s international work in the promotion of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), he was appointed as a member of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities.
Dr.Andrew is also engaged in the provision of mental health services to refugees and asylum seekers and as an animal lover, he has assumed the post of President of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Malaysia.
Dato' Dr Andrew Monhanraj is now featured monthly on The Star. Click on the below to view his articles.
Peter, a senior therapist with Solace since its inception, has been in recovery from addiction since 2011. With expertise in addiction, low self-esteem, and the Twelve Steps, he holds an Executive Master’s in Addiction Science and has extensive experience in the UK, South Africa, and Malaysia.
David is a clinical psychologist and a registered full member of the Malaysian Society of Clinical Psychology. David holds a Masters in Clinical Psychology from HELP University, Malaysia and a PhD in Psychology from Nottingham Trent University, UK. He has experience in assessing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions including depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorders, trauma and stressor-related disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder. He has particular expertise in treating addictive disorders, with extensive experience in working with individuals with substance and behavioral addictions within both residential and outpatient settings.
David adopts a person-centered, integrative approach to therapy and believes that to be effective, treatment should be tailored according to the unique needs of each individual. As an integrative psychotherapist, he draws on various schools of psychotherapy including humanistic, cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic traditions, as well as motivational interviewing. He is also trained in emotion-focused therapy, an experiential modality that emphasizes emotion as being central to the therapeutic change process.
In addition to his clinical work, David actively conducts and publishes scientific research on addiction. His research broadly encompasses the assessment and treatment of behavioral addictions, with a focus on compulsive sexual behavior and problematic pornography use. His research on behavioral addictions has been published in leading scientific journals including Clinical Psychology Review and Archives of Sexual Behavior. David’s full list of publications can be found on Google Scholar.
Trained as a clinical psychologist, Leng has experience in treating Substance Abuse Disorders, Depression, Panic Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. Having worked in hospital settings before joining Solace Asia he is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and Hypnotherapy.
Ashwin believes in meeting the people he works with where they are and embarking on a mutual journey with them.He is experienced in working with anxiety, depression, psychosis, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, compulsive sexual behaviours and addictions. Ashwin has worked closely with individuals who struggle with substance, alcohol and behavioural addictions, trauma, co-occurring mental illnesses, co-dependency, family issues, and interpersonal conflicts.
He has experience working on the clinical team at a local NGO that provides residential addiction treatment. Ashwin has alsotrained at a refugee clinic, where he continues to provide therapy and serve the community. Ashwin is sex-positive and LGBTQ+ affirmative with a keen interest in working withindividuals who struggle managing the fusion between substances and sex and moving past trauma.He holds a trauma-focused approach towards therapy and practices Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Ashwin is a trained EMDR practitioner (Level I and II) registered with the EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA). Formally trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), he adopts an integrative approach and works from a Motivational Interviewing and Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy (REBT) perspective. Ashwin has received intensive training on addiction from the Drug Advisory Program under the Colombo Plan, where he obtained both the International Certified Addiction Professional (ICAP, Level II) and Recovery Coach credentials. He is currently working towards completing his accreditation in EMDR.
He advocates for Evidence-Based Drug Policies that include decarceration, decriminalisation and regulation of substances. He is also both an experienced and passionate substance-use disorder trainer. Ashwin’s research interest includes treatment of sexualized drug use, harm reduction and moderation in recovery, and the intersection of trauma and addiction.
Andrew's initial tertiary studies were in Engineering especially dealing with NC and CNC Machines, Tool and Dies, Jigs and fixtures. He further studied Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology and because of his love to help people, he pursued a Master's Degree in Professional Counselling in HELP University, Kuala Lumpur.Andrew practices Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Choice Theory and Reality Theory (CTRT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). He is a licensed and certified counsellor in Family Therapy working with children and teenagers from dysfunctional families, adults, couples and families. He also does pro bono counselling for those who are in need but could not afford the fee.Andrew is doing a course in Career Counselling Analyst while working as a counsellor at Solace Wellness.
Syahirah Farwin, also known as Syra, is a dedicated professional in the field of mental health. She holds a Master's degree in Counselling, specializing in child and adolescent therapy, from Universiti Sains Malaysia. With a strong educational background, including a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from DISTED College, Syra has developed extensive skills and knowledge in her field.
Syra's experience as a special needs teacher has provided her with a deep understanding of neurodiversity in children, fostering her passion for working with individuals who have unique needs and abilities. In her counselling practice, Syra combines Adlerian therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to provide effective interventions. She works with clients of diverse age groups, ranging from children to the elderly.
Syra addresses a wide range of concerns, including LGBTQIA+ issues, anger management, relationship challenges, adolescent struggles, identity development, and body image concerns.Overall, Syra's expertise, educational background, and commitment to her clients make her a valuable resource in the field of counseling.
With great interest and curiosity in conflict of human dynamics and relationships, Saw Li Ying holds BSc (Hons) in Psychology from University of Nottingham and a Master of Professional Counselling from Monash University Malaysia. She has work experience in various settings, from food and beverage, non-government organisations, to school and corporate-related.
She practices Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and has Level 2 certification of Gottman's Couples Therapy Method. Her area of interest cover, but are not limited to relationships, gender equality, religion and multiculturalism, sexuality and anxiety also work difficulties
Ilani is a certified clinical psychologist and was professionally trained in private, government and NGO practices. Trained in a number of assessments (e.g., cognitive, emotional, and behavioural tests) and interventions (e.g., CBT, ACT, and Mindfulness), Ilani has attended clients from various background and age range.Ilani has experience in treating mood disorders, personality disorders, substance related and addictive disorders, trauma related disorders, and bipolar. She believes in creating a safe space to help others genuinely feel and express themselves. With her experiences and values, her goal is to be a helping hand as you embark on this journey together
Michelle earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Monash University in Australia, and then worked for a year as a Junior ABA therapist under the supervision of an Autism Centre in Melbourne. Later on, she obtained a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from HELP University in Malaysia, where she provided psychotherapy and conducted psychological assessments for clients of all ages in diverse settings such as Kajang Hospital, the Malaysian Mental Health Association, Dignity for Children Foundation, Mentem Psychological Services, and the Refugee Clinic.
After completing her Master's degree, Michelle worked as a clinical psychologist at the National Cancer Society Malaysia, where she worked closely with cancer patients. Additionally, she conducted talks to corporate donors and the public to raise cancer awareness.
Michelle is currently working closely with Solace Wellness team to provide Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services for corporate clients. She provides short-term counselling sessions, using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach to help the employees in coping with their personal and work-related challenges
Asma had a strong interest in the arts and eventually decided to major in English Language and Literature. She worked in education for many years, first editing children's books and then focusing on teaching elementary and secondary students at private institutions. As a homeroom teacher and a coach for special needs students, she developed a strong interest in teaching soft skills such as communication, social, and behavioural abilities. Outside of work, she led a variety of outdoor activities for youngsters to help them explore their personalities and interests.
She went on to earn a Master's Degree in Counselling at the University of Science Malaysia (USM), with a focus on children and adolescents. She did her internship at Penang Contingent Police Headquarters, where she enjoyed practising organisational counselling under the mentorship of a senior counsellor. She also worked with at-risk children at two children's shelters to help them overcome trauma and everyday issues.
She uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as well as Reality Therapy. As a licensed counsellor at Solace Wellness, she enjoys incorporating short motivational stories and art therapy techniques into her sessions
Stephanie has a passion for people's wellness, especially their thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Hence, she pursued a Master’s Degree in Counselling from University of Science Malaysia (USM). As a registered and licensed counsellor with the Board of Counsellors Malaysia (LKM), she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve holistic wellbeing.
She is also a trained eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, helping individuals to heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences. Her empathetic approach and expertise in EMDR allows her to effectively guide clients towards overcoming their past traumas and finding emotional resilience.
Additionally, she has experience working with adults across industries, running workshops, dealing with children and students, and addressing concerns unique to each individual. She practices Person-Centered Therapy, Reality Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), guiding individuals to grow together in challenging negative thoughts, learning new techniques to cope with difficult situations, focusing on personal growth, and fostering positive change.
Joanne has exposure in addressing several clinical mental health issues with the help of medical professionals by assisting individuals to manage their disorder better and maximising their productivity and overall well-being. She has years of experiences working in providing counselling related to mental health and wellbeing. Joanne has worked predominantly with substance and behaviour addiction issues, as well as psychosocial issues populations.
As a mental health counsellor, Joevy brings a rich blend of experience spanning Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP), substance-use counselling, and school counselling. Joevy’s approach is client and solution-centred, focusing on developing ways to manage and foster well-being in various settings.
In EAP roles, Joevy effectively supported employees through various mental health challenges, blending individual wellness with organisational needs. Her experience as a substance use counsellor has deepened her understanding of the complexities of addiction, focusing on recovery and resilience. As a school counsellor, Joevy navigated children's and adolescents' mental and emotional health, promoting a supportive environment for students' growth.
In her role as a counsellor, she is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment where individuals can openly embrace their past experiences. Through a collaborative and empathetic approach, she strives to facilitate personal growth and empowerment. She believes that everyone's journey is significant, and she is committed to helping individuals navigate their stories with compassion and resilience.
Tinna specialises in providing counselling services to a diverse clientele group, including children, teenagers, young adults, and working adults. Her areas of expertise encompass addressing issues such as anxiety and stress management, self-blame, and identity crisis. Additionally, Tinna offers support in navigating relationship challenges, including dating and breakups, as well as addressing experiences of abuse and neglect. She is also skilled in assisting individuals dealing with self-harm and suicidal thoughts, and offers guidance in parenting, child development, and creating study and career plans for students.
Amalina brings a wealth of experience to her work, particularly in her expertise with children, adolescents, and adults. Her specialisation encompasses addressing developmental delays, supporting emotional regulation, alleviating parental-related stress, and resolving family conflicts. With a keen understanding of psychological principles, she is proficient in conducting comprehensive psychological assessments to gain insights into individuals' needs and challenges. Furthermore, Amalina excels in developing training modules in the psychological field, equipping professionals with the necessary tools and techniques to provide effective support and intervention. Her multifaceted skills and dedication contribute significantly to promoting mental health and well-being across diverse age groups and contexts.
With a background in counselling psychology, she is registered with the Malaysian Board of Counselors and a special interest in hypno-therapy and mindfulness. Atie is well equipped with supporting you with various difficulties. These include working with relationships, anxiety, depression, grief etc.Hayati was trained in counseling which included providing the necessary support to clients who are going through various struggles.
Her main theoretical application is in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) where she focuses on the relationship between thoughts, emotions and behaviours.She is a Licensed Counselor (KBPA) with the Malaysian Board of Counselors. As part of her professional development, Hayati is currently pursuing a specialisation in Clinical Hypnotherapy.
Hayati’s additional interests lie in the use of mindfulness in relapse prevention as she believes that having awareness in your daily life can bring the necessary respect and recognition to an individual’s thoughts and emotions.
Kaarthik is an Accredited Senior Recovery Coach and a leader with a wealth of life experience. Recognised fondly as "Mr. K" by colleagues and clients alike, his exceptional qualities make him a sought-after team member across our programs. Embodying the positive impact of life experiences, Kaarthik excels at motivating and inspiring our community.
He is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology and brings over seven years of experience in Addiction Management, Behavioural Concerns, and Mental Health Critical Care.With specialised training from The Centre for Adolescent Studies, Kaarthik is well-versed in Trauma-Informed Care and mindfulness for Teens & Adults. Mr. K adeptly leads therapeutic groups, including objective-focused sessions and goal-setting exercises.
He employs motivational interviewing techniques, promotes trauma-informed 12-step approaches, as well as practices DBT and CBT. Kaarthik also takes the helm of our VIP Premium Individual stay programs, delivering one-on-one live-in coaching.Additionally, Kaarthik plays a pivotal role in the management of transfers and extends support to individuals undergoing acute psychiatric care. He maintains effective communication with concerned family members, ensuring a comprehensive approach to care.
Beyond his professional capacities, Kaarthik possesses a distinct expertise as our resident pet specialist. A master trainer for small and fluffy animals, he imparts his skills to enchanting effect. Loki, his star pupil poodle, captivates us with an array of captivating tricks and dances, contributing to an engaging and supportive environment.
Patrix is an International Certified Addiction Recovery Specialist by Emeritus Addiction Study and Asia Metropolitan University. He obtained Addiction Treatment Clinical Skills for Healthcare Providers Certification by Yale University.
Patrix is also experienced fitness instructor with over 10 years experience in the industry. As a Certified Fitness Instructor, he held a number of roles delivering all aspect of fitness workout. Despite major in HIIT and TABATA workout, he is also well know as a Zumba Instructor. With his experience in Solace, his goal is to deliver physical recovery for health thru fitness to our clients. By developing fun and interesting recovery, he strongly believed where there's a will, there's always a way.
Andy Chua is a Recovery Support Coach in Solace Asia. Having successfully completed Solace Asia's very own Internship Program by Solace Academy he is now a dedicated, caring and hardworking member of Solace Asia's clinical team. Andy guides individuals through transformative journeys with coaching, facilitating NA 12 Steps, fostering engaging topic discussions, and performing clinical observations.
As an International Certified Addiction Recovery Specialist and a Certified Life Skills Coach, Ruben's role as a recovery coach encompasses a dynamic range of responsibilities. Drawing from his personal journey of triumph over addiction, he offers a unique perspective to support and guide individuals navigating the challenging path of recovery. With a deep understanding of the complexities of addiction, he employs interventions and techniques that have been honed through continuous training in the field of addiction treatment. His professional profile is rooted in expertise that extends beyond borders, and he is equipped to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through a combination of empathetic guidance and evidence-based strategies, he is dedicated to helping those in need not only overcome addiction but also develop essential life skills that pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling future.
Being a Recovery Support Coach involves assisting clients in their journey towards wellness. Jasmin provides guidance, encouragement, and practical strategies for overcoming challenges related to addiction or mental health issues. Through active listening and empathetic communication, she helps clients set achievable goals and navigate their recovery path. She offers psychoeducation to enhance clients' understanding of triggers, coping mechanisms, and relapse prevention.
Dr Prem Kumar Shanmugam is Founder & CEO of Solace Asia Addiction Retreat. He has worked in the field of addictions and psychology for more than 10 years.Prem is the past President of the Association of Psychotherapists and Counsellors (Singapore) and the Regional Director of the Asia Pacific Certification Board (Singapore) while being one of the founding members as well. Prem is a psychologist, psychotherapist, trainer, facilitator and is actively involved in research in the addiction field.
He works with people with addiction issues from all walks of life exposed to multicultural settings.Prem specializes in developing and evaluating substance abuse treatment programmes and group. He brings with him vast experience in working with relationship issues, marital counselling one interpersonal issues. Prem is a certified practitioner in Management of Family Violence Counselling with the Ministry of Community Development Youth and Sports.
Prem reviews and writes articles and frequently presents at international conferences.Prem has authored two handbooks for Masters Students on a counselling course with a UK based University and Treatment Manuals for addictions treatment programme in Solace.
Professor Dato’ Dr Andrew Mohanraj is the President of the Malaysian Mental Health Association and Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry at Taylor's University Medical School,Malaysia.
Dr.Andrew served the Ministry of Health Malaysia for 12 years before moving on to an international assignment as Consultant Psychiatrist and Mental Health Development Adviser in the establishment of sustainable psychosocial rehabilitation services in Indonesia, The Philippines and Timor Leste.He subsequently joined Perdana University Graduate School of Medicine (in collaboration with Johns Hopkins Medical School, Baltimore) as Associate Professor in Psychiatry and Director of Clinical Clerkship.
Besides his ongoing consultancy work for local and international government and non-government organizations, Dr. Mohanraj is also a member of the Mental Health Promotion Advisory Council to the Minister of Health Malaysia.
In 2013, in recognition of Dr. Andrew Mohanraj’s international work in the promotion of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), he was appointed as a member of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities.
Dr.Andrew is also engaged in the provision of mental health services to refugees and asylum seekers and as an animal lover, he has assumed the post of President of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Malaysia.
Dato' Dr Andrew Monhanraj is now featured monthly on The Star. Click on the below to view his articles.
Peter, a senior therapist with Solace since its inception, has been in recovery from addiction since 2011. With expertise in addiction, low self-esteem, and the Twelve Steps, he holds an Executive Master’s in Addiction Science and has extensive experience in the UK, South Africa, and Malaysia.
David is a clinical psychologist and a registered full member of the Malaysian Society of Clinical Psychology. David holds a Masters in Clinical Psychology from HELP University, Malaysia and a PhD in Psychology from Nottingham Trent University, UK. He has experience in assessing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions including depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorders, trauma and stressor-related disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder. He has particular expertise in treating addictive disorders, with extensive experience in working with individuals with substance and behavioral addictions within both residential and outpatient settings.
David adopts a person-centered, integrative approach to therapy and believes that to be effective, treatment should be tailored according to the unique needs of each individual. As an integrative psychotherapist, he draws on various schools of psychotherapy including humanistic, cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic traditions, as well as motivational interviewing. He is also trained in emotion-focused therapy, an experiential modality that emphasizes emotion as being central to the therapeutic change process.
In addition to his clinical work, David actively conducts and publishes scientific research on addiction. His research broadly encompasses the assessment and treatment of behavioral addictions, with a focus on compulsive sexual behavior and problematic pornography use. His research on behavioral addictions has been published in leading scientific journals including Clinical Psychology Review and Archives of Sexual Behavior. David’s full list of publications can be found on Google Scholar.
Trained as a clinical psychologist, Leng has experience in treating Substance Abuse Disorders, Depression, Panic Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. Having worked in hospital settings before joining Solace Asia he is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and Hypnotherapy.
Ashwin believes in meeting the people he works with where they are and embarking on a mutual journey with them.He is experienced in working with anxiety, depression, psychosis, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, compulsive sexual behaviours and addictions. Ashwin has worked closely with individuals who struggle with substance, alcohol and behavioural addictions, trauma, co-occurring mental illnesses, co-dependency, family issues, and interpersonal conflicts.
He has experience working on the clinical team at a local NGO that provides residential addiction treatment. Ashwin has alsotrained at a refugee clinic, where he continues to provide therapy and serve the community. Ashwin is sex-positive and LGBTQ+ affirmative with a keen interest in working withindividuals who struggle managing the fusion between substances and sex and moving past trauma.He holds a trauma-focused approach towards therapy and practices Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Ashwin is a trained EMDR practitioner (Level I and II) registered with the EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA). Formally trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), he adopts an integrative approach and works from a Motivational Interviewing and Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy (REBT) perspective. Ashwin has received intensive training on addiction from the Drug Advisory Program under the Colombo Plan, where he obtained both the International Certified Addiction Professional (ICAP, Level II) and Recovery Coach credentials. He is currently working towards completing his accreditation in EMDR.
He advocates for Evidence-Based Drug Policies that include decarceration, decriminalisation and regulation of substances. He is also both an experienced and passionate substance-use disorder trainer. Ashwin’s research interest includes treatment of sexualized drug use, harm reduction and moderation in recovery, and the intersection of trauma and addiction.
With a background in counselling psychology, she is registered with the Malaysian Board of Counselors and a special interest in hypno-therapy and mindfulness. Atie is well equipped with supporting you with various difficulties. These include working with relationships, anxiety, depression, grief etc.Hayati was trained in counseling which included providing the necessary support to clients who are going through various struggles.
Her main theoretical application is in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) where she focuses on the relationship between thoughts, emotions and behaviours.She is a Licensed Counselor (KBPA) with the Malaysian Board of Counselors. As part of her professional development, Hayati is currently pursuing a specialisation in Clinical Hypnotherapy.
Hayati’s additional interests lie in the use of mindfulness in relapse prevention as she believes that having awareness in your daily life can bring the necessary respect and recognition to an individual’s thoughts and emotions.
Kaarthik is an Accredited Senior Recovery Coach and a leader with a wealth of life experience. Recognised fondly as "Mr. K" by colleagues and clients alike, his exceptional qualities make him a sought-after team member across our programs. Embodying the positive impact of life experiences, Kaarthik excels at motivating and inspiring our community.
He is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology and brings over seven years of experience in Addiction Management, Behavioural Concerns, and Mental Health Critical Care.With specialised training from The Centre for Adolescent Studies, Kaarthik is well-versed in Trauma-Informed Care and mindfulness for Teens & Adults. Mr. K adeptly leads therapeutic groups, including objective-focused sessions and goal-setting exercises.
He employs motivational interviewing techniques, promotes trauma-informed 12-step approaches, as well as practices DBT and CBT. Kaarthik also takes the helm of our VIP Premium Individual stay programs, delivering one-on-one live-in coaching.Additionally, Kaarthik plays a pivotal role in the management of transfers and extends support to individuals undergoing acute psychiatric care. He maintains effective communication with concerned family members, ensuring a comprehensive approach to care.
Beyond his professional capacities, Kaarthik possesses a distinct expertise as our resident pet specialist. A master trainer for small and fluffy animals, he imparts his skills to enchanting effect. Loki, his star pupil poodle, captivates us with an array of captivating tricks and dances, contributing to an engaging and supportive environment.
Patrix is an International Certified Addiction Recovery Specialist by Emeritus Addiction Study and Asia Metropolitan University. He obtained Addiction Treatment Clinical Skills for Healthcare Providers Certification by Yale University.
Patrix is also experienced fitness instructor with over 10 years experience in the industry. As a Certified Fitness Instructor, he held a number of roles delivering all aspect of fitness workout. Despite major in HIIT and TABATA workout, he is also well know as a Zumba Instructor. With his experience in Solace, his goal is to deliver physical recovery for health thru fitness to our clients. By developing fun and interesting recovery, he strongly believed where there's a will, there's always a way.
Andy Chua is a Recovery Support Coach in Solace Asia. Having successfully completed Solace Asia's very own Internship Program by Solace Academy he is now a dedicated, caring and hardworking member of Solace Asia's clinical team. Andy guides individuals through transformative journeys with coaching, facilitating NA 12 Steps, fostering engaging topic discussions, and performing clinical observations.
As an International Certified Addiction Recovery Specialist and a Certified Life Skills Coach, Ruben's role as a recovery coach encompasses a dynamic range of responsibilities. Drawing from his personal journey of triumph over addiction, he offers a unique perspective to support and guide individuals navigating the challenging path of recovery. With a deep understanding of the complexities of addiction, he employs interventions and techniques that have been honed through continuous training in the field of addiction treatment. His professional profile is rooted in expertise that extends beyond borders, and he is equipped to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through a combination of empathetic guidance and evidence-based strategies, he is dedicated to helping those in need not only overcome addiction but also develop essential life skills that pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling future.
Being a Recovery Support Coach involves assisting clients in their journey towards wellness. Jasmin provides guidance, encouragement, and practical strategies for overcoming challenges related to addiction or mental health issues. Through active listening and empathetic communication, she helps clients set achievable goals and navigate their recovery path. She offers psychoeducation to enhance clients' understanding of triggers, coping mechanisms, and relapse prevention.
Andrew's initial tertiary studies were in Engineering especially dealing with NC and CNC Machines, Tool and Dies, Jigs and fixtures. He further studied Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology and because of his love to help people, he pursued a Master's Degree in Professional Counselling in HELP University, Kuala Lumpur.Andrew practices Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Choice Theory and Reality Theory (CTRT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). He is a licensed and certified counsellor in Family Therapy working with children and teenagers from dysfunctional families, adults, couples and families. He also does pro bono counselling for those who are in need but could not afford the fee.Andrew is doing a course in Career Counselling Analyst while working as a counsellor at Solace Wellness.
Syahirah Farwin, also known as Syra, is a dedicated professional in the field of mental health. She holds a Master's degree in Counselling, specializing in child and adolescent therapy, from Universiti Sains Malaysia. With a strong educational background, including a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from DISTED College, Syra has developed extensive skills and knowledge in her field.
Syra's experience as a special needs teacher has provided her with a deep understanding of neurodiversity in children, fostering her passion for working with individuals who have unique needs and abilities. In her counselling practice, Syra combines Adlerian therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to provide effective interventions. She works with clients of diverse age groups, ranging from children to the elderly.
Syra addresses a wide range of concerns, including LGBTQIA+ issues, anger management, relationship challenges, adolescent struggles, identity development, and body image concerns.Overall, Syra's expertise, educational background, and commitment to her clients make her a valuable resource in the field of counseling.
With great interest and curiosity in conflict of human dynamics and relationships, Saw Li Ying holds BSc (Hons) in Psychology from University of Nottingham and a Master of Professional Counselling from Monash University Malaysia. She has work experience in various settings, from food and beverage, non-government organisations, to school and corporate-related.
She practices Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and has Level 2 certification of Gottman's Couples Therapy Method. Her area of interest cover, but are not limited to relationships, gender equality, religion and multiculturalism, sexuality and anxiety also work difficulties
Ilani is a certified clinical psychologist and was professionally trained in private, government and NGO practices. Trained in a number of assessments (e.g., cognitive, emotional, and behavioural tests) and interventions (e.g., CBT, ACT, and Mindfulness), Ilani has attended clients from various background and age range.Ilani has experience in treating mood disorders, personality disorders, substance related and addictive disorders, trauma related disorders, and bipolar. She believes in creating a safe space to help others genuinely feel and express themselves. With her experiences and values, her goal is to be a helping hand as you embark on this journey together
Asma had a strong interest in the arts and eventually decided to major in English Language and Literature. She worked in education for many years, first editing children's books and then focusing on teaching elementary and secondary students at private institutions. As a homeroom teacher and a coach for special needs students, she developed a strong interest in teaching soft skills such as communication, social, and behavioural abilities. Outside of work, she led a variety of outdoor activities for youngsters to help them explore their personalities and interests.
She went on to earn a Master's Degree in Counselling at the University of Science Malaysia (USM), with a focus on children and adolescents. She did her internship at Penang Contingent Police Headquarters, where she enjoyed practising organisational counselling under the mentorship of a senior counsellor. She also worked with at-risk children at two children's shelters to help them overcome trauma and everyday issues.
She uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as well as Reality Therapy. As a licensed counsellor at Solace Wellness, she enjoys incorporating short motivational stories and art therapy techniques into her sessions
Michelle earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Monash University in Australia, and then worked for a year as a Junior ABA therapist under the supervision of an Autism Centre in Melbourne. Later on, she obtained a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from HELP University in Malaysia, where she provided psychotherapy and conducted psychological assessments for clients of all ages in diverse settings such as Kajang Hospital, the Malaysian Mental Health Association, Dignity for Children Foundation, Mentem Psychological Services, and the Refugee Clinic.
After completing her Master's degree, Michelle worked as a clinical psychologist at the National Cancer Society Malaysia, where she worked closely with cancer patients. Additionally, she conducted talks to corporate donors and the public to raise cancer awareness.
Michelle is currently working closely with Solace Wellness team to provide Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services for corporate clients. She provides short-term counselling sessions, using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach to help the employees in coping with their personal and work-related challenges
Stephanie has a passion for people's wellness, especially their thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Hence, she pursued a Master’s Degree in Counselling from University of Science Malaysia (USM). As a registered and licensed counsellor with the Board of Counsellors Malaysia (LKM), she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve holistic wellbeing.
She is also a trained eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, helping individuals to heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences. Her empathetic approach and expertise in EMDR allows her to effectively guide clients towards overcoming their past traumas and finding emotional resilience.
Additionally, she has experience working with adults across industries, running workshops, dealing with children and students, and addressing concerns unique to each individual. She practices Person-Centered Therapy, Reality Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), guiding individuals to grow together in challenging negative thoughts, learning new techniques to cope with difficult situations, focusing on personal growth, and fostering positive change.
Joanne has exposure in addressing several clinical mental health issues with the help of medical professionals by assisting individuals to manage their disorder better and maximising their productivity and overall well-being. She has years of experiences working in providing counselling related to mental health and wellbeing. Joanne has worked predominantly with substance and behaviour addiction issues, as well as psychosocial issues populations.
As a mental health counsellor, Joevy brings a rich blend of experience spanning Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP), substance-use counselling, and school counselling. Joevy’s approach is client and solution-centred, focusing on developing ways to manage and foster well-being in various settings.
In EAP roles, Joevy effectively supported employees through various mental health challenges, blending individual wellness with organisational needs. Her experience as a substance use counsellor has deepened her understanding of the complexities of addiction, focusing on recovery and resilience. As a school counsellor, Joevy navigated children's and adolescents' mental and emotional health, promoting a supportive environment for students' growth.
In her role as a counsellor, she is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment where individuals can openly embrace their past experiences. Through a collaborative and empathetic approach, she strives to facilitate personal growth and empowerment. She believes that everyone's journey is significant, and she is committed to helping individuals navigate their stories with compassion and resilience.
Tinna specialises in providing counselling services to a diverse clientele group, including children, teenagers, young adults, and working adults. Her areas of expertise encompass addressing issues such as anxiety and stress management, self-blame, and identity crisis. Additionally, Tinna offers support in navigating relationship challenges, including dating and breakups, as well as addressing experiences of abuse and neglect. She is also skilled in assisting individuals dealing with self-harm and suicidal thoughts, and offers guidance in parenting, child development, and creating study and career plans for students.
Amalina brings a wealth of experience to her work, particularly in her expertise with children, adolescents, and adults. Her specialisation encompasses addressing developmental delays, supporting emotional regulation, alleviating parental-related stress, and resolving family conflicts. With a keen understanding of psychological principles, she is proficient in conducting comprehensive psychological assessments to gain insights into individuals' needs and challenges. Furthermore, Amalina excels in developing training modules in the psychological field, equipping professionals with the necessary tools and techniques to provide effective support and intervention. Her multifaceted skills and dedication contribute significantly to promoting mental health and well-being across diverse age groups and contexts.
.png)
.png)
