Lay Kian began working with children and adolescents in schools in 2011. Before that, she was motivated to take up counselling as a career after working on a Statutory Board and experiencing the satisfaction of understanding the needs of others and walking alongside them as they make different decisions in life.

During her work, she utilises developmental-relevant therapies to help children and adolescents relate and explore problems. She specialises in emotional expression and regulation, grief and loss, and mood and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal behaviours. She also uses a trauma-informed approach to help clients work through childhood traumas, bullying and the impact of family violence and conflicts.

As a certified Choice Theory Reality Therapist, Lay Kian’s approach during sessions is mainly strength-based and person-centred. She is also trained in Gestalt Play Therapy and chair work. Lay Kian believes in the uniqueness of each individual and integrates therapeutic elements from art, mindfulness and hypnosis to create a safe and empowering space. She believes the goal of therapy is to give people the skills to take care of themselves.