TCM × psychology for depression in Singapore

You may use TCM alone, psychotherapy alone, or both. TCM visits include a physician consultation with acupuncture or a herbal prescription as agreed (about 45 to 60 minutes) at PULSE TCM clinics islandwide. Psychotherapy sessions (about 60 minutes) are with a PULSE Allied Health psychologist and are booked as separate visits.

Yes. On booking, choose your concern and add Psychology under services if you want the psych arm, or mention both in the note. Combining clinicians often helps when thoughts, behaviours, or motivation loops sit beside a TCM pattern, but neither is mandatory. We still recommend considering both for a fuller plan when presentations are mixed.

It varies with severity, lifestyle stress, and whether psychological factors are strong. As a general guide, TCM may run about 5 to 10 sessions (often weekly; twice weekly for more serious cases), and psychology about 4 to 8 sessions (weekly at first, then fortnightly). Your clinicians set a realistic pace; results vary.

Psychotherapy is conducted at PULSE Allied Health (programme guidance currently points to Camden Medical Centre, near Orchard Blvd MRT). TCM sessions remain available at PULSE TCM clinics islandwide. Same-day dual visits may be possible but will be at different locations.

TCM physicians and psychologists commonly see people with mixed presentations and tailor care accordingly. When sleep is primary, the Insomnia (TCM × PSYCH) programme may fit better; for TCM-only sleep and stress, see Sleep & Stress. Our psychologist can also support related concerns such as relationship or self-esteem issues when relevant.

Acupuncture needles are very fine, and many people find sessions calming or even drift toward sleep during treatment. If you prefer not to have acupuncture, tell your physician. Chinese herbal medication, or other indicated TCM modalities such as cupping or moxibustion, may be used instead when suitable.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are often used alongside prescribed antidepressants or other psychiatric medicines. For herbs, leave about a two-hour gap from other medicines unless your physician advises otherwise, and check with your prescribing doctor first. We never advise stopping prescribed medication without that clinician’s supervision.

This programme is more suitable for mild to moderate depression and is not designed for crisis situations. Where urgent intervention is needed, call the Institute of Mental Health Helpline on 6389 2222, or seek emergency care. If you are at immediate risk of harm, contact emergency services.

Use the online booking form, WhatsApp, or phone. Select Mental health as the concern and Psychology (Allied Health) under services when you want the psych arm, and mention TCM × PSYCH Depression in the note. A first-timer trial bundle is available at $328 (value up to $400++, exclusive of GST): one TCM consultation with acupuncture or herbal prescription, one psychotherapy session, and AŌRA Joy or Calm, when you notify the clinic at registration; otherwise regular pricing applies. If acupuncture is chosen, extra herbs or modalities are charged separately. Subsequent sessions are charged à la carte; discounted credit packages are discussed in clinic. For programme questions, contact [email protected] or WhatsApp 9831 9912.